2022 Lexus NX lf concept

All-New 2022 Lexus NX Will Debut with PHEV System

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The compact Lexus NX is one of the underachieving models in the crossover and SUV lineup. Well, the vehicle is still in the top three vehicles in sales, but last year the demand dropped by 6%. It caused the company to react. Initially, the redesign was planned for 2021, but the pandemic delayed the production. So, the all-new luxury crossover is coming as the 2022 Lexus NX. Various sources (Autoevolution is one of them) are claiming that the Japanese carmaker will focus on this crossover, as well as the new full-size model, that should appear as the LX600.

The first generation of the luxury crossover debuted in 2015. The company is aware that changes in this segment need to happen more often. But, the current situation slowed down everything. Still, the Japanese carmaker, owned by Toyota, is back on track. The 2022 Lexus NX is one of the main debuts for the next two seasons. Still, many fans are also looking for more details about the new super-luxurious LF SUV, which will compete with Bentley and Rolls Royce. Meanwhile, the small crossover is getting a new look and more efficient engines.

2022 Lexus NX teaser image
Teaser image from Japanese magazine

2022 Lexus NX Redesign

The styling of all Lexus crossovers and SUVs is distinctive and recognizable. However, over some time, it becomes boring and the changes are required more frequently in the compact segment. A seven-year period is quite long, but even standard, non-premium models, are being updated every 5-6 seasons.

The new 2022 Lexus NX will share the platform with one of these vehicles, none other than the most popular Toyota Rav4. The inspiration will be also found in the new Venza. Combine these two, and the NX is about two inches longer than Rav4. On the other hand, height is lower, which makes the luxury model more aggressive. Of course, the signature spindle grille is back. This time, it is going to be slightly smaller than before. The new shape of headlights will also cause further changes to the bumper and air vents.

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Inside the Crossover

The interior is also under reconstruction. The 2022 Lexus NX is a five-seat compact crossover. The design is passenger-oriented, so there is a lot of space for all occupants. On the other hand, although larger, the NX used to offer less cargo space than its sibling, Toyota Rav4. With rear seats folded, the crossover had 55 cubic feet, while the non-premium model comes with nearly 70 cu.ft.

We doubt that moves will be serious in this segment. The company will work on smarter features and driver-aid accessories. The multimedia was updated in 2019, but the carmaker is ready for new moves. We can also hear that Toyota and Lexus are ready to develop an autonomous drive. However, this package is not going to be available so soon.

2022 Lexus NX interior

2022 Lexus NX New Powertrain

Under the hood of the current crossover is a 2.0-liter turbo-four engine with 235 horsepower. The company is looking to replace this drivetrain with a more potent and efficient system. At the center of the package will be a 2.4-liter unit, which will get support from turbochargers. The power output will be closer to German luxury crossovers. According to announcements, engineers are working on a new powerplant, which will be capable to create 300 hp.

The current hybrid system is pretty efficient, with 33/30 mpg. But, the 2022 Lexus NX will upgrade it to the PHEV configuration, which will keep the gas mileage, but it is going to offer some electric range. For Rav4, the battery can keep the crossover running for 40 miles. Also, the Rav4 Prime plug-in hybrid combines a petrol engine and electric motor for a total output of 302 ponies. It seems like Lexus aims for such outputs for the new NX.

2022 Lexus NX concept

2022 Lexus NX Spy Photos, Release Date, Price

In the future, the NX is going to become an all-electric crossover. Toyota is leaning toward total electrification, and the company is one of the rare carmakers with so many hybrid vehicles. Now, they are building more PHEVs. The first information is claiming that the 2022 Lexus NX is not going to be released so soon. Designers and engineers have plenty of time since Toyota is waiting for the recovery of the market, so the arrival of the all-new NX is scheduled for the spring of 2022. Meanwhile, the carmaker will launch LF and LX SUVs.

Due to the redesign, the price will go up. The base MSRP will be around $40,000. However, the cost will depend on the engines the crossover is about to use. If the company drops a current 2.0-l displacement and offers a 2.4-l as the base version, the price will go even higher. The plug-in system and extra power will do the same to the hybrid version. With so many horsepowers, we expect the PHEV to cost at least $45,000.

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