2023 Lexus NX Review

Making a good thing better is always a challenge. Yet that’s just what engineers did. The 2023 Lexus NX 350h is quicker than the previous 2022 NX Hybrid, and yet the fuel economy is even better. This new hybrid produces a combined 239 horsepower. Yet it earns an EPA-estimated 39 miles per gallon. These hybrids have been shown to save about $1500 over regular vehicles, according to the official fuel economy website.

Using two high-torque electric drive motor-generators, the 2023 Lexus NX Hybrid has stronger passing performance and better acceleration than the previous edition. With all-wheel drive, there is a second electric motor that controls the rear wheels independently.

In the 2023 Lexus NX450h, engineers blended the best of hybrid efficiency with a plug-in electric driving range. While most PHEV claim around 30 miles, the 2023 Lexus NX 450h can go up to 36 miles on its electric range. The combined fuel efficiency is rated at 84 MPGe.

This hybrid plug-in powertrain combines a 2.5-liter inline-four engine with electric motors and a high-capacity lithium-ion battery. Lexus has developed a high-efficiency system that can move between AC power and DC power seamlessly. At home, the battery is fully charged in 2.5 hours or 4.5 hours, depending on the type of charger used.

All-wheel drive electronically moves the torque from front to rear in order to achieve the best power distribution. AWD makes the NX more fun to drive as well as safer in difficult road conditions.

As the top of the trim ladder, 2023 Lexus NX 450h models are the ultimate luxury compact SUVs. Leather upholstery and top trim elements create an elegant atmosphere. Ventilated front seats and other favorite amenities take care of the driver and passengers.

Recognizing that different people have different needs, Lexus has two turbos on the menu. The 2023 NX 250 has a 2.5-L four-cylinder engine and an 8-speed automatic transmission. Output is 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque.

Stepping up to the 2023 NX 350, Lexus drivers enjoy an even speedier turbo. Output is 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. The best way to discover which NX powertrain you like is to schedule a test drive at Earnhardt Lexus dealer in Phoenix Az.

There’s a whole new style for the NX, and it includes rich colors and stippled black ornamentation. The seats and consoles may be Palomino, Rioja Red or black. There’s also a black with cream color scheme. Handsome trims in black open pore wood add elegance to the Luxury trim level. Black Prism ornamentation dresses up the Premium trim level.

A dual-pane panoramic moonroof adds stargazing to the SUV’s list of capabilities. Thematic Ambient Illumination has colorful themes ranging from Sunset to Waterfall. This Nature-inspired lighting comes in 14 varieties, including Rain Forest.

Whether regular or hybrid models, Lexus NX are true luxury SUVs, standing head and shoulders above relatives like the Toyota RAV4. Furthermore, these small luxury SUVs are challenging competitors like the BMW X3 by providing more for the money. Earnhardt pricing and competitive financing ensure sweet deals for 2023 Lexus NX and NX Hybrid shoppers.

When you choose an F Sport Handling trim level, there’s a new look and new cabin styles as well as exciting driving dynamics. Exteriors are dressed up with a bolder grille that is integrated into the front bumpers. Color-key overfenders, black roof rails, unique headlamps, and 20-inch gloss black aluminum alloys are standards. Special NX colors include Ultrasonic Blue 2.0 and Obsidian.

For sporty handling, front and rear performance dampers are paired with an adaptive variable suspension. This improves the way the NX F Sport responds to the driver’s commands. It’s a racier feel that adds to the fun of being behind the wheel.

Paired with either the 2023 NX 350 or the NX 450h+, the F Sport Handling with Luxury trim level has the large 14-inch touchscreen and specially themed ambient illumination. The cabin has bolstered sport seats for driving fun.

F Sport cockpits have aluminum pedals, an F Sport steering wheel, and a unique meter. The dark graphite aluminum ornamentation is matched with perforated upholstery. The color scheme is black and Circuit Red. NuLuxe trims the steering wheel and center console as well as the seats.

Human Machine Interface informs the unique 9.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. An optically bonded glass display utilizes touch, sight and voice, emphasizing ease of use from every possible angle.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allow smartphone users to utilize their apps on the touchscreen. Wi-Fi Connect adds integrated audio streaming as well as smart device connectivity.

The new 14-inch touchscreen goes even further. It has a three-year Drive Connect trial subscription. This provides cloud navigation and destination assist. An Intelligent Assistant helps 2023 NX drivers interact more naturally with the multimedia system. Voice Assistant can be utilized via voice or a steering-wheel-mounted button.

Recognizing that there may be more than one driver, there are personalized settings. The driver’s experience is secured in the cloud to ensure that it can be used even if the driver is behind the wheel of another Lexus with this interface capability. The Digital Key coordinates with the driver’s User Profile, and it can be used within Bluetooth proximity to the car.

Lexus NX cabins with Voice Assistant have dual microphones and improved noise cancellation. The technology can detect the driver and a front seat passenger. It can even recognize which person is speaking to allow both occupants to interact with the system naturally and seamlessly.

Seeking to prevent crashes, there are new safety features that make existing technologies even more effective. For instance, new Intersection Support includes left-turn oncoming vehicle detection and right-&-left turn oncoming pedestrian and cyclist detection.

Like the forward collision warning, this has two levels of support. Judging the immediacy of the danger, it can issue warnings and trigger brake assist to help the driver or it may engage automatic braking to correct the situation. Radar and camera systems have been enhanced to recognize a bicyclist during the day. In addition, pedestrians are now visible in lower light conditions.

New Curve Speed Management is making adaptive cruise control even more effective this model year. Dynamic Radar technology can anticipate curves and regulate wheelspin as well as speed.

Lane departure alert provides an audible alert, but the Steering Assist can respond by slightly pulling on the steering wheel to encourage the driver to straighten up in the lane lines. Blind spot monitoring continues to assist with lane changes as it does on the 2022 Lexus NX. In addition, new 2023 NX models offer a Digital Mirror with live footage via rear cameras.

The available head up display utilizes the standard road sign assist to keep drivers informed. Safe Exit Assist uses technology to recognize vehicles or bicycles that may be too close. It can use the digital latch to prevent exiting into these traffic dangers.

Check out our inventory and be in touch with any questions about pricing, selection, and financing. Earnhardt Lexus is here to serve you.