Exactly two months ago, Lexus South Africa announced the sale of the all-new NX premium medium SUV. Fast forward to May and the brand is excited to announce the next phase in Lexus NX sales by launching the Lexus 350 hybrid range. (Please note that like all motoring brands at present, Lexus is experiencing supply constraints, but orders are open.)
Lexus is fully committed to its carbon-neutral strategy and focusing on lowering fuel emissions by taking yet another confident step on the path to providing realistic electrified motoring.
The Lexus NX hybrid range joins its petrol grade siblings – the 2.5-litre normally-aspirated eight-speed automatic EX grade and the 2.4-litre turbocharged petrol grade which comes in F Sport guise. In the newly-minted hybrid range, the models comprise three derivatives, namely: NX 350h EX (standard grade), NX 350h SE (luxury spec) and NX 350h F Sport.
With an extensive list of firsts, from the introduction of the all-new 14-inch Lexus Interface multimedia system and the “Hello Lexus” voice command to the E-latch door system, the 2022 Lexus NX sets the stage for the next chapter of the Lexus brand.
The Next Chapter for Lexus is centred around four pillars: Design, Lexus Driving Signature, Electrification and Advanced Technology. The all-new NX plays a key role in leading the brand forward in all these areas.
Furthermore, the Lexus NX has been re-designed from the inside out. Every exterior surface has been re-imagined. The signature spindle grille has been refined in the front. And, perhaps the most notable expression of future Lexus design is the elegant new block LEXUS rear badging and full-width tail lamp.
Lexus Driving Signature results from an entirely new approach to vehicle development. This ensures a uniquely Lexus experience where each vehicle exhibits a direct, linear driving feel that is consistent across the line-up.
Advanced technology abounds in the all-new NX. Drivers can stay in touch with the intuitive features of Lexus Interface, such as wireless Apple Car Play and Android Auto, as well as other niceties such as the Lexus Voice Assistant.
Hybrid – Committed to Carbon Neutrality
The all-new Lexus NX hybrid has arrived, and customers can start placing orders at their nearest Lexus dealership, taking cognisance of the fact that delivery may take longer due to the aforementioned supply issues.
A fourth-generation large capacity hybrid system combining a highly efficient 2.5 litre inline 4-cylinder engine with a high output has been adopted. The NX hybrid powertrain delivers a total system output of 179kW. All-important fuel-sipping credentials come in at 5.0 litres per 100 kilometres. The NX hybrid will dispatch the obligatory 0-to-100 sprint in just 7.7 seconds, reaching a governed top speed of 200 km/h.
The hybrid model’s system design has been improved with a new front transaxle and a compact lithium-ion battery.
A standard feature is the motor-driven AWD E-Four system which has been incorporated on the rear transaxle. This system aids with improved torque delivery to the rear wheels, thus providing excellent performance off the line and improved overall drivability as well as fuel economy.
The NX 350h EX retails for R888,500, the 350h SE grade is R1,040,700, while the flagship F-Sport hybrid grade carries a price-tag of R 1,065,500.
Lexus Safety System Across the Range
The Lexus NX 350h EX opens the range with Lexus-first technologies including new e-latch electrically-activated door handles. The SE grade and F-Sport mechanism goes a step further and incorporates safe exit assist (SEA)- which can detect cyclists or vehicles passing close to the vehicle and can keep the door closed to avoid a collision.
Standard across the range is the Pre-crash system which has now been improved and includes Front Cross Traffic Alert. This system alerts the driver when a vehicle is approaching from either side in front of the vehicle.
Other safety gizmos include a Parking Support Brake (PKSB) with obstacle and vehicle detection, Blind-Spot Monitor (BSM), Dynamic Radar Active Cruise Control (DRCC) and Lane Tracing Assist (LTA).
Re-Designed from the Inside Out
The new Lexus NX hybrid range comes with a variety of different wheel designs by grade. The EX is offered with an 18-inch wheel featuring sharp machined spokes and dark grey coating for a classy appearance. On the SE Grade, the NX hybrid comes standard with a 20-inch wheel, featuring sharp machined spokes with contrasting dark and chrome accents. The hybrid F Sport wheel has a dynamic design featuring accentuated sharp edges with a super-gloss finish.
Other standard features include LED headlamps with automatic high-beam, dual-zone climate control, power-adjustable and heated front seats (front and rear for SE grade), heads-up display for the SE grade and the human-centric Tazuna cockpit concept across the range.
Tazuna is a Japanese word that’s derived from the control an equestrian has when riding a horse whilst maintaining posture and looking ahead. Tazuna was realised through innovative yet simple-to-use technology to ensure “Eyes on the Road, Hands on the Wheel” intuitive driving.
The hybrid SE grade and F-Sport come standard with a panoramic view monitor, wireless smartphone charging as well as a sliding panoramic roof.
The NX also debuts a new multimedia platform in the form of a 14-inch touch screen that takes connectivity, information and convenience to a higher level, and benefits from expansion of the scope and functionality of the next-generation Lexus Safety System and driver assistance systems to help guard against an even wider range of accident risks and reduce the burden on the driver.
Lexus NX – Next Is Now
Lexus South Africa says: “The all-new Lexus NX range will reset luxury medium SUV benchmarks with its brave design, exhilarating performance and imaginative technology.
“It combines luxury specification and famous Takumi craftsmanship with next-generation design and a level of technology that extends from active safety and security to infotainment and powertrains.”
Nine colours are available in the hybrid range– White Quartz, Sonic Titanium, Sonic Chrome, Graphite Black, Terrane Khaki, Celestial Blue, Blazing Carnelian, Black and Madder Red – while the F Sport grade further exclusively offers White Nova and Poseidon Blue.
The NX comes with four trim upholstery colours – Black, Hazel, Rich Cream and Dark Rose –available for the NX 350h EX grade. The SE hybrid trim colours are the same, however include a wood element in the cabin. The hybrid F-Sport boasts three interior trim options in unique F-Sport upholstery. These are available in Black, Flare Red and White only.
Aftersales & Product Range
Every Lexus NX is delivered with the Lexus Warranty Experience featuring the brand’s best-in-class 7-year/105 000km Warranty and Full Maintenance Plan.
As mentioned, Lexus has adopted a phased-out strategy for the NX product offering due to the current stock demands and availability. Customers can contact their nearest dealership for more information and ordering.
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