The New Lexus NX 450h+ plugs a gap in the premium mid-SUV segment
Drawing on more than 15 years of hybrid technology expertise, Lexus has unveiled its second plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) in South Africa in the form of the new NX 450h+, following the recent introduction of the RX 450h+.
Class-leading Efficiency and Performance
Designated as the new halo model in the successful NX range, the NX 450h+ petrol-electric pairing features a four-cylinder 2.5-litre hybrid Atkinson cycle engine, a 134kW front electric motor, a 40kW rear electric motor, hybrid transaxle and a lithium-ion battery with 18.1 kWh capacity. The battery can be fully recharged in around two-and-a-half hours, using a 32 A station.
Being more energy-dense, the battery unit can be accommodated in the vehicle’s platform without intruding into the cabin or load space. Its location also contributes to the car’s low centre of gravity. The load compartment has the same volume as the NX 350h hybrid electric model, with no space lost to powertrain components. Acknowledging how customers in the NX’s segment will typically use their vehicle for longer journeys, the fuel tank capacity is also unaltered, at 55 litres, one of the largest in the car’s class.
The quality of the battery, refined through Lexus’ superior technology know-how, is fundamental to the car’s EV performance.
In turn, the ICE’s high output and fuel efficiency are supported by a long, 103.4 mm stroke and high 14.0:1 compression ratio, together with Dual VVT-i electrically controlled intelligent variable valve-timing and D-4S direct/indirect fuel injection with multi-hole injectors.
The full plug-in system, including electric motors and battery, produces a total system output of 227kW, yielding a brisk acceleration time of 6,3 seconds for the 0-100 km/h dash, making it the performance pick of the NX. At the same time, CO2 emissions between 20 and 29g/km and average fuel economy of 1.3 l/100km in the NEDC (New European Driving Cycle) are similarly class-leading; of course this is assuming maximum usage of electrified propulsion.
It’s thanks to Lexus’ unmatched electrified vehicle expertise among premium car makers that this mid-size luxury SUV has immediately set a new reference point in its segment for its combination of performance and efficiency, including how far you can drive with zero exhaust emissions. And in this regard, it outperforms most of its rivals in all key metrics – by some distance.
The NX 450h+’s EV (electric vehicle) driving range is good for around 66.5 km on the NEDC, rising to 69-76 km in urban cycle journeys – the areas where clean vehicle performance is particularly crucial. Moreover, on the open road the Lexus can be driven in EV (Electric Vehicle) mode at highway speeds, which means you can waft around in emission-free electric silence for most of your daily commuting needs including highway travel.
Crucially, it will also deliver first-class performance once its range is reached. That’s because it then reverts to full hybrid electric power, unlike most of its competitors which switch to their internal combustion engine, inevitably using more fuel and generating higher emissions.
“As a business, we have adopted a multi-pathway approach to crafting sustainable mobility solutions that leave no one behind. Diverse eco-friendly vehicle technologies have been developed to cater to different usage needs, economic circumstances, energy sources and infrastructure readiness, allowing everyone to immediately start contributing to carbon neutrality,” says Glenn Crompton, VP of Marketing at Lexus SA.
Flexible Driving Experience
The driver can select from four drive modes for the plug-in hybrid electric system. EV (electric vehicle) mode is the default: the NX 450h+ will run purely on electric power until the limit of its range is reached. When the high voltage battery’s state of charge drops to a pre-determined level, operation switches automatically to efficient HV (hybrid vehicle) mode. The Auto EV/HV mode automatically brings the hybrid engine into play when extra power is needed, then returning to EV operation immediately afterwards. The driver can also select CHG mode (charge mode) which automatically maintains the battery’s state of charge.
In addition, the driver can use Drive Mode Select to adjust the performance of vehicle systems to suit the journey, using a new-design control on the centre console. Normal mode gives a balance between driving performance and economy, while Eco mode adapts throttle response and air conditioning performance to support fuel economy. Sport S mode adjusts steering feel and accelerator response for a sportier drive. Selecting Sport S+ provides additional control of the Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) and electric power steering (EPS) to give a more focused sporting, responsive driving experience. An additional Custom mode allows the user to apply their preferred settings for the powertrain, AVS, EPS and air conditioning.
Furthermore, using this advanced powertrain does not compromise the NX’s authentic SUV capabilities: the NX 450h+ comes as standard with energy-efficient e-Four all-wheel drive (AWD), using an additional electric motor to drive the rear axle when needed. Front and rear torque distribution is optimised according to driving conditions, all the while providing exhilarating yet elegant control for normal to spirited driving styles.
More Convenience, More Kit, More Safety, More Style
On-the-road accomplishments, however, are just one aspect of the new NX’s leap forward in efficient performance. Moving indoors, the NX is the recipient of a full digital makeover, but done with the understated class and elegance of a Lexus. Of course, there’s a customisable digital instrument nacelle in the line of site of the driver, supplemented by full-colour Heads-Up Display, but there’s also a 14-inch touch-activated central screen to control and monitor the full suite of bells and whistles the NX comes standard with. Key cabin amenities such as navigation, multimedia and climate control can be operated using advanced voice recognition.
The interior features on the standard menu are far too long to list, but here’s a few worth mentioning: Thematic Ambient Illumination (14 different lighting themes to choose from), front power seats, heated leather-trimmed steering wheel, Lexus Memory System (seats, steering wheel, HUD etc), wireless charger (Apple Carplay and Android Auto enabled) and a moonroof for an expansive in-cabin experience.
On the safety front, the NX comes equipped with the most advanced Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, spanning the full gamut of active and passive safety kit from Pre-Collision and Active Cornering Assist to All-speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) and a Lane Departure Alert system. A standout feature unique to Lexus is Digital Latch with Safe Exit Assist. When exiting, it detects if another vehicle or bicycle is approaching from the rear and prevents the occupant from opening the door if it senses danger.
Being a member of the exclusive F SPORT family, the NX 450h+ bears all the hallmarks of the sporty marque with Dark Graphite Aluminium ornamentation, a unique meter, bolstered sport seats, steering wheel, and aluminium pedals and scuff plates setting it apart. With perforated interior trim in Black and Circuit Red, the sport-inspired materials are integrated on the seats, steering wheel and centre console.
The bold F SPORT grille is integrated into the front and rear bumpers for a remarkable first impression. The 20-inch gloss black alloy wheels are framed by colour-key over fenders, improving curb appeal and adding to the sporty appearance. There’s also a unique F SPORT colour – Poseidon Blue.
Pricing and Warranty
The Lexus NX 450h+ retails for R 1, 336 200 and as with all other Lexus models, boasts a best-in-class 7-years/105 000km Warranty and Full Maintenance Plan. The vehicle service intervals are pegged at every 15 000 km, alternatively once a year. The NX 450h+ further comes with an additional 8-years/195 000 km hybrid battery warranty.