Lexus NX Hybrid review

You get two options with the NX: the 350h, a self charging hybrid; and the 450h+, a Plug-In-Hybrid (PHEV). Both have a 4-cylinder petrol engine and an automatic gearbox, with an electric motor both at the front and back. The NX is essentially a 4×4 and both models have good punch from the electric motors. The 350h has a total of 244hp, but the 450h+ gets slightly more with 309hp.

Both models are able to recharge their batteries as you drive and are most efficient around town. The real difference between the two, is that the 450h+ PHEV has a bigger battery and can be topped up at home or an EV charging point. That means it returns significantly better fuel economy, and can run in EV mode for far, far longer distances. Up to 47 miles, in fact. The regular hybrid, by contrast, can only run for very short bursts on electricity alone, and will be at its most efficient when driving in town.

If you don’t have off-street parking, the 350h would be the model to go for as the advantage of PHEVs only really works if you can fully top up your battery overnight. Similarly, if you do a lot of motorway miles, you might find the 350h to be more efficient over longer journeys, as it weighs 200kg less than the 450h+.

If you really want a PHEV but can’t justify the extra cost, the Toyota RAV4 is nearly identical and you can get great deals on it through carwow.

The driving position is spot on in the NX, and you get good visibility forwards and from the big wing mirrors.The rear window is rather small though, so the visibility isn’t too good out the back. You can get a rear view camera option where the rear view mirror acts as a live feed. A cool feature, but not essential. A good option to go for though, is the 360-degree panoramic view camera, it’s really handy for parking and getting through tight spaces.

The turning circle is 12.4 metres which isn’t as good as the BMW X3 or Audi Q5. This means it’ll be slightly trickier to navigate mini roundabouts or do three-point turns. The NX is a lot smoother over bumps however, and it takes a hefty pot hole for you to really feel anything.

Hybrids can often have a sticky brake feel, but the NX’s system feels really smooth as it blends its regenerative and friction braking systems together as you press the pedal. The NX is ideal for around town and is incredibly quiet and relaxing to drive in busy built up areas.

As standard you get automatic cruise control with lane keeping assist, and Lexus’ system is fairly intuitive and easy to use. The sound proofing in the NX is mighty so you won’t hear much wind noise or tyre noise as you eat up the miles.

With the 450h+ you can drive at motorway speeds in EV mode, but you’ll very quickly run out of charge. If you need to overtake, you’ll notice the engine rev itself to the max and that’s because of the eCVT automatic gearbox. It’ll quieten down as it speeds up, but it can be rather intrusive despite the impressive sound proofing. That being said, it’s quieter than a Honda CR-V Hybrid.

In sport mode, you’ll notice that the throttle is slightly more responsive and if you go for the F-Sport you get adaptive variable suspension. The steering may not feel as accurate as a BMW X3, but it’s not far off, and it doesn’t lean like you’d expect it to and holds on tightly through the corners. The 350h is 200kg lighter than the 450h+, so it does feel more nimble on a twisty road.