Lexus knows its hybrids. This expertise is no surprise, given that its parent company, Toyota, revolutionised the automotive industry with the launch of the Prius in 1997—the world’s first mass-produced hybrid vehicle. Eight years later, in 2005, Lexus introduced its first hybrid model, the RX 400h, which set new standards for luxury and efficiency to become what it is today.
Following the introduction of the RX 450h+, the Nagoya-based marque has introduced the NX 450h+ in F Sport trim as the second plug-in hybrid model under the Lexus moniker. You see, plug-in hybrids like the NX 450h+ are better suited for the local landscape. Given South Africa's still-developing electricity infrastructure, fully electric vehicles are less practical. The Lexus NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid then offers a reliable and affordable alternative, eliminating range anxiety with its seamless transition between electric and petrol power.
While Lexus has ambitious plans to achieve a fully electric lineup by 2035, the facelifted NX 450h+ F Sport provides a clear and convincing glimpse into the brand’s future trajectory. In addition, the hybrid system provides an ideal compromise for those who are reluctant to make the switch to electric cars. It allows you to experience the benefits of electric driving without fully committing—all within an SUV that excels in the areas that count most.
There aren't many shortcomings with the NX's interior. Lexus has given the SUV some suitable fixtures and fittings, with an interior that blends black and red leather to give the car a more special look. The build quality is impressive, with every component feeling solid and durable. The materials used throughout the interior are designed to withstand the wear and tear of everyday family life, ensuring longevity and reliability.
There is a massive 14-inch touchscreen infotainment system that serves as a hub for numerous features, including HVAC controls, front seat ventilation, and heated steering wheel adjustments—an invaluable feature during a particularly chilly week in Johannesburg. Commendably, Lexus has retained the use of rotary dials for temperature adjustments, ensuring a blend of modern technology and intuitive, tactile controls.
Regarding boot space, the Range Rover Evoque P300e and Volvo XC60 T8 Recharge have nothing on this model’s class-leading 520 litres. You can fit just about anything you can think of, including strollers and luggage. Since it’s a plug-in hybrid, all the charging cables are neatly stored under the boot floor, freeing up space but leaving you with run-flat tyres instead of a spare wheel.
I can’t ignore the quirky e-Latch door handles, which replace traditional handles with a small button to open the door. While the system is innovative, seamlessly integrating with the blindspot warning setup to prevent the door from opening if a vehicle or cyclist approaches, it can be somewhat finicky at times. I found it somewhat complicated, as there were times when the door wouldn’t open as expected. Sure, I’d probably get used to it over time, but if I were frequently switching between cars, it might just drive me kooky.
The big news with the NX 450h+ F Sport is beneath the surface with that new plug-in hybrid system, which joins the 2.5-litre naturally-aspirated 4-cylinder engine paired with a CVT transmission. With a total power output of 227kW, the SUV stacks up well against its main rivals. Due to four drive modes, Lexus makes it easy to understand how much power you're using.
Firstly, the EV mode uses electric power only; the petrol engine kicks in when the battery is low or at high speeds. The Auto EV/HV mode prioritises electric power but quickly engages the petrol engine when needed, while the HV mode operates as a full hybrid, balancing electric and petrol power to preserve battery levels. Finally, the Battery Charging mode relies on engine drive to recharge the battery, making it perfect for freeway driving and preserving EV range for later.
On the road, the transition between petrol and electric power is seamless. However, the shift from the serene silence of EV mode to the sudden hum of the petrol engine can sometimes highlight the typical CVT drone. While less compelling than its electric counterpart, the petrol engine provides ample power for open-road driving. Driven mostly in Auto EV mode during the test, the SUV delivers balanced performance, with power distributed smoothly despite its substantial 2-tonne heft.
The NX excels in road grip and comfort. The adaptive suspension that comes standard with the F Sport variant ensures a composed and cushioned ride, even over bumps and road imperfections. making every journey enjoyable and reassuring.
At a price of R1,336,200, the NX450h+ F Sport is certainly a premium offering. You might be wondering if a CVT transmission justifies such a cost. In this case, it does, as it significantly improves the vehicle’s efficiency and performance, especially when paired with the electric powertrain.
However, it’s worth mentioning that similarly priced competitors such as the Volvo XC60 T8 Recharge and the Range Rover Evoque P400e both wield 8-speed automatic transmissions. These not only eliminate the droning sensation often associated with CVTs but also provide a more relaxed and refined driving experience. Despite this, the CVT in the NX450h+ F Sport excels in its power delivery, making it a strong contender in the plug-in hybrid SUV segment.
Living with the plug-in hybrid has its quirks. Home charging, for one, wasn't a feasible solution since we live in a three-story multi-level building. Instead, I had to rely on the onboard charging mode, which recharged the battery while going about the daily driving duties.
While Lexus claims an electric-only range of approximately 66km and a fuel consumption of 1.3l/100km, our real-world experience saw the petrol engine kicking in after about 43km, with the average fuel consumption numbers hovering around the 5.7l/100km mark at some point. Still, it's impressive for an SUV carrying considerable weight.
The truth is that the Lexus brand has been a pioneer in "self-charging" technology for many years, and the NX450h+F Sport exists to demonstrate the company's dedication to sustainability.
In the competitive landscape of compact luxury crossover SUVs in SA, it stands out, particularly for those who may not have the convenience of charging their vehicles regularly. Beyond its innovative hybrid system, this model delivers impressive performance, comfort, refinement, practicality, and exceptional build quality.
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