2022 Lexus NX Revealed, Debuts Game-Changing Lexus Interface Multimedia System
A brand new multimedia system and plug-in hybrid make the 2022 Lexus NX an appealing compact luxury crossover.
We’ve known for some time now that an all-new 2022 Lexus NX was in the works. But otherwise, details regarding the compact luxury crossover remained mostly scant, save for one major leak. Now, however, Lexus has officially revealed the completely overhauled NX, and it’s notable for a number of reasons. Aside from introducing a handsome new design and an overhauled engine lineup with a plug-in hybrid option, the 2022 NX also debuts the brand new Lexus Interface multimedia system.
On the outside, the 2022 Lexus NX features a host of styling updates that include a revised three-dimensional spindle grille design, full-width rear light bar, new L-shaped daytime running lights, and optional three-projector headlamps. Meanwhile, a newly designed “LEXUS” script in the rear replaces the old “L” logo. New exterior color options include Redline, Cloudburst Gray, and Grecian Water, along with Ultra White, Obsidian, and Ultra Sonic Blue Mica 2.0 for F Sport models.
Inside, the 2022 NX features an overhauled cabin with an NX-first 7-inch Multi-Instrument Display (MID) and an optional 10-inch Head-Up Display (HUD). The crossover comes standard with a 9.8-inch touchscreen, while a rather large 14-inch unit is optional. However, Lexus has included physical controls for commonly-used functions, while owners will be happy to know that accessing things like heated seat controls no longer requires hunting through multiple menus.
The big news, however, is the NX’s new Lexus Interface multimedia system, which features what the automaker calls Human Machine Interface (HMI) to utilize sight, touch, and voice controls. The system features a new Virtual Assistant function for voice controls, which uses dual microphones, enhanced noise-cancellation, seat detection, and speaker location capabilities to access navigation, media, phone, and vehicle settings including climate control and window opening/closing.
Lexus Interface also stores user settings in the cloud, which can then be accessed in other Lexus vehicles equipped with the feature. Digital Key gives owners the ability to lock/unlock and start/stop their vehicle through their smartphone, as well as grant access to up to seven additional users. Along with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability, an optional wireless charger, and a navigation system with 100 percent cloud capability and integrated Google POI data, the 2022 NX also features over-the-air-update capability so that it can be constantly updated and improved in the future.
In terms of drivetrains, the 2022 Lexus NX offers a handful of them. The base NX 250 engine is Lexus’ naturally-aspirated 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing an estimated 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. Available in both front- and all-wheel-drive configurations, the base engine will propel the NX from 0-60 in 8.2 and 8.6 seconds, respectively.
Step up to the 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder powerplant, and you’ll net an estimated 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, good enough for a 0-60 time of 6.8 seconds – a half-second quicker than the outgoing model. Both of these engines are mated to a revised 8-speed automatic transmission. For 2022, the Lexus NX 350h hybrid is expected to produce 239 horsepower, return 36 mpg, and do 0-60 in 7.2 seconds – all big improvements over the current-gen model.
The big news in the powertrain department, however, is the new PHEV drivetrain present in the NX 450h+. Along with an impressive 36-mile all-electric driving range, the 2.5-liter gas engine and electric motor combination propel the crossover to 60 mph in an estimated 6.0 seconds with standard all-wheel-drive, though Lexus isn’t talking power figures just yet.
At 240V, the plug-in hybrid can be fully charged in approximately two and a half hours when equipped with the optional 6.6 kW Expedited Onboard Charger. With the standard 3.3 kW onboard charger, charge time comes in at four and a half hours.
Production of the 2022 Lexus NX is scheduled to begin later this year, and pricing will be announced closer to the vehicle’s actual launch. Regardless, this new model looks quite promising and should prove to be a compelling option in one of the automotive world’s most heated segments.
Photos: Lexus
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