Watch the 2022 NX 450h+ Hit the Track

Lexus shows off the NX's track-ready capability, even though owners aren't likely to take their crossovers there.

By Brett Foote - September 17, 2021
Watch the 2022 NX 450h+ Hit the Track
Watch the 2022 NX 450h+ Hit the Track
Watch the 2022 NX 450h+ Hit the Track
Watch the 2022 NX 450h+ Hit the Track
Watch the 2022 NX 450h+ Hit the Track
Watch the 2022 NX 450h+ Hit the Track
Watch the 2022 NX 450h+ Hit the Track

Unlikely Pairing

It may seem like only yesterday when the Lexus NX made its debut, but in reality, it's been roughly seven years since the compact crossover launched. Thus, it's time for a complete overhaul, and that's what the all-new, second-generation 2022 Lexus NX represents. And while exactly no NX owner will likely ever take one to the track, Lexus did exactly that during the development process, as it shows in this interesting video.

Top of the Range

While Lexus has the full array of 2022 NX models at the track on this particular day, the focus here is on the brand new NX 450+ plug-in hybrid, a brand new version of the crossover that represents the very top of the model range in terms of power, performance, and fuel economy.

>>Join the conversation about the 2022 NX 450h+ right here in the Club Lexus Forum!

Impressive Numbers

The NX 450+ utilizes the same 2.5-liter gas four-cylinder and dual electric motors as the NX 350h. Combined output is an impressive 302 horsepower, which is good enough to propel the 450+ from 0-60 miles-per-hour in just 6.0 seconds. Perhaps even better, the PHEV provides up to 36 miles of pure EV driving range, so those daily commutes can be done gas-free.

>>Join the conversation about the 2022 NX 450h+ right here in the Club Lexus Forum!

Base Model

Meanwhile, the base 2022 NX is powered by Lexus' 2.5-liter four-cylinder as well, albeit with no electric assistance. In that guise, the engine produces 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque.

>>Join the conversation about the 2022 NX 450h+ right here in the Club Lexus Forum!

Stepping Up

Stepping up to the sportier NX 350 nets a turbocharged 2.4-liter powerplant that churns out a respectable 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, again without the use of any electric assistance.

>>Join the conversation about the 2022 NX 450h+ right here in the Club Lexus Forum!

Fuel Sipper

Finally, we have the NX 350h hybrid, which pairs the aforementioned dual electric motors with the 2.5-liter gas engine to provide 239 horsepower and an estimated fuel economy rating of 36 miles-per-gallon.

>>Join the conversation about the 2022 NX 450h+ right here in the Club Lexus Forum!

Race Derived

Though we doubt any NX owner will ever take their luxurious compact crossover to the track, there are obvious benefits stemming from the fact that Lexus did. Precise handling and steering feel are beneficial in more places than the track, of course, and that's something we can all appreciate on our boring daily commutes.

>>Join the conversation about the 2022 NX 450h+ right here in the Club Lexus Forum!

Check out the how-to sections of ClubLexus.com for help keeping your car in great shape. 

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