Lexus unveils the refreshed 2027 NX bringing with it a more advanced hybrid powertrain as well as exterior and interior enhancements.
Set to go on sale in global markets towards the end of 2026, the 2027 Lexus NX gets the latest sixth-generation hybrid system that leverages knowhow from the Lexus BEV, particularly its eAxle technology. With that, it combines the power control unit and transaxle in a single, compact unit reducing the weight (10 kg) and height (10 cm) lowering its center of gravity.
In terms of battery, it now adopts a lithium-ion chemistry. The same one used in the 350h, it comes with enhanced cooling that helps increase the total output. It also has reduced number of battery cells helping drop the weight from 32.7 to 23.5 kilograms.
The 2027 Lexus NX comes with three powertrains: the 300h, 350h, and the 450h+. The NX 300h, a Japan model exclusive, pairs a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder with an electric motor for a combined 200 horsepower output. Moving up, there’s the 350h available in two- and all-wheel drive. Outputs, depending on the market range from 200 horsepower to 245 horsepower. Finally, there’s the 450h+ whose plug-in hybrid system bumps the outputs between 292 horsepower to 326 horsepower. All engines are mated to an E-CVT transmission.
The 450h+ Plug-In Hybrid can go 100 kilometers on pure electric mode thanks to a larger battery pack (23 kWh) and can be charged both using AC and DC fast charging. The battery is also fully integrated into the NX’s floor enhancing its rigidity.
Outside, the 2027 Lexus NX introduces a new “frameless spindle” grille combining it with the headlight units for a cleaner look. This also improves the overall aero efficiency. The headlights themselves feature an “all weather” design incorporating adaptive high-beams and cleaners for optimal performance in all weather conditions. A slim upper DRL and turn signal indicators are now arranged as two parallel bars. At the back, the repeating L-motif is now bridged by an illuminated Lexus logo. The changes are capped off by new sill moldings, new 18- (235/60R18) or 20-inch (235/50R20) alloy wheels, and door mirrors and body moldings switching from chrome to a dark finish.
Bigger changes are found inside where the Lexus NX takes on an interior concept first introduced in the Lexus ES and TZ. A strong horizontal orientation creates a roomy, open feel while also improving visibility. A new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 14-inch multimedia screen are set on the same axis minimizing eye and head movement. The open, uncluttered look is enhanced by the Responsive Hidden Switches. The concealed switches illuminate and reveal themselves when the driver approaches the panel and respond with physical feedback when touched.
The 2027 Lexus NX also brings Sensory Concierge, which synchronizes the cabin illumination, music, climate control, fragrance, and seat temperature to create a personalized cabin environment with ambiences to suit the travelers’ mood. Selected using the multimedia system, it offers three experience modes Inspire, Radiance and Revitalize. These are amplified with further options for cabin illumination (with 50 different tones) and dynamic color patterns that change over time, displayed on the multimedia screen. The experience is further heightened by a choice of in-car fragrances, developed in collaboration with Givaudan, a world leader in fragrance, beauty, tastes and well-being.
The driver’s seat is unchanged from the previous NX, but it is set lower, closer to the car’s center of gravity. The steering wheel is new, with a diameter reduced by 10 mm and an increased range of telescopic adjustment so that it can be brought closer to the driver. The wheel’s cross-section has been fine-tuned to optimize grip and comfort.
A variable-rack steering gear with a more responsive variable steering ratio has been adopted for all new NX models, further improving the car’s maneuverability. The electric power steering system has also been thoroughly retuned to complement these changes. By delivering light, linear feedback, the new NX achieves a more natural and confidence-inspiring steering feel, even with its quick handling characteristics.
Lexus has consistently strengthened the NX’s core, revising the frame and adopting more extensive use of laser welding techniques and high-strength structural adhesives. Greater rigidity delivers better ride comfort and less road noise and makes the car feel more solid and refined in everyday driving, especially on uneven surfaces. Floor rigidity has been increased by around 25 percent, contributing to improved steering response and reducing body vibrations. The front suspension tower has been reworked and integrated with the front pillar structure, increasing rigidity by around 30 percent. The engine and road noise is also down 20 percent.
The 2027 Lexus NX also uses new shock absorbers that use an ultra-low-velocity valve. This design provides strong damping force at low speeds to absorb small inputs from the road surface, keep the vehicle stable. As suspension movement increases, damping force is reduced, so the suspension can work more freely, enhancing ride comfort.
Suspension tuning was carried out at Shimoyama and on-track at the Nürburgring, with further testing on public roads and on German Autobahns at maximum speed to ensure handling and ride comfort that feel natural and inspire confidence across a wide range of road surfaces and driving conditions.
In terms of safety, it gains the latest Lexus Safety System+ with a wider and deeper field of detection. Upgrading of the sensor has increased the horizontal viewing angle by 115 percent and the detection distance by 170 percent.

















Current NX is simple and clean with a touch of elegance. What a shame they butchered it inside and out. All they had to do was introduce the new hybrid system, remoce piano black inside and bring back some physical buttons. Oh boy.
ReplyDeleteLexus took their best-looking crossover and gave it a botched facelift. What a disaster!
ReplyDeleteI believe the new 300h exclusive for Japan will receive the new engine from Toyota, one that will power future Toyota models like the upcoming all-new Corolla.
ReplyDeleteThe is may just be a facelift but it’s more than that. It looks like the ES inside.
ReplyDelete