Lexus New Zealand’s electric range is welcoming the addition of a self-charging hybrid and plug-in hybrid NX SUV to its fleet.
The new models are the second generation of Lexus’ mid-size SUV but is the first to feature plug-in hybrid technology.
The NX450h+, the official name of the PHEV (catchy), is an all-wheel-drive five-seater. Two electric motors work with a four-cylinder petrol engine to give you 227kW of power.
![](https://www.autocar.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/51995350527_468957c4dc_k-1024x683.jpg)
Turn off the internal combustion motor and you can get 87km of pure electric drive.
The cheaper of the new NX range is the 350h self-charging hybrid. Like the PHEV, it uses regenerative braking to power the electric battery. Unlike the PHEV, it’s front-wheel-drive and has one electric motor.
You get 179kW of power from the combined ICE and electric motor.
![](https://www.autocar.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/51996627379_fe18f34602_k-1024x683.jpg)
Both the hybrid and PHEV are limited to 200 km/h. It’s how fast they get there that differs.
The hybrid takes 8.7 seconds to go from 0 to 100, whereas the PHEV takes 6.3 seconds.
There is actually a Limited hybrid model. Think of this as the middle ground between the two.
While it has identical power output stats to the hybrid, it is all-wheel-drive and has two electric motors.
![](https://www.autocar.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/51996895205_cfed14cee2_k-1024x683.jpg)
Lexus has given the exterior of the NX a revamp. You still get the rather interesting front grille shape, but some redesigned headlights don’t make it sure an eyesore.
The next-gen model is also subtly bigger. Lexus has increased the wheelbase, length, width and height by a few mm. This means the new car can accommodate larger tyres, with options ranging between 18 and 20 inches.
![](https://www.autocar.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/51996418563_ba41a962db_k-1024x683.jpg)
Full pricing details are as such:
Model | Price |
---|---|
Lexus NX 350h | $92,770 |
Lexus NX 350h Limited | $101,900 |
Lexus NX 450h+ | $107,00 |
Oh, no rebate, by the way. It’s a pain of luxury.