2022 Lexus NX Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

A compact crossover SUV with a redesigned platform, the 2022 Lexus NX dominates the luxury segment in multiple categories. Featuring the latest edition of the Lexus Safety System 3.0+ technology, this five-seat family car proudly wins the Top Safety Pick+ award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Climate-controlled seats, leather upholstery, a moonroof and 64-color ambient lighting are some of the high-end amenities that are available for this all-new Lexus crossover SUV.

What's New For 2022?

Kicking off its second generation in the United States of America, the 2022 Lexus NX offers an array of all-new sophisticated technologies. Featuring a 14.0-inch touch screen, the Lexus Interface Multimedia System makes a highly anticipated debut inside the cabin. Similarly, the Human Machine Interface (HMI) technology enhances the standard 9.8-inch infotainment console. Some other all-new amenities inside this upscale crossover SUV include the Digital Latch System and Digital Rearview Mirror. In the performance department, some of the car's all-new options include a 2.4-liter turbo engine and a plug-in hybrid powertrain.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2022 Lexus NX – The Pros

1. Powerful Engines

Standard on the 2022 Lexus NX, the 2.5-liter engine block whips out a total of 203 net horsepower. Consisting of four cylinders in an inline arrangement, the default powertrain yields 184 pound-feet of peak torque. This naturally aspirated powertrain adopts the signature Continuously Variable Valve Timing with intelligence technology. Whipping out 275 hp, the turbocharged 2.4-L engine also exploits the proprietary VVT-i function. Accelerating the car from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.6 seconds, this turbo powerhouse dishes out 311 lb-ft of peak torque on the low end of the tachometer.

2. Efficient Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid Systems

Installed on the 2022 NX 350h edition, the Lexus Hybrid Electric Drive delivers a superb blend of power and efficiency. Two electric motors and a 2.5-L internal combustion engine are part of the patented hybrid powertrain, which has a combined net output of 239 hp. Regenerative braking and the Predictive Efficient Drive optimize the efficiency of the Lexus Hybrid Electric Drive. Propelling the models with the 450h+ badge, the Lexus Plug-In Hybrid Electric Drive delivers a net output of 304 hp. This innovative propulsion system offers an electric driving range of approximately 36 miles.

3. Dynamic Handling

Conveniently mounted within the driver's reach, the Drive Mode Select dial offers the Eco, Normal and Sport modes. As expected, the EV Mode is added exclusively to the hybrid and plug-in hybrid trims. Reserved only for the athletic 350 F Sport Handling edition, the Sport+ Mode provides more dynamic handling on the road. This racing-inspired model also rides on the Adaptive Variable Suspension System, which ensures better cornering and overall lateral stability on dry pavement. Offering eight gear sequences and paddle shifters, the ECT-i system is paired with a front-wheel drive or an all-wheel drive.

4. Sophisticated Multimedia System

Making a debut inside the 2022 NX, the Lexus Interface Multimedia System delivers an elevated level of digital connectivity. This state-of-the-art infotainment center comes with a standard 9.8-inch touch screen, and an upgrade is available to a 14.0-inch monitor for even better views. Having a logical menu, the next-generation multimedia unit offers a Wi-Fi hotspot with a data plan from AT&T. Featuring cloud-hosted GPS navigation, the Drive Connect provides superb guidance for any type of drive. In addition to having wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, the infotainment unit comes with the voice-activated Intelligent Assistant.

5. Driver-Centric Cockpit

This luxury Lexus crossover SUV offers a 10.0-inch head-up display that optimizes the driver's focus on the road. Floating on the windshield, the HUD projects colored images without any glare and other optical glitches. Linked to a high-definition camera, the Digital Rearview Mirror boosts the driver's judgment for backing up or switching lanes. The driver will clearly see an array of other settings on the 7.0-inch Multi-Information Display with a high-definition interface. When installed inside the F Sport Handling trim, the MID shows G-forces, turbo boost and other racing-style parameters.

6. High-Quality Entertainment

Engineered exclusively for the 2022 Lexus NX, the Mark Levinson PurePlay Surround Sound System includes a total of 17 speakers. Delivering concert-style acoustics throughout the entire cabin, this optional audio system includes a 10-channel amplifier. Standard across the entire lineup, the 10-speaker Lexus Premium Audio System also produces great acoustics. The Apple CarPlay interface makes it easy to play Apple Music and Audiobooks. Spotify, Pandora and other popular music channels may be streamed through Android Auto.

7. Sporty Exterior

Having a blade-like design, the 2022 NX's taillamps make bold styling impressions on the road. This luxury Lexus crossover SUV rolls on 18.0-inch, 15-spoke alloy wheels with the Dark Gray design. Available only on the 350 models, the 20.0-inch, 20-spoke alloy wheels adopt the Silver Finish. Trims with the F Sport Handling logo ride on 20.0-inch, split five-spoke wheels with the Gloss Black application. All models are available with the triple-beam LED headlamps, which include cornering lamps and washers for maximum visibility.

8. Deluxe Interior Materials

The 2022 NX's power-adjustable front seats have the proprietary NuLuxe finish. Lightweight, durable and soft, this patented material is available in several rich colors, including black, Rich Cream, Palomino and Rioja Red. Black open-pore wood trimming adds a touch of modern elegance to the premium cabin. Some other motifs that are optional for the vehicle's interior design include Black Prism and Striped Black. The F Sport Handling models boast the Dark Graphite Aluminum trimming, aluminum pedals and a steering wheel with perforated leather.

9. Personalized Cabin

Offering personalized comfort in the front row, the 2022 NX's dual-zone HVAC system includes a smog filter, high-capacity air filter and automatic recirculation. The proprietary Lexus Memory System quickly adjusts the positions of the driver's seat, outside mirrors and steering wheel. Offering up to 64 unique colors, the Thematic Ambient Illumination creates a custom atmosphere inside the lavish cabin. This upscale Lexus crossover SUV also offers the Panorama glass roof, which adds a desirable amount of sunshine and fresh air for a pleasant drive.

10. Reliable Safety Technologies

Standard on the 2022 NX, the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 suite includes some of the most sophisticated active safety features ever made by the brand. Analyzing the road geometry in real time, the Curve Speed Management improves the traditional All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. Scanning the road for motorcycles, bicycles, pedestrians and vehicles, the updated Pre-Collision System adopts the Intersection Support. Some other crash-mitigation technologies on this luxury Lexus crossover SUV include the Lane Departure Alert, Road Sign Assist and Intelligent High Beams. Additionally, all trims offer the Panoramic View Monitor that extracts high-quality videos from four exterior cameras.

Reasons Not to Buy a 2022 Lexus NX – The Cons

1. Sluggish Driving on Some Configurations

When equipped with the 2.5-L gas engine and an AWD, the 2022 NX 250 goes from 0 to 60 mph in 8.6 seconds. Therefore, drivers should cautiously pass other vehicles on the road when using this entry-level powertrain. The FWD configuration only reduces the car's 0 to 60 mph acceleration time by 0.4 seconds. Even through the 2.4-L turbo engine packs a big punch in the torque department, there might be some issues with lagging and delays. When accelerating from a standstill, drivers will potentially notice a significant delay in the power transfer to the wheels.

2. Tight Interior Space

Without the moonroof, the 2022 NX offers up to 38.4 inches of headroom in the first row. Adding the moonroof or Panorama glass will reduce the total headroom to only 37.1 inches. The rear passengers only have 36.09 inches of maximum legroom, which may cause some discomfort for an extended trip. When the rear seats are folded with a power-assisted mechanism, families will have up to 46.9 cubic feet of cargo volume. The normal cargo capacity behind the rear seats is only 22.7 cubic feet, so some items must be properly secured on the roof rails.

3. Modest Amenities on Base Trim

The 2022 Lexus NX 250 is furnished with eight-way front seats, which have power adjustments and heating elements. For its luxurious design, the entry-level trim surely doesn't offer incredible value in the ergonomics category. For an extra fee, the default NuLuxe upholstery may be replaced with perforated-leather trimming. A heated steering wheel and power-folding, heated rear seats aren't standard inside the 2022 NX base edition. Lacking the Active Sound Control technology, the cabin might be easily penetrated by loud noise.

 

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

2022 Lexus NX vs 2022 Acura RDX

Kicking out 272 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, the 2022 Acura RDX's 2.0-liter, mono-scroll turbo engine packs some big punches for such a small size. However, the NX's 2.4-L turbo engine beats such a torque output by up to 37 lb-ft. Hybrid and plug-in hybrid systems aren't available on the Acura crossover SUV. When rolling on a front-wheel drive, the 2022 RDX earns an EPA-estimated fuel economy only 28 MPG on the highway. The 2022 NX 250 base model boasts an impressive rating of up to 33 MPG on the highway. Additionally, the Lexus Plug-In Hybrid Electric Drive is rated at 84 MPGe.

2022 Lexus NX vs 2022 Lincoln Corsair

The 2022 Lincoln Corsair taps into 310 pound-feet of torque from a turbocharged 2.3-L engine block. However, this rating is still below the peak output of the 2022 NX's 2.4-L turbo powertrain. Despite having lots of cutting-edge safety features, the Lincoln Co-Pilot360 1.5 bundle doesn't fully challenge the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 suite. For example, the Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist and Oncoming Vehicle Detection are some advanced safety technologies that distinguish the 2022 Lexus NX from the rest of the competition. Measuring only 8.0 inches, the Corsair's SYNC 3 infotainment system is no match for the NX's 14.0-inch multimedia system.

Conclusion

Available with up to four powertrain options, the 2022 Lexus NX appeals to drivers with unique preferences for performance and efficiency. The hybrid and plug-in hybrid systems are great options for families that value an eco-friendly lifestyle. Thrill-seeking drivers will embrace the capabilities of the F Sport Handling editions. As the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ winner, the luxurious 2022 NX crossover also offers peace of mind for any type of driving.