2023 Lexus NX Hybrid

The Lexus NX Hybrid is available in both regular hybrid and plug-in configurations, with the latter offering as much as 304 horsepower. This empowers the luxury SUV with an all-electric range of around 37 miles, which is noticeably more than both the Volvo XC60 Hybrid and Audi Q5 Hybrid, the chief competition. The 2023 NX Hybrid is also a luxurious cruiser with a well-built interior hosting all of the latest tech. However, it is not as powerful as its rivals, nor does it handle as athletically. There's also the fact that some shoppers in the USA look down on the Lexus badge as a cheap version of similar European premium cars. Nevertheless, the Japanese automaker seems confident enough in its product to send it out with no real updates for the new year, and we'll have to see if this pays off.

The price of the Lexus NX Hybrid is not as far below the European competition as we'd like for a brand that advocates value over sheer opulence. The 350h does seem a lot cheaper at $42,655, but it's important to remember that it is a hybrid with no all-electric range to fall back on. Starting from the 450h+, you get the plug-in components, and this sees this price jump to $57,505, while the 450h+ F Sport Handling will cost you $58,755. These are the MSRP prices of the Lexus NX Hybrid and do not include the $1,150 destination charge or admin fees.

The NX Hybrid may compete with some of the biggest names in the industry in terms of luxury and pricing, but it falls short when it comes to athleticism. While it can't match the refinement of a BMW, the Lexus has a decent amount of power under the hood. There isn't much feedback from the whees, and the steering lacks feeling, even if it is sharp and accurate. This tightens up a bit when you opt for the F Sport Handling. It also comes with a sport suspension that isn't as easily upset around the corners.

Nevertheless, you can hustle the heavy vehicle a little, and it doesn't feel as hesitant to turn into a bend as one might think. Just be prepared for some understeer if you apply the throttle too liberally. However, the bias towards comfort is obvious, even in the base trim level. Bumps in the road are easily soaked up, and long trips down a straight highway cruising at top speed is where this car feels most at home.

The 2023 Lexus NX Hybrid makes up for a lot of the shortcomings of the regular gas-fed model with a stronger powertrain that helps the car feel sportier than it really is. Naturally, it also delivers good fuel economy, but the big highlight is the 37 miles of all-electric range that helps you save big bucks in the long run in you take many short trips around town. This comfy cruiser attitude perfectly suits the SUV, even if it has good enough handling to be a little fun at times. The suspension is better at soaking up bumps than handling body roll, and the luxurious interior definitely speaks to comfort more than anything else. The safety reviews of the Lexus NX Hybrid are great, too, which makes sense when you look at the generous standard specifications. This makes it a great family vehicle, where sheer performance shouldn't be a deciding factor, and value for money adds more weight to the decision.

While even the base 350h has a little more power than the regular NX, the 450h+ is definitely the way to go for long-term savings since it is the plug-in model. This ensures you get the benefit of all-electric driving over short distances, but it also gets you a lot more power and a more generous standard specification of features. These include heated and ventilated front seats and a hands-free power liftgate. Sure, you'll need to save up an extra $15k, which is no small feat, but it's worth it in the long run.