2024 Lexus NX 450h+ F Sport

The 2024 Lexus NX 450h+ F Sport is the plug-in hybrid version of the popular NX SUV. It offers the same amount of comfort and utility, but takes the mileage game up a notch with up to 37 miles of all-electric range. That said, its performance and efficiency is remarkable for a daily driving SUV, but some may find its interior space and cargo room lacking compared to some of its competitors.

Interior

Lexus NX is a really luxurious small sized SUV. What it lacks in size it makes up for in comfort. The NX 450h+ F Sport has well-bolstered, power-adjustable seats that hold you in place under hard cornering when you want to drive it spiritedly. That’s fitting for drivers with a heavy foot, but for those who like to tote around town in a slower fashion, the NX 450h+ provides a more comfortable ride at slower speeds.

Otherwise, the NX’s cabin space is well-appointed with upscale materials and soft-touch surfaces to bring about the type of softness you would expect from the brands. Its dashboard is well organized as well, with easy-to-reach buttons and a large 14.0-inch touchscreen for the infotainment.

In terms of space, the NX has plenty of room up front for passengers over six feet tall, but its rear seat can feel a little cramped for those same vertically-blessed people. The space in back is comfortable nonetheless, and there are even heated outboard seats for more comfort during the colder days.

Exterior

The 2024 NX 450h+ F Sport has a sleek and modern design that we have come to know and love from the Japanese automaker. Up front, there’s a bold spindle grille, sharp lines, and angular LED headlights for a sporty look. However, that sporty look is fortified by the F Sport package, thanks to a distinctive front bumper, blacked-out trim, and sporty-looking 20-inch alloy wheels. Overall, it has a sophisticated and athletic look that makes it standout from other SUVs in its class.

With that said, however, this is still a Lexus. Boldness combines with refinement, but never takes over. It’s never an “in-your-face” look, and you can easily pass under the radar, as is the case with (almost) all Lexus vehicles.

Driving Characteristics

Under the hood of the Lexus NX 450h+ F Sport is a plug-in hybrid powertrain that mates a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine with a pair of electric motors for a total output of 304 horsepower. That power is sent to all four wheels via a CVT transmission. As stated, the standout feature on this rig is its ability to travel for up to 37 miles on electric only, making it ideal for around-town errands and shorter commutes.

The combustion engine - when it kicks on - is actually a lot louder than what I’d expect from a Lexus. However, with a whole bunch of miles available in electric mode, I assume you’ll only be hearing this on longer road trips, when your stereo is on anyway.

Speaking of noise, it may take a while to get used to the CVT transmission - some might even be wondering what a CVT transmission even is. A CVT doesn’t have any real gears, so you won’t hear the engine rev up and down while shifting. Instead, the noise will just be constantly at the level best suited for whatever you are telling the engine to do. If you are accelerating you’ll hear what will sound like the engine at its maximum power the entire time - because it is. This means that you’re always listening to that high volume motor noise when accelerating.

If you want to use all the power in the Lexus NX you will need to have it in hybrid or charge mode. This means that you’ll be utilizing both the electric motors as well as the combustion engine. Obviously, with all these power-plants engaged, you’ll have plenty of power. And since the electric power is immediate, the combination is a really smooth and impressive kick.

Whipping around corners you’ll notice that the Lexus NX is tight for an SUV. But you’ll definitely know that you’re in an SUV if you accelerate out of roundabouts, for example, as you’ll hear some tire squeal as you start squirming around corners. Yes, this car goes where you tell it to go, but no, it’s not like a go kart. But then again, I wasn’t expecting it to be either. This is a small luxury SUV, that just happens to handle really nicely too.

Technology, Safety, & Convenience Features

Since it’s the top trim in the NX lineup, Lexus equipped with the NX 450h+ F Sport with a state-of-the-art infotainment system. The main focal point is the massive 14-inch touchscreen that sits in the middle of the dashboard. It’s responsive and the menus are intuitive, with only a bit of a learning curve to get over.

The infotainment system also supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and is connected to a 10-speaker sound system. There’s also a 10-inch head up display to give the driver important information at a glance, as well as we digital rearview mirror that seems like a gimmick, but comes in handy when it’s hard to see out the rear window.

As for safety, the Lexus NX 450h+ F Sport comes equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which includes a suite of driver-assist features. Some of those features include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. These features work together to keep the car on the road and in between the lane lines for optimal safety.

Summary

The 2024 Lexus NX 450h+ F Sport is a well-rounded luxury SUV that excels in multiple areas. Its striking design, luxurious interior, advanced technology, and efficient hybrid powertrain make it a compelling choice for those seeking a premium compact SUV with sporty attributes. While the pricing might be on the higher side, the blend of performance, comfort, and eco-friendliness justifies the investment. Whether you’re looking for a stylish daily driver or a versatile family vehicle, the NX 450h+ F Sport is worth serious consideration.