HIGHLIGHTS

• New Lexus NX is scheduled to arrive in New Zealand showrooms in 2027.
• Updates include revised exterior and interior design, a new Sensory Concierge cabin feature and changes to ride, handling and refinement.
• The new hybrid system includes updates to the e-Axle and inverter, while the plug-in hybrid NX450h+ receives a new battery with increased output and capacity.
• New Zealand specifications, pricing and variant availability will be confirmed closer to launch.

Lexus has unveiled the new NX ahead of its planned arrival in New Zealand showrooms in 2027. The NX is Lexus New Zealand’s best-selling model and sits in the mid-sized SUV segment. Since its introduction in 2014, the model has been positioned to combine everyday practicality with Lexus design, refinement and electrified powertrain options.

The new NX introduces design, technology and powertrain updates, including an updated exterior, redesigned cabin elements, revised hybrid systems and expanded safety features.

“The NX is the vehicle that balances luxury with practicality and that is why it’s still our best-seller today,” says Andrew Davis, Vice President of Lexus New Zealand.

“New Zealand customers have really embraced the NX because it works for everyday life. This new generation takes a vehicle our customers already love and moves it forward again, with a bolder design, a more refined drive and some genuinely exciting new technology.

“We can’t wait to bring it to New Zealand early next year.”

Guided by Lexus’ “Discover Your Edge” brand direction, the new NX has been developed with updates intended to support everyday driving, cabin comfort and electrified performance. Lexus says the model retains the balance of sportiness and utility that has defined the NX since launch, while introducing an all-new hybrid system, refreshed exterior and interior design, and the brand’s first Sensory Concierge feature.

“Since its debut, the NX has continued to pursue new values without being bound by convention. It’s a car that’s always felt just right for our customers’ lives,” says Kunihiko Endo, Chief Engineer, Lexus International.

“For this generation, we wanted every drive to feel like your world is expanding a little – the kind of car that makes you want to take the long way round. That meant a simple, clean cockpit, sportier performance through our latest electrification technology, and a cabin where you can shape the mood with light and fragrance.”

Electrified powertrain updates

The new NX uses a redesigned hybrid system built around a new e-Axle that integrates the transaxle, motor and power control unit into a more compact package. Lexus says the lower centre of gravity and use of low-loss silicon carbide power semiconductors in the inverter are intended to support efficiency and driving performance.

The plug-in hybrid NX450h+ receives a newly developed battery with 8% more output and 30% more capacity than before, according to Lexus. The update is expected to extend EV driving range, while DC fast-charging support is intended to reduce charging time. A power-operated charging lid has also been added.

Ride, handling and refinement

Lexus says increased body rigidity, revised suspension and steering, and updates to the E-Four electronic all-wheel-drive system have been developed to improve handling, ride comfort and road-noise performance. Development work took place at Lexus’ TTC-S test facility in Japan and at Germany’s Nürburgring, across driving conditions including urban roads and high-speed motorway use.

The new NX also includes more linear accelerator response and revised vehicle controls, with the aim of delivering a more natural and predictable feel for the driver.

Exterior and interior changes

The new NX evolves Lexus’ “Vital Tech” design language with a wider, lower stance and a revised front-end treatment. Black accents replace much of the exterior chrome, while the rear introduces a “Double L” signature with illuminated L-shaped elements on either side of an illuminated Lexus logo. Nine exterior colours are offered, including new Sonic Tellus and F SPORT-exclusive Titanium Carbide Grey.

Inside, the NX features a horizontally aligned 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 14-inch multimedia display, a redesigned steering wheel and touch-sensitive Responsive Hidden Switches. A strip of ambient lighting runs from the dash into the door trim. Five interior colourways are available, including new Abalos and F SPORT-exclusive Prominence.

F SPORT models add specific exterior detailing, piano black trim, 20-inch lightweight alloy wheels, red brake calipers and an all-black instrument panel with contrast stitching. Across the range, the dual-line headlamp signature integrates the turn indicators and daytime running lights, while a redesigned mesh front grille supports cooling and aerodynamics.

Sensory Concierge cabin feature

The new Sensory Concierge feature coordinates lighting, music, climate, seat temperature and fragrance across three modes: Inspire, Radiance and Revitalize. Lexus says the system is designed to tailor the cabin experience to different occupant preferences. A fragrance generator in the glovebox can hold up to three cartridges, selectable from five scents, and can be paired with matching visuals, music and lighting.

Safety technology

The new NX adopts the latest Lexus Safety System+, with wider-view and longer-range object detection. Updates include enhanced Radar Cruise Control, Lane Change Assist and Pre-Collision System, while the Driver Monitor can alert drivers to signs of drowsiness and the Blind Spot Monitor can detect approaching cyclists and motorcyclists.

The Panoramic View Monitor adds a 3D view with swipe control, and a new Driver Emergency Response feature can bring the vehicle to the shoulder on highways if activated. Lane Tracing Assist and Blind Spot Monitor coverage also extends to towing situations.