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Lexus updates 2027 NX with bolder design and exclusive hybrid lineup

The subcompact luxury crossover drops its nonhybrid option, bringing styling updates, increased structural rigidity, and a upgraded plug-in hybrid drivetrain.

Updated Sep 1, 2026 · 17:25 UTC2 reports

The short version

  • Lexus has revealed the refreshed 2027 NX SUV, which will be offered exclusively with hybrid powertrains.
  • The 2027 lineup scraps the previous nonhybrid, turbocharged NX350 model, leaving only the NX350h hybrid and the plug-in hybrid NX450h+.
  • The updated crossover features refreshed exterior styling, a simplified interior dominated by a 14-inch touchscreen, and structural improvements designed to enhance handling and reduce cabin noise.

Key facts

  • The 2027 Lexus NX drops its nonhybrid model, leaving the 240-horsepower NX350h traditional hybrid and the plug-in hybrid NX450h+ as the only available options.[Car and Driver · Car and Driver]
  • The NX450h+ plug-in hybrid features a more compact e-axle and a larger lithium-ion battery, increasing its output to 322 horsepower and boosting its estimated all-electric driving range to 40 miles.[Car and Driver · Car and Driver]
  • The plug-in hybrid model now supports DC fast-charging, a feature not present in previous model years.[Car and Driver · Car and Driver]
  • Structural updates include a transverse battery-cell layout, a reinforced unibody, and redesigned engine-block casting, which Lexus claims improve body rigidity and reduce interior vibrations.[Car and Driver]
  • The interior features a standard 14.0-inch central touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, and a more minimalistic dashboard with many physical climate controls integrated into the screen.[Car and Driver · Car and Driver]
  • The 2027 Lexus NX is expected to go on sale before the end of the year.[Car and Driver]

What remains uncertain

  • Lexus has not yet announced pricing for the 2027 NX lineup, though base prices are expected to rise slightly from the 2026 model's starting figures.[Car and Driver]

Sources