A redesign brings multiple hybrid powertrains, new features and a much-needed tech overhaul to Lexus' compact SUV.
This is the second-generation Lexus NX crossover, and it might just be Lexus' most important new car since the first-gen RX debuted in 1998. The 2022 NX rides on Toyota's latest TNGA platform, packs multiple new powertrains, including a plug-in hybrid and, probably most importantly, it has a brand-new touchscreen infotainment system.

When it comes to styling, the NX is fairly evolutionary. It has one of the best applications of Lexus' spindle grille yet, especially when it comes to the standard version with vertical slats, and the base car no longer has an underbite-ish lower bumper. The headlights are now one cohesive unit, while the taillights have a horizontal bar connecting them, though no cool fins like on the UX.
The NX's surfacing is less angular and more sculpted than the old one, and it loses the cool, super boxy rear fenders. There's a nice crease that runs from the front fender and kicks up to meet the pointed C-pillar, with another line coming off the taillights to add definition to the rear haunch. Overall, it's much sleeker and more modern than the previous model without shaking things up. The biggest change comes at the rear, where Lexus ditched its traditional round emblem for a de rigueur written-out script. This treatment will start to spread across the Lexus lineup, though the brand's cars will continue to have the round logo in the grille.

As usual there's an optional F Sport package that adds a more aggressive front bumper with a different grille pattern, unique wheel designs (including the first application of 20-inch wheels on the NX), dark chrome exterior trim and body color wheel arches. The F Sport package also brings a different steering wheel, aluminum pedals, perforated sport seats and other interior enhancements, while an additional F Sport Handling Package adds upgraded dampers and Lexus' variable suspension system to turbocharged and hybrid models.
The revolution comes when you step inside. That horrid touchpad setup is finally gone, replaced by the new Lexus Interface touchscreen infotainment system that Lexus designed in-house. A 9.8-inch screen will be standard, but the huge 14-inch screen you see in these photos is optional. The screen is canted towards the driver and is well integrated into the design of the dash, flowing nicely into the center console. With the larger screen you still get physical temperature knobs for the automatic climate control that contain a digital screen inside, as well as a physical volume knob and real buttons for the heated windshield and mirrors.
Always present on the left side of the screen are icons for navigation, media, phone, vehicle and settings pages, which Lexus says are those most used by customers. Also always present at the very bottom of the screen are controls for fan speed and other climate functions, while above that is a row of buttons for additional features like seat heaters and an apps tab that can be hidden. There's no home screen per se, like you get in other brands' systems, and I think that's OK -- in my short time with the car, the system was easy to get comfortable with, and you don't need to dive into multiple menus to find what you're looking for.

The Lexus Interface system as a whole looks really good too, the navigation map especially. Everything is stored in the cloud and the system uses Google data for points of interest and other info. The nav can be used offline as the car knows when you're entering an area with bad service and will predownload what you need. Both Apple Music and Amazon Music are fully integrated as part of the native media suite, and Lexus says more apps like Spotify could be added in the future. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard.
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