Lexus New Zealand’s electric range is welcoming the addition of a self-charging hybrid and plug-in hybrid NX SUV to its fleet.
The new models are the second generation of Lexus’ mid-size SUV but is the first to feature plug-in hybrid technology.
The NX450h+, the official name of the PHEV (catchy), is an all-wheel-drive five-seater. Two electric motors work with a four-cylinder petrol engine to give you 227kW of power.
Turn off the internal combustion motor and you can get 87km of pure electric drive.
The cheaper of the new NX range is the 350h self-charging hybrid. Like the PHEV, it uses regenerative braking to power the electric battery. Unlike the PHEV, it’s front-wheel-drive and has one electric motor.
You get 179kW of power from the combined ICE and electric motor.
Both the hybrid and PHEV are limited to 200 km/h. It’s how fast they get there that differs.
The hybrid takes 8.7 seconds to go from 0 to 100, whereas the PHEV takes 6.3 seconds.
There is actually a Limited hybrid model. Think of this as the middle ground between the two.
While it has identical power output stats to the hybrid, it is all-wheel-drive and has two electric motors.
Lexus has given the exterior of the NX a revamp. You still get the rather interesting front grille shape, but some redesigned headlights don’t make it sure an eyesore.
The next-gen model is also subtly bigger. Lexus has increased the wheelbase, length, width and height by a few mm. This means the new car can accommodate larger tyres, with options ranging between 18 and 20 inches.
Full pricing details are as such:
| Model | Price |
|---|---|
| Lexus NX 350h | $92,770 |
| Lexus NX 350h Limited | $101,900 |
| Lexus NX 450h+ | $107,00 |
Oh, no rebate, by the way. It’s a pain of luxury.
