“Lexus also has plug-in hybrid models?”

“Yes, the new generation NX.”

This is a conversation I had recently with many friends, and as the launch of this model approaches, I can clearly feel that the frequency of this topic is increasing.

There is a reason for this.

On the one hand, since its launch in 2014, the NX, as one of Lexus’ key models, has sold over 1 million units in more than 90 countries and regions worldwide. In the Chinese market, this car has always been highly regarded.

On the other hand, the new generation NX, which is about to be launched, can be regarded as a milestone in the development process of the Lexus brand and products; it is even the opening work of the next chapter of electrification.

So, for consumers, is the new generation NX worth buying?

Three Power Options

In Lexus’ definition, the new generation NX is the first product in the next generation product lineup. The official development concept is called “Vital x Tech Gear”. “Vital” symbolizes vitality and dynamism, and “Tech” means forward-looking technology.

From the exterior design, it still maintains the style of the current NX, but there are two significant changes:

The first is that the overall dynamics are stronger.

The second is that there are more detailed carvings.

First of all, the size of the whole vehicle is larger than that of the current model. Compared with the current model, the length, width, height and wheelbase have all been increased. Looking at it from the front, the spindle-shaped grille has been updated, visually making it feel like it has gone from 2D to 3D, and the sense of stereopsis has been enhanced. The new three-eyed headlamp design looks sharper, and it echoes the three-stage segmented type taillights on the rear of the car. It is worth noting that due to the use of the new GA-K platform, the vehicle’s center of gravity is also lower, coupled with Lexus’ unique exterior surface design, it is difficult not to feel that the new generation NX is a good-looking car.

In addition, there are details. Let me give you a small example. The new generation NX uses an intelligent electronic door design, and the e-Latch electronic door handle is said to be inspired by traditional Japanese shoji. Compared with traditional door handles, the opening and closing actions are more concise and smooth. At the same time, to ensure practicality, both the interior and exterior door handles have electronic and mechanical opening structures. Coupled with the BSM’s SEA door opening assistance detection function, it can effectively prevent accidents caused by opening and closing doors after parking, which is very user-friendly.The biggest change of the all-new NX, compared to its design, is that it now offers three powertrain options:

• The NX 260, which is a gasoline-powered model
• The NX 350h, which is a hybrid model
• The NX 400h+, which is a plug-in hybrid model.

Among these powertrain options, the gasoline and hybrid versions may be more familiar to users. Like all previous Lexus fuel and hybrid models, the two powertrain versions of the all-new NX will continue the tradition of being smooth, fuel-efficient, and durable, among other things. The hybrid version has also been upgraded, with nickel-metal hydride batteries being replaced by lithium-ion batteries, resulting in improved power and fuel economy.

However, as a new powertrain option, is it worth buying the plug-in hybrid version of the all-new NX? Or, which users are suitable for buying it? It’s a topic worth discussing.

Two comparative advantages

The plug-in hybrid version of the all-new NX is not only Lexus’ first plug-in hybrid model, but also the only plug-in hybrid model among all luxury brand SUV products in this class. However, due to the cost structure, the plug-in hybrid version of the same product is usually slightly more expensive than the gasoline and hybrid versions. So, the question facing users is straightforward: Why should I spend more money to buy the plug-in hybrid version?

In my opinion, this question is not difficult to answer. There are two obvious advantages to the plug-in hybrid model, and if users value these two advantages, then the plug-in hybrid version is even more suitable for them.

Firstly: Stronger performance.

The plug-in hybrid system of the all-new NX is composed of a highly efficient 2.5-liter inline-four-cylinder engine, a high-capacity and high-output lithium-ion battery, and an electric motor. At the start-up and low-speed stages, or in situations where the battery is fully charged, the electric motor can independently drive the vehicle, providing a quiet, smooth, and fuel-efficient driving experience, similar to that of pure electric vehicles. Additionally, in situations that require instant torque support, such as sudden acceleration, the electric motor’s instant high torque will also give the driver a strong sense of confidence.

In my opinion, for products in the 100,000 to 200,000 RMB price range, it may not be worth paying extra for performance since the price base of the product itself is small. However, for high-end products like the all-new NX, many users care more about performance and driving experience. These users are the ones suitable for the all-new NX plug-in hybrid version.

Secondly: Lower fuel consumption, and no range anxiety.If the user can install a charging point at home, the all-new NX plug-in hybrid version can even meet the daily driving needs without refueling. Just switch the vehicle’s power selection to “EV” pure electric mode, and charge it every night. The replenishment cost is almost negligible.

What’s more critical is that compared to pure electric vehicles, if you need to drive long distances and there is no electricity replenishment halfway, the all-new NX plug-in hybrid version will switch to a hybrid vehicle, which is both fuel-efficient and alleviates any range anxiety.

Also, don’t forget the policy advantages. In some cities with limited license plate policies, plug-in hybrid models can obtain a green license plate for free. This is really attractive. Therefore, considering the comprehensive performance, energy consumption, and certain policy advantages, the all-new NX plug-in hybrid version will have its own user base.

A Derivative Value

After talking about the advantages of the all-new NX plug-in hybrid version, some friends may say: I know plug-in hybrid is good, but other companies also have similar products. Why should I choose the all-new NX?

If I have to answer, it can be summarized in one sentence: because it is a Lexus.

In terms of the product itself, the all-new NX has both “inheritance” and “breakthrough”.

The so-called “inheritance” refers not only to the visible elements such as design, details, luxurious feeling, and configuration mentioned earlier, but also the “invisible things”, such as the high-strength lightweight steel, structural adhesives used on the body, and the laser spiral welding technology, short distance welding technology, laser shot peening process, and so on, which are the foundation of Lexus’s quality reputation.

The so-called “breakthrough” mainly refers to the field of “intelligence”. This time, the all-new NX introduced the Tazuna reins concept cockpit for the first time, which helps drivers focus on the front view and enhances driving pleasure while creating a comfortable space atmosphere suitable for each passenger. It is equipped with a new LCD instrument panel, a 14-inch full HD touch central display, HUD head-up display, etc. In addition, the all-new NX is also equipped with an upgraded version of the Lexus Intelligent Safety System LSS+, which expands the detection range of millimeter wave radar and monocular cameras, and improves the performance of each function, making driving even safer.

Besides the product itself, the all-new NX generation will still continue the Lexus brand’s sense of quality and comfort, including the worry-free warranty and maintenance policy, the services enjoyed every time going to the dealership, as well as the high residual value brought by the brand and product reputation. These are all reasons for users to choose a brand-new NX generation.

At the end of the article, let me share a story.

One of my friends knows about the launch of the all-new NX generation and is considering replacing his old NX with the new one.

I asked him: “Why would you change to the same brand and even the same car model?”

He replied: “You’ll know why if you go and drive it yourself.”

This article is a translation by ChatGPT of a Chinese report from 42HOW. If you have any questions about it, please email bd@42how.com.