New Lexus NX Debuts: Specs, Features, and a Massive 100 km+ PHEV Range

Saudi Arabia: Lexus pulled the wraps off the Lexus NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid, revealing a mid-cycle refresh. It brings a major battery upgrade and chassis refinements with over 100 kilometres of electric range from a larger 23 kWh battery. This plug-in hybrid brings a great choice for buyers who want the zero-emission perks of an EV with the flexibility of a gas engine. Here is a complete breakdown of its features that make this premium SUV a game-changer for 2026.

Quick read:

• The NX 450h+ PHEV has a 23 kWh battery and delivers over 100 km of electric range and 30-minute DC fast charging.
• Visual updates include a sportier spindle grille, new adaptive lighting, and a revised dashboard with a 14-inch touchscreen.
• The chassis is more rigid at the floor, with suspension development.
• European launch is set for spring 2027; a timeline for Saudi Arabia and the GCC remains unconfirmed.

The PHEV Battery Leap

Its new 23 kWh lithium-ion battery is the single biggest change under the floor of the NX 450h+. With it, the NX delivers more than 100 km WLTP range of pure electric driving.  That makes it a perfect choice for daily commuting for most drivers in cities like Riyadh or Jeddah. This range is based on provisional WLTP combined-cycle figures. It could be charged from 10 to 80% in just 30 minutes via DC charging. The upgrade makes the NX a more practical EV for daily use, not just a hybrid with a small battery. Towing capacity also rises to a uniform 1,500 kg across all powertrains.

Visual & Cabin Changes

The New Lexus NX brings a new screen and a simplified dash to modernise the ergonomics with the following changes: 

Redesigned spindle grille: Gives the Lexus NX a sharper and more aggressive stance.

New adaptive headlamps: Add to the refreshed exterior design.

More horizontal dashboard: Creates a cleaner and more modern cabin layout.

New 14-inch LexusConnect touchscreen: Becomes the centrepiece of the updated dashboard.

Faster infotainment system: Lexus says the new system offers four times the processing speed of the outgoing unit.

Familiar cabin layout: The overall interior design remains largely unchanged.

Simplified dashboard: Improves the cabin's ergonomics and modernises the interior.

6th-Gen Hybrid & Chassis Tuning

• 6th-generation hybrid technology: Both the NX 350h and NX 450h+ adopt Lexus’ latest hybrid system, focusing on efficiency and refinement rather than higher power output.
• NX 350h: Retains a 199 hp total system output.
• New lithium-ion battery: Weighs 23.5 kg, making it 9.2 kg lighter than before.
• Integrated powertrain assembly: The power control unit and transaxle are now combined into a single unit.
• Reduced weight: The integrated assembly is 10 kg lighter and positioned 10 cm lower in the chassis.
• NX 450h+ AWD: Continues to produce 307 hp and accelerates from 0–100 km/h in 6.1 seconds.
• Nürburgring-tuned chassis: Lexus refined the chassis and suspension at the Nürburgring to improve driving dynamics.
• Increased floor rigidity: Improved by around 25%.
• Higher suspension tower rigidity: Increased by approximately 30%.
• Euro 7 compliance: Both powertrains are engineered to meet the forthcoming Euro 7 emissions standard.

Launch Timeline & Pre-Sales

This updated NX is a Europe-first launch and will later be introduced in Saudi Arabia and other countries. Pre-sales will begin in autumn 2026, with the first customer deliveries scheduled for early spring 2027.

Also Read: All-New Mitsubishi Pajero Revealed: Rugged New 4x4 SUV and What It Means for Saudi Arabia