When Lexus was founded in 1989, the high-end auto manufacturer combined the words for luxury in Latin (luxus) and French (luxe) to create their highly sought-after brand name. As a result, Lexus continues to symbolize “elegance and sumptuousness” in their design and amenities. In 2025, car buyers still insist on luxury, but fuel efficiency and eco-friendly options also factor into their car buying needs – especially in SUVs. Here’s where the Lexus NX series steps in (or should we say, “drives in”). In addition to its two traditional gas engine models (NX250 and NX350), Lexus offers a hybrid (NX350h) and a plug-in hybrid (NX450h+) to complete the NX line.
Although similar in appearance, comfort, and amenities, let’s take a detailed look into the hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions to see what Edmunds describes as an “all-around solid compact luxury SUV boasting an upscale, high-quality interior and plenty of standard driver assist features.”
Performance Technology
Toyota, the automotive birth mother of Lexus, knows a thing or two about hybrid engine technology. After all, the Toyota Prius was the world’s first mass-produced hybrid vehicle. Today, Lexus hybrids and plug-in SUVs rule the road.
The NX350 h (“H” for Hybrid) charges its battery through regenerative braking and the internal combustion engine – no separate charging is required. So, what does that get you? Let’s start with impressive mileage stats: 41 City MPG (estimate) and 0–60 MPH in 7.2 seconds with 240 net combined horsepower. The race-inspired paddle shifters and Drive Mode Select (ECO, Normal, Sport, and EV modes) also add to the performance in the hybrid and plug-in models.
Looking for a little more pep from your peddle? Lexus touts the NX 450h+ Plug-in Hybrid as a fast and powerful option performing 0–60 in 6.0 seconds with an impressive 304 net combined horsepower. As for driving range, the NX 450h+ Plug-in Hybrid delivers a manufacturer-estimated all-electric range of 37 miles. In addition, it comes standard with a 3.3-kW onboard charger that charges the battery in about 4.5 hours using a 240-volt home outlet or a Level 2 charger.
Along with get-up-and-go power, you can count on safety in both versions of the NX hybrids. For example, the hybrid and the plug-in offer a list of Lexus Safety Systems including a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection and Intersection Support, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Intelligent High Beams, and Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert – all via a high-definition camera.
Comfort & Convenience
Inside, luxury and comfort are at the forefront. From an elliptical grip steering wheel designed to better fit the human hand to the comfy, bolstered front sport seats, the NX series strives to pamper. And speaking of seats, front and rear heated seats are standard features.
To add an extra touch, multimedia options provide seamless and hands-free access to the Mark Levinson®* PurePlay Surround Sound with Clari-Fi® and innovations like a color Head-Up Display and Digital Rearview Mirror. Another Lexus touch of convenience is Apple CarPlay® - a smart and safe way to use your iPhone® while driving. Through an innovative built-in display, get directions, make calls, send/receive messages (via Siri®), and listen to music while staying focused on the road.
In addition to comfort, the NX hybrid and plug-in help you get in and out of tough spots – literally. The Available Advanced Park feature controls steering, acceleration, and braking when parallel parking or getting in/out of a perpendicular parking spot.
Design
From any angle, the “dynamic exterior” of a Lexus SUV, hybrid or plug-in hybrid, catches your attention. Both models emphasize a long and wide stance and impressive 20-inch wheels. Additional luxury icing to the Lexus cake includes a retractable panoramic glass roof that adds more natural light and a feeling of spaciousness to the cabin. Another distinct Lexus look is the “L” shaped lamps on the rear fender, bookending a full-width blade rear lamp that continuously stays illuminated at night.
Also standard in both the NX hybrid and plug-in models is the power rear door with a kick sensor. You can still open or close the rear door manually (touch or fob), but for ease and convenience, kick your foot under the sensor, and, voila, the rear door opens and closes, giving you a hands-free option.
