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The new generation of Lexus’s compact crossover has just arrived and after all the novelties that were introduced with the recent redesign, we are pretty sure that the 2023 Lexus NX, which will represent the second production year, will arrive without more important changes. Of course, minor updates like new color options and a few more standard features are always possible but most of the things will certainly remain the same.
You may count on a pretty impressive crossover. We like the fact that there are four powertrain options on offer, including two hybrids, with a wide power range. Furthermore, the new interior looks pretty impressive, while the list of standard features is generous. The ride is well-balanced, while the steering is very precise. On the other hand, the biggest complaint goes to the small cargo area. Also, the base engine feels a little bit underpowered.
Considering that there are no significant changes to come, we presume that the 2023 Lexus NX will hit the market sometime in the last quarter of the year.
2023 Lexus NX Design
As we are talking about the second production year, there’s no doubt that the overall design will remain the same. The recent redesign has brought a lot of novelties, starting from a new TNGA platform, which lowers the center of gravity and improves ride quality significantly. We particularly like the suspension and chassis setup, which feels perfectly balanced. The handling is composed and the NX offers a smooth and comfortable ride, absorbing road imperfections in such a nice fashion. If you’re up for something sportier, there is the F-Sport trim, which features a stiffer suspension setup.
Visually, the new generation brought evolutionary changes. The new model looks nice and we have no doubt it will age pretty well, just like the previous generation did. For the next year, the best we could see are some new color opitons, while we shouldn’t exclude the possibility to see a new appearance package either.
Interior
The 2023 Lexus NX interior design will also remain largely unchanged. The recent redesign brought a new layout, which comes in a typical Lexus fashion. The dashboard looks a little bit conservative, but the build quality is impressive. We also like the materials, as well as the attention to detail. It’s not flashy as some rivals, but the overall quality is among the best in class.
The front seats are massive and supportive, some of the best in class. On the other hand, the second row is a little bit tighter compared to its rivals, though two adults can sit pretty comfortably. The cargo area is small by the standards of this class. You may count on no more than 22.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind its rear seats and 46.9 cubic feet of the total cargo volume. Rivals like BMW X3 offer way more cargo space.
Features
We might see a few new tights on the list of standard equipment but most of the features will remain the same as in the current model. So, base models should come equipped with goodies like a 9.8-inch touch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, navigation, Bluetooth, two USB ports, HD radio, a 10-speaker stereo, a Wi-Fi hot spot, “Hey Lexus” virtual assistant, a 7-inch digital gauge cluster, keyless entry, push-button start, and automatic climate control. The list of options should include goodies like a 14-inch touch screen, navigation, a 17-speaker stereo, wireless device charging, digital key, ambient lighting, moonroof etc.
When it comes to safety, all models will come standard with a rearview camera, blind spot monitoring, parking sensors, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, road sign recognition, automatic high beams etc.
2023 Lexus NX Engines
The 2023 Lexus NX will continue with four familiar powertrain options. Base models will continue with a 2.5-liter inline-four, which puts out 203 horsepower. It’s a great daily commuter but it feels like it would use more power on the highway. Therefore, we think that the optional 2.4-liter turbo-four with 275 horsepower is a far better choice. This engine offers great acceleration and overall performance. Both engines come with an 8-speed automatic transmission, which does a great job.
There are also two hybrid versions on offer. One of them is a classic hybrid, with 240 horsepower and an average fuel economy of 41 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway, which is great for the class. The PHEV version uses the same setup as RAV4 Prime, with a total output of 304 horsepower, which is enough power to hit 60 in less than 6 seconds. Also, this version provides 36 miles of all-electric range.
2023 Lexus NX Release Date and Price
We expect to see the 2023 Lexus NX sometime in the last quarter of the year, with the starting price of around 38.000 dollars. Key competitors are models like Acura RDX, Mercedes-Benz GLC, BMW X3 etc.
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