TNGA-based all-new 2022 Lexus NX debuts; new 2.4L turbo, brand's first-ever PHEV

Welcome to the all-new 2022 Lexus NX, the second generation of the brand's compact SUV line that first debuted in 2014.

Exterior - Man-eating spindle grille

The new look sees the NX getting a more aggressive front fascia, with an even larger spindle grille sitting in between the sharp LED headlights that now integrates the brand's trademark L-shaped daytime running lights (DRLs).

Flowing smoothly down the sides (it's got a choice of 18- or 20-inch wheels now), the NX's rear end also boasts new tail lamps, and of course the new 'Lexus' script running across the bootlid.

Also read: 30 years of Lexus: How it began and what is the meaning of the Lexus name?

With new looks comes new dimensions as well. This NX is marginally longer, wider, and taller than the model it replaces:

Interior - No more touchpad

Much like the outside, the cabin also employs a totally-new look, this time employing the 'Tazuna concept'.

It's a big shift in every aspect, from how it looks to what functions it has.

Right off the bat, there centre console that now features an angled touchscreen infotainment system that goes all the way up to a maximum 14-inches, a 6-inch increase from what the outgoing model has.

Also read: How symbols derive their power - the myth of car brands and the influence they have over us

Gone is the touchpad too, and Lexus now employs good ol' physical controls that flank the screen.

And of course, the infotainment system supports Wi-Fi connection, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and even Baidu CarLife.

Also read: Why your next car should come with Android Auto or Apple CarPlay

Putting sound through is a Lexus Premium Sound System that consists of 10 speakers, including a built-in subwoofer. For more aural oomph, Lexus also offers the Mark Levinson 7 Premium Surround Sound System, and that comes with 17 speakers.

64-colour ambient lighting is present, as well as the new Touch Tracer Operation function. This combines the head-up display with touch-sensitive sensors on the steering wheel, allowing the driver to look at vital functions without taking their eyes off their road.

Powertrain - TNGA-K, new engines

As nifty as the new bodywork and cabin look, the headlines are about what lies under the hood.

Sitting on the same TNGA-K platform as the Toyota Harrier, Toyota RAV4, Toyota Camry, and Lexus ES (among other models), Lexus offers 7 different powertrain combinations across the range, utilising Dynamic Force engines.

Also read: Toyota Corolla Altis' TNGA platform, what is it and does it make any difference?

Of which, the NX450h+ is the brand's first-ever plug-in hybrid, pairing the 2.5-litre Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine (A25A-FXS) with two electric motors and an 18.1 kWh lithium-ion battery. Total power ouput 

In short, here's the summary of the new NX's powertrain list:

• 2.5-litre naturally aspirated, A25A-FKS (NX 250): 199 PS
• 2.5-litre full-hybrid, A25A-FKS + THS II (NX 350h): 242 PS
• 2.4-litre turbocharged, T24A-FTS (NX 350): 279 PS
• 2.5-litre plug-in hybrid, A25A-FKS with THS II Plug-in (NX 450h+): 306 PS

There's options for front-wheel- or all-wheel drive/e-FOUR too.

Safety - Updated LSS+

Safety-wise, there's an updated Lexus Safety System+ that features:

• Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
• Adaptive Cruise Control (with All-Speed Follow)
• Lane Departure Alert (LDA)
• Lane Tracing Assist (LTA)
• Road Sign Assist (RSA)
• Proactive Driving Assist

The AEB system - or Pre-Crash System (PCS, in Lexus' parlance) now has an expanded scope of assistance, including avoiding pedestrians, motorcyclists, and intersecting/oncoming vehicles.

Meanwhile, Lexus says the ACC now detects curves better, and the LTA has been enhanced to offer a more comfortable steering support. On the other hand, PDA is more of a warning system that displays warning messages when the car senses danger.

Conclusion - In Malaysia in 2022?

So that's a quick summary of the latest Lexus NX. It's a near-certainty for it to reach Malaysia, but not so soon - perhaps sometime in 2022.

For now though, we still have the last-gen Lexus NX on our shores. Here's what we think of it.