2027 Lexus NX Goes Fully Electrified! Pure Petrol Variants Axed, PHEV Pure Electric Range Hits 72km

[BitAuto Local News] Lexus officially unveiled the 2027 NX yesterday (20 October). The headline update is the complete axing of pure petrol variants across the entire range, shifting to a 100% electrified line-up featuring exclusively the NX 350h HEV and NX 450h+ PHEV powertrains. The new model is slated for global release in late 2026.

Powertrain: Upgraded Hybrids, DC Fast Charging Added to PHEV

The NX 350h hybrid delivers a combined output of 244 hp, up by 4 hp over the outgoing model, powered by a 160 hp front electric motor and a 54 hp rear electric motor, with an estimated combined fuel economy of 38 to 40 MPG.

The NX 450h+ PHEV pumps out a combined 324 hp—a notable 20 hp bump over its predecessor—with the front motor upgraded from 180 hp to 203 hp, while the rear motor stays at 54 hp. A newly developed lithium-ion battery delivers an 8% boost in both power output and capacity, extending its pure EV range from 37 miles to 45 miles (approx. 72 km), with a combined fuel economy of around 36 to 37 MPG.

Crucially, the PHEV model comes standard with DC fast charging for the first time via a NACS port. A 50kW DC fast charge takes the battery from 10% to 80% in just 35 minutes, whilst a full AC charge (10% to 100%) takes 2.5 hours. Both powertrains feature a next-generation e-Axle electric drive axle integrating the transaxle, electric motor, and power control unit (PCU) into a more compact and lightweight unit. The inverter also adopts silicon carbide (SiC) power semiconductors to enhance drivetrain efficiency.

Exterior: Sportier Styling with Black Accents Replacing Chrome

The new NX carries forward the "Vital Tech" design philosophy while adopting a sportier edge. The most noticeable change is that the side mirrors and exterior trim switch from chrome to black, lending a more cohesive aesthetic. Out back, the tail lights feature Lexus's first-ever "Double L Signature" design, pairing twin L-shaped light elements with an illuminated badge to accentuate its wide, low-slung stance.

Nine exterior paint options are available, including three new additions: Shaded Ivy (grey-green), Incognito (exclusive to F SPORT), and Iridium (replacing Atomic Silver).

Interior: 14-inch Touchscreen Standardised, Sensory Concierge Debut

Inside, the headline update is that the 14-inch central touchscreen and 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster are now standard across the range. The steering wheel has been redesigned to feature horizontal "LEXUS" lettering in the brand's latest typography, while the climate control panel transitions to hidden-until-lit touch-sensitive controls for a cleaner, minimalist aesthetic.

The Luxury and F SPORT grades gain the new Sensory Concierge system, harmonising ambient lighting, audio, climate control, seat heating/ventilation, and fragrance across three curated modes (INSPIRE, RADIANCE, and REVITALIZE) to elevate cabin ambiance. Three bespoke scents are offered: Shinmei (citrus), Seiyo (white floral), and Hanya (musk).

Five interior colour schemes are on offer, including the new Abalos (inspired by Martian sand dunes) and the F SPORT-exclusive Radiant Red.

Chassis: Enhanced Rigidity, Smaller-Diameter Steering Wheel

Body rigidity has been comprehensively reinforced with additional floor crossmembers, transmission tunnel bracing, and redesigned suspension towers. Engine noise has also been reduced by 20% compared to the outgoing model. Meanwhile, the steering wheel diameter shrinks from 14.6 inches to 14.2 inches, complemented by Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) fitted as standard across the range.

The F SPORT trim features an exclusive Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), whereas other variants receive new ultra-low-velocity valve dampers. Chassis dynamics were honed and refined at Toyota's Shimoyama Technical Centre and the legendary Nürburgring.

The clear takeaway from the 2027 NX is unambiguous: Lexus has officially bid farewell to pure petrol power to embrace full electrification. For Hong Kong drivers, the NX has long been one of Lexus's best-selling SUVs. The highlight of this update is not a radical cosmetic restyle, but a thorough powertrain overhaul——with the addition of DC fast charging to the PHEV proving the most practical upgrade of all, while its 72km pure EV range is more than ample for the daily commute.

Source: Lexus US Official Press Release

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