Lexus NX

The Lexus NX is a premium mid-size SUV from Toyota's luxury division, Lexus, positioned between the UX and the RX. The first-generation NX debuted in 2014, while the current second-generation model was introduced in 2021. As of June 2026, the latest offering on the market is the 2026 model year facelift, available in a total of six variants, with official retail prices ranging from RM299,800 to RM509,800. Among these, the pure petrol and self-charging hybrid variants are priced between RM299,800 and RM420,800, while the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version (400h+) is tagged from RM429,800 to RM509,800. The NX is fully imported (CBU) in the Chinese market, directly competing against key rivals such as the Mercedes-Benz GLC, BMW X3, and Audi Q5L.

Design Language

The 2026 Lexus NX retains the brand's signature spindle grille, featuring vertically arranged black mesh inserts accented by dark trim surrounds. All variants come standard with triple-beam LED headlamps and sharp L-shaped LED daytime running lights (DRLs). In terms of dimensions, the SUV measures 4,660 mm in length, 1,865 mm in width, and 1,660 mm in height, with a 2,690 mm wheelbase. At the rear, it features layered full-width LED light bar taillights, with the prominent spaced-out 'LEXUS' script positioned centrally on the tailgate. The 2026 line-up introduces a new "Rouge Lychee" exterior finish inspired by the flagship Lexus LC GT coupe, utilising a multi-layer paint process to deliver a distinctive sheen under sunlight. Other colour options include Matte Grey. Inside, the NX adopts the driver-centric Tazuna cockpit concept, with selected variants featuring Black Crystal 3D trim inserts and 64-colour ambient lighting. The F Sport variant gains a dedicated two-tone red-and-black interior scheme to enhance its sporty appeal.

Performance and Powertrains

The 2026 Lexus NX is offered with a diverse range of powertrains. The entry-level NX 200 is powered by a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated inline-four petrol engine producing 124 kW (169 PS) and 203 Nm of torque, paired with a Direct Shift-CVT, capable of a 190 km/h top speed. The NX 350h gets a 2.5-litre self-charging hybrid (HEV) system combining an engine output of 139 kW (189 PS) and electric motors delivering 134 kW or 174 kW, achieving a total system output of 240 PS routed through an E-CVT. The 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) sprint takes 8.2 seconds for the front-wheel-drive (FWD) version and 7.2 seconds for the all-wheel-drive (AWD) model, with a combined WLTC fuel consumption rated at approximately 5.13 L/100 km. The NX 400h+ plug-in hybrid delivers a combined system output of 195 kW (265 PS), an all-electric range of around 90 km, and an AC charging time of roughly 5 hours. In global markets, an NX 350 variant is also available, powered by a 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine generating 275 PS and 430 Nm, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and capable of completing the 0-100 km/h sprint in 6.6 seconds.

Chassis and Handling

Underneath, the 2026 Lexus NX is built on a front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link independent suspension setup. The F Sport variant comes standard with Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) alongside front and rear performance dampers, delivering sharper body control and superior damping over the standard variants without compromising fuel efficiency. Steering is handled by an Electric Power Steering (EPS) system. Drivetrain options include front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD), with the plug-in hybrid model utilising dual front motors and a rear eAxle to create an electric torque-vectoring AWD system.

Cabin and Equipment

Inside the cabin, the 2026 Lexus NX features a 7-inch fully digital instrument cluster, paired with a central touchscreen available in either 9.8-inch or 14-inch configurations. Infotainment is driven by the Lexus Interface 3.0 system, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The 14-inch screen is treated with an anti-glare coating. For comfort, heated front seats are standard across the range, while the range-topping variants gain sports seats and a panoramic glass roof. A Head-Up Display (HUD) is standard across all variants. Higher-spec grades further add ventilated front seats, a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, a digital rear-view mirror, a 10-speaker premium audio system, and the 14-inch display. Boot space is rated at 520 litres. The 2026 update also refines cabin ergonomics with softer seat padding and enhanced lateral support.

Safety and Driver Assistance

On the safety front, the 2026 Lexus NX comes equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 (LSS+ 3.0) suite. A total of seven airbags are fitted across the range, encompassing dual front airbags, front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags, and a driver’s knee airbag. Active safety systems include Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), and Lane Departure Warning (LDW). Other safety equipment includes Roll Stability Control, Safe Exit Assist (SEA), emergency breakdown call, and Sentry Mode. Advanced driver assistance is standard across the board with Level 2 semi-autonomous capabilities, including Full-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), Lane Change Assist (LCA), panoramic view monitor with blind-spot view, and semi-autonomous parking assist. Additionally, the 2026 model receives redesigned rear seatbelts to improve rear-passenger protection in moderate overlap frontal impacts.

Market Performance and Verdict

The Lexus NX remains one of the brand's key volume drivers in China, registering cumulative sales of 34,200 units between January and August 2025. In terms of resale value, the NX 350h 2WD Chuangchi Edition achieved a three-year retained value rate of 68.4%, ranking it among the leaders in the RM250,000-class luxury SUV segment. In the J.D. Power 2025 China Initial Quality Study (IQS), the NX recorded just 92 problems per 100 vehicles (PP100), performing well above the segment average of 118 PP100. Lexus closed 2025 with total annual sales of 182,000 units in China, marking three consecutive years of positive growth, with the NX contributing a substantial portion.

With the addition of the entry-level 2.0L naturally aspirated variant, the 2026 NX lowers its barrier to entry below the RM300,000 mark, representing a price reduction of roughly RM19,000 compared to its original 2021 launch price of RM318,800. The key strengths of the NX lie in its CBU built-in-Japan quality, solid resale value, comprehensive powertrain lineup, and standard LSS+ 3.0 safety suite. On the downside, the 2.0L naturally aspirated engine feels somewhat underpowered, cabin dimensions remain on the compact side compared to class rivals, and the infotainment tech still trails behind newer domestic EV competitors. Nonetheless, backed by proven reliability, strong retained value, and premium import pedigree, the Lexus NX continues to hold a compelling edge in the RM300,000 to RM500,000 luxury mid-size SUV market.