The Lexus NX 450H+ is a plug in hybrid version of the already excellent NX self-charging Hybrid. This provides the ability to carry out the daily lifestyle without hardly having to use a drop of unleaded petrol via charging the car with electricity. Lexus claims between 42 – 61 miles. But provides no extra stress as once the battery runs out there is a 2.5L petrol engine to continue the journey hassle-free. However, even when the battery is out of range on the dash it will still work as a conventional hybrid in slow moving situations such as stop-and-go traffic. With this, we found that the fuel economy even after the battery has been depleted is reasonably impressive for a large car.
On a combined use of a charged battery and combustion we found mpg ranging from an impressive 80 to 45MPG once the battery had been depleted. Drive mostly at lower speeds and this will increase even more! In the bank holiday traffic, we encountered that the petrol range to empty remained still (even with a depleted battery). Making for a refreshing experience, amplified even more so by the super refined cabin, excellent seats (heated and ventilated on our test car) and a relaxing ambience that the car provides.
Out driving, the plug-in NX is no slouch with an all-wheel drive setup (2.5L petrol, and an 18.1kwh battery producing a total of 305hp. Which enables a 0-62 time of just 6.3 seconds. The drive mode select dial also enables you to unleash performance and enhance efficiency to the max depending on your personal desires. The normal mode however we found to be just perfect and provided an efficient and powerful drive, no compromises! The drive is remarkably smooth, and power is always there where you need it due to the E-CVT automatic gearbox. We had no complaints at all on our multiple 6+ hour test routes with the vehicle. You can truly tell that Lexus has a long successful history of producing hybrid vehicles.
The design team did a cracking job in our eyes as it does not stand out in the wrong way. It looks purposeful, elegant and appropriate for every destination and that is something we really love about it. Furthermore, the F Sport Takumi test vehicle also added eye-catching sporting details such as darkened exterior features and wheels.
Inside we loved the intuitive and easy-to-use dashboard, whilst looking clean, fresh and minimalistic essential items such as the temperature controls had physical dials. We found the NX quick to get used to and then forming into a great companion. We particularly loved the large 14-inch multimedia display with crystal-clear illumination. This coupled with a head up display and digital instrument cluster means you will never speed or miss a sat nav instruction again. Apple CarPlay worked seamlessly also as well as the wireless charging pad that kept phones cool unlike some other rivals. In the rear seats the same levels of space and quality are offered that is experienced in the front with amenities such as air vents, privacy glass and even rear heated seats on our Takumi F Sport model. Finally, the NX 450H+ usability for any occasion is further demonstrated by the large and wide 545-litre boot with a designated space for the charging cables under the boot floor, something that is often overlooked by other manufacturers.
The NX plug in hybrid was not only an enjoyable companion for the 2 weeks of testing but would continue to be for quite some time to future owners due to the ability to have a free 10 year/100,000-mile warranty. To comply simply have the car serviced at Lexus every 10,000 miles/ 1 year. It’s that simple. NX 450H+ starting from £49,995.
Visit: https://www.lexus.co.uk/
By Luke Penny
