In what is the most thorough overhaul of the NX since the second generation was put on the market, the 2027 Lexus NX has made its debut. The compact luxury SUV comes with a reworked exterior and interior, but also marks a turning point for the brand’s electrification plans. Most notably, this year’s model will be sold with an electrified powertrain only, leaving buyers to decide between a hybrid and a plug-in variant.
Lexus claims it has put a finer point on nearly everything about the NX, from the chassis and suspension to the cabin tech and the hybrid system itself.
The story with the 2027 Lexus NX is what is under the hood. Conventional gasoline-only models are no longer part of the equation; the entire range has been moved to 100% electrification.
Options are limited to the NX 350h hybrid or the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid, each running on the marque’s newest hybrid technology. The e-Axle has been made more compact by putting the motor, transaxle and power control unit in one assembly. According to Lexus, the use of silicon carbide (SiC) power semiconductors and better electronics has boosted efficiency and put the center of gravity lower.
For those opting for the NX 450h+, there is a new lithium-ion battery offering 30 percent more capacity and an 8 percent bump in output. DC fast charging is now standard equipment. It’s estimated that the NX PHEV will have an electric driving range over 40 miles, but the official EPA ratings have not been announced.
To increase body rigidity, engineers have put in extra structural bracing on the chassis, a new floor crossmember and overhauled the suspension towers. The steering has been given a quicker variable ratio and a smaller wheel for added responsiveness.
If the NX is fitted with the E-Four electronic all-wheel-drive, revised rear motor control means the system is active more frequently.
You will recognize the shape of the 2027 NX, but Lexus has given it a cleaner, more athletic bearing. Up front, the spindle-inspired grille has been retooled to flow into the headlights and cornering lamps without interruption. There are new dual-line LED signatures, black trim and fresh wheels.
At the rear, the SUV is distinguished by the first use of Double L Signature taillights, tied together by an illuminated wordmark that puts emphasis on the width of the vehicle. Two new paint options have been added to the roster: Shaded Ivy and Incognito, the latter being an F Sport exclusive.
Inside there’s a new 14-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that are now standard on every 2027 Lexus NX. There is a new steering wheel and ambient lighting as well as two color schemes, Abalos and Radiant Red. On the Luxury and F Sport trims, occupants can make use of Sensory Concierge, a novel feature that coordinates the climate, audio, seat position and even fragrance to set the mood. One can choose from Inspire, Radiance or Revitalize modes depending on the desired atmosphere.
The NX now comes standard with Lexus Safety System+ 4.0. The suite sees improvements to the Pre-Collision System and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, alongside new additions like Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist and Rear Pedestrian Detection. It also has Traffic Jam Assist for some hands-free operation on the highway.
Lexus has pared the 2027 NX down to four trims: Premium, Premium+, F Sport and Luxury. The NX 350h can be had with front or all-wheel drive in the Premium variants, but the F Sport and Luxury are all-wheel drive only. So too is the NX 450h+.
Expect to see the updated 2027 Lexus NX in global showrooms by late 2026.
