The 2022 Lexus NX compact SUV has been completely redesigned for the new model year. It’s been modernized in its stylization and features to compete with other luxury brands. The NX lineup offers a wide selection of choices, from multiple hybrid options to six different trim options, there’s bound to be an NX for you. What’s different about the 2022 Lexus NX from the 2021 model year?

What’s new for 2022?

For the 2022 model year, the design of the 2022 Lexus NX lineup has changed quite a bit. It shares its powertrains with the Toyota RAV4, but you’d never be able to tell. The new generation has four powertrain options, which are up from two in the previous model. A 2.5-liter four-cylinder, turbocharged 2.4-liter, and two hybrid options are all available. The hybrid options are a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with two electric motors, and the other is the same plug-in hybrid powertrain found in the Toyota RAV4 Prime.

The interior also takes a step forward, adding multiple upgrades including luxury materials throughout. Distinctive contrast stitching, aluminum pedals, and black open-pore wood trim can be found in the cabin. Optionally, features can be added like the panoramic sunroof, heated rear seats, and an ambient interior lighting system. The new model offers more passenger room in the rear seat, at the cost of slightly less cargo capacity.

2022 Lexus NX standard technology

As with any Lexus, the NX is no stranger to technology and amenities. Now standard starting with the base NX250 is a touchscreen infotainment system, a 9.8-inch display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. A 10-speaker stereo system is included and comes with a free Amazon Music trial.

Optionally, there’s always plenty more that can be added to your Lexus NX model. The higher trims will come with a 14.0-inch display instead of the 9.8-inch standard option. If equipped with the Luxury or Premium packages, the 10-speaker stereo system will be promoted to the 17-speaker Mark Levinson option instead.

Does it perform better than the previous model year?

As far as performance goes, the Lexus NX lineup is good, but not best-in-class. The base 250 model comes in either front or all-wheel-drive, but the 350 comes standard with AWD. Both of the hybrid options also come with standard AWD. The best performance will come from the optional F Sport trims.

F Sport trims add an adaptive suspension system that makes the ride a little more smooth and firm. Though it is an improvement over the previous model year, CarAndDriver notes it still loses to the BMW X1. The performance for all the Lexus NX trims is good, but other luxury compact SUVs seem to just do it better.

The 2022 Lexus NX lineup is completely redesigned for the new model year. Many of the changes are purely cosmetic, with a new sleek design and upgraded interior materials. The NX lacks performance compared to other compact SUVs but has plenty of standard features to make up for it. We recommend the middle trims, NX350 and NX350 F Sport, as the best bang-for-your-buck options.