It’s been no more than a few years since Lexus launched the current generation of its compact crossover and, therefore, it’s not a surprise that the 2024 Lexus NX doesn’t bring too many changes. Moreover, it is s typical carryover model with minor novelties on the inside, where it brings a couple of new interior colors and new color-keyed elements throughout the cabin. Other than that, the company offered a couple of new optional features, while the overall design approach remains the same.
All this means that you may count on a familiar vehicle, with familiar characteristics. One of them is a smooth and relaxed ride, as you would expect from a Lexus. We also like its interior design, with quality materials and a long list of standard and available equipment. Finally, there is the matter of engine options, as there are four powertrain choices in total – two hybrids and two gas-only units.
2024 Lexus NX Design
As we’ve just mentioned, the 2024 Lexus NX brings no bigger changes, especially when it comes to the overall design. So, the exterior looks quite the same, with the brand’s latest design language applied, similar to the mid-size RX. It looks fairly attractive, more elegant and less dramatic than before, and that’s something we like.
As for the mechanics, things are pretty familiar here. The TNGA platform is pretty much the same as in the case of the super-popular RAV4, although the NX features a more refined suspension setup that ensures better ride quality. The ride is smooth and comfortable but the trade-off comes in the lack of athleticism, so more demanding drivers should probably look for something else in this segment, for models like BMW X1, for example.
Interior Design
As we’ve just mentioned, the only novelties for the 2024 Lexus NX are on the inside. There is a set of new interior color schemes, and it’s also worth mentioning that Lexus offers new color-keyed elements. Other than that, the cabin layout is pretty familiar and we really like how it looks like. It combines relatively conservative aesthetics with very good build quality, while the sound insulation is also very good.
In terms of passenger space, this is a compact crossover, so there is a reasonable amount of room in both rows. The front seats are massive and supportive, while the second row also accommodates adults pretty easily. We also like the ergonomics of the driver’s seats, though outward visibility could have been better.
Finally, there is the cargo area, which certainly isn’t the strong point of this crossover because you get no more than 22.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 46.9 cubic feet of the total cargo volume. That’s way below average for the segment.
Features
Most things remained the same as in the last year. So, base models already come equipped with a long list of standard features. Some of the highlights are goodies like a 9.8-inch touch screen, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a 10-speaker stereo, a Wi-Fi hotspot, navigation, satellite radio, voice recognition and Bluetooth. The list of standard equipment also includes goodies like a 7-inch digital instrument cluster display, proximity keyless entry, dual-zone automatic climate control and remote start.
Among options, expect to find a 14-inch touch screen, a 17-speaker Mark Levinson surround-sound stereo, a digital key, a moonroof, a panoramic roof and ambient interior lighting.
The NX is also very generous with safety features. Even the most basic models come standard with a rearview camera, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, intersection assist, lane-departure warning, lane keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, traffic-sign recognition, automatic high beams etc.
2024 Lexus NX Engines
As mentioned, there are four powertrain options on offer, starting from the naturally-aspirated 2.5-liter inline-four. That engine puts out 203 horsepower, which is only enough for daily commuting. The optional turbo four with 275 horsepower is a way better choice.
Still, we think that the best NX models are those with a hybrid powertrain. Some of them use Toyota’s well-known and proven system, based on a 2.5-liter engine. The combined output goes up to 239 horsepower, while the average fuel economy goes all way up to 41 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway. Finally, there is the plug-in hybrid version with 300+ horsepower, which offers a great mix of performance and efficiency. Moreover, you may also count on a solid 37 miles of the all-electric range.
2024 Lexus NX Pricing
As for the price, the base 2024 Lexus NX starts at around 40.000 dollars, while versions with the turbo-four engine are available at around 44.000. The Hybrid is similarly priced as the turbo-four, while the plug-in hybrid comes with a sticker price of around 59.500 dollars.