2026 Lexus NX Unveils Versatile Updates: New Powertrains, Enhanced Features, and Striking Colors

Lexus has introduced a series of thoughtful updates in the 2026 Lexus NX to expand its versatility and broaden its appeal to global customers. The Lexus NX has already been one of the brand's most popular luxury crossovers, now offering new drivetrain options, additional trim levels, fresh exterior colors, and enhanced charging capability for plug-in models.

2026 Lexus NX Gets Expanded Lineup & New Powertrain Option

One of the major changes for the 2026 model year Lexus has made is the expansion of the NX 350h hybrid, which is now available in FWD and AWD options. This addition will make the Lexus NX crossover more practical and accessible for customers looking for efficiency and value over the AWD model.

Additionally, the sporty F SPORT Handling grade is now available across all powertrain options, including hybrid models, providing customers with more flexibility to select the vehicle's performance according to their driving requirements.

Moreover, Lexus has added Premium grade to the plug-in hybrid NX 450h+, offering a more affordable entry point for buyers interested in the brand's most advanced electrified SUV. For user convenience and practicality, the NX 450h+ models will now be equipped with dual-voltage charging cables, supporting both Level 1 and Level 2 charging.

In terms of powertrain, the NX 350 AWD models are powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine capable of delivering 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, which is paired with an eight-speed transmission. The NX 350 AWD can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.6 seconds and deliver an EPA-estimated 24 MPG combined.

On the other hand, the NX 350h (FWD/AWD) models are equipped with a hybrid powertrain system, delivering a combined power output of 240 hp. While the AWD configuration in the NX 350h offers a combined 39 MPG, the FWD models achieve a combined 40 MPG.

The top-end NX 450h+ (AWD) model features a plug-in hybrid setup under the hood, promising up to 60 km of pure electric range and an estimated 84 MPGe combined fuel economy. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6 seconds and can be fully charged in 3 hours using a 240V outlet.

2026 Lexus NX Exterior Design & Interior Feature Updates

The new Lexus NX has been introduced in two new exterior color options: Infrared, available across all grades, and Ultra White, now offered more widely throughout the lineup. Depending on the grade the customers select, the NX offers eight different premium paint finishes and is available with either 18-inch or 20-inch premium alloy wheels.

Inside the cabin is a driver-focused cockpit design that features NuLuxe or leather seating in Black, Palomino, Rioja Red, and Macadamia. The interior features several premium touches that enhance its appeal and class, including Thematic Ambient Illumination with 14 selectable moods, a moonroof or panoramic roof, and an optional Mark Levinson audio system.

For performance-focused luxury car buyers, the F SPORT Handling grade is available, featuring Adaptive Variable Suspension, performance dampers, bolstered sport seats, a sport steering wheel, and exclusive trim accents. In terms of exterior upgrades, the Sport grade trim features 20-inch black alloy wheels, a bold mesh grille, and black roof rails, all of which contribute to a more aggressive stance on the road.

Lexus has equipped the 2026 NX crossover SUV with the Lexus Interface, featuring a standard 9.8-inch touchscreen or an optional 14-inch touchscreen, along with cloud navigation, intelligent assist, and a digital key feature. The vehicle also features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an Advanced Park driver assistance system, and Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which comprises a pre-collision system, lane tracing assist, and dynamic radar cruise control.