2022 Lexus NX350 AWD

Aim for the Middle

Highs: New turbo four delivers class-leading power, infotainment interface is no longer a deal breaker. Lows: Engine has a bit of lag, handling limits, not as serene as we’ve come to expect of Lexus.

Performance SUVs continue to proliferate, but Lexus is unlikely to add to those growing numbers. Its only remotely sporty SUV is the NX, the smaller, spunkier sibling of the cushy RX. Boasting the brand’s first turbocharged engine, the first-gen NX was a hit—Lexus’s number-two seller.

The second-gen NX continues the successful formula. The new design is evolutionary. The spindle grille returns, with the checkmarkshaped daytime running lights relocating above the headlights. The length and wheelbase have grown 1.2 inches. Lexus put those inches to good use, increasing luggage space behind the rear seats by a substantial five cubic feet. Conversely, max cargo volume shrinks by seven cubes, a trade-off that seems worthwhile.

Because performance matters to us, we tested the mid-tier NX350 AWD, which gets a new turbocharged 2.4-liter inline-four. Its 275 horsepower tops rivals such as the Audi Q3, BMW X1, and MercedesBenz GLA. However, the heavier 3987-pound NX350 hits 60 mph in 6.6 seconds, 0.9 second behind the 228-hp X1. With the boost on boil, the NX covers the quarter-mile in 15.0 seconds at 95 mph, but pronounced turbo lag hampers the experience everywhere else.

Braking from 70 mph takes 175 feet, but that’s largely due to Lexus’s use of all-season tires. On our skidpad, the rubber howled and managed only 0.81 g of grip (versus 0.89 g for the Cadillac XT4 and Mercedes GLB). The F-Sport handling package ($3300) adds adaptive dampers that firm up the ride, but the summertire option has been dropped. These choices are largely in service to fuel economy, which Lexus estimates at 25 mpg combined.

Infotainment takes a massive leap forward in the new NX, banishing memories of the old touchpad nightmare. The giant 14.0-inch screen is crisp and responsive, with wireless phone mirroring. “Hey, Lexus!” summons a virtual assistant that hears requests perfectly, even if you’re cranking Creedence. t h e n u m b e r s

Vehicle Type: front-engine, all-wheeldrive, 5-passenger, 4-door wagon

Base/As Tested ....... $42,625/$51,745

Engine: turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve inline-4, aluminum block and head, port and direct fuel injection Displacement ��������������� 146 in3, 2393 cm3 Power �������������������������� 275 hp @ 6000 rpm Torque ������������������������ 317 lb-ft @ 1700 rpm Transmission: 8-speed automatic

Dimensions

• Wheelbase �������������������������������������� 105�9 in • L/W/H �������������������������� 183�5/73�4/65�8 in • Curb Weight ����������������������������������� 3987 lb t e s t R E S U L T S

60 mph ������������������������������������������������ 6�6 sec 1/4-Mile ������������������������� 15�0 sec @ 95 mph 100 mph ��������������������������������������������� 16�5 sec Results above omit 1-ft rollout of 0.3 sec. Rolling Start, 5–60 mph �������������� 7�5 sec Top Speed (gov ltd) ��������������������� 126 mph Braking, 70–0 mph ���������������������������� 175 ft Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad ������ 0�81 g

EPA Fuel Economy (C/D est)

• Comb/City/Hwy �������������� 25/22/29 mpg

Lesser controls are integrated into the touchscreen, reducing visual clutter. Comfortable seats and high-quality materials add to the serenity. The cabin isn’t hushed, though; we measured 70 decibels at 70 mph. Turning up the 17-speaker Mark Levinson sound system ($1020) masks any noise.

The NX350, with standard all-wheel drive, starts at $42,625. Below it is the front-drive NX250 with a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter ($39,025). There are also two hybrids: the NX350h ($42,125) and the plug-in NX450h+ ($56,635). The latter promises 37 miles of EV driving.

As for the NX350, while its handling won’t make you think performance crossover, the new turbo engine gives it a sprightly demeanor. And returning NX buyers will feel right at home.