2022 Lexus NX 450h+ FSPORT
I got the chance to drive the new 2022 Lexus NX 450h+ FSport edition for a week and I know I’ve harped on Lexus in the past for being expensive and outdated, but I love this car. It’s new for 2022 and is Lexus’ first time putting a plug-in hybrid in the NX. It offers 37 miles of pure electric range, which means if you have a short commute or primarily stick to local driving you can almost completely avoid the gas station. I’ve been exclusively using the gas motor because I don’t have easy access to charging and I’ve still been averaging around 39 to 40 miles per gallon, which I love to see.
Exterior
Lexus, I love your front-end grills. They are so fun and sporty, especially on this FSport edition. I think the body style on this Lexus NX is pretty fun. There is an electric charger on one side and a gas tank on the other side, which is taking me some getting used to. On the back, the Lexus badging is double spaced like literally every car brand right now, but I really like it. I’m a huge fan of the exterior.
Interior
Front Row
Full transparency, this car was not made for tall drivers with rear facing children. There is just not enough room. It is beyond tight in here. But for families with forward facing car seats or older children I love this car. And I’ll keep saying it: I am blown away by how much I like this car compared to all the other Lexuses I’ve reviewed.
This car is loaded with safety and technology features, which is not what I’ve said about other Lexuses I’ve reviewed. Two weeks ago I was driving their LX600, the big $100K Lexus SUV, and the technology in here is better. The heads up display is the best heads up display I’ve ever seen. I can see so many options like my auto cruise control so I don’t have to take my eyes off the road. It has a full digital dash. Lexus, why isn’t this the case in the LX? The screen is beautiful, huge and is slightly tilted toward me, which makes my visibility so much easier. The climate control is pulled out and the dials are so easy to use. Under the screen we have a wireless charger, USB, USBC, a small cubby space, two cup holders, and the auto hold button. The center console opens from either side so the driver or passenger have access. For the size of this car the storage is top notch. We also have a rear view camera in the rearview mirror, giving us really great visibility. I’m really impressed with the design.
Two weird things about this car that have been driving me bonkers is 1: the interior door handles. I’ve accidentally been using the emergency handle all week. It’s just a button. I’m sure it just takes some time getting used to. 2: When you lock or unlock the car it doesn’t make any noise, which sounds peaceful, until you have a passenger banging on the door because they don’t think you’ve unlocked it for them.
Second Row
Jumping into the back seat, it is comfortable and wide. I have great head and knee clearance, but I don't think the bench is wide enough for three across. There are vents on the back of the center console along with two USBs. One bummer: There aren’t heated seats back here, which I think should come on a car in this price range.
Car Seat Set Up
There are lower anchors on both outboard seats and tether anchors all the way across. But again, this is not my favorite car for rear-facing car seats. There is just not enough room for the driver and front-row passenger.
Trunk
My uppababy vista fits great back here along with my diaper bag and a few other bags of gear. We have a privacy cover that’s easy to store and the back of the seats have mats on them to protect them from getting scratched up. And lastly, a nice little side cubby space.
Trim
This is the FSport edition of the Lexus NX 450h+ and it’s darling. The FSport edition gives us beautiful 20” blacked out wheels, upgraded front seats and the heads up display that I’m still raving about.
Close
I am a huge fan of this Lexus NX 450h+. I want to see more plug-in hybrids like this before more fully electric cars. It is just such an easier way for first time EV buyers to dip their toes into owning an electric car. It is sporty, fun, luxurious and can get up and go.
