The 2027 Lexus NX will no longer offer a gasoline-only model, shifting entirely to electrified powertrains. The plug-in hybrid variant, the NX 450h+, receives the most significant updates, including a larger battery and faster charging capabilities.
A Bigger Battery and Faster Charging
The 2027 NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid now features a 22.7-kilowatt-hour battery pack, up from 18.1 kWh in the outgoing model. This change extends its all-electric range to an estimated 45 miles, an improvement of 8 miles over the previous version.
Charging has also been overhauled. The model now includes a native NACS port, compatible with Tesla’s charging network, and supports DC fast charging. Lexus states the vehicle can charge from 10% to 80% in 35 minutes when connected to a 50-kilowatt charger. On AC charging, using a 6.6 kW 240-volt outlet, it takes 2.5 hours to reach a full charge from 10%.
While the battery expansion improves efficiency, the 2.5-liter gas engine remains unchanged, producing 186 horsepower. However, the front motor-generator now outputs 203 hp, up from 180 hp, while the rear-axle motor retains 54 hp. Combined, the system delivers 324 horsepower, a 20 hp increase over the 2026 model.
The hybrid-only NX 350h also sees minor upgrades. Its combined output rises to 244 hp, though the front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive versions share the same figure. The AWD model, however, accelerates slightly faster—0-60 mph in 6.7 seconds compared to 6.9 seconds for the front-wheel-drive version.
Performance and Handling Improvements
The 2027 NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid accelerates from 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds and has a top speed of 124 mph. Lexus attributes these gains to a revised hybrid system that prioritizes electric torque for a more responsive feel.
The hybrid NX 350h retains its 1.1 kWh battery, meaning its electric-only range remains unchanged. However, Lexus notes that the hybrid system has been redesigned to rely more on electric power, delivering a smoother and more torque-rich drive.
Production and Trim Lineup Adjustments
The 2027 Lexus NX lineup has been trimmed down, eliminating the base model and leaving four available grades: Premium, Premium+, F SPORT, and Luxury. All versions now include the LSS+ 4.0 driver assistance package as standard equipment, featuring capabilities such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, traffic jam assist, lane change support, and automatic high-beam headlights.
The hybrid NX 350h is manufactured at two locations: the Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada plant in Ontario and the Toyota Motor Kyushu facility in Japan. In contrast, the plug-in hybrid NX 450h+ is produced exclusively at the Toyota Motor Kyushu factory in Japan. No pricing details for the 2027 models have been released at this time.
Design and Technology Updates
Externally, the 2027 NX features a redesigned front fascia, updated taillights, and black accents replacing chrome finishes. Inside, all trims now include a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14-inch central infotainment display running Lexus’s latest software.