Lexus NX 450h+ targets over 100 km electric range

According to Lexus, the new Lexus NX 450h+ will charge at a DC station from 10 to 80 percent in around 30 minutes. At the same time, its battery grows from 18 to 23 kWh; based on preliminary WLTP figures, the plug-in hybrid is expected to cover more than 100 kilometers on electric power. For Lexus, it is the first PHEV model with DC charging.

The technical overhaul is concentrated in the drivetrain. Lexus combines the Power Control Unit, meaning the power electronics, with the transaxle into a compact unit—similar to an electric drive unit in battery-electric models. According to the manufacturer, this architecture saves 10 kilograms of weight and 10 centimeters of height. An inverter with silicon carbide semiconductors is also expected to have lower switching losses than conventional silicon components, thereby increasing efficiency and performance.

According to Lexus, the NX 450h+ produces 226 kW of system output and is expected to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds. The full-hybrid NX 350h produces 146 kW; its battery becomes lighter, dropping from 32.7 to 23.5 kilograms. Both versions can tow 1500 kilograms. Body rigidity increases by around 25 percent at the floor and by around 30 percent at the front strut mounts, according to the manufacturer; engine and road noise are expected to fall by around 20 percent.

What does this mean? For drivers who want to drive electrically as often as possible in everyday use but do not see all-electric range as the only solution, the NX 450h+ offers more electric range and DC charging for the first time: more than 100 kilometers according to the preliminary WLTP figure. The 1500-watt socket also turns it into a mobile power source. Lexus is positioning the SUV against the BMW X3, Audi Q5 and Mercedes GLC.

Pre-orders in Europe are expected to start in autumn 2026, with the market launch planned for spring 2027. Lexus has not yet announced prices or completed final homologation. As a result, the range, charging time and other technical figures are preliminary; no independent real-world tests are available.