The all-new Lexus NX premieres
After much anticipation, the latest Lexus NX has finally premiered. The NX is set to become Lexus’ next generation and it will be aimed at meeting the diversifying needs and lifestyles of consumers globally. The luxury crossover was introduced back in 2014 and has sold a total of 1 million units worldwide. The latest NX will become the first model to introduce the next generation of the brand and will be based on the development concept of "Vital x Tech Gear.” This concept will be aimed at combining vital dynamism (Vital) with advanced technology (Tech). In addition to this, the NX will be available as both an HEV and a first for Lexus, PHEV.
The all-new NX will come with a range of powertrains with the PHEV not making its way to our local shores. The HEV will come equipped with a high-capacity, and newly developed 2.4-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine as well as a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine. All-wheel drive (AWD) will be available on models that come equipped with PHEV and 2.4-litre turbo powertrains, whilst both AWD and front-wheel drive (FWD) are available on the models equipped with HEV and 2.5-litre naturally aspirated powertrains.
In terms of design, the NX’s hood has gotten extended to the front edge of the hood, with its three-dimensional design starting from the spindle grille, and extending towards the rear fenders. The grille will come in a U-Shaped block design with a three-dimensional effect. A light bar will be found across the centre of the rear and will be combined with the L-shaped lamps. The brand's logo will be placed at the centre of the rear too and will symbolise the next-generation Lexus.
Inside, the NX will get a high-resolution 14-inch display, providing clear images for the driver and passenger thanks to its glare-reducing bonding technology. It also gets equipped with the Lexus Premium Sound System, which consists of 10 speakers and a large capacity subwoofer box. The interior of the NX focuses on a hospitable space for its passengers and fully incorporates the Tazuna Concept.
Those looking at the F Sport derivatives will benefit from exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels, a spoiler on the lower bumper, and front-side garnishes. The cabin will also come with an additional newly developed steering wheel aluminium pedals and driving performance-inspired shift level. The latest AVS will come as a standard feature too, delivering a high level of ride and handling comfort.
Lexus South Africa has announced that the latest NX will come to our shores next year, with the specs and derivatives to be revealed closer to the time of the launch.
Also worth a look: the 2026 Lexus RZ Launched in South Africa | Price & Specs and the Lexus RZ Becomes a Moving Canvas in Collaboration with Artis.
FAQ
Q: What does the new Lexus NX cost in South Africa?
The new Lexus NX starts from around R750,000 for the base 2.5-litre naturally aspirated model, with the hybrid version pushing closer to R900,000 and the top-spec 2.4-litre turbo AWD model hitting around R1,100,000.
Q: Is the Lexus NX worth buying over German rivals?
The NX offers better reliability than German alternatives like the BMW X3 or Audi Q5, plus it comes with Lexus's legendary build quality and that massive 14-inch infotainment screen, making it worth considering if you value peace of mind over badge prestige.
Q: What engine options are available in the Lexus NX in South Africa?
South African buyers get three engine choices: a 2.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder, a 2.5-litre hybrid system, and a punchy 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder, though sadly the plug-in hybrid version isn't coming to our shores.
Q: Does the new Lexus NX come with all-wheel drive?
All-wheel drive is standard on the 2.4-litre turbo models and available as an option on the hybrid versions, while the base 2.5-litre naturally aspirated model comes in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations.
Should You Buy It?
The best luxury crossover under R1,200,000 in South Africa is definitely the new Lexus NX, especially if you're after something that won't leave you stranded at the side of the N1. Starting at R750,000 for the base model, it's pricier than mainstream SUVs but cheaper than most German rivals whilst offering better reliability. The hybrid version at around R900,000 makes the most sense for South African conditions, giving you excellent fuel economy and that bulletproof Lexus dependability. Yes, you should buy it if you want a luxury SUV that'll still be running perfectly in 200,000 kilometres.
