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2022 Lexus NX 450h+ Road Test: A notch better than good enough

At first glance, you may think the spec sheet and its position in Lexus’ lineup tells the prospective buyer almost everything they need to know about the marqueÂ’s mid-level crossover. And a short stint behind the wheel of a heart-of-the-lineup model confirms it: the NX is exactly what it needs to be to fill a profitable hole in the Lexus lineup. But there's a bit more nuance to the NX nameplate that bears closer inspection. There's one version weÂ’d suggest is best to simply avoid, and that's the base-level NX 250 with its meager 203-horsepower engine, which serves adequately for the Toyota RAV4 that shares much of its mechanicals with the NX but isnÂ’t befitting of a luxury badge. Which brings us to the one real standout model that weÂ’d recommend above all others. The NX 450h+ (a truly clunky naming convention that will come up again) adds a plug and an extra dose of power to the NX that pushes this one particular version across the good-enough line and into actual desirable territory. ItÂ’s an awfully nice little crossover. And we literally mean little, but more on that later. The 2022 Lexus NX 450h+ is comfortable, boasts all the modern technology youÂ’d expect from ToyotaÂ’s premium brand, and is pleasantly powerful while also managing to be efficient. With its plug-in powertrain, a full battery results in an EPA-estimated 37 miles of electric range, and we found that figure just about spot on in our own testing. To our eyes, it looks better than the last NX, though in a nondescript blobby sort of way in every direction other than straight ahead, in which case itÂ’s pinched and spindly just like every other Lexus youÂ’ve seen in the last decade. With 304 total horsepower, the plug-in NX 450h+ is quite a bit more powerful than the 240-horsepower NX 350h hybrid (as opposed to the gasoline-fueled and turbocharged NX 350 minus the lowercase h). ThatÂ’s power you can truly feel from behind the wheel. The torquier plug-in powertrain of the 450h+ scoots the ‘ute from 0-60 in in 6.0 seconds flat, according to Lexus. The 350h does the deed in a comparatively leisurely 7.2 ticks (in case youÂ’re wondering, Lexus says the non-h 350 scores a 6.6). Mid-range power from the 450h+ is quite satisfying as well, again buoyed by the strength of its powerful electric motors front and rear. Even with its strong powertrain, the NX 450h+ is no performance vehicle.

Lexus RC F and SI swimsuit model Lisalla Montenegro compare flowing lines

Lexus has been desperate to break out of its decidedly boring image for years. There is no doubt that it has made quality cars, but many of them have lacked for excitement. But with the new RC in 2014, especially the M4-fighting RC F version, it might finally turn some heads.
If the car doesn't turn heads, Lexus can at least be sure that Sports Illustrated swimsuit model Lisalla Montenegro will, in its latest video. Of course, phrases like, "Hair by over 383 pound-feet of torque," and, "Goosebumps by an aggressively tuned exhaust note," don't really mean anything, but most of the people watching the video aren't going to be reading the copy, anyway. Instead, they will either be focused on the attractive woman or the cool car. Maybe both. Scroll down to check out the video.

2015 Lexus RC 300h is a hardcore hybrid cherry coupe

Lexus is tag-teaming back into the hardcore coupe ring with this, the red rum RC 300h that's jumping off the top rope to "[inject] emotional appeal into the Lexus DNA." It's the hybrid version of the twin, powered by a 2.5-liter V6 aided by a 105-kW electric motor, the pair putting out 217 total horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque through a continuously variable transmission. The RC's other, more conventional half will come with a 3.5-liter V6 with 314 hp and 380 lb-ft shifted with an eight-speed sequential transmission.
The brand doesn't want you to take this RC Coupe for a two-door version of the IS. It's based on the GS platform but its dimensions are unique, being wider, lower and shorter in wheelbase than the IS. Concept-car headlights flank the most extreme version of the spindle grille yet seen on a production car, and the lighting novelty continuing in the cabin with illumination that is aimed up instead of down. The package will ride on either 18- or 19-inch wheels.
The "high contrast," dual-zone cabin is graced with shimamoku wood and Lexus' Remote Touch Interface, and Lexus says the seats have been conceived via an "integrated foaming construction method" like racing seats - we think they look spectacular stitched up in this carmel-colored leather.