We recently had a chance to drive the all-new 2nd generation Lexus NX compact luxury utility in and around Scottsdale, Arizona. And when we say all-new, we mean it; for 2022 the NX has been completely redone from the ground up.

This time around there are four powertrains available, including two hybrid gasoline-electrics. First, we have the NX 450 h plus: Lexus’ first plug-in hybrid. It has 302 total system horsepower with all-wheel drive and an EV-only range of 37 miles. 

Second, there’s also the AWD NX 350 h which is powered by a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder hybrid powertrain with 239 total system horsepower. The Lexus NX 350 comes next; it has a 2.4-liter turbo I4 with 275-horsepower. And lastly, the NX 250, with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine rated at 203-horsepower.

STEPHANIE HART: "As far as the exterior goes, I really like the updated spindle grill. It looks amazing! And the full-width tail lamp really gets your attention and ties the whole look together."

JOHN DAVIS: Inside, the second gen NX doesn’t disappoint either. The new Lexus multimedia system comes with a standard 9.8-inch touchscreen or an available 14-inch touchscreen. A new voice assistant feature also makes its debut.

New advanced safety includes a collision avoidance feature that applies gentle braking and steering, while semi-autonomous curve speed management kicks in when cruise control is on.

The Lexus NX starts at just under $38,000 and is available now.