- The 2027 Lexus NX 450h+ receives a larger 23-kWh battery.
- The cabin is extensively updated with a 14-inch centre display, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and the new Sensory Concierge system.
- The Lexus NX remains an important vehicle for Canada’s automotive industry, with NX production taking place in Cambridge, Ontario, while the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid is assembled in Japan.
A Significant Refresh for the 2027 Lexus NX
Lexus is giving the NX a substantial update for the 2027 model year. Rather than starting from scratch, the Japanese automaker is evolving the second generation of its compact luxury SUV with improvements to virtually every major area, including design, interior technology, driving dynamics and, most importantly, its electrified powertrains.
Visually, the NX retains its familiar overall proportions but adopts a more modern interpretation of Lexus’ “Vital x Tech” design language. The most noticeable transformation is found at the front, where a new frameless grille is more seamlessly integrated into the bodywork. Both the front and rear lighting signatures have also been completely redesigned.
The 2027 Lexus NX grows slightly in length to 4,690 mm, an increase of 30 mm, while its 1,865-mm width and 2,690-mm wheelbase remain unchanged.
A Completely Redesigned Interior
The changes are even more substantial inside. Lexus has completely redesigned the dashboard to create a cleaner, more horizontal layout.
2027 Lexus NXDrivers now face a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster alongside a 14-inch multimedia display running the latest generation of LexusConnect. Both screens are positioned along the same visual axis to reduce unnecessary head and eye movement while driving.
Lexus is also introducing its new “Responsive Hidden Switches.” These controls remain nearly invisible when they are not being used, then illuminate as the driver’s hand approaches. They still provide physical feedback when operated, allowing Lexus to integrate touch-sensitive controls without turning the entire cabin into a purely digital environment.
2027 Lexus NXSeveral new interior colours and trims are also available, including Clay Red, Solis White and Hazel. Lexus is additionally introducing a new Forged Bamboo finish made from 55 percent biomaterials.
Another noteworthy addition is Lexus Sensory Concierge. The system coordinates several cabin functions, including ambient lighting, music, climate control, seat temperature and even interior fragrances. Three different atmospheres are offered: Inspire, Radiance and Revitalise.
Sixth-Generation Lexus Hybrid Technology
The most important technical changes to the 2027 Lexus NX are found underneath the bodywork.
Lexus is introducing its sixth-generation hybrid technology on the NX 350h and NX 450h+. The power control unit and transaxle are now integrated into a more compact assembly, resulting in a 10-kg weight reduction while also reducing the unit’s height by 10 cm.
Silicon carbide semiconductors are also used to reduce energy losses and improve overall system efficiency.
The NX 350h retains a combined output of 199 horsepower in the European specification presented by Lexus. Its lithium-ion battery has also been redesigned, reducing its weight from 32.7 kg to just 23.5 kg. Lexus also announces a maximum towing capacity of up to 1,500 kg.
Lexus NX 450h+ Gets a Larger 23-kWh Battery and More EV Range
The 2027 Lexus NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid receives the most significant improvements.
Its lithium-ion battery grows from 18 kWh to 23 kWh, representing an increase of approximately 30 percent. The additional capacity allows Lexus to claim more than 100 km of electric driving range under the WLTP testing cycle, which would translate to approximately 86 km under NRCan standards. This represents an improvement of roughly 40 percent. Official North American figures will nevertheless be required to confirm the final Canadian electric range.
2027 Lexus NXCombined output also increases from 292 to 307 horsepower in the newly announced specification, while the 0-100 km/h sprint is completed in approximately 6.1 seconds. The current Canadian-market NX 450h+ already produces 304 horsepower, however, so we will have to wait for Canadian specifications to determine whether output will actually change for 2027.
For the first time on a Lexus plug-in hybrid, the NX 450h+ also becomes compatible with DC fast charging. Lexus says the battery can be charged from 10 to 80 percent in approximately 30 minutes.
This addition could make the NX 450h+ considerably more attractive to owners looking to complete the majority of their daily driving without using gasoline while retaining the flexibility of a gasoline engine for longer trips.
Lexus Improves the NX Driving Experience
Lexus has not limited the 2027 NX updates to its powertrains and technology. Structural rigidity has been improved, while additional work has been carried out on sound insulation, aerodynamics and suspension tuning.
The braking and all-wheel-drive systems have also been revised as part of Lexus’ efforts to strengthen what the company calls its “Lexus Driving Signature,” built around three core principles: comfort, control and confidence.
Lexus Safety System+ also evolves with improved capabilities for the pre-collision system, adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance. A new emergency driving stop system can even bring the vehicle to a stop within its lane if it detects that the driver is no longer capable of operating the vehicle.
The Lexus NX Is Built in Canada
For Canadian buyers, the NX also has an important local connection: it is built here in Canada.
Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada has produced the Lexus NX, NX Hybrid and RX at its North Plant in Cambridge, Ontario, since 2022. The facility also assembles the RAV4 Hybrid.
Canadian production of the NX represents an important chapter in Lexus history. In 2003, TMMC became the first manufacturing facility outside Japan to build a Lexus vehicle.
There is an important distinction within the NX lineup, however. While the NX and NX Hybrid are produced in Cambridge, the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid is assembled in Japan.
The 2027 Lexus NX therefore represents considerably more than a simple styling refresh. With its extensively redesigned cabin, new technology, sixth-generation hybrid system and major improvements to the NX 450h+, including a larger 23-kWh battery, substantially more electric range and DC fast-charging capability, Lexus is giving its compact luxury SUV a meaningful update while maintaining the NX’s important Canadian manufacturing connection.
