The 2027 Lexus NX represents one of the most significant updates yet for Lexus' compact luxury crossover. The gasoline-only powertrains are gone, making the new NX a 100% electrified lineup built around the NX 350h Hybrid and NX 450h+ Plug-in Hybrid. The 2027 Lexus NX PHEV also gains a larger-output battery, more than 40 miles of manufacturer-estimated EV range on select grades and standard DC fast-charging capability.
100% Electrified, 40+ Mile EV Range and Standard DC Fast Charging
The updated NX pairs next-generation hybrid technology with stronger chassis rigidity, revised steering and suspension, a standard 14-inch Lexus Interface display, Lexus Safety System+ 4.0 and an available multisensory cabin experience.
2027 Lexus NX: What’s New?
This is much more than a routine trim update. Lexus has revised the powertrain strategy, chassis, steering, suspension, braking, exterior styling, interior technology and driver-assistance package.
The biggest changes include:
- Gasoline-only NX models are removed from the planned 2027 lineup.
- Every 2027 Lexus NX will be either a Hybrid Electric Vehicle or Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle.
- NX 450h+ gets a redesigned lithium-ion battery.
- Battery output increases by 8%.
- Battery capacity increases by 8%.
- More than 40 miles of manufacturer-estimated EV range on select NX 450h+ grades.
- DC fast charging becomes standard across NX PHEV grades.
- A Power Charge Port Door is standard on PHEV versions.
- Revised E-Four AWD can operate continuously, including during straight-line driving.
- Body rigidity increases through structural reinforcement.
- Steering, suspension, accelerator and braking systems are retuned.
- 14-inch Lexus Interface touchscreen is standard on every grade.
- Lexus Safety System+ 4.0 is standard.
- Available Sensory Concierge adds coordinated lighting, audio, climate, seat temperature and fragrance.
2027 Lexus NX Hybrid and PHEV Lineup
The planned U.S. lineup uses two basic powertrain families: the 2027 Lexus NX 350h Hybrid and the 2027 Lexus NX 450h+ PHEV.
| 2027 NX Model | Powertrain | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| NX 350h Premium | Hybrid | FWD or AWD |
| NX 350h Premium+ | Hybrid | FWD or AWD |
| NX 350h F SPORT | Hybrid | AWD |
| NX 350h Luxury | Hybrid | AWD |
| NX 450h+ Premium | Plug-in Hybrid | AWD |
| NX 450h+ Premium+ | Plug-in Hybrid | AWD |
| NX 450h+ F SPORT | Plug-in Hybrid | AWD |
| NX 450h+ Luxury | Plug-in Hybrid | AWD |
2027 Lexus NX Specs: What Lexus Has Confirmed So Far
| Specification | 2027 Lexus NX |
|---|---|
| Powertrain choices | Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid only |
| Hybrid model | NX 350h |
| PHEV model | NX 450h+ |
| PHEV EV range | More than 40 miles manufacturer-estimated on select grades |
| PHEV battery | Revised lithium-ion battery |
| Battery output change | +8% |
| Battery capacity change | +8% |
| DC fast charging | Standard on PHEV grades |
| AWD system | Revised E-Four electronic AWD |
| Main touchscreen | 14 inches, standard |
| Digital instrument display | 12.3 inches |
| Safety system | Lexus Safety System+ 4.0 |
2027 Lexus NX 350h Hybrid: What Changes?
The 2027 Lexus NX Hybrid uses Lexus' next-generation electrified drivetrain architecture with a more compact e-Axle that integrates the transaxle, electric motor and Power Control Unit.
Lexus also introduces silicon-carbide power semiconductors in the inverter, helping reduce electrical losses while allowing the system to become lighter and more compact.
The result should be more than a simple fuel-economy update. Lexus has specifically focused on how the engine and electric motors work together during acceleration.
Updated battery management allows more electric power to be used during acceleration, helping engine rpm rise more closely with road speed rather than immediately jumping to higher revs.
FWD vs AWD
The 2027 NX 350h Premium and Premium+ are planned with both FWD and AWD configurations.
NX 350h F SPORT and Luxury models are planned exclusively with AWD.
This gives buyers a meaningful choice: front-wheel drive for shoppers who may prioritize efficiency and simplicity, or electronic AWD for buyers who regularly encounter snow, rain or other low-traction conditions.
New E-Four AWD Works More of the Time
The revised E-Four electronic all-wheel-drive system is one of the more interesting technical changes.
Previously, electronic AWD systems typically emphasize rear-motor assistance during acceleration, wheel slip and cornering. Lexus says the new rear-motor control can also maintain AWD operation during straight-line driving.
The goal is to provide a more consistent sense of traction and road contact rather than waiting for specific conditions before adding rear-axle assistance.
2027 Lexus NX 450h+ PHEV: Bigger Battery Capability
The biggest electrification changes are concentrated in the 2027 Lexus NX 450h+.
Lexus has revised the lithium-ion battery to provide both an 8% increase in output and an 8% increase in capacity.
The physical battery layout also changes. Instead of arranging the cells longitudinally, Lexus uses a transverse layout.
That engineering decision allows the battery to sit lower and contributes to greater lateral rigidity across the body.
Lexus NX EV Range: Now More Than 40 Miles
Lexus currently estimates the 2027 Lexus NX PHEV will provide more than 40 miles of electric driving range on select grades.
That represents an improvement over the 2026 NX 450h+, which carried an EPA-estimated 37-mile EV range.
| Model Year | NX 450h+ EV Range |
|---|---|
| 2026 | 37 miles EPA-estimated |
| 2027 | More than 40 miles manufacturer-estimated on select grades |
Lexus NX DC Fast Charging: A Major PHEV Upgrade
One of the most important changes is Lexus NX DC fast charging.
Every 2027 NX 450h+ grade is planned to include DC fast-charging capability as standard equipment.
That is unusual in the plug-in-hybrid market, where many PHEVs rely exclusively on AC charging because their batteries are much smaller than those used in full EVs.
The 2026 NX 450h+ used Level 1 and Level 2 AC charging and could charge in about three hours under ideal 240-volt conditions with its onboard charger. The 2027 addition of DC fast charging gives owners another charging option for situations where faster public charging is useful.
New Power Charge Port Door
PHEV grades also receive a new Power Charge Port Door as standard equipment.
This is a smaller detail than the battery or charging-system changes, but it reflects Lexus' effort to make the charging experience feel more integrated and premium.
Stronger Body and Revised Chassis
Lexus has done significant work underneath the new NX.
The front and rear portions of the unibody receive additional reinforcement, while a new floor cross member and added reinforcement around the tunnel ridge increase floor rigidity.
The suspension towers have also been redesigned using integrated structural components.
Lexus says these changes support three goals:
- Sharper handling
- Lower road noise
- Improved ride comfort
Suspension Changes
NX versions without Adaptive Variable Suspension receive new shock absorbers with ultra-low-speed valves.
These dampers are designed to respond even to very small suspension movements, helping keep the body flatter while retaining comfort.
Lexus tested and tuned the updated NX at Toyota Technical Center Shimoyama and at Germany's Nürburgring.
Steering Gets Quicker
The steering wheel diameter is reduced by 0.4 inch to 14.2 inches.
Every 2027 NX also receives Variable Rack Gear with a more responsive variable steering ratio.
Lexus has re-tuned the electric power steering around that new hardware to make the NX respond more naturally without becoming unnecessarily heavy.
New Brake Control System
A new brake-control function can apply subtle braking while cornering to help control yaw and body roll during abrupt maneuvers such as an emergency lane change.
Accelerator-pedal friction has also been reduced to create a more linear response through the pedal travel.
2027 Lexus NX Exterior Changes
The basic NX silhouette remains recognizable, but Lexus has modernized the details rather than simply changing bumpers.
The grille more cleanly integrates the headlights, cornering lights and functional cooling elements.
Chrome use around the mirrors and exterior moldings is reduced in favor of predominantly black accents.
New Lighting Signature
The headlights integrate the turn signals and daytime-running lights into a new dual-line signature.
At the rear, Lexus introduces its first Double L Signature, combining illuminated double-L elements with an illuminated Lexus logo.
New Colors
Nine exterior colors are planned, including:
- Shaded Ivy — new ash-green exterior color
- Incognito — newly available on F SPORT grades
2027 Lexus NX Interior: 14-Inch Screen Is Now Standard
One of the most visible cabin upgrades is that the 14-inch Lexus Interface touchscreen is now standard across the entire 2027 Lexus NX lineup.
It sits horizontally alongside a 12.3-inch digital instrument display, creating a cleaner and more unified dashboard.
The steering wheel has also been redesigned and incorporates Lexus' Responsive Hidden Switches with translucent touch surfaces.
Built-In Drive Recorder
The latest Lexus Interface includes a standard Drive Recorder.
Instead of requiring a separate dashcam mounted to the windshield, the system uses the vehicle's exterior cameras to record and save video clips when manually activated or triggered by certain events.
Sensory Concierge: Lexus Adds Fragrance to the Cabin
Luxury and F SPORT grades can be equipped with one of the 2027 NX's most unusual features: Sensory Concierge.
The system coordinates several cabin systems at the same time:
- Ambient lighting
- Music
- Climate control
- Seat temperature
- Fragrance
Three main modes are offered:
Designed around uplifting lighting, energetic audio, refreshing airflow and coordinated comfort settings.
Balances lighting, fragrance, sound and climate settings around focus and clarity.
Uses softer lighting, ambient sounds and comfort settings intended to support relaxation.
Three fragrances—Shinmei, Seiyo and Hanya—can also be selected independently.
F SPORT Changes
F SPORT models receive several exclusive visual upgrades:
- Front under spoiler
- Side pontoons
- Rear corner devices
- Piano Black roof-side rails
- Piano Black roof spoiler
- Piano Black rocker panels
- Lightweight 20-inch wheels
- Red brake calipers
- Black instrument panel
- Contrast stitching
- F SPORT-exclusive Radiant Red interior option
Lexus Safety System+ 4.0
Every 2027 Lexus NX comes standard with Lexus Safety System+ 4.0.
Lexus says the new system has broader sensor coverage and enhanced object-detection capability.
Core systems include:
- Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection
- Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist
- Intersection Turn Assist
- Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
- Lane Tracing Assist
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- Road Sign Assist
- Automatic High Beams
- Proactive Driving Assist
More Advanced Driver Assistance
Additional available technologies include:
- Traffic Jam Assist
- Lane Change Assist
- Rear Pedestrian Detection
- Front Cross-Traffic Alert
Traffic Jam Assist can provide temporary hands-free steering assistance during certain low-speed situations on compatible limited-access roads, but the driver must remain attentive and ready to take control.
Connected Technology and 5G
The 2027 NX also expands connected functionality through the new Lexus Interface.
Available services include:
- Digital Key
- Remote Connect
- Safety Connect
- Service Connect
- Wi-Fi Connect
- Intelligent Assistant
- Cloud Navigation
- Destination Assist
Several services use 5G connectivity and may require an active trial or subscription after the included trial period ends.
2026 vs 2027 Lexus NX
| Area | 2026 Lexus NX | 2027 Lexus NX |
|---|---|---|
| Gas-only powertrain | NX 350 offered | Removed from planned lineup |
| Powertrain strategy | Gas, Hybrid, PHEV | Hybrid + PHEV only |
| NX 450h+ EV range | 37 miles EPA-estimated | 40+ miles manufacturer-estimated on select grades |
| PHEV DC fast charging | No | Standard |
| PHEV battery | Previous lithium-ion system | Revised battery with +8% capacity and output |
| Main touchscreen | Grade-dependent | 14-inch standard |
| Safety system | LSS+ 3.0 | LSS+ 4.0 |
| Exterior design | Previous styling | Refreshed lighting, grille and trim |
| Sensory Concierge | Not offered | Available on Luxury/F SPORT |
2027 Lexus NX Price: What We Know
Lexus has not yet announced final U.S. pricing for the 2027 Lexus NX.
The company says pricing and additional grade details will be released closer to the on-sale date.
For context only, the 2026 NX lineup started at $45,570 including destination, but that number should not be treated as the 2027 starting price.
When Will the 2027 Lexus NX Go on Sale?
Lexus says the extensively updated NX is expected to become available across global markets by the end of 2026.
Exact U.S. dealer timing and individual-grade availability will become clearer closer to launch.
DriveSpecLab Verdict
The 2027 Lexus NX is a far more important update than its familiar name might suggest.
Removing the gasoline-only model means Lexus is making a clear commitment: buyers choosing its compact luxury SUV will now enter through a hybrid powertrain rather than being asked to pay extra to electrify it.
The NX 450h+ changes may be even more significant. More than 40 miles of estimated EV range is useful, but adding DC fast charging could make the PHEV materially easier to use away from home—provided Lexus delivers a worthwhile charging rate when final specifications arrive.
The rest of the vehicle has not been ignored. Stronger body rigidity, revised steering, new dampers, improved E-Four AWD, a standard 14-inch touchscreen and LSS+ 4.0 collectively make this closer to a broad technical overhaul than a simple facelift.
The two numbers we still need are also the most important for buyers: final U.S. pricing and official EPA ratings. Until Lexus publishes them, those figures should remain marked as pending rather than estimated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2027 Lexus NX hybrid only?
Yes in the sense that every planned 2027 NX is electrified. Lexus plans to offer the NX 350h Hybrid and NX 450h+ Plug-in Hybrid; gasoline-only powertrains are no longer part of the announced lineup.
What is the 2027 Lexus NX EV range?
Lexus estimates more than 40 miles of electric range for the NX 450h+ on select grades. Final EPA ratings will be published closer to launch.
Does the 2027 Lexus NX support DC fast charging?
Yes. Lexus says DC fast-charging capability will be standard on all 2027 NX PHEV grades.
How fast does the 2027 Lexus NX 450h+ DC charge?
Lexus has not yet published the maximum DC charging rate or a fast-charging time for the 2027 NX 450h+.
How much horsepower does the 2027 Lexus NX 350h have?
Lexus has not yet published the final U.S. horsepower figure for the updated 2027 NX 350h. DriveSpecLab is not carrying the previous model year's rating forward as a confirmed 2027 figure.
How much horsepower does the 2027 Lexus NX 450h+ have?
Final 2027 U.S. system-output figures have not yet been announced by Lexus.
Is AWD standard on the 2027 Lexus NX?
All NX 450h+ PHEV grades use AWD. NX 350h Premium and Premium+ are planned with FWD or AWD, while NX 350h F SPORT and Luxury are AWD-only.
What size touchscreen does the 2027 Lexus NX have?
A 14-inch Lexus Interface touchscreen is standard across all grades.
What safety system does the 2027 Lexus NX use?
Every grade comes standard with Lexus Safety System+ 4.0.
How much will the 2027 Lexus NX cost?
Official 2027 U.S. pricing has not yet been announced. Lexus says pricing information will be released closer to the on-sale date.
When will the 2027 Lexus NX arrive?
Lexus says the extensively updated model is expected to reach global markets by the end of 2026. Exact U.S. timing has not yet been fully detailed.
Official Sources
Editorial note: This article uses Lexus' September 2026 U.S. model-year information. The 40+ mile NX 450h+ EV range is currently a manufacturer estimate, not a final EPA rating. Official 2027 pricing, complete EPA efficiency ratings, horsepower figures and DC fast-charging specifications have not yet been published. DriveSpecLab will update these fields when Lexus releases confirmed U.S. data.
