Lexus NX 450h+ F Sport: Plug-In Hybrid Review

Nov 17, 2025 by Alex Braham 46 views

Lexus NX 450h+ Plug-In F Sport: A Comprehensive Review

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the Lexus NX 450h+ Plug-In F Sport. This car is a game-changer in the compact SUV market, blending luxury, performance, and eco-friendliness in one sleek package. If you're considering a plug-in hybrid that doesn't compromise on style or driving experience, you've come to the right place. Let's get started and explore everything this amazing vehicle has to offer.

Overview of the Lexus NX 450h+ Plug-In F Sport

The Lexus NX 450h+ Plug-In F Sport is Lexus's foray into the world of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), and it's a strong entry. It combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery, delivering a total system output of 304 horsepower. This powertrain provides brisk acceleration and impressive fuel efficiency. The F Sport trim adds sporty styling elements, enhanced handling, and unique interior touches, making it a compelling choice for those who want a bit more flair. One of the standout features is its all-electric range, which allows you to drive emission-free for a significant distance before the gasoline engine kicks in. This is perfect for daily commutes and errands around town. Lexus has truly blended performance with environmental consciousness, making the NX 450h+ a smart choice for modern drivers. The vehicle also boasts advanced technology, including a user-friendly infotainment system, comprehensive safety features, and luxurious comfort. Whether you're cruising down the highway or navigating city streets, the NX 450h+ offers a refined and engaging driving experience. The combination of electric power and gasoline engine provides a smooth and seamless transition, ensuring optimal performance in any driving situation. Plus, with the added benefit of regenerative braking, you can recapture energy and further extend your fuel efficiency. In terms of design, the F Sport trim elevates the NX 450h+ with its aggressive front grille, sporty alloy wheels, and distinctive badging. Inside, you'll find bolstered seats, aluminum pedals, and a unique steering wheel that enhances the overall driving experience. The cabin is crafted with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail, providing a comfortable and luxurious environment for both the driver and passengers. The Lexus NX 450h+ Plug-In F Sport is not just a car; it's a statement of style, innovation, and responsibility. It represents a new era of driving where you don't have to compromise on performance to be environmentally conscious. So, if you're looking for a vehicle that can do it all, this might just be the perfect fit for you.

Performance and Powertrain

When it comes to performance, the NX 450h+ Plug-In F Sport doesn't disappoint. The powertrain consists of a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 304 horsepower. This setup allows for quick acceleration and a responsive driving experience. The electric motor provides instant torque, making the car feel lively off the line. One of the key highlights is the all-electric range, which is estimated to be around 37 miles. This means you can complete your daily commute or run errands without using any gasoline, reducing your carbon footprint and saving money on fuel. The transition between electric and gasoline power is seamless, ensuring a smooth and refined driving experience. The F Sport trim also includes adaptive variable suspension, which enhances handling and provides a more engaging driving experience. Whether you're navigating winding roads or cruising on the highway, the NX 450h+ delivers a confident and controlled ride. The vehicle also features different driving modes, including EV mode, which allows you to maximize electric driving, and Sport mode, which sharpens throttle response and steering feel. The regenerative braking system helps to recapture energy during deceleration, further improving fuel efficiency. In terms of acceleration, the NX 450h+ can go from 0 to 60 mph in just under 6.0 seconds, which is impressive for a plug-in hybrid SUV. The combination of electric and gasoline power provides ample power for both city and highway driving. The powertrain is also incredibly refined, with minimal noise and vibration. This makes the NX 450h+ a comfortable and enjoyable vehicle to drive, even on long journeys. Overall, the performance and powertrain of the Lexus NX 450h+ Plug-In F Sport are well-balanced, offering a blend of power, efficiency, and refinement that is sure to impress. It's a vehicle that's equally at home on city streets as it is on the open road.

Interior and Technology

Stepping inside the Lexus NX 450h+ Plug-In F Sport, you're greeted with a cabin that blends luxury and technology seamlessly. The F Sport trim adds unique touches such as bolstered seats, aluminum pedals, and a distinctive steering wheel, enhancing the sporty feel. The seats are comfortable and supportive, perfect for long drives, and the cabin is crafted with high-quality materials, giving it a premium feel. One of the standout features is the infotainment system, which includes a large touchscreen display with crisp graphics and intuitive menus. The system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. The voice recognition system is also impressive, responding accurately to commands and making it easy to control various functions. The NX 450h+ also comes with a suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These technologies help to keep you and your passengers safe on the road. The vehicle also includes a digital rearview mirror, which uses a camera to provide a clear view of what's behind you, even if the rear window is obstructed. The panoramic sunroof adds to the sense of spaciousness and allows plenty of natural light into the cabin. The climate control system is also top-notch, providing consistent and comfortable temperatures throughout the vehicle. In terms of storage, the NX 450h+ offers ample space for both passengers and cargo. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more room, making it easy to transport larger items. The center console includes plenty of storage compartments for your personal belongings. The Lexus NX 450h+ Plug-In F Sport also features a premium sound system, delivering crisp and clear audio quality. Whether you're listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks, the sound system enhances the overall driving experience. Overall, the interior and technology of the Lexus NX 450h+ Plug-In F Sport are well-designed and user-friendly, providing a comfortable and connected driving experience.

Exterior Design and Styling

The exterior design of the Lexus NX 450h+ Plug-In F Sport is both modern and aggressive, making it stand out in a crowded segment. The F Sport trim enhances the sporty appearance with a unique front grille, exclusive alloy wheels, and distinctive badging. The sharp lines and sculpted surfaces give the NX 450h+ a dynamic and athletic stance. The signature Lexus spindle grille is prominent and adds to the vehicle's bold presence. The LED headlights are sleek and stylish, providing excellent visibility at night. The rear of the vehicle features a clean and modern design, with LED taillights that wrap around the corners. The F Sport trim also includes a rear spoiler, which adds to the sporty look. The NX 450h+ is available in a variety of colors, allowing you to choose one that suits your personal style. The overall design is well-proportioned and visually appealing, making the NX 450h+ a head-turner on the road. The attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the exterior, from the precise lines to the high-quality materials. The Lexus NX 450h+ Plug-In F Sport also features aerodynamic enhancements, which help to improve fuel efficiency and reduce wind noise. The vehicle's design is not just about aesthetics; it's also about functionality and performance. The NX 450h+ has a confident and assertive presence on the road, making it a vehicle that commands attention. Whether you're driving through the city or cruising on the highway, the NX 450h+ is sure to make a statement. Overall, the exterior design and styling of the Lexus NX 450h+ Plug-In F Sport are well-executed, combining sporty elements with a touch of luxury.

Driving Experience

Behind the wheel, the Lexus NX 450h+ Plug-In F Sport offers a refined and engaging driving experience. The combination of electric and gasoline power provides smooth and responsive acceleration, making it a joy to drive in various conditions. The steering is precise and well-weighted, giving you confidence on winding roads. The adaptive variable suspension, which is exclusive to the F Sport trim, enhances handling and provides a comfortable ride. The vehicle feels planted and stable, even at higher speeds. The cabin is well-insulated, minimizing road and wind noise, creating a serene driving environment. The seats are comfortable and supportive, perfect for long journeys. The intuitive controls and user-friendly infotainment system make it easy to stay connected and informed while on the road. The NX 450h+ also features a variety of driving modes, allowing you to customize the driving experience to your preferences. In EV mode, you can drive solely on electric power, reducing your carbon footprint and saving money on fuel. In Sport mode, the throttle response is sharpened, and the steering feel is enhanced, providing a more engaging driving experience. The regenerative braking system helps to recapture energy during deceleration, further improving fuel efficiency. The Lexus NX 450h+ Plug-In F Sport is a vehicle that's equally at home on city streets as it is on the open road. It's a comfortable and capable SUV that offers a blend of performance, efficiency, and luxury. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a road trip, the NX 450h+ provides a rewarding and enjoyable driving experience. Overall, the driving experience of the Lexus NX 450h+ Plug-In F Sport is well-rounded, offering a balance of comfort, performance, and technology.

Pros and Cons

Let's break down the pros and cons of the Lexus NX 450h+ Plug-In F Sport to give you a balanced view:

Pros:

Excellent Fuel Efficiency: The plug-in hybrid powertrain offers impressive fuel economy, especially when utilizing the all-electric range.
Sporty Design: The F Sport trim adds sporty styling elements, making the NX 450h+ stand out from the crowd.
Luxurious Interior: The cabin is crafted with high-quality materials and features comfortable seats and a user-friendly infotainment system.
Advanced Safety Features: The NX 450h+ comes with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety technologies, providing peace of mind.
Responsive Performance: The powertrain delivers quick acceleration and a smooth driving experience.

Cons:

Price: The NX 450h+ is more expensive than some of its competitors, especially in the F Sport trim.
Infotainment System: While user-friendly, some may find the infotainment system less intuitive than those of other brands.
Cargo Space: While adequate, the cargo space is not as generous as some other compact SUVs.
Charging Time: Depending on the charging method, it can take several hours to fully charge the battery.

Final Verdict

In conclusion, the Lexus NX 450h+ Plug-In F Sport is a compelling choice for those seeking a plug-in hybrid SUV that doesn't compromise on luxury, performance, or style. Its blend of fuel efficiency, sporty design, and advanced technology make it a standout in its class. While it may be pricier than some competitors, the NX 450h+ offers a premium driving experience that is hard to match. If you're in the market for a plug-in hybrid SUV, the Lexus NX 450h+ Plug-In F Sport is definitely worth considering. It's a vehicle that offers the best of both worlds: eco-friendliness and driving pleasure.