2022 Lexus NX: Performance improves, but what really shines is new infotainment system

With its first major redesign since being launched, Lexus' 2022 NX moves onto Toyota Motor Corp.'s TNGA-C platform, which also underlies the popular RAV4 crossover.

Four powertrains, including Lexus' first plug-in hybrid, are available on the second-generation NX luxury compact crossover.

The base NX 350 is equipped with a 2.4-liter turbo inline-four cylinder engine with 275 hp and paired to a new eight-speed automatic transmission that combine to produce an estimated 317 pound-feet of torque, enough to shave a half-second off the previous model's 0-to-60-mph time of 7.3 seconds.

The first-ever NX 250 features a naturally aspirated, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with start-stop mated to the eight-speed transmission. Available in front-wheel and all-wheel drive, the powerplant produces 203 hp and 184 pound-feet of torque, resulting in 0 to 60 times of 8.2 seconds (fwd) and 8.6 seconds (awd), Lexus says.

2022 Lexus NX: Performance improves, but what really shines is new infotainment system

The all-new Lexus NX 350h gasoline-electric hybrid pairs the 2.5-liter, four-cylinder gasoline engine with two high-torque electric drive motor-generators.

The NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid, with a battery-only range of about 36 miles, features a 2.5-liter inline-four engine. The battery can be fully charged in about 2.5 hours when the vehicle is equipped with an optional expedited on-board charger. With the base level 3.3-kilowatt on-board charger, the battery can be fully powered in about 4.5 hours.

The plug-in version also features a new full-time awd that optimizes front and rear torque distribution based on driving conditions.

The retooled cabin in the NX is dominated by an optional 14-inch touch screen that hosts Lexus Interface, an upgraded infotainment system developed in-house that will be adopted across the lineup within three years. The standard NX comes equipped with a 9.8-inch display screen. As part of the upgrade, Lexus Interface features an interactive virtual assistant that can perform functions and answer questions in a conversation with the driver.

The cockpit features its own 7-inch display in the instrument cluster as well as an optional 10-inch head-up display.

The NX also receives Lexus' newest suite of driver-assistance and safety technologies, Lexus Safety System+ 3.0.

We've rounded up and highlighted some early reviews from the automotive press.