Lexus is introducing its second plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model in South Africa with the launch this week of the NX 450h+ PHEV F Sport.
As a more compact alternative to the Lexus RX 450+ that was introduced in April, the mid-size NX 450h+ is priced at R1,336,200, a R110,500 premium over the less powerful NX 350h, which is a conventional self-charging hybrid.
Pairing a 2.5-litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine to two electric motors, with one on each axle, the NX 450h+ PHEV boasts a system output of 227kW. This makes it theoretically capable of sprinting from 0-100km/h in 6.3 seconds.
The e-motors allow for all-electric driving at speeds of up to 135km/h, while the 18.1 kWh lithium-ion battery allows a WLTP claimed range of up to 76km on electric power alone on the combined cycle.
Not only does Lexus claim a higher EV range than its rivals, but as the system defaults to a self-charging hybrid system when the battery is depleted, the company claims 30% better fuel consumption in that scenario.
The second-generation Lexus NX was launched in internal combustion and conventional hybrid guises in early 2022. The mid-size SUV is built around the company’s GA-K platform, while the cabin was the first Lexus to feature the new “Tazuna” cockpit design, with the instrument and infotainment screens combined into a single unit.
The NX 450h+ comes in F Sport trim, and buyers can expect a vast array of standard features, such as a 10-speaker Lexus Premium EMV sound system, Head-Up Display, Panoramic View Monitor, powered front seats with driver memory function, wireless phone charger, Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Active Cornering Assist and Lane Keeping System, to name just a few.
The new Lexus RX450h+ is being launched to the media on Thursday and Friday, so stay tuned to IOL for our impressions from the launch route.
IOL Motoring
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