by Lexus has published two short teaser videos on social media that appear to show the updated NX. The facelifted crossover is set to be unveiled globally on September 1, with moderate exterior changes and a redesigned interior.
Model history and why this update matters
The NX model line appeared in late 2014, and the second generation arrived in mid-2021. Five years on, it is time for this crossover, the premium sibling of the Toyota RAV4, to receive a planned mid-cycle update.
Exterior: new lighting and an RX-style front end
The official teasers came after camouflaged prototypes were spotted during testing. In the dark footage, a new pair of headlights with two horizontal lines of LEDs can be seen. They are likely to be part of an updated front end with the signature spindle grille in RX style and sporty air intakes in the bumper.
Lexus / Instagram
The profile remains almost unchanged, apart from a new green body shade complemented by dark multi-spoke alloy wheels. Lexus has not yet shown the rear end, but fresh LED taillight graphics and a slightly modified bumper should be expected.
Interior: steering wheel from the ES and new dashboard finishing
Inside, the NX gets a modern steering wheel from the ES sedan with the Lexus inscription and new buttons. The instrument panel has also been redesigned: a cleaner arrangement of the vents and climate control unit is located below the large multimedia screen.
Lexus / Instagram
The display will probably keep the same size, including the optional 14-inch touchscreen from the previous NX version, but with an improved interface. The photos also show front seats with red leather upholstery and chevron-style quilting.
Powertrain and market
The NX is built on the TNGA-K platform and is currently available with a turbocharged petrol engine, a self-charging hybrid, and a plug-in hybrid. Whether Lexus has made changes to the powertrains is unknown, but all of them are most likely to survive the facelift.
Further details will arrive on September 1. The NX is the second-best-selling Lexus model in both North America and worldwide, behind only the larger RX. It will continue to battle the BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC, Audi Q5, Volvo XC60, and the upcoming Acura RDX.
The update as part of the brand’s strategy
In this way, Lexus wants to maintain interest in its compact crossover ahead of a wave of new electric models. The updated NX is expected to become more technologically advanced and visually fresher without radically changing the proven design. The September 1 premiere will show how deep the cabin changes are and whether they extend to the chassis. Given the model’s popularity, even a moderate facelift could significantly affect its standing in the midsize premium SUV segment. It is quite likely that this is also the last major update before a full generational change, so Lexus is trying to squeeze the most out of the current platform while maintaining a balance between loyal customers and those already considering the brand’s electric models.
