2024 Lexus NX 450h+ F Sport Review: Perfect for Northern Jozi lifestyle -

The world of electric vehicles is beckoning, but charging infrastructure isn’t everywhere just yet. Especially here in Mzansi. Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) offer a tempting middle ground, combining the efficiency of electric power with the range security of a petrol engine. We recently spent a month behind the wheel of the 2024 Lexus NX 450h+ F Sport driving it in and around Gauteng and the Free State, putting this PHEV luxury SUV through its paces. Here’s what went down.

First Impressions

Up front, the NX 450h+ F Sport boasts a striking exterior that blends sharp lines with Lexus’ signature design cues. The front end features a bold spindle grille, a hallmark of Lexus design, flanked by sleek LED headlights with integrated daytime running lights. The profile is accentuated by sharp character lines that flow from the headlights to the taillights, creating a sense of dynamism. The F Sport trim adds a touch of aggression with a sportier mesh grille and unique 20-inch alloy wheels. In keeping with the NX’s focus on efficiency, the aerodynamic lines help to reduce drag and improve range.

The rear of the NX 450h+ F Sport doesn’t hold back on its sporty character either. The taillights echo the sharp design language found at the front, with sleek, L-shaped LED units that wrap around the fenders. A subtle spoiler integrated into the tailgate adds a touch of aerodynamic flair.

Step inside and you’re greeted by the large 14-inch touchscreen display. The system is responsive and user-friendly, with both wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. Additional luxury touches include an optional wireless phone charger, a 10-inch head-up display, a digital rear-view mirror, and a 10-speaker premium sound system.

While the NX is brimming with technology, the steering wheel controls present a minor challenge. Each side features a directional pad with both physical buttons and touch-sensitive areas. Touching, but not pressing a button, displays a menu of functions for each button. Selecting the desired function (changing songs, navigating displays) often requires a two-step process, which can be distracting while driving.

Elsewhere, the black and red leather interior you experience offers a striking contrast that embodies the sporty nature of the F Sport trim. The Lexus reputation for luxury is evident in the high-quality materials throughout the cabin. The black leather is supple and stitched with precision, while the red inserts add a pop of colour.

The front seats are the hero of the interior in terms of comfort. They’re well-bolstered, offering excellent support during spirited driving without feeling overly constricting. Lexus equips them with power adjustments and climate-controlled technology for a truly personalized experience. Whether you’re battling summer heat or winter chills, these seats will keep you comfortable regardless of the journey.

Moving to the rear, the black and red theme continues. While legroom isn’t cavernous, it offers decent space for most adults.

Let’s take it on the road

Lexus boasts a 60 km electric-only range for the NX 450h+, and in our testing, it lived up to the claim. During commutes and errands, we achieved this range consistently. Even on a 480 km highway trip, averaging between 110 and 120 km/h, the NX maintained impressive fuel efficiency. The trip computer displayed a combined average of 5.3 litres per 100 km, a testament to the hybrid system’s effectiveness.

Finding charging stations can be a challenge in some areas, but on this occasion, luck was on our side. Several shopping centres offered free charging via GridCars or Rubicon, allowing us to top up the battery a few times. Even with the battery depleted, utilising the standard hybrid mode resulted in impressive fuel economy.

F Sport Handling with a Focus on Comfort

As expected from Lexus, the ride quality on the NX 450h+ is smooth and comfortable. The adaptive variable suspension adjusts from soft for light off-roading to a firmer setting for sportier driving. While the NX isn’t designed for conquering canyons, the F Sport model holds its own in corners when pushed in Sport mode. The combined 227 kW offers ample power for overtaking, and the all-wheel-drive system provides surefooted handling.

The starting price for the NX range in South Africa is R986,800 for the NX 250. Climbing to the top-of-the-line NX 450h+ F Sport Handling represents a significant price jump. The sticker price starts at R 1.3 million, and a fully loaded model can quickly reach over R 1.4 million.

The NX 450h+ competes with established rivals like the 2024 Volvo XC60 Recharge. The Lexus boasts a clear advantage in electric-only range, edging out the Volvo’s 56 km range. However, Volvo offers their PHEV options across all trims, starting at a slightly lower price point.

The 2024 Lexus NX 450h+ F Sport delivers a tranquil and comfortable driving experience, precisely what you’d expect from a family-oriented luxury SUV focused on fuel efficiency. It offers ample boot space, phenomenal fuel economy, and a decent electric-only range, with the option for a touch of performance and a luxurious feel.

For South Africans seeking a practical and efficient luxury SUV that can handle daily commutes, family adventures, and even light towing duties, the NX 450h+ F Sport is a compelling option.

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#Hybrid #Lexus #Lexus NX #Lexus SA

Posted By

Papi Mabele

Papi Mabele has a marketing background, he is a digital marketing expert with extensive experience in launching and building global brands in the emerging markets. Papi is also an avid tech writer, enthusiast and all round tech junkie. As a freelance writer and analyst he has been numerously published in Popular Mechanics (SA), GQ South Africa, Premier Magazine, Driven Magazine, Bloem News, Courant, The Weekly, Enthooze Magazine and PiE magazine amongst others.