- Spies have snapped the first photos of the facelifted Lexus NX.
- Compact crossover sports a new and more aggressive front end.
- Model will likely feature a handful of other minor updates as well.
Lexus introduced the redesigned NX in 2021 and now the company is working on a facelifted variant to keep the compact crossover fresh. Prototypes were recently spied undergoing testing on and around the Nürburgring and they suggest this will be a relatively minor update.
Starting up front, we can see a prominent spindle grille with two new horizontal bars at the bottom. Designers also gave the crossover new headlights, which feature two lighting strips that function as daytime running lights and turn signals.
More: 2026 Lexus NX Drops Entry-Level Engine, Adds Cheaper Versions
Beneath the lights are new triangular intakes, which give the model a sportier appearance. They could imply this is an F Sport prototype, although it’s hard to be certain at this point. Last but not least, there’s a new front bumper with a rounded lower lip.
The profile appears to carryover, but we can likely expect updated wheels. The same can be said for the rear end, but there are likely some minor changes hiding beneath the camouflage.
SHProshots
Spy photographers didn’t get a look inside, but the NX could follow in the footsteps of the ES and adopt a new steering wheel with “LEXUS” lettering instead of a familiar “L” logo. The model could also upgrade to the new Lexus Safety System+ 4.0 suite of driver assistance systems, which would be an improvement from the current 3.0 setup.
Powertrain details remain more mysterious, but the current model offers an assortment of options. Kicking things off is a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder developing 275 hp (202 kW / 279 PS) and 317 lb-ft (430 Nm) of torque. Customers can also get a hybridized 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces a combined output of 240 hp (179 kW / 243 PS).
Last but not least, there’s a plug-in hybrid that features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, electric motors, and an 18.1 kWh battery pack. This gives the model 304 hp (227 kW / 308 PS) as well as 37 miles (60 km) of electric-only range.
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