It’s already been several years since Lexus launched the second-generation NX. In fact, Lexus Philippines revealed the second-generation NX in December 2021. Nearly five years after it debuted, Lexus has officially taken the covers off the updated compact crossover.

Say hello to the 2027 Lexus NX, which features a bold redesign, as well as a heavily revised cabin, complete with new & upgraded technologies. Starting with the exterior, the 2027 NX carries the “Vital Tech”  design theme, which emphasizes a more dynamic exterior while retaining the sporty silhouette. 

Immediately grabbing your attention are the new LED daytime running lights that deliver a bold and distinct look for the 2027 NX. The distinct dual-line lighting signature also gives the NX a sharp and unmistakable appearance, while also ensuring excellent visibility. The signature spindle grille, meanwhile, gets a slight makeover via a revised honeycomb pattern.

Around the back, the LED taillights now feature the brand’s first use of the “Double L” signature design. Combined with illuminated Lexus lettering, the new taillights and revised lighting design highlight the NX’s wide & low stance. As far as colors are concerned, the 2027 NX is available with up to 9 color finishes, including two new additions: Sonic Tellus and Titanium Carbide Gray, which is exclusive to F Sport models. When it comes to wheels, the 2027 NX is available with 18-inch alloys wrapped in 235/60 series and bigger 20-inch alloys with 235/50 series rubber.

Open the doors, and the 2027 NX welcomes occupants with a pair of digital displays. One measures 12.3 inches and serves as the digital instrument panel, while the other is a massive 14-inch touchscreen media display that supports wireless Android Auto & Apple CarPlay. Also new is a restyled steering wheel that comes with what Lexus calls “Responsive Hidden Switches”, which feature translucent surface panels that they claim enhance functionality, while also delivering a more premium look & feel.

Further giving the cabin a sleek new look is the addition of LED ambient lighting, which can be seen on the dashboard and door panels. Audiophiles will also be happy to know that the 2027 NX is available with a Mark Levinson sound system. Complementing the new ambient lighting system is Sensory Concierge, which is designed to give occupants a relaxing space akin to their own living room. The system works via light coordination, music, climate control, seat temperature, and fragrances across three modes: Inspire, Radiance, and Revitalize.

Speaking of fragrances, the 2027 Lexus NX is available with five distinct fragrances for the cabin. Up to three dedicated cartridges can be installed in a fragrance generator located in the glovebox with the following scents: Tenko (woody aromatic), Keifu (smoky green fragrance), Seiyo (white floral fragrance), Hanya (soft mysterious musk), and Shine (pure citrus fragrance).

A total of three powertrain choices are available for the 2027 Lexus NX. Gone is the 2.0L turbocharged engine, as Lexus opted to give the NX an all-hybrid lineup. The range starts with the NX 300h, which gets an electrified 2.0L inline-four that makes a combined 197 PS. Next up is the NX 350h, which gets a 2.5L electrified four-cylinder engine. It’s available either as a FWD crossover or as an AWD model. Meanwhile, combined system output is rated between 190 PS and 244 PS.

Last but not least is the range-topping NX 450h+. It serves as the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) offering and also comes with a 2.5L electrified four-cylinder engine with AWD. Depending on the final specifications, the NX 450h+ can generate between 292 PS and 326 PS. Final battery specifications have yet to be revealed, although Lexus says the NX 450h+ can cover more than 100 km in EV mode, based on the WLTP cycle (up to 140 km on WLTC). All variants of the 2027 Lexus NX come with an e-CVT.

The 2027 Lexus NX is scheduled to be introduced across global markets from the end of 2026. With that, perhaps we can expect the refreshed NX to arrive in the Philippines sometime next year. More importantly, can we expect Lexus PH to introduce the PHEV variant of the NX here?