An updated Lexus NX SUV has been spied testing in Europe, revealing early clues to the facelift ahead of its expected unveiling in 2026.
The second-generation NX has been in Australian showrooms since 2022 as a rival to the BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC, Audi Q5 and Volvo XC60, and is currently offered with petrol, hybrid and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrains.
The NX is a critical model for Lexus Australia, having been the brand’s best-seller here since 2015. It accounted for 41.4 per cent of Lexus sales last year and leads the brand’s 2026 tally so far with 1366 deliveries, compared to 522 for the next-best RX.
Australian timing, pricing and equipment details for the updated NX have yet to be announced.
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Images of the camouflaged test vehicle suggest the facelift will bring revised headlights and a reworked front end, including an updated take on the brand’s signature spindle grille, while retaining the current bonnet, doors and roof.
Lexus has previously indicated it will retain the spindle grille design as it repositions itself below the ultra-exclusive Century brand within the Toyota group, following a structural shake-up announced at the Japan Mobility Show last year.
New triangular ducts on either side of the grille give the front end a wider appearance, complemented by a redesigned lower bumper similar to that seen on the Lexus RZ electric SUV.
At the rear, changes include a revised bumper design with reflectors repositioned closer to the tailgate opening. The camouflaged tail-lights also hint at updates, though the full-width light bar appears to be retained.
The current Australian-market NX range comprises three trim levels – Luxury, F Sport and Sports Luxury – with pricing starting from $71,700 before on-road costs for the NX350h Luxury.
All ‘350h’ variants are powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol-electric hybrid system producing 179kW, paired with an electronic continuously variable transmission (eCVT). There’s a choice of front- or all-wheel drive.
The ‘450h+’ plug-in hybrid is offered in Luxury and F Sport grades, combining a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with dual electric motors for a total system output of 227kW and standard all-wheel drive.
It features an 18.1kWh lithium-ion battery with a claimed electric driving range of 87km.
A single petrol-only variant is available in Australia, the NX350 F Sport AWD, powered by a 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 205kW and 430Nm, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Last year, 70.8 per cent of NX sales in Australia were of NX350h hybrids, with 16.8 per cent being NX350s and 12.4 per cent being NX450h+ PHEVs.
The NX slots above the smaller LBX and UX crossover SUVs but below the large RX. We miss out on the even larger TX crossover in Australia, though the more off-road-capable GX and LX body-on-frame SUVs are sold here.
Lexus has been spotted testing a three-row electric SUV, expected to wear the new TZ badge. It’ll serve as a rival to the Cadillac Vistiq and Volvo EX90.
MORE: Explore the Lexus NX showroom