2027 Lexus NX Drops Gas-Only Engine In Favor Of Upgraded Hybrid Lineup

Lexus has officially confirmed that the 2027 NX crossover will drop its gasoline-only trim completely. Unveiled on October 20, 2026, the updated NX will be sold exclusively with hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains for the first time in the model's history. Alongside the electrified shift, the automaker has streamlined the lineup into four core trims—Premium, Premium+, F Sport, and Luxury—while delivering increased power output, a stiffer chassis, sharper exterior styling, and upgraded standard cabin technology across all ten listed model codes.

On the outside, the refreshed 2027 NX retains its compact dimensions while introducing a sharper front fascia with a new dual-line headlamp signature that integrates the turn signals and daytime running lights into a single shape. At the rear, the crossover debuts its first Double L taillight treatment framing an illuminated Lexus logo badge. Chrome exterior accents have largely been eliminated in favor of black mirror caps and window moldings. Buyers can choose from nine exterior paint colors, including Iridium (which replaces Atomic Silver) and two notable new additions: Shaded Ivy, an ash-green finish, and Incognito, a cool gray shade exclusive to F Sport variants.

Both available powertrains—the NX 350h hybrid and the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid—now channel power through a newly developed e-Axle that combines the transaxle, electric motor, and power control unit into a single lighter assembly, helping lower the vehicle's center of gravity. Lexus also incorporated silicon carbide semiconductors into the inverter to minimize electrical losses. In the NX 350h, total combined output increases by 4 hp to 244 horsepower, with the front electric motor generating 160 hp and the rear axle motor on all-wheel-drive models contributing 54 hp. Updated hybrid-control software provides stronger electric assist during acceleration for smoother power delivery. Meanwhile, the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid receives a 203-hp front motor that boosts total system output from 304 hp to 324 hp. A redesigned lithium-ion battery pack delivers an 8 percent increase in both output and capacity, enabling brisker electric acceleration and an estimated electric-only driving range of roughly 40 miles. To enhance handling, chassis engineers reinforced the floor and suspension towers. In terms of drivetrain availability, Premium and Premium+ grades offer the NX 350h with either front- or all-wheel drive, whereas F Sport and Luxury trims include all-wheel drive as standard; the NX 450h+ comes exclusively with all-wheel drive across all four trims.

Inside the cabin, every 2027 NX now features a standard 12.3-inch digital instrument display paired with a larger 14.0-inch Lexus Interface touchscreen that supports a customizable home screen, simultaneous dual Bluetooth phone pairing, a built-in drive recorder, and over-the-air updates. Five interior color schemes are offered, highlighted by the new Mars sand dune-inspired Abalos and the F Sport-exclusive Radiant Red. Luxury and F Sport grades also gain the Sensory Concierge system, which harmonizes cabin lighting, climate control, seat temperature, and fragrance across three modes—Inspire, Radiance, and Revitalize—alongside three standalone scents named Shinmei, Seiyo, and Hanya.

Standard safety equipment is upgraded to Lexus Safety System+ 4.0, bringing adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, intersection assistance, and emergency steering support. Lexus manufactures the NX 350h at its plants in Ontario, Canada, and Kyushu, Japan, while the NX 450h+ is built solely in Kyushu. Pricing details for the four-grade lineup will be announced closer to the market launch.