The second-generation Lexus NX is still relatively fresh in its production run, with the current generation NX making its debut only a few years ago. The NX has proven to be a good seller for the luxury brand.

But updates are always welcome, and Lexus has chosen to give the NX a refresh for 2027 that chisels out some of the rough edges and adds some new depth to the luxury CUV.

The NX’s design grows up

A big change for 2027 is that the NX has been refreshed inside and out. While the core elements of the CUV’s Vital x Tech design language is unchanged, the front end gets new headlights and a frameless version of Lexus’s spindle-style front grille, while the rear lighting gets a set of L-motifs in it. F-Sport models add 20-inch alloy wheels, red brake calipers and a revised aero package.

Meanwhile, the interior also gets its fair share of changes. The steering wheel is smaller than before, and the Lexus “L” emblem is replaced with a spelled-out version of the brand’s name. Mazda did a similar update to the CX-5’s steering wheel, and we see this becoming a broader trend over the next few years. A new dashboard and center stack take center stage, with the NX borrowing some tricks from the ES and the TZ.

A large 14.0-inch infotainment system is standard and is joined by a 12.3-inch instrument cluster with capacitive-style controls for select functions, including the climate control. Lexus also says they slightly adjusted the seating position, with similar adjustments being made to the steering wheel and the pedals.

Hybrid performance leads driving updates

Performance updates for the 2027 NX are focused almost exclusively on the hybrid versions, with the non-hybrid model still using the carryover 275 hp 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. The hybrids get Lexus’s sixth-generation hybrid system, with the 350h now producing 240 hp while the 450h+ plug-in produces 304 hp. The 450h+ also received a larger 23.0 -kWh battery pack that boosts its all-electric driving range from 37 to 62 miles. The brand says the 350h can make the sprint to 60 mph in 6.8 seconds while the heavier 450h+ needs 7.1 seconds to do the same feat.

Lexus also made revisions to the engine block to help it be more rigid, with body rigidity and chassis tuning improvements enhancing the NX’s handling behavior.

When will it go on sale?

Lexus didn’t release official pricing for the 2027 NX but did confirm the model will go on sale in Europe in spring of 2027. Sales in the United States will follow shortly after, but look for pricing to be bumped up for the new model year when compared to a 2026 model.