Hey everyone, let's dive deep into the 2023 Lexus NX 350h Premium AWD. This compact luxury SUV has been making waves, and for good reason. It's a fantastic blend of style, efficiency, and Lexus's renowned build quality. If you're in the market for a hybrid SUV, the NX 350h Premium AWD should definitely be on your radar. We're going to break down everything you need to know, from its performance and features to its pros and cons, so you can decide if it's the right ride for you. Get ready, because we're about to explore what makes the NX 350h Premium AWD a standout choice in a crowded segment.

Driving Experience and Performance of the 2023 Lexus NX 350h Premium AWD

Alright, let's talk about what it's like to actually drive the 2023 Lexus NX 350h Premium AWD. This is where the rubber meets the road, or in this case, the tires grip the asphalt. The NX 350h is powered by a hybrid powertrain that combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with electric motors. This setup delivers a combined output of 240 horsepower, which provides peppy acceleration for everyday driving. You'll find it has plenty of get-up-and-go for merging onto the highway or navigating city streets. The all-wheel-drive system ensures confident handling in various weather conditions, which is a huge plus if you live in an area with rain or snow. The transition between the gasoline engine and electric motors is seamless, making for a smooth and quiet ride. Lexus has really nailed the refinement aspect; the cabin is well-insulated from road and wind noise, adding to the overall feeling of luxury. The suspension strikes a good balance between comfort and control, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road without feeling overly soft. It's not a sports car, mind you, but it's not trying to be. It's designed to provide a comfortable and composed driving experience, and it succeeds admirably. For those who prioritize fuel efficiency, the hybrid system truly shines. You can expect impressive fuel economy figures, making it a cost-effective choice in the long run. The regenerative braking system helps to recapture energy, further enhancing the efficiency. In summary, the 2023 Lexus NX 350h Premium AWD offers a balanced and enjoyable driving experience, blending performance, efficiency, and refinement.

Engine and Hybrid System

So, let's get into the specifics of that 2023 Lexus NX 350h Premium AWD engine and hybrid system, shall we? As mentioned, the heart of this SUV is a 2.5-liter inline-4 engine, which is paired with an electric motor system. Together, they generate a total of 240 horsepower. This isn't about raw power; it's about providing a smooth and efficient driving experience. The hybrid system is the star of the show here. It seamlessly switches between the gasoline engine and the electric motors, optimizing performance and fuel economy. The electric motors provide instant torque, which means quick acceleration off the line. This is particularly noticeable when you're pulling away from a stoplight or merging onto the highway. The gasoline engine kicks in when more power is needed, but the transition is incredibly smooth, so you barely notice it. The hybrid system also incorporates regenerative braking. When you hit the brakes, the system captures energy that would otherwise be lost and uses it to recharge the hybrid battery. This not only improves fuel efficiency but also reduces wear and tear on the brake pads. The NX 350h has different drive modes, such as Eco, Normal, and Sport, allowing you to tailor the driving experience to your preferences. Eco mode maximizes fuel efficiency, while Sport mode sharpens throttle response for a more engaging feel. The all-wheel-drive system provides added traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. The system constantly monitors wheel slippage and adjusts power distribution accordingly, ensuring optimal grip. The engine and hybrid system of the 2023 Lexus NX 350h Premium AWD work together harmoniously to deliver a refined, efficient, and enjoyable driving experience.

Handling and Ride Quality

Let's get into the nitty-gritty of how the 2023 Lexus NX 350h Premium AWD handles and rides, because, you know, that's what makes or breaks the driving experience, right? The NX 350h is designed to prioritize comfort and composure, and it largely succeeds. The suspension system is tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a smooth ride even on less-than-perfect surfaces. It's not the sportiest SUV out there, but it handles corners with confidence and body roll is well-controlled. Steering is light and precise, making the NX 350h easy to maneuver in tight spaces, such as city streets and parking lots. The all-wheel-drive system enhances handling by providing extra grip and stability, particularly in wet or snowy conditions. The system continuously monitors the amount of grip available at each wheel and adjusts power distribution accordingly, helping to prevent wheel slip and maintain control. The NX 350h offers a quiet and refined cabin, which further enhances the ride quality. Lexus has done a great job of minimizing road and wind noise, creating a tranquil environment for both the driver and passengers. The seats are supportive and comfortable, providing good long-distance comfort. The driving position is also excellent, with a clear view of the road and easily accessible controls. Overall, the handling and ride quality of the 2023 Lexus NX 350h Premium AWD make it a pleasure to drive, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a road trip. It's a well-rounded package that delivers a comfortable, composed, and enjoyable driving experience.

Interior Design and Features of the 2023 Lexus NX 350h Premium AWD

Now, let's step inside the 2023 Lexus NX 350h Premium AWD and explore its interior design and features. Lexus is known for its luxurious interiors, and the NX 350h is no exception. The cabin is meticulously crafted with high-quality materials and attention to detail. The seats are upholstered in premium materials, providing both comfort and support. The design is sleek and modern, with a focus on both aesthetics and functionality. The dashboard features a large touchscreen display that controls many of the vehicle's functions, including infotainment, navigation, and climate control. The layout is intuitive, making it easy to navigate the various menus and settings. The NX 350h Premium trim comes with a host of desirable features. These include a premium sound system, a panoramic sunroof, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems. The sound system delivers excellent audio quality, immersing you in your favorite music. The panoramic sunroof floods the cabin with natural light, creating an airy and spacious feel. The driver-assistance systems provide added safety and convenience, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The interior also offers ample space for both passengers and cargo. The rear seats provide plenty of legroom, even for taller adults. The cargo area is spacious and versatile, accommodating luggage, groceries, and other items. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more cargo space. The overall ambiance is one of luxury and sophistication. The interior design of the 2023 Lexus NX 350h Premium AWD is a standout feature, creating a comfortable and enjoyable environment for both the driver and passengers. It's a testament to Lexus's commitment to quality and craftsmanship.

Comfort and Space

Alright, let's talk about comfort and space in the 2023 Lexus NX 350h Premium AWD. Because, let's be honest, that's what matters most when you're spending time in your car, right? The NX 350h excels in this area. The front seats are incredibly comfortable, offering ample support and adjustability to accommodate a wide range of body types. You can easily find the perfect driving position, and the seats are designed to provide excellent comfort on long journeys. The rear seats are also surprisingly spacious, with plenty of legroom and headroom for passengers. Even taller adults will find the back seats comfortable, which is a major plus if you frequently carry passengers. The materials used throughout the cabin are of high quality, adding to the sense of luxury. The seats are upholstered in premium materials, and the surfaces are soft-touch, creating a welcoming and comfortable environment. In terms of space, the NX 350h offers a generous amount of cargo room. The cargo area is well-shaped and can easily accommodate luggage, groceries, and other items. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more cargo space if needed. Lexus has also paid attention to details like noise insulation. The cabin is remarkably quiet, even at highway speeds. This adds to the overall sense of comfort and tranquility. Overall, the 2023 Lexus NX 350h Premium AWD provides a comfortable and spacious environment for both the driver and passengers. It's a great choice if you prioritize comfort and want a vehicle that's enjoyable to spend time in.

Technology and Infotainment

Time to get techy! Let's dive into the technology and infotainment of the 2023 Lexus NX 350h Premium AWD. Lexus has equipped this SUV with a modern and user-friendly infotainment system, designed to enhance your driving experience. The centerpiece of the system is a large touchscreen display, which serves as the control center for many of the vehicle's features. The touchscreen is responsive and easy to navigate, with clear graphics and intuitive menus. You can access various functions, including audio, navigation, climate control, and vehicle settings. The NX 350h also supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. This means you can access your favorite apps, music, and navigation systems directly from the car's touchscreen. The system includes a premium audio system, which delivers exceptional sound quality. The speakers are strategically placed throughout the cabin to provide a rich and immersive audio experience. The system also includes a range of advanced driver-assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. These features enhance safety and make driving more convenient. The NX 350h also offers a digital instrument cluster, which displays important information such as speed, fuel level, and navigation instructions. The display is customizable, allowing you to choose the information that is most relevant to you. The system includes multiple USB ports and wireless charging, so you can easily keep your devices charged. The infotainment system of the 2023 Lexus NX 350h Premium AWD is a highlight, offering a seamless and enjoyable user experience. It combines advanced technology with intuitive controls, making it easy to stay connected and entertained on the go. Overall, Lexus has done a great job of integrating technology into the NX 350h, creating a modern and user-friendly driving experience.

Safety Features of the 2023 Lexus NX 350h Premium AWD

Safety first, right? Let's take a look at the safety features of the 2023 Lexus NX 350h Premium AWD. Lexus is renowned for its commitment to safety, and the NX 350h is packed with advanced features designed to protect you and your passengers. The NX 350h comes standard with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies. This suite includes features like pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, which can detect pedestrians and cyclists and automatically apply the brakes to help prevent a collision. It also has lane departure alert with steering assist, which helps to keep you in your lane by providing steering input if you start to drift. Another key feature is adaptive cruise control, which automatically maintains a set distance from the vehicle in front of you, making highway driving more relaxed. There is also lane tracing assist, which helps to keep the vehicle centered in its lane. The NX 350h also has blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, which alerts you to vehicles in your blind spot or approaching from the side when you're backing up. Parking assist with automatic braking is also included, which can detect obstacles and automatically apply the brakes when parking. The NX 350h is built with a strong and rigid body structure, designed to absorb impact energy in the event of a collision. It is also equipped with multiple airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags, to provide additional protection. The SUV has received excellent safety ratings from both the IIHS and the NHTSA, further demonstrating its commitment to safety. With its comprehensive suite of safety features and strong build quality, the 2023 Lexus NX 350h Premium AWD provides a high level of protection for you and your passengers.

Driver-Assistance Systems

Let's zoom in on the driver-assistance systems that make the 2023 Lexus NX 350h Premium AWD so safe and convenient. These systems are designed to help prevent accidents and make driving easier and more enjoyable. The cornerstone of the safety package is Lexus Safety System+ 3.0. This suite includes several key features: pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, which uses a combination of radar and camera technology to detect vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists in front of you. It can provide alerts and, if necessary, automatically apply the brakes to help prevent or mitigate a collision. Adaptive cruise control, which automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a set distance from the vehicle in front. This is especially helpful on highways, as it reduces driver fatigue and helps to maintain a safe following distance. Lane departure alert with steering assist, which monitors your position within your lane and alerts you if you start to drift. If necessary, it can provide gentle steering input to help keep you in your lane. Lane tracing assist, which helps to keep the vehicle centered in its lane, especially on highways with clearly marked lanes. Blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, which alerts you to vehicles in your blind spot and helps you to avoid collisions when changing lanes or backing up. Parking assist with automatic braking, which can detect obstacles and automatically apply the brakes when parking, helping to prevent collisions. These systems work together seamlessly to provide a comprehensive safety net, making the 2023 Lexus NX 350h Premium AWD a very safe vehicle. They are designed to assist the driver, not replace them, so it's still crucial to pay attention to the road and drive responsibly. Overall, the driver-assistance systems in the NX 350h are a significant advantage, providing peace of mind and enhancing the driving experience.

Safety Ratings and Features

Let's talk about the safety ratings and features of the 2023 Lexus NX 350h Premium AWD. Safety is a top priority for Lexus, and the NX 350h has earned high marks from leading safety organizations. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the NX 350h a Top Safety Pick+ rating, the highest award possible. This means the vehicle performed exceptionally well in crash tests and is equipped with advanced safety features. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the NX 350h with a five-star overall safety rating, the highest rating available. This rating is based on performance in various crash tests, including frontal, side, and rollover scenarios. These ratings reflect the vehicle's robust construction and the effectiveness of its safety systems. The NX 350h is equipped with a wide range of standard safety features, including multiple airbags, a rearview camera, and electronic stability control. It also includes the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 suite, which adds advanced features like pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, and adaptive cruise control. The vehicle's strong body structure is designed to absorb impact energy, protecting occupants in the event of a collision. The NX 350h's safety features are designed to help prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a crash. Overall, the excellent safety ratings and comprehensive safety features of the 2023 Lexus NX 350h Premium AWD make it a very safe and reliable vehicle for you and your family.

Trim Levels and Pricing of the 2023 Lexus NX 350h Premium AWD

Alright, let's break down the trim levels and pricing of the 2023 Lexus NX 350h Premium AWD. This is important to know if you're shopping for one, so you can get the features you want at a price that works for you. The NX 350h comes in several trim levels, each offering a different set of features and options. The base trim provides a solid foundation with essential features, while the higher trims add more luxury and technology. Prices can vary depending on the trim level and any optional packages you choose. Generally, the NX 350h is positioned as a premium offering, so the prices reflect that. Keep in mind that these prices are estimates and can vary depending on your location and any additional options you select. It's always a good idea to check with your local Lexus dealer for the most accurate pricing information. The Premium trim, which we've been discussing, offers a great balance of features and value. It typically includes upgrades like a larger touchscreen, a premium audio system, and a panoramic sunroof. This trim level is a popular choice because it offers a significant step up in luxury without breaking the bank. The Luxury trim adds even more high-end features, such as upgraded leather upholstery, a head-up display, and other premium options. It's the top-of-the-line trim for those who want the ultimate luxury experience. When considering the price, also factor in the fuel efficiency of the hybrid powertrain, which can save you money on fuel costs over time. The 2023 Lexus NX 350h Premium AWD offers a range of trim levels to suit different budgets and preferences. It's a premium vehicle, but it provides a compelling value proposition in terms of luxury, technology, and performance.

Base and Premium Trims

Let's compare the Base and Premium trims of the 2023 Lexus NX 350h AWD to help you figure out what's best for you. The Base trim provides a great entry point into the Lexus NX 350h lineup, offering essential features and a solid driving experience. You'll get the hybrid powertrain, all-wheel drive, and a suite of standard safety features, making it a well-equipped option for the price. The Base trim includes a touchscreen infotainment system, comfortable seating, and a good level of standard equipment. However, if you are looking for added luxury and technology, the Premium trim is where it's at. The Premium trim takes everything up a notch. It typically includes upgrades like a larger touchscreen display, a premium audio system for enhanced sound quality, and a panoramic sunroof to bring more light into the cabin. This trim level often includes upgraded upholstery and additional convenience features. The Premium trim enhances the overall driving experience with more luxurious features. You get a more immersive experience. The Premium trim also typically adds advanced driver-assistance features, such as blind-spot monitoring or a parking assist system. This enhances safety and makes driving more convenient. The choice between the Base and Premium trims comes down to your personal preferences and budget. The Base trim offers a great value and a solid foundation, while the Premium trim provides a more luxurious and feature-rich experience. Ultimately, the best trim for you depends on what features are most important and how much you're willing to spend. Consider what you really want in your SUV and go from there.

Luxury and F Sport Trims

Let's talk about the Luxury and F Sport trims of the 2023 Lexus NX 350h Premium AWD, because they both offer unique experiences. The Luxury trim is all about, well, luxury. It takes the premium experience to the next level with even more high-end features and upscale materials. You'll typically find premium leather upholstery, a head-up display that projects important information onto the windshield, and other luxurious touches. The Luxury trim is for those who want the absolute best Lexus has to offer in terms of comfort, refinement, and features. It's the top-of-the-line trim for a reason. On the other hand, the F Sport trim caters to those who want a more sporty and dynamic driving experience. It features unique styling elements, sport-tuned suspension, and performance-focused enhancements. The F Sport trim includes unique exterior design details, such as a sport grille, special wheels, and other sporty accents. Inside, you'll find sport seats and other distinctive features. The F Sport trim often comes with a sport-tuned suspension that provides more responsive handling and a firmer ride. There are also performance-oriented upgrades to the engine and transmission. The choice between the Luxury and F Sport trims depends on your driving preferences. The Luxury trim is ideal if you prioritize comfort and opulence, while the F Sport trim is perfect if you want a more engaging and sporty driving experience. Consider what you value most in an SUV and choose the trim that aligns with your needs and preferences.

Pros and Cons of the 2023 Lexus NX 350h Premium AWD

Alright, let's weigh the pros and cons of the 2023 Lexus NX 350h Premium AWD. We're getting down to the nitty-gritty to help you decide if this SUV is the right fit.

Pros

• Fuel Efficiency: The hybrid powertrain delivers impressive fuel economy, saving you money on gas costs. This is a big plus, especially with fluctuating gas prices.
• Luxury Interior: The cabin is beautifully crafted with high-quality materials and attention to detail, creating a premium and comfortable environment.
• Smooth and Quiet Ride: The suspension is tuned for comfort, and the cabin is well-insulated, making for a smooth and quiet driving experience.
• Advanced Safety Features: The NX 350h comes standard with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems, enhancing safety and peace of mind.
• Reliability: Lexus is known for its reliability and build quality, which translates to fewer potential issues and lower maintenance costs.
• User-Friendly Infotainment: The infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use, with a large touchscreen display and smartphone integration.

Cons

• Infotainment System: Some users may find the touchpad control for the infotainment system less intuitive than a touchscreen.
• Cargo Space: While the cargo area is adequate, it may be smaller compared to some competitors.
• Acceleration: While peppy, the acceleration isn't as thrilling as some other luxury SUVs, especially in Sport mode.
• Pricing: While the NX 350h offers good value, the higher trim levels can be pricey.
• Exterior Styling: Some may find the exterior styling to be polarizing. The design might not appeal to all tastes.

Conclusion: Is the 2023 Lexus NX 350h Premium AWD the Right SUV for You?

So, after everything we've covered, is the 2023 Lexus NX 350h Premium AWD the right SUV for you? Let's sum it all up. The Lexus NX 350h Premium AWD is a compelling choice for those seeking a compact luxury SUV that prioritizes fuel efficiency, comfort, and safety. Its hybrid powertrain delivers impressive fuel economy, saving you money at the pump while providing smooth and refined performance. The interior is a standout feature, with its high-quality materials, comfortable seating, and user-friendly technology. The NX 350h comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, providing peace of mind on the road. However, there are a few things to consider. The infotainment system might take some getting used to. The acceleration isn't the sportiest in its class, and cargo space is adequate but not class-leading. Ultimately, the 2023 Lexus NX 350h Premium AWD is an excellent choice if you're looking for a luxurious, efficient, and safe SUV that provides a comfortable driving experience. If you prioritize fuel economy, a refined interior, and advanced safety features, the NX 350h Premium AWD is certainly worth considering. If you need more cargo space or prefer a more engaging driving experience, you might want to explore other options. But overall, the 2023 Lexus NX 350h Premium AWD is a top contender in the compact luxury SUV segment. Its combination of features, performance, and reliability makes it a smart choice for those seeking a premium driving experience.