2022 Lexus NX 250 Luxury Review

In recent years, the competition in Malaysia's luxury compact SUV market has become increasingly fierce. Consumers not only value brand quality but also demand higher standards for rich features and practicality. As a core player in this segment, the 2022 Lexus NX 250 Luxury version has consistently maintained stable attention with its all-wheel-drive system, premium intelligent features, and Toyota's reliable reputation. This time, we got our hands on the actual vehicle to test its real-world performance in daily commuting and family travel scenarios, to see if this model, priced at RM 370,888, matches its luxury positioning and user expectations.

At first glance, the 2022 NX 250 Luxury reveals a design sharper than the old model. The front grille features Lexus's iconic spindle-shaped design with a black mesh structure inside, paired with sharp LED headlight clusters on both sides, offering high recognizability. Two raised lines on the hood extend from the A-pillar to the grille, adding a sense of power to the front. The side profile exhibits smooth lines, and a waistline running from the front fender to the taillights makes the side appear more elongated. The 20-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels are well-proportioned to the body, enhancing its luxurious styling. The rear design is simple, with smoked LED taillight clusters featuring a through-light design that echoes the front. The silver skid plate on the rear bumper also adds a touch of off-road flavor.

Opening the door reveals an interior brimming with luxury. The cabin is extensively covered with soft-touch materials, and areas frequently touched, such as the dashboard and door panels, are wrapped in leather that feels delicate to the touch. The center console is centered around a 14-inch floating touchscreen with high resolution and smooth operation. Compared to the touchpad design of the old model, the direct touchscreen interface is obviously more in line with current user habits. In terms of features, the head-up display system and fully digital instrument cluster come standard. The display information is clear and logically arranged, allowing drivers to access critical information without looking down while driving. The seating performance is excellent, with the front seats equipped with 8-way power-adjustable ventilated seats. The driver's seat also includes a memory function and strikes a balance between support and comfort, ensuring comfort even during long trips. The rear seats can be folded down in a 60:40 ratio, with a standard trunk capacity of 520 liters that can be further expanded when folded, making it convenient for family trips or transporting large items. Additionally, the dual-zone automatic climate control system with Lexus Climate Concierge can automatically adjust the temperature based on passenger positioning. Details such as rear independent air conditioning and a 220V power outlet have also been thoughtfully considered.

In terms of power, the 2022 NX 250 Luxury is equipped with a 2.5L naturally aspirated engine that delivers a maximum power of 206PS/6600rpm and a maximum torque of 243Nm/4000rpm. It is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system. During daily driving, the power output is smooth and linear, with no abrupt surges during startup. The acceleration delivers on-demand power, with an official 0-100km/h time of 9.1 seconds, which is sufficient for urban commuting and highway overtaking. The transmission has a clear shifting logic, with barely perceptible shifts at low speeds. At highway cruising speeds, it maintains low RPM for improved fuel efficiency. There are three driving modes: Eco, Normal, and Sport. Switching to Sport mode makes the throttle response more sensitive and keeps the RPM higher, resulting in more dynamic performance.

The handling and chassis performance are in line with the positioning of a luxury SUV. The steering wheel has a moderate turning effort and precise direction. It feels light and flexible at low speeds and stable at high speeds, giving the driver enough confidence. The combination of front MacPherson and rear double wishbone independent suspension is tuned for comfort, effectively filtering out minor bumps on the road. When going over speed bumps or uneven surfaces, the suspension quickly absorbs vibrations with minimal impact transmitted to the cabin. When cornering, the body roll is well-controlled, without noticeable swaying, balancing comfort and handling. The all-wheel-drive system provides better traction on slippery roads or light off-road conditions, enhancing driving stability. In terms of fuel consumption, the official combined fuel consumption is 6.9L/100km, with actual tests showing around 8.5L/100km in city conditions and about 6.2L/100km for highway conditions, performing moderately well overall.

The attention to detail enhances driving and riding comfort. The cabin's sound insulation is excellent, with engine noise, tire noise, and wind noise kept at low levels during driving. Even at high-speed cruising, the interior remains quiet. The air conditioning system cools quickly, and the ventilated seats are highly practical in Malaysia's hot weather, quickly lowering the seat temperature. Furthermore, the standard equipment across the range includes 7 airbags, a 360-degree panoramic camera, lane-keeping assist, lane departure warning, active braking, and other active safety features, providing ample assurance for daily driving.

Overall, the core strength of the 2022 NX 250 Luxury is its balanced product capability—luxurious interior texture, rich configurations, smooth power output, and reliable brand reputation. Compared to peers such as the BMW X3 25i or Mercedes-Benz GLC 260, the NX 250 Luxury has an advantage in terms of configuration richness. Features like the 14-inch central control screen, ventilated seats, and HUD are standard, whereas similar features might be optional in competing models. The 5-year unlimited mileage warranty also offers more peace of mind compared to the 3-year warranty provided by most luxury brands.

This vehicle is more suitable for families focused on balanced performance or young individuals pursuing luxury and comfort while valuing reliability. It can meet the comfort needs of daily commuting and the practicality requirements for weekend family outings. Additionally, the all-wheel-drive system provides a certain level of off-road capability. If you're looking for a luxury compact SUV that doesn't emphasize extreme performance but values configuration, comfort, and reliability, the 2022 NX 250 Luxury is a worthy option to consider.