Drive Notes: 2024 Lexus NX 350h Luxury AWD

I am bringing back Drive Notes, a little mini-review of vehicles I had in my garage. We tried it last year and for reasons I don't recall moved away from it. Let's see how it goes this time around. Don't worry, a full review of most vehicles featured here will come later.

Up today: The 2024 Lexus NX 350h Luxury.

I used to think the NX was fun to drive but a bit undercooked. Finally it seems Lexus left it the oven long enough. This is a carryover model but it's been a while since I piloted any type of NX. This hybrid -- 2.5-liter four-banger mixed with two electric motors and a third, rear-mounted electric motor that is used for the all-wheel drive system -- feels more mature than the last NX I drove. That one was not a hybrid but a regular internal-combustion engine model.

Here's my pros and cons.

Pros

• I continue to dig the new Toyota/Lexus infotainment systems, and this one is integrated well into the center stack. The touchscreen reacted quickly and was easy to read. I also liked the head-up display.
• Lexus continues to set the standard for quiet interiors.
• I generally liked the well-weighted steering, and found it sporty in feel when the Sport drive mode was selected, but it did at times feel artificial and too heavy. Call this a pro and con.
• The stereo kicks ass.
• Handling in Normal and Sport modes is sporty enough and the ride isn't sacrificed.

Cons

• The cost is way too much, even for a Lexus, at nearly $50K to start and nearly $60K optioned out.
• That grille, though.
• I never could get the seating position right.
• There's no need for push-button door releases other than they're cool.
• Same goes for the odd shifter.
• I struggled to get my sunglasses -- which are normal size -- into the sunglass holder.

Early Returns: The grown-up NX earns consideration but the price makes one blanche.

[Images © 2024 Tim Healey/TTAC]

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