Luxury car enthusiasts in Australia have an exciting development to look forward to as Lexus has announced the upcoming arrival of the NX450h+ AWD Luxury plug-in hybrid (PHEV) in September 2025. This new addition to the Lexus lineup is not only highly anticipated but also comes with a pleasant surprise – it will be the most affordable PHEV offering from the brand, starting at $84,500 before on-road costs. This pricing strategy positions the NX450h+ AWD Luxury below competitors like the Volvo XC60 Plus PHEV and the BMW X3 xDrive30e, making it an attractive option for buyers seeking both luxury and eco-friendliness.
In a strategic move, Lexus Australia has also announced the discontinuation of the petrol-powered NX250 Luxury variant due to a decline in demand. This decision underscores the brand’s commitment to adapting to market trends and focusing on more sustainable options like the PHEV models. With the removal of the NX250 Luxury, the NX350 AWD F Sport becomes the sole petrol-only offering in the Australian market, catering to consumers who prefer traditional combustion engines.
The NX450h+ made its debut in Australia in 2022, initially available only in the F Sport trim with Enhancement Pack 2. Now, with the introduction of the NX450h+ AWD Luxury, customers can expect a more accessible entry point into the world of luxury PHEVs. Equipped with Enhancement Pack 1, the new Luxury grade promises a compelling package of features and technology, although a complete list of standard equipment is yet to be released by Lexus.
With a powertrain that includes a 2.5-litre plug-in hybrid four-cylinder engine, two electric motors, an 18.7kWh lithium-ion battery pack, and all-wheel drive, the NX450h+ AWD Luxury boasts a total system output of 227kW and an impressive electric-only range of 87km (NEDC), contributing to a total range of 1167km.
The decision to introduce the more affordable Luxury trim follows a temporary halt in shipments of the NX450h+, which resumed taking orders in November 2024 after an 18-month pause. This pause was necessitated by overwhelming demand, with customers facing nearly two-year waiting lists since the model’s initial launch. Despite the temporary setback, the NX series has seen a 6.0% increase in deliveries in the first half of 2025 compared to the previous year, with 3080 units reaching Australian buyers. This surge in popularity has solidified the NX’s position as Lexus’s best-selling model, accounting for almost half of the brand’s total sales by mid-year.
As the automotive industry continues to embrace electrification and sustainable mobility solutions, the introduction of the NX450h+ AWD Luxury underscores Lexus’s commitment to offering environmentally friendly alternatives without compromising on luxury and performance. With the growing focus on reducing carbon footprints and embracing greener technologies, the availability of more affordable PHEV options like the NX450h+ AWD Luxury presents an enticing proposition for discerning consumers looking to make a conscious choice without sacrificing the premium driving experience they expect from a luxury brand.
In conclusion, the upcoming launch of the NX450h+ AWD Luxury marks a significant milestone for Lexus in Australia, offering a more accessible entry point into the world of luxury plug-in hybrids. With its competitive pricing, impressive range, and commitment to sustainability, this new addition not only expands the brand’s lineup but also aligns with the evolving preferences of consumers seeking eco-conscious yet luxurious driving options. Lexus’s strategic decision to discontinue the petrol-powered variant in favor of electrified models signals a proactive approach to meeting market demands and embracing a more sustainable automotive future.
