Review Lexus NX Overtrail (2025)

Introduction

The second generation of the Lexus NX has been on the market since 2021 and has grown into the brand’s best-selling model in Europe. Recently, Lexus added the NX Overtrail to the lineup, a more rugged-looking version of the mid-size SUV. But is this tough-looking variant truly a compelling choice or are you better off opting for a different trim level? We spent a full week behind the wheel of the plug-in hybrid NX 450h+ Overtrail to find out.

Video: Lexus NX Overtrail in detail

Watch our video of the Lexus NX Overtrail here. We showcase the exterior and interior of our test car and take you along for a full POV driving experience. This way, you can see and feel what it’s like to drive this SUV for yourself.

Exterior

It’s easy to distinguish the NX Overtrail from other trims, as Lexus has added several striking styling elements. You’ll find numerous gloss black accents including the mirror caps, door handles, roof rails, window surrounds, and wheel arches. Even more eye-catching is the paint colour of our test vehicle: Moon Desert, a sand-toned metallic shade exclusive to the Overtrail. Not your taste? No worries, Lexus offers six other colours.

To emphasize the adventurous character, the Overtrail rides on all-terrain tires and black 18-inch wheels, while ground clearance has been increased by 15 mm to a total of 200 mm. These adjustments not only give the NX a bolder appearance but also reinforce the idea that this SUV can handle more than just smooth tarmac.

Interior

Both driver and passengers sit extremely comfortably in this NX. The use of materials is exemplary, both in the front and rear. Specific to the Overtrail is black synthetic leather with khaki accents. A stylish touch are the Geo Layer door trims, inspired by the layered patterns found in natural rock formations. The overall look is clean and conveys a sense of quality.

We also appreciate the inclusion of physical buttons as a complement to the large infotainment screen. Less impressive are the two unlabeled touch-sensitive buttons with four arrows on the steering wheel. If you accidentally rest your finger on one while driving, the corresponding function appears in the head-up display, but it only activates after a second press. It’s a bit fiddly. Just give us eight physical buttons with clear icons, and everything works instantly, without confusion or distraction.

Powertrain

The Lexus NX 450h+ is the most powerful model in the NX lineup. In fact, it’s now the only available engine option for the NX in Belgium, as the 350h hybrid has been discontinued. The 450h+ combines a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine producing 185 hp (136 kW) with two electric motors, delivering a system output of 309 hp (227 kW). Thanks to an electric motor on each axle, all-wheel drive is standard.

The NX 450h+ accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.3 seconds and has a top speed limited to 200 km/h. According to the WLTP standard, the all-electric driving range is between 69 and 76 kilometres.

Driving Experience

We didn’t put the NX Overtrail through truly rough terrain during our test in the extremely dry month of June, muddy off-road tracks were hard to come by. But we did encounter some light gravel and dusty paths, which posed no problem at all for the Lexus. It’s in these situations that the all-terrain tires really shine. Don’t forget to press the OFFROAD button on the centre console for optimal traction. A nice bonus of the Moon Desert paint? Dust is barely visible after an off-road drive. You’ll just have to live with the black accents turning a bit sand-coloured.

Of course, the vast majority of Belgian roads are paved with asphalt or concrete. That’s why we paid close attention to any potential rolling noise from the all-terrain tires inside the cabin — but even with trained ears, we didn’t notice any. Lexus credits this to the use of acoustic glass for the windshield and front side windows, along with other noise-reducing measures. They work remarkably well.

Battery capacity is 18.1 kWh, which gives the NX a claimed electric range of 69 to 76 kilometres. In practice, we managed just under 60 km, still a respectable figure. However, DC fast charging is not supported on the 450h+, not even in this Overtrail version. AC charging is limited to just 6.6 kW. In terms of technology, the NX feels a bit outdated compared to premium rivals that do support fast charging and offer up to 100 km of electric range. What is useful, though, is the “Hold CHG” button on the centre console, which allows the petrol engine to recharge the battery — handy if you know you’ll soon be entering a low-emission zone.

Performance and fuel consumption hold no surprises. With 309 hp on tap, there’s always more than enough power, and when you use the plug-in hybrid system correctly, the official WLTP figures are quite achievable. The drivetrain is identical to other 450h+ versions, so you shouldn’t expect major differences in the way the Overtrail drives compared to the rest of the NX lineup.

Pricing

The Lexus NX 450h+ Plug-in Hybrid is available in Belgium starting at €65,950. That price gets you the Business Line version. If your eye is on the more adventurous Overtrail variant, you’ll need at least €75,210. The exclusive Moon Desert paint adds another €1,640, while a panoramic sunroof increases the total by an additional €1,550.

In the same price range as the Overtrail, you’ll also find the F Sport Line and Privilege Line trims, both priced at €76,550. These alternatives focus more on sportiness or luxury, rather than off-road capability.