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An adventure upgrade

The current generation Lexus NX, on the road since 2022, is Lexus’ answer to European SUVs such as the BMW X3, Audi Q5 and Volkswagen Tiguan. Now there is the Overtrail, an extra tough version that can do just a bit more. It stands a little higher on its legs (15 mm to be precise) and the rear suspension has been strengthened, so that it also stands its ground off the asphalt.

Tough looks, practical upgrades

The Overtrail looks nice and rugged. Matte black accents on the mirror caps, roof rails and door handles give it a rugged look. Add to that the metallic framing of the distinctive Spindle Grille and you have a pretty striking appearance. That’s also because of the Moon Desert color – a beautiful metallic sand shade.

The factory-mounted Dunlop Grandtrek AT5 tires with their deep tread are not only grip monsters, but add to the car’s character. We don’t see it often; an automaker screwing serious off-road rubber under a naturally well-behaved consumer SUV. The 18-inch matte black alloy wheels may seem modest on paper, but combined with the wide fires with substantial sidewalls, they make quite an impression. Also nice: the extra dose of rubber also provides extra comfort.

Smooth on and off the road

On asphalt, then, the Overtrail offers exactly what you expect from a Lexus: plenty of comfort. Bumps in the road are effortlessly eliminated and thanks to excellent sound insulation, it feels like driving in a cocoon. Okay, the extra rubber can be heard now and then, but disturbing? No, it didn’t. Just turn on the Mark Levinson sound system and the cabin transforms into a concert hall.

It also stands its ground off-road. The modified suspension, extra ground clearance and tough Dunlop tires provide more grip and control on muddy trails and poorly maintained country roads. A Dakar winner? No, but during the rainy and slippery fall and winter months, the extra grip is especially welcome.

Luxury with an outdoor twist

Inside, the Overtrail combines luxury with a touch of adventure. The black faux leather seats with khaki side cheeks blend well with the NX Overtrail’s rugged carcass. The center console with fine detailing and wood accents in the door panels provide an outdoorsy feel. Of course, the luxury Lexus features are not missing: ambient lighting in 64 colors, an air purification system and a smooth infotainment system.

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Performance: plug-in hybrid power

The Overtrail is available as the NX 350h hybrid and the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid. We drive the plug-in version, the one to have. Under the hood is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine combined with two electric motors, good for 227 kW (309 hp). The sprint from 0 to 100 km/h takes just six seconds. The 18 kWh battery pack offers on paper an electric driving range of over 60 kilometers. During our test week, we had to deal with wintry temperatures, but that should not spoil the fun. Time after time, we gleaned 50 to 60 electric kilometers from the battery pack.

The electric motors – one on the front axle, one on the rear axle – together produce 174 kW (237 hp), making the NX nice and smooth even in EV mode. Once the power runs out, the hybrid technology ensures low consumption. At a constant speed of 100 km/h on the freeway, we easily achieve a fuel consumption of 1:20. A handsome performance, for a hefty SUV.

Conclusion: luxury with an adventurous edge

The Lexus NX 450h+ Overtrail is not a hardcore offroader, but a luxury SUV with a solid adventure twist. All-wheel drive combined with chunky rubber is always a fine mix for those who want to get off the beaten track from time to time or simply seek extra grip and safety. Whether you regularly drive through the woods or just want to impress in the parking lot, the Overtrail combines luxury flair with outdoor capabilities. What does that adventure cost? The NX 450h+ Overtrail starts at 73,495 euros. Prefer it without the adventure extras? Then there is the NX Luxury Line with plug-in starting at 65,995 euros. More prices can be found here.