Lexus NX review - MPG, CO2 and running costs

While the NX 350h hybrid model starts at around £41,000, you’ll need at least a further £10,000 to secure an entry-level 450h+ plug-in hybrid version. Which option you go for really depends on your individual lifestyle and driving habits; the self-charging hybrid provides decent overall economy at around 44mpg, although with CO2 emissions of around 136-145g/km, it isn’t going to woo any company-car drivers.

Although more expensive to buy, the NX 450h+ PHEV should prove to be cheaper to run. It can cover over 40 miles on all-electric power from a single charge of its 18.1 kWh battery, while switching to petrol power still sees fuel economy of more than 40mpg.

With CO2 levels of around 21-25g/km, it will attract a much lower Benefit-in-Kind tax rate than its cheaper sibling. Charging the battery shouldn’t be an issue, either, as topping up using a 7kW home wallbox (from 0-100%) should take just under three hours.

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Insurance groups

Insurance premiums for the NX 350h self-charging hybrid model shouldn’t be too expensive for a premium SUV, as the entry-level NX version is in group 32, while the F Sport and Takumi variants are in group 35 and 36 respectively. In comparison, a 261bhp petrol-powered Audi Q5 in popular S line specification sits in group 38.

Moving up to the more powerful (and pricier) 450h+ plug-in hybrid inevitably brings an increase in insurance costs, from group 38 for the base car through to group 40 and 41 if you opt for either the F Sport or Takumi trim levels.

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Depreciation 

Lexus models have generally enjoyed solid residual values, and while the NX is performs well in this area, its predicted longer-term value isn't exceptional. Over an average ownership period of three-years and 36,000 miles, the NX is predicted to hold onto around 48 per cent of its original list price, with models specified with the Premium Pack tending to perform slightly better than average. This puts the NX behind the BMW X3 and Audi Q5 ranges which sit at around 55 per cent if you decide to sell after 36 months.

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