Lexus UX

The Lexus UX features a minimalist cabin layout that looks and feels premium. The front row is a nice place to be in, offering plenty of room for the driver and co-pilot. The second row also has enough legroom and headroom for two. However, seating three at the back would be a totally different story. Its cargo area is also a bit limited for heavy packers. But, on the plus side, its smooth leather seats offer great cushioning and ergonomics for everyone on board. You also have premium finishes all around the vehicle.

Drivers have access to a high-tech cockpit that consists of a digital instrument panel, which houses the meter gauge and a multi-information display, a leather multicontrol steering wheel, and a classy-looking leather shift knob with a satin chrome-plated bezel (exclusive to the 300e variant). Owners of the 300h F Sport are also given a paddle shifter for a sportier driving experience overall. 

Meanwhile, all passengers can enjoy a 12.3-inch touch infotainment display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, USB, and AM/FM radio. The 300e variant’s infotainment is linked to a 13-speaker Mark Levinson audio system, which delivers more premium acoustics around the vehicle. On the other hand, the hybrid variants get the standard 10-speaker version. 

In terms of functionality, this SUV comes with four Type-C ports (front: 2, rear: 2), one Type-A port at the front, and 12V socket (two for the hybrid variants, one for the battery electric variant). The 300e variant also offers a wireless charger for more convenience.

In terms of dimensions, the Lexus UX measures 4,495 mm in length, 1,840 mm in width, and 2,640 mm in wheelbase. The hybrid variants are 1,520 mm in height and have a 160 mm minimum ground clearance. On the other hand, the battery electric variant is 1,525 mm in height and has a 140 mm minimum ground clearance.

The Lexus UX features a modern design that is not as loud as its other more expensive SUV cousins but still carries its own level of style and elegance on the road. This SUV has a subtle yet confident-looking facade enhanced by Lexus’ iconic spindle grille. For a sportier look, the 300h F Sport variant gets its own F Sport grille, which features a distinct mesh pattern with multiple L-shaped motifs. Meanwhile, the 300e variant also gets shutters at the bottom of its lower grille for enhanced aerodynamics and driving range. This SUV is illuminated by sharp 3-Beam LED headlamps with LED DRLs. And, for increased visibility, it is given LED clearance lamps. 

Moreover, its side profile displays an appealing mix of sportiness and elegance. It comes with LED side turn signal lamps and outside rear view mirrors with multiple functions. The hybrid variants’ mirrors also have a memory feature. The 300e and 300h Premier variants run on 18-inch machined finish, dark premium metallic alloy wheels, whereas the 300h F Sport are given sporty-looking 18-inch dark premium metallic alloy wheels.

Aside from these, its sharp, modern look carries over to its rear. It features a futuristic-looking LED combination lamp, as well as fog lamps and a high-mount stop lamp for more visibility and illumination especially at night. It also flaunts a rear spoiler, which adds more sportiness to its overall appearance.

In terms of suspension, the Lexus UX model line utilizes a MacPherson Strut type at the front, while a Trailing Wishbone at the rear. Thanks to this suspension setup, you’ll be able to confidently hit sharp turns or corners even at high speeds with this SUV. It is also nimble to maneuver through tight traffic and can effectively absorb humps and other road imperfections. Overall, this luxury SUV offers a plush, and very supple riding experience for everyone on board.

The Lexus UX model line offers three powertrain options. First, the 300e variant runs on a full-electric system, which utilizes a single AC Permanent Magnet Motor that generates a maximum power output of 204 PS and a maximum torque of 300 Nm. Its motor is powered by a 72.82 kWh Lithium-Ion battery pack that delivers a driving range of up to 560 km. Using a DC fast charger, the battery can be charged in approximately 60 minutes (1 hour). 

In contrast, both the 300h Premier and 300h F Sport run on Lexus’ hybrid technology that combines a 2L in-line 4-cylinder, 16-valve, DOHC engine with an AC Permanent Magnet Motor. Both variants’ hybrid powertrains generate a total system power output of 199 PS and a maximum torque of 188 Nm.

In terms of transmission, the hybrid variants’ powertrains are mated to an electronic continuously variable transmission system (E-CVT), while the battery electric variant runs on a single-speed reduction gear transmission. All variants utilize a front-wheel drivetrain and are equipped with Eco, Normal, and Sport drive modes. The 300h F Sport also comes with a Sport + mode. 

Regardless of the powertrain, all Lexus UX variants can run quickly out on the open road. This model line’s powertrains generate a smooth, linear power delivery, which enables the driver to overtake slower vehicles on the highway with ease and precision. Meanwhile, in the city, all variants offer top-notch efficiency, making this SUV a very reliable companion for your daily commute within the Metro. And, thanks to its impressive driving range, the 300e variant can also take on long-distance trips out of town.

The Lexus UX model line comes with the Lexus Safety Sense, which includes a pre-collision system, an automatic high beam system, lane tracing assist, lane departure alert, dynamic radar cruise control, and blind spot monitoring among others. 

Its braking setup is also supported by an anti-lock braking system, vehicle stability control, and hill-start assist control. This SUV comes with ventilated discs for front braking, while solid discs for the rear.

All things considered, the Lexus UX would be a great first luxury SUV option for discerning buyers who value comfort and refinement more than anything else. It is capable out on the open road, and yet remains usable in the city. In my opinion, improving its second row and cargo spaces could possibly increase its competitiveness within the market moving forward.