The Lexus UX is a premium subcompact crossover designed to suit the urban lifestyle. Though considered to be the smallest vehicle in the stable of Lexus, this versatile automobile will exceed your expectations. Available locally is the 250h Premier priced at Php 3,058,000, and the 250h F Sport for Php 3,798,000.
Under the hood of the Lexus UX is a 2.0-liter hybrid gasoline engine. At maximum, this four-banger can produce up to 181 horsepower and 188 Nm of torque. Power is then sent to its front wheels via a continously variable transmission.
Size-wise, the current version of the Lexus UX is 4,495mm long, 1,840mm wide, and 1,520mm in height.
Locally, the UX competes against the Mercedes-Benz GLA, Porsche Macan, Audi Q3, Mini Countryman, Land Rover Range Rover Evoque, etc.
Launch
The Lexus UX, or “Urban Explorer,” was launched at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show. It's the first model in the stable of Lexus to utilize the Toyota New Global Architecture. Locally available variants include the Lexus UX 250h Premier, and the 250h F Sport.
UX actually stands for "urban explorer"
Exterior
Both variants of the Lexus UX measure 4,495mm long, 1,840mm wide, and 1,520mm tall. Its sleek and sporty body is engineered with the right amount of curves, and line to assist its reliable aerodynamic power. Exterior highlights include the Japanese premium carmaker’s iconic spindle grille with block-shaped mesh. It also has a pair of sleek and compact LED headlights, L-shaped daytime running lights, door mirrors with heater and LED signal, air vents on the contemporary-shaped bumpers, LED rear combination lamps, and wheel arch with aero stabilizers to lessen wind resistance and improve its unstoppable performance.
Interior
Though belonging to the subcompact category, the cabin of the Lexus UX is roomy. The Lexus UX 250h F Sport is designed with a High Feel interior trim. It features synthetic leather seats, power lumbar support in the driver’s seat, eight-way power adjusted front seat with heater, and a back door with sensor.
Standard on all variants is the air conditioning system with odor removal function and filter.
Technology & Safety Features
The Lexus UX comes with a 12.3-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It is then linked to a 10-piece speaker system. In terms of safety, both variants come with a generous number of SRS airbags, traction control, vehicle stability control, an anti-lock brake system, brake assist system, electronic brakeforce distribution, and an immobilizer system.
Platform & Chassis
The Lexus UX series is built with a MacPherson Strut suspension at the front and a Trailing Wishbone suspension at the rear. Its braking power is assisted by a ventilated disc at the front and solid rotors at the rear.
Engine & Drivetrain
Both variants are powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine paired with a Direct-Shift CVT transmission. At maximum, it can produce up to 181 horsepower and 188 Newton meters of torque.
Color
Available colors for the Lexus UX in the Philippine market includes Black, Madder Red, Sonic Titanium, Celestial Blue Glass Flake, Graphite Black Glass Flake, Terrane Kahaki Mica Metallic, Sonic Quartz, and Blazing Carnelian.
Pros
-Eye-catching exterior design
-Plush interior
-Peppy engine
Comparison
The current version of the Lexus UX is on-par with its competitors when it comes to offering a comfortable, and also practical interior. It might not be the most powerful in the segment, but it is a decently beefy hybrid. It also gets an exterior which balances sleekness and sportiness. This might also be found on other luxury crossovers, but the UX is particularly eye-catching.
Cons
-Rear seats can be tights for larger individuals