Lexus Philippines has brought in the 2023 Lexus UX hybrid subcompact crossover. Available in 250h Premier and 250h F Sport variants, the refreshed model joins the automaker’s local hybrid lineup comprising the LS flagship, IS Sport sedan, RX SUV, NX crossover, and ES sedan.
The 2023 Lexus UX 250h crossover comes in Premier and F Sport trims
Marketed as the smallest crossover in the Lexus range, the UX is also the first Lexus model underpinned by the same Toyota New Global Architecture C (TNGA-C) platform used by the current-generation Corolla Altis.
Exterior
The new Lexus UX retains the dimensions and appearance of the current model, featuring sharp rising character lines on the profile that complement the high belt line. Chiseled body cladding on the fenders underscore the UX’s sporty character.
Luxury blended with performance, guaranteed by the trademark spindle grille
Meanwhile, its luxurious side is hinted at by the presence of the trademark Lexus spindle grille in front with silver accents at the bottom. Slim vents accompany the fog lamps at the bottom corners of the front bumper on the Premier, while the F Sport features slightly larger intakes with a distinct mesh pattern. Both offer ultra-compact LED headlamps with arrow-shaped daytime running lights as standard.
Body cladding at the sides convey the UX 250h's sporty character
At the rear, a full-length LED light bar terminates at either side of the hands-free power rear hatch. This hovers over a blacked-out rear bumper and diffuser. Both the Premier and F Sport ride on 18-inch alloy wheels.
Interior
Lexus says that the interior of the 2023 UX 250h still evokes the sensation of driving a luxury sedan, with a raised seating position and versatility that are hallmarks of SUVs. The cabin design was inspired by engawa, a traditional Japanese architecture concept that blurs the distinction between the inside and outside.
An interior inspired by Japanese architecture
The driver-oriented cockpit is surrounded by controls that are laid out for the convenience of anyone taking the wheel. Meanwhile, up to five occupants can bask in the presence of premium materials such as leather and brushed surfaces. A center console box and bottle holders complement the rear cargo storage, while the dual-zone automatic climate control features a clean air filter and odor removal function.
Tech & Safety
The UX 250h Premier comes with a 7-inch TFT multi-information display, slightly bigger at 8 inches for the F Sport. Both offer Optitron meters for utmost legibility. A 12.3-inch Electro Multi-Vision TouchDisplay at the center of the dashboard comes with Bluetooth hands-free as well as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, patched to a 10-speaker Lexus UX Premium Sound System.
Three drive modes allow users to adapt to various driving conditions
Protecting all occupants on board is the Lexus Safety Sense (LSS) array of active safety technologies. This includes Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Pre-Collision System (PCS) with pedestrian detection, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Alert and Steering Assist, and a Lane Trace Assist feature. A total of eight airbags is standard.
Engine & Drivetrain
The new UX 250h uses a Lexus self-charging hybrid powertrain comprising a 2.0-liter gasoline engine that boasts a thermal efficiency of 41 percent. This works with two electric motor generators, resulting in a combined output of 181 horsepower, an increase of 38 horsepower from the previous model. Maximum torque is at 188 Nm.
The 2.0-liter gasoline engine now works with a more powerful electric motor to deliver a higher power output
A continuously variable transmission features the Sequential Shiftmatic feature, allowing users to engage gear shifts either through paddle shifters or the S position on the shift lever.
Lexus says the new-generation hybrid transaxle is lighter, more compact, and has less internal friction than previous Lexus hybrid systems. The UX 250h also uses a power control unit (PCU) that is 20 percent smaller and 10 percent lighter, working with more powerful electric motors while reducing frictional losses by 25 percent.
Lexus PH offers an 8-year warranty on the UX 250h's hybrid battery
A new fourth-generation hybrid battery has also been fitted, carrying an 8-year warranty that complements the standard 3-year/100,000-kilometer warranty for the drivetrain.
Price
The 2023 Lexus UX 250h is priced at Php 3.058 million for the Premier trim and Php 3.798 for the higher-spec F Sport. Customers can view the new UX crossover at all authorized Lexus dealerships nationwide.
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