2025 Lexus UX
In the premium/luxury vehicle world, the small SUV/crossover serves as the gateway for those looking to move upward into the world of prestige. The Lexus UX is one of those gateway models. It takes the approach where style matters, as well as efficiency and utility.
With newcomers entering into the small luxury crossover space, does the all-hybrid Lexus UX remain relevant for consumers who need one for the city or the suburb?
The UX continues with a familiar design Lexus laid down over the past decade. You will find the signature spindle grille, sharp edge headlamps, and semi-fastback design for SUV/crossovers. However, its smaller size lends to some differences. Including the absence of a glass pane on the c-pillar. Visibility is pretty decent without one.
The most compelling about the Lexus UX continues to be its rear end. The taillights are formed away from the shape of the body, even forming a “tail fin” effect on top. Meanwhile, the liftgate opens up high, bit closes just above the license plate housing.
Our Premium tester wore a beautiful coat of Copper Crest paint along with 18-inch alloy wheels. The UX remains an interesting looking Lexus overall – something completely different for the luxury brand.
When you step inside the UX, you are greeted by a familiar space with plenty of familiar Lexus elements. There is a new 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster. On top of the center stack is the new 12.3-inch Lexus Interface infotainment touchscreen system, an upgraded option available for the Premium model. It is full of connectivity features made for complete interactivity. Upgraded options on this tester also include a head-up display. All controls have excellent touch and logic – as expected in a Lexus.
Our tester sported a beautiful Palomino NuLuxe interior. The front seats offer strong bolstering on the cushion and seatback with a tall headrest. Not all bodies can fit well within the bolsters, but they are very supportive for most. Four average-sized adults can be comfortable inside the UX. Cargo capacity is at 17.1 cubic feet behind the rear seat, expandable with the rear seats folded down.
Powering our UX 300h is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with a hybrid driveline, Combined, this puts down 196 horsepower. A continuously variable transmission sends power to all four wheels on our tester. No matter if you are running around town or jumping on the highway for some distance, this hybrid driveline does a decent job racking up the miles. It does do smoothly, but a little goading is needed for passing. Overall, we averaged 36.7 MPG throughout our paces
While the UX is designed for city driving, it does offer a solid ride in any driving environment. The UX also handles just fine with a slight tinge of softness. Yet, it corners flat with nominal lean and roll.
The brakes are superb with excellent stopping power and pedal feedback. Pedal feel is good, as well. You will also find a solid response from the steering wheel with a good turning radius for its size. On-center feel is solid and spot-on.
There four trim levels available on the 2025 UX 300h lineup, including two F Sport models. Pricing starts from $37,515. Our UX 300h AWD Premium tester came with a sticker price of $46,255.
As we mentioned before, this segment is unique serving as a gateway into the world of luxury brands. Consumers compare the UX with the Volvo XC40, Mercedes-Benz GLA and GLB, BMW X1 and X2, MINI Countryman, Genesis GV60, and Audi Q3.
In finding the right gateway vehicle in your quest for luxury, the Lexus UX 300h is a choice for those who want an urban explorer without a lot of pretense. It does a great job around town making urban life easier.
Credits: CarSoup Editors
