Lexus UX

Lexus has finally entered the competitive European C-SUV segment. It does so with the Lexus UX , an attractively designed SUV positioned as the smallest model in the crossover range, just below its larger siblings, the Lexus RX and Lexus NX . This allows the Japanese brand to have a model in each market segment, although it still needs to fill the gap in the B-segment.

We have tested this car:

Test Lexus UX 300e, the first electric Lexus has a range of 315 km

The Lexus UX is also the brand's newest model. It was unveiled at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show . Its name stands for Urban Explorer. The bulk of its commercial launch took place in early 2019. One of its key features is efficiency. All units sold in our country will come with some form of electrification, including, of course, hybrid technology.

The UX, in turn, became the Japanese firm's first 100% electric model. The Toyota Group chose Lexus to be the first brand to introduce electric vehicles, as their price was currently high. The Lexus UX 300e was announced in late 2019. Years later, in the spring of 2022, an update to the range was launched, focusing primarily on improved equipment and the electric vehicle's range. Over the years, Lexus has introduced minor improvements to its most popular SUV.

Technical characteristics of Lexus UX

Beneath the Lexus UX's sleek and attractive bodywork lie many components shared with its parent company, Toyota . It utilizes the group's TNGA platform in its compact variant , designated GA-C. This is the same platform found in other models such as the Toyota C-HR and the Toyota Corolla . The three models could be considered close relatives.

Externally, it measures 4,49 meters long, 1,84 meters wide, and 1,52 meters high . Along with these dimensions, it has a wheelbase of 2,64 meters. Despite these generous dimensions for its segment, the UX doesn't make the most of the available space, offering a cramped cabin in the rear seats.

The trunk also suffers from this lack of space utilization, and is the smallest in its class. It has a rear trunk with a minimum capacity of 315 liters, a figure that will be shared across the entire range from 2026 onwards. This volume can be expanded by folding down the second row of seats in a 60:40 split.

Lexus UX mechanical range and gearboxes

The Lexus UX's powertrain range, while efficient, is limited. As is typical for the brand, all versions are designed to be efficient. In our market, it's available exclusively as a hybrid . Lexus will discontinue the all-electric version in early 2026 due to low sales. No replacement (if one exists) has been announced yet.

The hybrid engine in the UX 300h features a two-liter, four-cylinder engine. It's paired with a nickel-metal hydride battery and an electric motor. The total system output is 199 horsepower, with an approximate electric range of two kilometers . Power is managed by an e-CVT continuously variable transmission, a setup very similar to that found in the Toyota RAV4 . In Spain, it qualifies for the DGT's ECO label.

Equipment of the Lexus UX

Lexus never disappoints with its interiors. Although it's a brand with a distinctly conservative approach, at least inside, its quality is on par with, or even surpasses, that of its rivals. The UX boasts a very high level of finish, with meticulous attention to detail . This translates into an enhanced sense of comfort for the occupants, although the design approach is somewhat conventional by today's standards.

The Lexus UX trim level is divided into four different packages: Urban, Sport Legend, Sport+, and Omotenashi . This wide range of options offers a variety of standard packages with limited customization possibilities. The main differences between the trims lie in the level of equipment and a few aesthetic details.

In terms of equipment, models from 2026 onward receive a new suite of systems . Among the many available features are: full LED headlights, a sunroof, keyless entry and start, a 360° camera, wireless connectivity, and a multimedia system with a screen of up to 12,3 inches . Of course, a comprehensive array of driver assistance systems and features, encompassed under the Lexus Safety System +2 umbrella, is also included.

The Lexus UX on video

The Lexus UX according to Euro NCAP

The Lexus UX passed Euro NCAP's rigorous safety tests in 2019. In the various tests it underwent, it achieved the highest possible rating of 5 stars . The protection percentages are as follows: In the event of a collision, adult occupants receive 96 percent protection. This figure rises to 85 percent for children. Pedestrians, in the event of a collision, are protected by 82 percent. Finally, it achieves a 77 percent rating for active safety features. This rating remains valid even after the minor 2026 facelift, as there are no changes to the vehicle's structure.

The Lexus UX of Km 0 and second hand

The Lexus UX's sales journey hasn't been as successful as some of its rivals. This significantly limits the availability of used and nearly new (low mileage) vehicles. Like other Lexus models, it's assumed to offer a high level of quality and excellent reliability, resulting in an average depreciation of 28%, a standard figure within its category.

Looking at the available used vehicles, we find over a hundred options. Starting prices are around €25.000 for 2020 models with hybrid powertrains and nearly 100.000 kilometers on the odometer. The selection of nearly new (Km0) cars is more limited, with hybrid models starting at approximately €34.000.

Lexus UX rivals

With the arrival of the UX, Lexus finally enters the C-SUV segment, a market of great importance due to its high sales volume. Considered a premium model, its most direct rivals are found within this segment . Some illustrious names include the Audi Q3 , BMW X1 , Jaguar E-Pace , Range Rover Evoque , Mercedes GLA, and Volvo XC40 . These are industry heavyweights with far more experience and a longer track record than the Japanese automaker. However, the UX has the advantage of its striking design and efficient powertrains. The electric version also faces significant competition from the Mercedes EQA and the Volvo C40 Recharge and Volvo XC40 Recharge , which are similar in size, features, and price.

Highlight

Design
Execution quality
Efficient mechanical range

To improve

trunk capacity
hybrid performance
habitability

Lexus UX prices

The Lexus UX has now launched in Spain. It's an expensive model compared to mainstream models, but its price is similar to its rivals. The starting price for the Lexus UX is €40.250 , excluding any offers or promotions. This price corresponds to a 300h model with the Urban trim. The most expensive member of the family is the UX 300h with the Omotenashi trim. Its starting price is €56.000, also excluding offers or promotions. Metallic paint adds €1.250 to the price.