2019 Lexus UX

Lexus first ever BEV gets an update – this is the new Lexus UX 300e

 
Updated Lexus UX 300e comes with more range and better tech

The entire Lexus UX range is getting an update in Europe but it is the UX 300e that sees the biggest changes. The most important change is the new battery pack that offers up to 450 km (280 miles) of range according to WLTP and as long as the car is fitted with the standard 17-inch wheel and tire combo. Upgrading to 18-inch wheels results in a slightly lower, 440 km range.

Where does this difference come from? Lexus finally decided to up the capacity to 72.8 kWh - that’s a 40 percent increase over the previous 54.3 kWh battery pack. Interestingly enough, the electric motor remains the same at 150 kW or 204 HP and 300 Nm of torque.

Just as with the previous model, the top speed is restricted to 160 km/h (99 mph), the company hasn’t released acceleration times yet but the smaller battery model used to manage 0 to 100 km/h spring in 7.5 seconds, the new and slightly heavier version will most likely do it in around 8 seconds.

 
Lexus UX (2023) Launch Review

Lexus UX pricing and after-sales

UX250h EX R792 700
UX250h SE R874 300
UX250h F Sport R928 900
UX250h F Sport Bi-tone R939 300

All UX derivatives are sold with a class-leading 7-year/105 000 km warranty and full maintenance plan, as well as an additional 8-year/195 000 km hybrid battery warranty.

Summary

Consider this upgrade not so much a “significant revision” of the Lexus UX, but rather a far-reaching “sharpening up” of the model. There wasn’t much wrong with the UX in the first place, which is why Lexus merely carefully – and effectively – updated this model and added design/trim variety to up the appeal. If you’re looking for a premium, high quality and modern crossover that provides a solid first step into the world of NEVs (new-energy vehicles), the Lexus UX is certainly worthy of being on your shortlist.


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DRIVEN: Updated Lexus UX is a solid gateway to the Japanese luxury brand

As the entry to the Lexus brand and aimed at a more youthful, albeit affluent, market, the UX makes a lot of sense and, with only hybrid options, I reckon it will continue to be a top seller.

The Lexus UX comes with a seven-year/105 000 warranty, full maintenance plan and an eight-year/195 000km hybrid battery warranty.

Lexus US Pricing (January 2023)

UX 250h EX – R808 600

UX 250h SE – R891 800

UX 250h F-Sport – R947 500

UX 250h F-Sport Bi-tone – R958 100

 
Lexus UX (2023) Review

FAST FACTS

Model: Lexus UX 250h EX
Price: R808 600 (March 2023)
Engine: 2.0-litre 4-cylinder petrol hybrid
Power/Torque: 135 kW/188 Nm
Transmission: automatic CVT
Fuel consumption: 4.5 L/100 km (claimed)
Luggage/Utility space: 268 litres

Price & After-sales Support

The updated Lexus UX range is priced from R808 600 (March 2023) and prices go all the way up to R947 500 for the flagship F-Sport derivative. The vehicle is sold with a class-leading 7-year/105 000 km warranty and full maintenance plan, as well as an additional 8-year/195 000 km hybrid battery warranty.

Verdict

It has excellent cabin quality, an efficient hybrid engine, a brand-new infotainment system and superb overall refinement, but those aren’t enough for the 2023 Lexus UX to get a double thumbs-up from us. Sadly, its packaging is too compromised (it’s not roomy enough, but remember, the UX succeeded the CT 200h hatchback) and, despite an excellent after-sales plan, the 250h EX is priced well beyond what a customer with a small family may be able to afford if they’re looking to venture into the luxury echelon.

Of course, that’s not the end of the world for the Lexus UX – far from it. Why? Because it fits another, (albeit more niche) customer profile. If you’re half of Dink (Double Income, No Kids) household and you want an efficient luxurious car for trundling to and from the office and the shops, you may want to give this revised model a try. We reckon that a “demo model” might be a lot more attainable than you think.


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