Auto review by Veeno Dewan
The 2023 Lexus UX 250h is an all-wheel drive. self-charging compact hybrid Crossover. Highpoints include the edgy design and its relatively affordable cost as the smallest premium hybrid model in the Lexus lineup. Despite the tempting price point- Lexus still offer a well- equipped base model and a plethora of tech and luxury upgrades packages and options. The UX 250h is a rarity- a compact luxury premium offering with a fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain.
The UX 250h AWD features the fourth generation of the Lexus Self-Charging Hybrid Electric system. This powertrain combines a 2.0L four-cylinder engine, electronic continuously variable transmission, and high-torque electric motors to generate 181 net system horsepower. The UX 250h also features an innovative electronic on-demand AWD system for better control and ride in slippery and rough terrain .
The 2023 Lexus UX 250h AWD is available in a choice of model and trim combinations and is base priced very well. There is an impressive suite of upgrades, including Lexus Navigation with Remote (Remote Connect, Service Connect, Safety Connect, Embedded Navigation, Destination Assist) with a 10.3” touch screen display and eight speaker premium sound system.
The as-tested 2023 Lexus UX 250h AWD (starting MSRP: $41, 500)f featured the optional F SPORT DESIGN package ($2,150.) with unique styling features – including: black F SPORT 18” wheels, Heated Front Seats, Power Slide / Tilt Moonroof, Smart Key w/Push Button Start, Apple CarPlay compatibility, Paddle Shifters, Ventilated Front Seats , SiriusXM Satellite Radio, LED Fog Lamps, Driver Seat Memory, F-SPORT Steering Wheel, LED Cornering Lamps, 8 Speakers, F SPORT Nuluxe™ Seats, full TFT Instrument Cluster, Digital Instrument Cluster and much more.
Safety, of course, is a high point with all Lexus models and the UX gains: Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, automatic emergency braking with bike and pedestrian detection, automatic high-beams, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist and more.
Interior wise, the UX 250h features a premium interior so befitting a Lexus. The materials, fabrics and textures are all high quality, and the dash is highly detailed featuring the available 10.25-inch infotainment display. Nice UX features include the unique contrast-color dash and door trim option, and the slick climate system is operated by cool toggle switches. The air vents have little rotary controllers that look and feel very good. There is of course as standard Lexus interior styling, sumptuous leather trim, high quality plastics and a premium feel to all the controls. There is a chunky steering wheel, well designed gauge cluster and the signature Lexus analogue clock. The center touch screen also doubles as a back up camera. Up front room is good with supportive seats. The rear compartment is roomy with comfortable back seats, but a little short on legroom.
The rear cabin is fitted out to the same standard as the front apart from the hard plastic door panels. Cargo space is a little on the stingy side with UX 250h offering 614 litres of space behind its back seat, and that is also somewhat compromised by the higher load floor. However, The UX offers folding rear seats that also increase the cargo capacity.
On the road, the latest UX 250h is an even better experience with the latest engineering tweaks improving ride, handling, and performance. The engine delivers more than adequate performance and the hybrid- gas engine handover works seamlessly offering decent acceleration. The damping improvements makes itself apparent when the UX 250h is pushed into hard corners – body roll is more controlled and the UX is largely unruffled when accelerating, cornering, or driving on slippery surfaces. An additional electric motor at the back of the vehicle automatically adjusts the power-split between front and rear axles. The result is excellent handling stability and greater traction across a range of driving situations. Fuel efficiency is very good, rated at 6.0 L / 100 km (city/highway combined).
Not much to complain about the UX 250h. The touchpad controller and the Remote Touch tech interface is still a tad fiddly to operate, and the UX series can become expensive if you start adding options. Other weak points include the out of place rather hard plastic door panels in the rear
High point include the affordability factor of this compact, fuel-efficient luxury CUV. The UX 250h remains one of the better hybrids buys in this sector with the highest quality, reliability, and an excellent dealership experience. Highly recommended and unique in its class.
2023 Lexus UX 250h AWD: Base priced from $41,500. Price as tested: $45,983 including options, freight and PDI.
Website: www.lexus.ca/ux
