This hybrid is also very economical and has an additional advantage: all-wheel drive.
The new compact luxury crossover segment, Lexus, has been revealed at the Geneva Motor Show. Although it isn’t as extravagant in styling as its predecessor, the road-going model has the potential to be a standout in this increasingly competitive segment.
The corporate spindle grille looks big (maybe even too big). The UX is large and imposing. The UX’s unique look is made possible by the full-width taillights, which were inherited from the previous concept. They are fitted with 120 individual LEDs. The crossover’s bold styling is further enhanced by the new alloy wheels of 17-inch and 18-inch that were made specifically for it. They have also been modified in the wind tunnel to improve airflow.
The UX is more than just a pretty face. Lexus is proud that its new high-riding model has a 34-foot turning circle (10.3 meters) and is also the first to ride on the GA-C platform. The vehicle has the lowest center of gravity in its class, which should make it easier to handle on twisty roads. The UX measures 177 inches (nearly 4 m) in length and has a 103.9 inch (2.63 meter) wheelbase.
Although the interior may not match the avant-garde design of its body, it feels very special and is a welcome relief in this competitive segment. Lexus claims it draws inspiration from Japanese tradition. This can be seen in the optional leather upholstery that features cues from Sashiko, an ancient Japanese quilting technique used for uniforms in judo and Kendo martial arts.
The cabin is both a nod towards the past and a look to the future, considering that the LED-lit air vents are powered by a new wireless system. This light source uses electromagnetic resonance between two coils vibrating at a similar frequency.
The UX 200’s oily bits will be powered with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine that produces 168 horsepower and has a thermal efficiency of about 40 percent. The output is sent to the road by a direct-shift continuously variable transmission, also a Lexus innovation.
The UX 250h model offers a hybrid powertrain with a slightly higher estimated output of 176 horsepower, as well as an all-wheel drive system due to the implementation of an electric motor at the rear. When the vehicle travels at speeds up to 43 mph (70 km/h), the sensors and onboard computers detect any loss of grip at its rear axle. 80% of total power is automatically distributed back to the rear wheels.
The F Sport model features a more aggressive design, some interior upgrades, and some hardware modifications. You can have a bespoke suspension tuning or the LC’s Adaptive Varable Suspension that minimizes roll when changing lanes or cornering.
After its debut at Geneva Motor Show, Lexus will begin production of the UX in this fall. The compact crossover will be available in the United States starting December.