Everything to Know About the 2019 Lexus UX
Daily Slideshow: We've been waiting a long time for the Lexus UX. And now we know pretty much everything there is to know about the compact crossover.
New Contender
The compact crossover market is red-hot these days. Thus, it would be foolish for Lexus to ignore it. And they certainly didn't, conjuring up an exciting new entry in the form of the UX. Now, two years after we first saw the UX concept and months after we were treated to photos of the production version, Lexus has graced us with all the specs on their groundbreaking little ride.
Pricing
Lexus expects the UX to be an entry-level ride, one that will be the very first Lexus (or luxury vehicle) most folks buy. Thus, it's priced rather attractively. The UX 200 hits U.S. dealers in December with a starting MSRP of $32,000. Those wanting all-wheel drive, more power, and better efficiency can opt for the UX 250h in January of 2019, which will carry an MSRP of $34,000.
>>Join the conversation about the Lexus UX right here in Club Lexus.
Engine: UX 200
The base model uses an all-new, 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine for power. It features a host of new technology, including laser-clad intake valve seats with an all-new intake port profile, D-4S direct plus port fuel injection, and VVT-iE intelligent variable valve-timing with an electric actuator.
Total output stands at 169 hp and 151 lb-ft of torque, and Lexus touts the fact that the new engine is less complex, lighter, and cooler running than the competition's turbocharged offerings.
>>Join the conversation about the Lexus UX right here in Club Lexus.
Engine: UX 250h
The hybrid 250h offers up 181 total hp and "is the fuel-efficient leader with the best MPG of any CUV and SUV without a plug in the U.S. market," according to Lexus. It utilizes the same 2.0-liter engine as the UX 200 but adds two electric motor/generators in a new-generation hybrid transaxle that is more compact, lighter and has less internal friction than previous Lexus hybrid systems. Lexus says the new power control unit is 20% smaller and 10% lighter than before, all while making more power.
>>Join the conversation about the Lexus UX right here in Club Lexus.
All-Wheel Drive
The UX 250h comes with a standard all-wheel-drive using a separate, dedicated electric motor-generator with 7 hp output integrated into the rear differential. Power distribution between the front and rear axles is automatically optimized by the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system when accelerating, cornering, or driving on slippery surfaces. The system is even able to help correct understeer or oversteer by manipulating power to the rear wheels.
>>Join the conversation about the Lexus UX right here in Club Lexus.
Predictive Eco Drive Control
The UX 250h is also a showcase for Lexus' new Predictive Eco-Drive Control, which works in unison with the navigation system to learn driving habits, predict the expected roadway ahead, and analyze real-time traffic reports to optimize charging and discharging of the hybrid battery. The more miles the UX 250h is driven, the more data is gathered to help optimize fuel consumption.
>>Join the conversation about the Lexus UX right here in Club Lexus.
Interior Design
The interior of the UX features the same quality and attention to detail as every other Lexus, albeit with the higher seating position of a crossover. Optimal placement of the hip-point and the unique shaping of the seat cushion make getting in and out of the UX easier. The instrument panel’s low unobtrusive design and the slim A-pillar moldings are both specially shaped to improve visibility.
>>Join the conversation about the Lexus UX right here in Club Lexus.
Technology
With the new UX, a 7-inch Lexus Multimedia System (LMS) display is standard, and a 10.25-inch screen is used with the available Lexus Navigation system. The standard Lexus Premium Sound System features either 6 or 8 (optional) speakers, which are constructed using bamboo charcoal speaker diaphragms. Owners can access numerous functions on the UX via their smartphone, including remote start and window operation. Apple CarPlay compatibility is also standard.
>>Join the conversation about the Lexus UX right here in Club Lexus.
Safety
Like all modern-day Lexus vehicles, the UX is packed with the latest and greatest in safety technology. The standard Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 includes Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pedestrian Detection, All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Lane Tracing Assist, Road Sign Assist (RSA), and Intelligent High-Beam headlamps.
>>Join the conversation about the Lexus UX right here in Club Lexus.
Exterior Design
It might not be as visually striking as the UX concept, but the production UX is no less unique on the outside. The familiar grille design sports a new block-shape mesh pattern, creating a three-dimensional appearance that changes depending on the viewing angle. Sculpted surfaces and flared fenders create an overall aggressive appearance. And the UX is available in a wide array of colors, with 12 different options, two of which are limited to F Sport models only.
>>Join the conversation about the Lexus UX right here in Club Lexus.
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