My Thoughts Exactly: 2025 Lexus UX
He asked if I knew anything about it. I did review it within months of its debut, but that was about it.
Did we forget about small premium/luxury crossover/SUVs?
I doubt it. But, one such offering in the segment had always been in the chat.
Probably a couple of so years ago, a Facebook friend announced that he just purchased a new Lexus UX. He asked if I knew anything about it. I did review it within months of its debut, but that was about it.
It is not that the Lexus UX is a mystery. It is not. Perhaps, the unsung offering in the Lexus lineup?
Since my last time working with the smallest vehicle in Lexus’ North American lineup, the UX took on a few adjustments. There is only one power source – a hybrid 2.0-liter engine. The interior underwent some changes to align itself with the rest of the current lineup. That’s about it.
The UX 300h tester that arrived for duty came in the new signature color for Lexus – Copper Crest. This color is undeniably the finest hue ever painted onto a lineup of vehicles. The Premium version is positioned below two F Sport trims, which provides an elevated experience in a competitive product.
Body-wise, the design has not changed since its first arrival for the 2019 model year. The Spindle Grille’s design had been superseded by new interpretations of the theme in more recent models. Yet, it does form the shape of the UX going rearward. That continues with sharp edged headlamps, a semi-fastback roofline, compelling creases, and a “tail fin” effect on the taillight cluster. This Premium tester wore a set of 18-inch alloy wheels.
The bigger changes for 2025 are inside the cabin. Non-F Sport instrument clusters are a 12.3-inch fully digital affair. It is clean in design and clear to decipher. This tester came with the available head-up display, which helps tremendously to keep focus on the road.
Also available on the Premium model is a new 12.3-inch Lexus Interface infotainment touchscreen system. It is full of connectivity features made for complete interactivity. Sound was quite good fro its standard speaker system. All controls have excellent touch and logic – as expected in a Lexus.
The Premium model is the one you want to cozy up to. Especially on these seats wrapped in NuLuxe upholstery. The front seats offer strong bolstering on the cushion and seatback with a tall headrest. Average-sized adults can be comfortable inside the UX. Cargo capacity is at 17.1 cubic feet behind the rear seat, expandable with the rear seats folded down. The rollator fits behind the rear seats, but barely.
As I mentioned before, the 2025 UX 300h is only offered with one power source. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is combined with an electric motor and a battery pack. Combined, this puts down 196 horsepower. Add a continuously variable transmission that send power to all four wheels, as in the case of this tester.
Performance is quite good overall. You can push it a bit for passing, but it does settle into a smooth cruise at highway speed. It is also great for in-town scampering. For fuel economy, I averaged 36.7 MPG.
“Smooth” is also what describes the driving dynamics of the UX. This small premium/luxury crossover/SUV offers a solid ride no matter where you drive it. As far as handling is concerned, you will notice a slight tinge of softness in the UX. It also corners flat with nominal lean and roll.
The steering response is also very good. There is a good turning radius with a good on-center feel. The brakes are superb with excellent stopping power in normal and panic situations. Pedal feel and response are good, as well.
You have a choice of four trim levels on the 2025 UX 300h lineup. Pricing starts from $37,515. This UX 300h AWD Premium tester came with a sticker price of $46,255.
I certainly understand why at least one social media friend has a Lexus UX. If you think about where it stands in the brand’s lineup, it took the place of the all-hybrid CT hatchback giving it a gateway to the brand. Compared the Prius-based hatchback of the past, the UX offers more space and utility. Now that it’s an all hybrid model, you can add efficiency to go with its improved performance from the previous hybrid driveline.
The question is whether it is relevant given how consumers have moved up to larger vehicles. It is, because there is still a segment among premium/luxury brands that has plenty of offerings. Some have hybrids, others are fully electric, and some still have an internal combustion engine. The Lexus UX offers an electrified choice for folks who do not need a lot of space, yet they also want a hedge on fuel costs.
DISCLAIMER: Vehicle provided by Toyota Motor North America
All photos by Randy Stern