Lexus UX Review 2021
The Lexus UX is an eye-catching, comfortable small SUV with impressive self-charging hybrid technology.
Thanks to its precise steering, reasonable body control, and resilient grip that feels right at home on the open road, the Lexus UX is great to drive. Rivals to the Lexus UX include the Volvo XC40, Mercedes GLA, BMW X2, Audi Q3 and Jaguar E-Pace.
Our Lexus UX Review covers:
- SUV coupe-like design and sporty driving characteristics
- Minimalist looking interior with high standards of craftsmanship
- 320-litre boot, which expands to 1,231 litres with rear seats down
- 2.0-litre petrol engine and an electric motor for a combined 176bhp
- Three trim levels, including Standard, F-Sport and Takumi
The Lexus UX has a similarly sharp, sporty SUV design as the Lexus RX but the UX dimensions make it visibly shorter and narrower out of the two. Nevertheless, the UX will grab your attention with its spindle grille, sharp creases all across its exterior, and its rear light that stretches right across the width of the boot lid.
As for practicality, the UX isn't as great as other family SUVs as it's a little cramped in the back. Headroom and legroom are reasonable, with the low-set seats managing to make up for the effects of the sloping roofline. However, inside doesn't feel as spacious and airy as the more conventionally-styled Volvo XC40.
At the rear, the Lexus UX has a boot that can hold up to 320 litres, expanding to 1,231 litres with rear seats folded flat. It offers a decent amount of space, but the BMW X2 is more practical, offering 470 litres of boot capacity.
The UX's boot is usefully squared shaped with no awkward loading lip ideal for packing away luggage. It also comes with 60/40-split-folding rear seats and reasonable under-floor storage to accommodate larger or longer items.
Inside, the Lexus UX has a high-class, minimalist looking interior with expensive-feeling materials thanks to Lexus' high standards of craftsmanship. It boasts handy tech features such as the sharp-looking 7.0-inch TFT digital screen rather than analogue dials behind the steering wheel. Plus, as you would expect in a Lexus, the UX has a wonderfully clear six-speaker sound system that comes as standard.
Three trim levels models are available, including the Standard model, which comes with keyless start, automatic high beam, headlight cleaners and rain-sensing wipers. It also includes a 7.0-inch infotainment system with a DVD player, built-in satnav, Bluetooth connectivity, reversing camera and 17-inch alloy wheels.
The Lexus UX F-Sport model adds heated front seats and steering wheel, cornering lights and 18-inch alloy wheels.
The range-topping Takumi model includes side, curtain and knee airbags, a 360-degree camera, a 10.3-inch remote-controlled infotainment system and 18-inch alloy wheels.
Under the bonnet, the UX is only available as a hybrid in the UK and comes with an electric motor and a 2.0-litre petrol engine for a combined power output of 176bhp.
The engine comes with a CVT automatic gearbox with an option of a front-wheel or a four-wheel-drive variant. The cheaper front-wheel-drive model is a popular choice thanks to its fuel efficiency around town. The four-wheel-drive variant provides extra grip over wet surfaces and around corners but comes at a slightly higher price tag.
The Lexus UX feels great to drive on the road, offering a degree of brake control on the inside wheel, which reduces understeer. It's even easy to drive and manoeuvre around town thanks to its good visibility and the optional Parking Support Alert, which makes parking easy.
Prices for the new Lexus UX start from £33,689.00 OTR* or to lease from £410.80 per month.
Want to know more about leasing the Lexus UX? Nationwide Vehicle Contracts is one of the UK's largest providers of car leasing. All of our lease deals include the full manufacturer's warranty, road tax for the duration of the contract, breakdown cover and free mainland GB delivery (exclusions apply).
What's more, with fixed monthly rentals, a low initial outlay and flexible mileage and contract terms, leasing a Lexus UX could be cheaper than buying outright with a bank loan or dealer finance.
*'On the road' price is correct at time of publication and includes one year's road fund license, DVLA first registration fee and number plate fee. Prices are subject to change. Always check with your nearest retailer.
