Ux-tremely Fine
If you’re looking for an urban ride with plenty of style, the Lexus UX 200 compact SUV may just be what you’re looking for
Sleek and sporty, the Lexus UX 200 boasts a bold exterior design with fluid lines and sculpted surfaces, complete with Aero Stabilising Blade Lights inspired by race car rear wings that evokes a contemporary appeal that not many can resist.
What’s in the cabin doesn’t disappoint either. After a cursory glance, which already has me humming with approval, certain details stand out, commanding closer inspection.
JAP FAB
In a nod to its Japanese roots, Lexus has adorned the UX 200 with artisanal elements of traditional craftsmanship. The dashboard is decorated with Japanese washi paper texture. Sashiko quilting made by skilled Takumi craftspeople can be found running across the leather seats.
In what is an otherwise stateof-the-art interior, these seamless touches lend it warmth and a unique luxury. It’s impressive how the marque has managed to inject a slice of the old world into an unabashedly modern vehicle.
CRUISE CONTROL
Settling into the driver’s seat, you begin to appreciate how well-designed the console is. All functions are within easy reach, whether it is answering a call on the smartphone or adjusting the radio volume.
On the road, the car drives like a dream. I won’t bore you with the technical specs but suffice to say, the 2.0L NA 4-cylinder 16-valve petrol engine endowed with 169 horsepower does its job beautifully.
When driving, one of the features that I love is the ‘Hold’ button that, when activated, puts the car into stop mode and allows you to lift your foot off the brake pedal at red traffic lights. A small detail that you didn’t think you needed, but goes a long way in adding comfort to city driving. To move the car again, all it needs is a very gentle step on the accelerator.
FEELING SECURE
The safety features are incredibly handy when navigating Klang Valley’s notorious traffic. The Lexus Safety System + features a highly sophisticated set of sensors to ensure a pleasurable drive without compromising on safety. It not only gently alerts you about everything that could put you in harm’s way on the road, it is also endowed with the ability to execute semi-autonomous actions with the Stop & Go and Lane Tracing Assist functions.
Then there is the Panoramic View Monitor, which is a lifesaver if you find parking a Herculean feat, especially in tight spaces.
It also gives a clear view of your surrounding whenever you stop in traffic, giving you the chance to survey your environment for that peace of mind.
You will never find me put ‘pleasure’ and ‘driving’ in one sentence but I should admit that Lexus actually has me planning a trip to the supermarket and kopitiam for the sheer pleasure of getting behind the wheels.