A solid gateway to the Lexus brand
AS THE gateway into the Lexus brand, the UX has been a sure-fire success.
Aimed at a younger audience, the UX has been Lexus’s best seller and, recently, it was given a nip and tuck to make it an even more attractive proposition. The company has also scrapped the petrol-only version in South Africa, given the fact that 71% of sales have been the hybrid version.
It’s powered by a 2-litre petrol engine that delivers 107kW and 180Nm of torque. Combined with an electric motor, it provides a total system output of 135kW powering the front wheels via a CVT transmission.
Exterior changes include restyled headlamps and tail-light clusters, and the side mirrors have a dark finish.
Inside, the Lexus UX is fitted with an updated 12.3-inch (31cm)infotainment and multimedia touch-screen system which replaces the rather tiresome track-pad control. It has been moved 143mm forward for easier operation. The graphics are crisp and clear.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto integration are standard. Updates to the system software can be done over the air using the car’s data communication module.
The interior is fitted with comfortable and supportive sport seats, aluminium pedals and a digital instrument cluster featuring a movable virtual ring inspired by the Lexus LFA. Passenger seating is slightly cramped but, considering the target market, it’s not a deal breaker. It’s a comfortable place to be, as we found out during our drive across the Cape Peninsula.
Acceleration is linear rather than quick but it’s enough to have a bit of fun once you get up to speed.
Driving over some bumpy sections, the build quality feels solid, with no squeaks or rattles, showcasing the enhanced chassis, reinforced steel back door and additional spot welds on the back panel and side members.
When we hit heavy Cape Town afternoon traffic, we switched to EV mode with the press of a button. It’s here where the hybrid comes into its own, with gentle acceleration as you
inch forward using only the battery.
Once you reach a certain speed, it automatically switches to ICE.
After a day of combined driving, which included some spirited sprints and overtaking, consumption stood at 7.5 litres/100km. A colleague, who did a lot more sedate driving, recorded 6.2 litres/100km.
As the entry to the Lexus brand the UX makes a lot of sense and I reckon it will continue to be a top seller.
The Lexus UX is priced from R808600 to R958100.