DEKAT DIGITAL 2019 - 2020

The UX is the entry-level crossover within the Lexus range, but actually, there’s nothing entry-level about
this vehicle at all (except maybe the price). That’s because, like every single model in the Lexus range,
this compact crossover oozes style and luxury.
For many motorists, however, it is their first foray into both the world of Lexus and the world of luxury.
So, what can these modern urban explorers expect?
First and foremost, they will get a vehicle that – despite being an urban crossover (the UX name is derived
from the design’s guiding concept and describes the vehicle’s mission: Urban + X-over (crossover) =
UX) – delivers an engaging and dynamic driving performance. The UX boasts a surprisingly low centre
of gravity, which translates into exceptional handling.
If the handling of the standard vehicle doesn’t get your engine revving (we think it will), there’s the F Sport package,
which offers a tweaked suspension, rear performance damper and 18inch, twin-spoke aluminium alloy wheels.
Two engines are up for grabs. Whether you opt for the UX 200 (which features a new high-efficiency 2.0-litre, fourcylinder
engine coupled with a new DirectShift Continuously Variable Transmission) or the UX 250h (which pairs
an even higher-efficiency version of the 2.0-litre petrol engine with a new hybrid drive system), this vehicle offers
a sublime driving experience.
Like every new Lexus, two of the UX model derivatives come with a full house of safety features. The F Sport and
hybrid grades both come standard with Lexus Safety System+, which includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Crash
System, Blind Spot Monitor, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Alert and the ED Adaptive High-beam System. All
models come standard with eight airbags. But, while the technical underpinnings of this exceptional car are mighty
impressive, the vehicle’s good looks – both inside and out – are probably what will set the tongues wagging.
Think crossovers are dreary? Not this one; the UX is a real beauty, from its unique spindle grille to its eye-catching
rear lights. The former truly is a thing of wonder; it features a new block-shape mesh pattern with individual
elements that gradually change in shape as they radiate outwards from the central Lexus emblem. It’s almost as
if the grille has a life of its own. We love the back of the vehicle just as much, especially the full-width rear lights,
which project a distinctive night-time signature formed by a sequence of 120 LEDs.
The profile of the vehicle is a thing of beauty too. It features crisp, prominent sculpted surfaces, dramatically flared
front and rear fenders and – in a world first – wheel arch mouldings that protect the body from gravel thrown up
by the tyres. The mouldings not only keep the UX looking picture-perfect, they also use airflow over their edges
to reduce turbulence and lift, boosting the vehicle’s stability. The 5-spoke 18 x 6.5inch aluminium alloy aero
ventilating wheels (yet another world first) also reduce wind resistance while cooling the disc brakes.
Naturally, a full palette of colours is on offer. We particularly like the three new colours specially developed for the UX:
Blazing Carnelian (orange), Terrane Khaki (green) and Celestial Blue, which boasts glass flakes that sparkle in sunlight.
While the exterior is simply ravishing, the interior puts the UX into luxury – it boasts a ‘wow factor’ and depth of
quality that will be especially apparent to those buying a luxury-brand vehicle for the first time. The seats – available
in simulated leather (UX 200 EX) or smooth leather (F Sport and Hybrid) – look glorious, but they’re incredibly
comfortable too, thanks to the use of springs and foam that gently envelop occupants while uniformly dispersing
pressure under their sciatic area.
263