The hybrid market has shown immense growth in the past five years, and Lexus is embracing this reality by adding even more hybrids to their current line-up, with the ultimate goal of owning the hybrid space within the premium market. This means we'll soon be seeing an entry-level EX-grade hybrid model being added to each and every SUV and sedan range in the Lexus stable. (Lexus is also planning to add SE-grade hybrids to their LS and LC ranges.) The first model range to benefit from another hybrid, is the UX compact crossover.
Related: Silence is the Lexus UX 250h (review, 2019)
2019's healthy sales figures confirm that Lexus currently enjoys a hearty 37% share in the alternative fuel market. The UX, in particular, is responsible for a 21% percent share and is one of the brand's best-selling hybrids today. Customers are mad for its smooth drive, robust yet sporty look, and overall attention to detail. With the new EX-grade model added, Lexus feels that premium hybrid vehicle ownership is made more accessible — after all, no new model is introduced into the market, unless a nice little hollow has been identified for it to fill.
First Drive: Lexus UX200 - New premium small SUV takes on the market
This brings the UX line-up to four models, of which two are hybrids:
Lexus UX 200 EX: R654 700
The newly-added Lexus UX 250h EX: R690 300
Lexus UX 250h SE: R756 200
Lexus UX 200 F Sport: R785 400
Related: Lexus range upated for 2020
Engine & powertrain
The UX is based on the GA-C platform, which forms part of Toyota’s New Global Architecture. At the heart of the front-wheel driven UX hybrid is a fourth-generation hybrid powertrain which couples a 2.0-litre engine with an electric motor, fed by a nickel metal-hydride battery located below the rear seat. The UX hybrid models have a total output of 135kW, and finishes the obligatory 0-100 km/h sprint in an agreeable 8.5 seconds, with an electrically-governed top speed of 177 km/h. Claimed fuel consumption is 4.5 litres per 100 km.
A fully-electric UX is launching in 2021, but time will tell if it will make it's way to SA. The brand is also going full hybrid on one Lexus range with an added F-Sport label, but more information on this will follow, when we know more...
Getting your money's worth
One of Lexus's many strengths is how well-specified their cars are, especially in comparison to the Teutonic Trio, namely BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Audi, with whom you often blow your budget once you start ticking boxes for optional extras. (In terms of price and size, the UX competes with compact SUV offerings such as the Mercedes-Benz GLA, BMW X1, Audi Q3, and Volvo XC40.)
The EX-grade UX is packed with features such as the Lexus Remote Touch Interface with satnav, reversing camera, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, push-button start, Drive Mode Select (choose between ECO, Normal, and Sport), free in-car Wi-Fi, 2 x USB ports for rear passengers, and a hands-free tailgate. The Lexus 8-speaker Premium Sound system is equipped with bamboo charcoal speaker diaphragms for outstanding sound quality.
The EX-grade hybrid also receives the same 18-inch alloy aero-ventilating wheels in a silver metallic hue. Eleven body colours are available: Celestial Blue, Terrane Khaki, Blazing Camelian, Madder Red, Amber, Platinum Silver, Sonic Titanium, Sonic Quarts, Mercury Grey, Black, and Graphite Black. Customers can pick from five interior colour/trim choices, namely Black, White Ash, Rich Cream, B Ocher and Cobalt.
The EX Hybrid model has a class-leading 7-year/105 000km warranty and full maintenance plan, with service intervals at every 15 000km.
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