Lexus Australia is
announcing the all-new Lexus UX compact SUV, coming in as the new entry-level
model for the brand aside from the base variant of the CT 200h. Three
powertrain options are being launched here, spanning from the UX 200, UX 250h
2WD, and UX 250h AWD. These are then split up into three trim lines, ranging
from the Luxury, Sports Luxury and top F Sport. However, the UX 250h AWD is
available in Sports Luxury and F Sport only.
Powering the UX 200
is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that produces 171 hp. Going for the
UX 250h adds a hybrid electric motor assist system that boosts power to 178 hp.
All models are configured with a CVT automatic transmission. Fuel economy on
the combined cycle for the UX 250h is rated at just 4.5L/100km, making it one
of the most fuel efficient vehicles in the class.
As standard, all
models come with at least a 10.3-inch digital media display, packing in an
eight-speaker stereo with digital radio. For the driver there’s a 7.0-inch TFT
digital display for the instrument cluster. Moving up to the Sports Luxury adds
in a 13-speaker Mark Levinson stereo, ventilated front seats for the leather
upholstery, panoramic parking cameras, and 18-inch alloy wheels (up from 17in
on the Luxury).
At the top of the
bunch, the F Sport comes with unique 18-inch alloy wheels, sports seats inside
with paddle shifters for the driver, as well as adaptive variable sports
suspension with five drive modes, sports dampers at the rear, and active sound
control.
This is Lexus’s
first attempt at the premium compact SUV market segment. It will face
competition such as the Audi Q2, BMW X1, and Mercedes-Benz GLA, as well as the
Jaguar E-PACE and Infiniti QX30. Speaking about its local arrival, Lexus
Australia chief executive Scott Thompson said: Buyers can head into their local
Lexus dealer now and place an order for the new model. Prices start from the
following (excluding on-road costs):
- 2019 Lexus UX 200 Luxury: AUD 44,450
- 2019 Lexus UX 200 Sports Luxury: AUD 53,000
- 2019 Lexus UX 200 F Sport: AUD 53,450
- 2019 Lexus UX 250h Luxury 2WD: AUD 47,950
- 2019 Lexus UX 250h Sports Luxury 2WD: AUD 56,500
- 2019 Lexus UX 250h F Sport 2WD: AUD 56,950
- 2019 Lexus UX 250h Sports Luxury AWD: AUD 61,000
- 2019 Lexus UX 250h F Sport AWD: AUD 61,450
