The Lexus UX has just received a suite of updates for the 2021 model year. In Australia, the automaker’s entry-level SUV gets an improved Direct Shift CVT that provides a more “engaging and comfortable driving experience,” thanks to the new clutch oil pressure control. Acceleration is also more refined due to ECU recalibration, although outputs remain unchanged.
Lexus says the cabin is now even quieter –
it now features more sound-absorbing materials in key areas, as well as thicker
insulating materials for the boot floor. The acoustic glass from before is also
retained. Other handy updates include the inclusion of two new LED-lit USB C
ports in the rear console, which replaces the pair of USB A ports. These
support faster charging.
In a rare move, boot space has somehow
been increased. Non-hybrid variants see a 50- to 90-litre increase in boot
space. Models equipped with 17-inch wheels get 419 litres of boot space,
whereas those with 18-inch hoops get 424 litres of space. This is achieved with
a lower deck height. UX 250h hybrid variants also get a slight increase in boot
space, courtesy of the double deck-tray system. This adds between four litres
(UX 250h F Sport and Sports Luxury 2WD) and 44 litres of space (for UX 250h
Luxury 2WD only).
For safety, the updated UX can now detect
school-zone speed signs. This has been added to the Lexus Road Sign Assist
system, which is part of the rather comprehensive Lexus Safety System+ that
includes Pre-Collision Safety system with pedestrian and cyclist detection,
active cruise control (operable at all speeds), and lane keeping assist.
More importantly, pricing has been
adjusted. The entry-level UX 200 Luxury sees its price reduced by AUD$ 2,000 to AUD$ 44,445, but at the expense of several features.
Previous standard items like LED fog lamps, roof rails, parking support brake,
blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert, smart entry, and DAB+ digital
radio have been bundled into an optional package called Enhancement Pack 1. Other
variants of the UX also get slight price reductions between AUD$ 75 to
AUD$ 325, depending on the model.
