Lexus bolsters UX line-up

It has been a year since Lexus introduced its smallest SUV, the UX to the local market. The premium Japanese manufacturer recently hosted an online press event where it announced the addition of a new entry-level Hybrid to the model range. This comes after Toyota, of which Lexus is a subsidiary, announced that it would be introducing more hybrid vehicles to the South African market.

Bigger model range

With the addition of the entry-level ES Hybrid derivative, there are now four model grades within the UX range. The range is made up of with an entry-level petrol 200 EX, followed by the new ES 250h EX, the UX 250h SE and then and then the F Sport model topping things off. 

The UX ES

Exterior-wise, the UX 250h EX comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, front LED daytime running lights and the signature Lexus L-shaped lighting. Being the entry-level hybrid model within the range, the ES UX derivative isn’t as well specified as the flagship. It does, however, get features such as Drive Mode Select, two rear USB charging ports, an electric tailgate, satellite navigation, cruise control, park distance control, reverse camera and push-button start to name a few. The model also features the rather irksome Lexus Remote Touch Interface (RTI) along with an 8-Speaker Premium Sound System. 

Interior and exterior colour options

The interior of the entry-level UX is available with five artificial leather options which include Black, White Ash, Rich Cream, B Ocher and Cobalt. In terms of exterior colours, there are 11 options which include; Platinum Silver, Sonic Titanium, Sonic Quartz, Mercury Grey, Black, Graphite Black, Madder Red, Amber, Blazing Carnelian, Terrane Khaki and Celestial Blue.

Same powertrain

The UX 250h in EX and SE guise boast the same powertrain which comprises of a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine that produces 107 kW and 180 N.m in combination with an electric motor for a combined output of 135 kW. This power is transferred through the front wheels via a CVT transmission, providing a claimed fuel consumption of 4/5 L/100km, CO2 emissions of 103 g/km and a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 8.5 seconds.

Range updates

The brand also took the opportunity to announce that all UX models have received a revised infotainment system which now includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility as standard which includes free Wi-Fi connectivity for the driver and passengers as a part of ‘Lexus Connect’.

Warranty and service plan

The EX model range comes as standard with a seven-year/105 000km warranty and maintenance plan. 

Pricing

UX 200 EX R654 700

UX 250h EX R 690 300

UX 250h SE R756 200

UX F Sport R785 400