2019 Lexus UX Priced From $32,000, Sales Commence In December

Lexus’ challenger in the premium subcompact SUV party is called the UX, and will take on models such as the Mercedes-Benz GLA, Audi Q3 and BMW X1.

It will arrive at dealers across the United States in December, in UX 200 guise, which has an MSRP of $32,000, excluding a $1,025 destination charge.

One month later, the UX 250h will follow with hybrid power, more muscle, improved fuel efficiency and all-wheel drive – and a $2,000 premium.

The 2019 UX 200 is powered by a new 2.0-liter engine, making 169 hp (171 PS / 126 kW) and 151 lb-ft (205 Nm) of torque that’s mated to a CVT transmission and front-wheel drive. The AWD UX 250h uses a hybrid powertrain consisting of a 2.0 petrol four and two co-axial electric motor-generators that churns out a combined output of 175 hp (177 PS / 131 kW).

Lexus has opted for an all-wheel drive system that uses a separate, dedicated 7 hp electric motor-generator integrated into the rear differential. Power distribution between the front and rear axles is automatically adjusted by the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system for optimum traction.

Both models come with a choice of 12 exterior colors (two of which are F Sport-exclusive) and can be specced with the F Sport package, which includes exclusive bumpers and grille, large LED fog lamp bezels with L-shaped chrome moldings, cornering lamps and 18-inch five twin-spoke alloy wheels.

In the cabin, the F Sport versions have front sport seats, perforated leather-trimmed steering wheel with paddle shifters, aluminum pedals, footrest and door scuff plates, an 8-inch TFT color display (instead of the 7-in in regular models) and a movable ring inspired by the LFA supercar in the digitally-rendered instrument cluster. Moreover, Lexus says the F Sport experience can be enhanced with the Active Sound Control system that mimics the aural effect of gearshifts to replicate the sound of a conventional geared auto transmission.

All UX crossovers have standard Apple CarPlay and a sound system with 6 speakers, and a head-up display, an upgraded audio with 8 speakers and a 10.25-inch screen with the Lexus Navigation system.

The Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 is standard on all variants, and it features eight airbags (including driver and passenger knee airbags), intelligent high-beam headlights, road sign assist, lane departure warning with steering assist, lane tracing assist, all-speed dynamic radar cruise control and a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection.