Lexus announced a series of updates for the fully electric UX 300e, with the most important being the addition of a new battery, extending the range by more than 40 percent compared to the outgoing model. The UX 300e also benefits from the chassis improvements, the new infotainment, and the expanded safety kit of the recently updated hybrid UX range.
The UX 300e was originally introduced in 2019 as Lexus’ first EV. Since then, Lexus has sold more than 10,000 units of the electric SUV, but the 196-mile (315 km) range has started feeling kind of outdated by 2022 standards. Thus, the automaker increased the capacity of the battery from 54.3 kWh to 72.8 kWh, taking the WLTP combined range figure to 450 km (280 miles) with 17-inch wheels or 440 km (273 miles) with 18-inch wheels. Lexus claims that this is enough to travel from Brussels to Frankfurt without stopping at a charging station.
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The front-mounted electric motor producing 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS) and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque remains unchanged, but Lexus engineers have tweaked the chassis for improved driving dynamics just like in the hybrid UX. More specifically, the body rigidity has been increased thanks to additional spot welding, while the electric power steering and the shock absorbers have been retuned. Lexus has also improved the sound insulation for a quieter cabin.
Visually, the UX 300e looks just like its predecessor, with the exception of the new Sonic Platinum color option. However, inside the cabin, we find a number of updates. Lexus’ new infotainment is incorporated into a new touchscreen that is closer to the driver, measuring 8-inches or 12.3-inches depending on the trim. The new system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto, cloud-based navigation, and a new voice assistant. Additionally, the UX gets a larger wireless charging pad, three USB ports on the center console, and the omission of the touchpad from the central tunnel makes space for a new storage cubby or the controls for the heated seats.
In terms of the trim, both the fabric and leather upholstery options are now available in Hazel color, the perforated leather is available with a Kagome pleating effect, and the dashboard surface texture is designed after the Washi paper grain found in sliding doors of traditional Japanese houses.
Last but not least, the Lexus Safety System + gains additional features including the Intersection Turning Assist, the Emergency Steering Assist, and the improved Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Curve Speed Reduction, following similar updates in the rest of the Lexus lineup.
The first deliveries of the 2023 Lexus UX 300e in European markets are scheduled for May 2023. Pricing for the updated model will be announced closer to its market launch.
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