If your next purchase is a small premium crossover, get ready to add a new competitor to your shortlist in the recently unveiled Lexus UX, awaiting its North American debut at this year’s NY Auto Show.

“The first-ever Lexus UX is designed for the modern urban explorer seeking a fresh, contemporary and dynamic take on luxury driving,” stated Lexus exec, Chika Kako. “We designed the UX to appeal to buyers in their 30s who seek not only what is new and exciting, but what is also relevant to their lifestyles.”

The UX is built on the automaker’s new GA-C (Global Architecture – Compact) platform, which also lays the foundation for the Toyota Prius, C-HR, Auris, Corolla and even the Avensis.

Two powertrain options

US buyers will choose between two powertrains in the front-wheel driven UX 200, and the UX 250h, which features eAWD. The latter also comes with a 2.0-liter gasoline engine and a new fourth generation hybrid drive system producing a total of 176 HP, while the entry-level 200 version uses just gas power, rated at 168 HP, coupled with a new CVT gearbox.

According to the Japanese automaker, you will be able to average 33 combined mpg (7.1 l/100km) in the UX 200, whereas the UX 250h will offer you an estimated 38 combined mpg (6.2 l/100km).

As for features and safety tech, all UX models come standard with Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa integration, while the Lexus Safety System+ brings with it Lane Tracing Assist, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Automatic High Beams, Road Sign Assist and a Pre-Collision System that can spot pedestrians at night.

The Lexus UX 200 and UX 250h will go into production this fall, with sales expected to commence in December. The new crossover will also be Lexus’ first ever model to be offered through a subscription service.

Article updated with live images from the New York Auto Show