Lexus UX 300h

The changes for the 2024 model year were prompted by the European Union, which has new requirements for cars. However, Lexus has taken the opportunity to renew the UX ("Urban X-over") all the way through and refine it in all aspects.

And there's no sign of that on the outside at all! However, a new colour is available (unfortunately not available for this test, so not shown) and there is a second "bi-tone" option. Previously, this bi-tone option only included the roof in black. From now on, the b-pillar (bar between front windows) and c-pillar (bar between the rear side window and tailgate) can also be finished in black, as seen on the test car. This gives the UX the look of an SUV coupé, and such external appearance suits a premium product.

Space

How "premium" the interior looks depends heavily on the chosen trim level. The seats are optionally upholstered in fabric, vegan leather or animal leather. The test car, however, has a black and grey interior. As nice as the materials (Japanese "washi" paper on the dashboard) are and as nice as the finish is, the look is then austere. So opt for one of the new versions with a beige interior (again: not available for the test, so not shown).

As befits an SUV, entry is easy and seating is high. However, the UX forces an active seating position, like a sports car, for optimal control of the car. The UX even offers the secure feeling of a sports car. Space in the front is good, but depending on the driver's stature, the centre console can press against the knee. The space in the back is just enough for adults.

Equipment

As mentioned earlier, the European Union requires all new cars to be equipped with comprehensive safety features from 2024 onwards. This is why the UX is equipped with cameras and sensors that watch with the driver and warn of any mistake or carelessness. In doing so, Lexus opts for modest sounds, reducing the urge to disable the systems and thus making them more effective. We did notice that the camera monitoring the driver's eyes is very strict. If the driver even glances around, a warning sounds.

A new safety feature is "Proactive Drive Assist", which tries to predict the behaviour of pedestrians and cyclists and warns if they will cross. Safe Exit Assist prevents the doors from opening if a vehicle (i.e. not a pedestrian!) approaches from behind.

The audio, communication and navigation system gets a new display screen that measures 12.3 inches. This generous size makes it easy to read. Moreover, the UX comes with Lexus' latest software, including voice-activated assistant. However, the latter does not feature artificial intelligence or an internet connection. Its functionality is therefore limited to control of the climate control system and navigation system. A personal favourite remains the Mark Levinson audio system, which has powerful and clear sound for many hours of listening pleasure. Thanks to more and better soundproofing, the UX has also become quieter, so music can be enjoyed even more.

Electric car: UX 300e

The electric-powered UX 300e gets an improved battery for model year 2024 that is 15 kg lighter and can be charged faster. However, the Japanese ChaDeMo plug has remained. There is too little space for the larger CCS plug, and there is also no room behind the bodywork for the supporting structure for a heavier European plug. The inverter could not harness the greater power of a European charger. All this means that the UX 300e cannot work with most fast chargers in Europe. This is not made up for by a competitive price tag, which is why the hybrid is the logical choice.

Hybrid: UX 300h

This hybrid, moreover, is entirely new. Henceforth, the UX has been replaced by Lexus' fifth-generation hybrid powertrain. This produces more power (199 instead of 184 hp) and so the name has been changed from "250h" to "300h". From now on, the electric motor's share is larger and this is noticeable from the get-go, as the UX 300h gets off the spot smoothly and decisively. When provoked, performance is fine, with an appropriately deep engine noise briefly audible.

For those who want even more, an all-wheel-drive version ("e-Four") is available, which thanks to a second electric motor is noticeably more responsive. However, be warned: the standard version delivers more than enough power and those who have once sampled the pleasures of the all-wheel-drive version will be tempted into a more than sporty driving style.

A test drive along a route with lots of inner roads and city traffic led to a consumption of 5.2 litres per 100 km. Thanks to frequent starting and stopping, the hybrid technology came into its own here. Conversely, a drive with mainly motorways (little chance to recharge the battery, so no free power for the electric motor) cost 6.2 litres per 100 km.

Driving characteristics

There are now two sporty versions: the "F-Sport Design" and "F-Sport Line". The first only has a sporty trim. The second has a modified chassis to actually achieve a sportier character. Still, the differences are in the details. Only when driving distinctly "dynamic", or on very poor road surfaces, does the variable suspension of the F-Sport Line come into its own. As a rule, the standard suspension already offers more than enough comfort and dynamics.

Thereby, the UX is a true Lexus: the secret is not in a hard or soft suspension, but in precise handling and good communication with the driver. It is therefore not necessary to drive fast to enjoy the UX's technology. Thanks to its high level of refinement, it is always noticeable that the UX is much more than an average product.

Conclusion

The Lexus UX has been updated for the 2024 model year. The UX is all about refinement, which is why the car has been modified mainly under the skin. Besides the obligatory new safety features, the UX gets modern equipment to compete with more recent competitors. The improved sound insulation has been perceived as the most valuable improvement.

In addition, the new hybrid powertrain is a real asset. It delivers better performance at lower consumption. In doing so, the hybrid delivers more comfort than before thanks to a larger share of the electric motor.

But the above things can also be found in a regular Toyota, Lexus' parent company. The big difference is in the level of refinement and in its distinct character. An average product should appeal to the widest possible audience. The Lexus UX stands out with a Japanese character that combines organic shapes and refined engineering. All technical and visual modifications can therefore be summed up in two words: more character.