Lexus has mainly stuck to mid-size and large SUVs, but that changes with the all-new 2019 Lexus UX. The UX is the Japanese automaker's first vehicle in the subcompact crossover SUV segment. While late to the party, the UX makes up for it with unique styling, a roomier rear seat than some competitors, and an affordable price tag. A hybrid variant adds better fuel economy to the mix.
What's New for 2019
The UX is an all-new model for 2019.
Choosing Your Lexus UX
Both the UX and the UX Hybrid come with a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine. In the non-hybrid variants, it's rated to make 169 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque. Power is routed through the front wheels through a continuously variable transmission (CVT). This setup achieves an EPA-estimated 29 miles per gallon city, 37 mpg highway, and 33 combined.
The UX Hybrid comes with the same engine and the CVT as the non-hybrid version, but adds two electric motors (one at both ends of the vehicle) and a nickel-metal hydride battery. All-wheel drive is standard for the hybrid, and operates at speeds of up to 44 miles per hour. Combined output for the system is rated at 181 hp. Fuel economy for the UX Hybrid is rated at 41/48/39 mpg (city/highway/combined) by the automaker.
Despite being Lexus' smallest SUV, the UX still comes with all of the latest safety features as standard. The brand's Lexus Safety System Plus 2.0 is standard on every trim level, which includes a forward collision warning system with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning with steering assist, lane keeping assist, road sign assist, and intelligent high-beam headlights.
Cargo area for the regular UX is rated at 21.7 cubic feet, while the UX Hybrid is rated to hold up to 17.1 cubic feet of cargo. While that's below average for the segment, the UX's 33.1 inches of rear leg room is better than a lot of the competition.
The UX is available in six trims:
With a large gap in fuel economy between the base and hybrid models, we recommend going with the 2019 Lexus UX 250h. It's not that much more than the standard UX 200, has the same standard features, and has much better fuel economy. Plus, the standard all-wheel-drive system makes it an attractive choice for those that live in climates that are affected by inclement weather. The Premium Package is a worthy upgrade, too, but the weird pricing model that forces you to go with extra features may turn some off.