Cheapest Lexus Model Hybrid-Only For 2023

Lexus is making some big changes to its smallest SUV and most affordable vehicle for the 2023 model year. The 2023 UX has ditched its gas engine and will only be available as a hybrid. Consumers will also find an improved infotainment system, revised steering, updated suspension, and enhanced safety features.

The UXh now comes solely with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor that’s rated at 181 horsepower. All-wheel drive is standard for the hybrid. Without any major changes to the engine, we expect the 2023 UX 250h to have the same fuel economy figures as the current hybrid, which is rated at up to 42 mpg combined.

While the engine remains the same, Lexus has made some changes to the UXh’s platform to improve its drivability. The subcompact SUV’s structural rigidity has been improved thanks to 20 new welding points on the body. Lexus has also updated the UXh’s shock absorbers and electronic power steering. New Bridgestone 18-inch run-flat tires come standard and reportedly reduce the amount of noise and vibration coming into the cabin.

On the tech front, the 2023 UXh now comes with a standard eight-inch touchscreen and is available with a 12.3-inch unit. The touchscreens are larger than the ones found on the 2022 model, which comes with a seven-inch display and is available with a 10.3-inch display. In addition to coming with larger touchscreens, Lexus has moved the screen closer to the driver and redesigned the center console. The new screens feature a new voice assistant that can be activated with simple phrases like “Hey Lexus,” while a new digital app-based key is also available.

Every 2023 UXh comes with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 suite of advanced safety features. The suite includes automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, pedestrian detection, evasive steering assist, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and lane tracing assist. Lexus claims that the UXh’s radar and camera systems have been upgraded to improve the response and range of the pre-collision system.

Lastly, the 2023 UX 250h F Sport models are available with new Design and Handling packages. The F Sport Design package changes the way the subcompact SUV looks with F Sport wheels, dark roof rails, a unique grille, painted fender flares, fog lights, a black roof, and rain-sensing wipers. On the inside, the package includes a moonroof, front sport seats, F Sport pedals, an F Sport instrument cluster, an F Sport steering wheel, and an F Sport gear selector. The available F Sport Handling package brings performance-tuned dampers and Active Variable suspension.

Pricing for the 2023 Lexus UXh hasn’t been announced yet, but the subcompact SUV will arrive at dealerships before the end of summer. With the changes, we expect pricing to start above the 2022 model which costs $36,425 (with destination).

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Pictured: 2022 Lexus UX