Lexus UX SUV 2019

New 2018 Lexus UX SUV specs
The new Lexus UX has made its debut at Geneva, and will rival the BMW X2 when it arrives towards the end of 2018
Lexus has revealed further details for its all-new UX small SUV at the Geneva Motor Show. The brand's first-ever compact crossover will go on sale later this year, with a choice of hybrid and petrol engines, as well as the option of front- or four-wheel drive.
The Lexus UX SUV takes the brand in a new direction. Chika Kako, UX chief engineer said: "Right from the start I focused on the target market; mid-30s, millennials.
"We tried to understand how they would expect a premium compact vehicle to change their lives and enable new experiences. That’s what led us to the basic vehicle concept for the UX."
The firm's latest SUV will rival cars like the Audi Q2 when it goes on sale, as well as all-new models like the BMW X2, Jaguar E-Pace and Volvo XC40. However, the UX's bold styling should ensure it stands out in what is becoming an increasingly-crowded market.
Familiar details such as the gaping grille, slim LED lights, rising shoulderline and sculpted bonnet can be seen in the front-end, while the single-bar rear light profile takes Lexus in a new design direction. The interior shows an evolved dashboard design over current Lexus models, with LFA-style switchgear, digital dials, and a widescreen infotainment system.
The UX is the first Lexus to sit on Toyota's GA-C global architecture, and along with the new platform the crossover will see the debut of two new powertrains. The first will debut in the UX 250h; a 2.0-litre petrol-electric 'self-charging' hybrid with 176bhp. All models get a CVT auto gearbox, although there will be a choice of front or 'E-Four' all-wheel drive.
In addition, Lexus will launch its new baby SUV in UX 200 guise, fitted with a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine. The in-line four-cylinder unit is said to use "high-speed combustion to achieve enhanced thermal efficiency". It'll come with the brand's first 'Direct Shift-CVT', which allegedly offers all the efficiency of a conventional continuously variable transmission (CVT), but with a "direct driving feel". No power or torque figures have been announced, and it's not clear whether it'll be available in the UK.
Safety will be a key selling point for the UX, which will come with the latest version of Lexus Safety System+, including a pre-collision system and radar detection. Lexus Co DRIVE adds Lane Tracing Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control, while Auto High Beam and Road Sign Assist also feature.
Specs haven't been announced, and UK specific details won't be revealed for some time, though Lexus has confirmed there will be a racy-looking F Sport variant. Flooded with chrome details, 18-inch wheels and bigger bumpers, the Lexus UX F Sport will compete with cars like the Audi Q2 S Line and BMW X2 M Sport. Inside, you'll find sports seats and F Sport steering wheel and aluminium pedals, while suspension tweaks and a Sport S+ drive mode should make it sharper to drive.
The UX follows on from the concept version shown at the Paris Motor Show back in 2016, bringing the concept to life almost two years on from its debut.
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