Thursday, February 22, 2024

2024 Lexus UX 250h F Sport: The Brand’s Entry-Level Performance Crossover


Highlight: The UX is Lexus’ entry-level vehicle.

Test Vehicle's MSRP: $46,960 (Base Model UX 250: $36,690)

Seating Capacity: 4

Standard Safety Features: airbags; ABS; a stability control system; pre-collision system with pedestrian detection system; a radar activated cruise control system; a back up camera; a lane tracing assist system; a lane departure alert system; a road sign assist system; automatic high beam highlights; and a tire pressure sensor


Standard Equipment UX 250h: 18-inch wheels; front wheel drive; an 8-inch infotainment screen; a variety of driving modes; leather-like seats; power front seats; 60/40 rear seats; heated outside mirrors; and a push button ignition starter system

Standard Equipment NX 250h F Sport Test Model: all-wheel drive;  five spoke alloy wheels; sport seats; steering wheel; shift knobs; meters; aluminum sport pedals; F-tuned sport suspension; a driving mode; paddle shifters; perforated leather trimmed steering; performance inspired instrumentation with a sliding bezel; an auto dimming rear view mirror;  memory driver’s seat setting; heated and ventilated front seats; fog lamps and cornering lamps; power moonroof; rain-sensing windshield wipers; power folding outside mirrors; a 12-inch infotainment screen; an active sound control; and a 10-speaker premium sound system


Options: wireless charger; windshield de-icer; intuitive parking assist; power rear door with kick sensor; premium paint; and F sport heated steering wheel

Other Trim Levels:

250h Premium

250h F Sport Design

Standard Audio On Test Vehicle: a 6-speaker audio system with AM/FM/ with SiriusXM

Bluetooth Connectivity: Standard

USB Connectivity: Standard

Apple/Android Connectivity: Standard

Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles

Powertrain Warranty: 5 years or 70,000 miles

Hybrid Warranty:  8 years or 100,000 miles

Standard Hybrid Engine/Horsepower: 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder engine/181-hp

Recommended Fuel: Regular

Standard Fuel Mileage: 43-city/41-hwy (front wheel drive model)

Maximum Towing Capacity: N/A

What’s New:  With the exception of an available power back door (or cargo area) with kick sensor, the brand’s entry-level vehicle is a carryover for the 2024 model year.




Why:

18-inch wheels 

Fun-to-drive with the sports handling package

Supportive seats

A variety of driving modes

A high-level of driver assist features

A panoramic sunroof

Front wheel drive or all-wheel drive availability

Heated and ventilated front seats available

A wireless charging pad

Ability to activate select features with smartphone

A hybrid powertrain – means better fuel economy

A variety of driving mode

But: 

Pricey, when adding on options

An unattractive design with the polarizing Lexus grille

A complicated audio system; takes a moment to master changing and programming stations

The navigation system is cloud-based; must have access to a smartphone to activate.

Limited rear seat legroom

No heads up display (HUD) system on test model, but available as an option

Verdict: Lexus entry-level subcompact, which is equipped with a fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain, is available in a variety of trims. The vehicle is available with a front wheel drive or an all-wheel drive configuration.

The UX, with its polarizing Lexus grille, straddles the line between being a car and a crossover. Also the UX caters toward a more youthful driver seeking an engaging driving experience, especially when opting for the pricier F performance package.

Lastly the UX also serves as the gateway for buyers seeking access to the Lexus brand. It’s the least expensive model being offered by the luxury automaker.

Competition: Audi Q3

Near Competitor: Mazda CX-30

 

 

 

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