Lexus Unveils its First Compact Crossover

Lexus has revealed the next stage of its development as a luxury lifestyle brand with the world premiere of its first compact urban crossover, the UX.

Unveiled at the Geneva international motor show, the Lexus UX features a bold and stylish design, new platform, two new powertrains and an array of imaginative technologies.

The new model – due in Australia early next year – introduces a fourth-generation hybrid system, a new 2.0-litre petrol engine with high thermal efficiency and a new direct-shift continuously variable transmission.

The UX will be the fourth addition to the local Lexus range in just 18 months, joining the LC luxury coupe, the RX “L” seven-seat SUV and the upcoming LS flagship sedan.

Lexus Australia chief executive Scott Thompson said the UX would be the most important new model for Lexus sales since the NX Line arrived in 2014.

“The UX with its all-inclusive luxury will further broaden our range and enable Lexus sales to cross over the 10,000 sales barrier for the first time in our history,” Mr Thompson said. “For the first time, Lexus can compete in the luxury small-SUV segment, growing that category by attracting new, younger customers while offering an aspirational alternative to our long-standing customers,” he said.

The UX features powerful bodywork, aggressive rear shoulders and muscular wheel arches that contrast with a sleek, compact cabin profile and a high beltline.

Under the distinctive skin, an all-new C-segment platform delivers the lowest centre of gravity in its class, exceptional body rigidity and an agile, hatchback-like driving experience.

Inside, the cabin offers a driver-focused cockpit with a commanding view of the road as well as an open, relaxing space for passengers and generous cargo space.

The new 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, that reaps the performance and fuel-economy benefits of high thermal efficiency, is at the heart of both the UX 200 petrol variants and the UX 250h with its fourth-generation self-charging hybrid system.

The hybrid UX 250h will be a key focus for Lexus with the new powertrain delivering combined output of 131kW as well as remarkable fuel efficiency. In UX 200, the engine is mated to a new direct-shift continuously variable transmission.

UX is equipped with the latest Lexus Safety System+ that includes a pre-collision system that can recognise pedestrians at night and cyclists during the day. Other new features include road sign assist and lane tracing assist.

The F Sport versions of the UX are clearly differentiated by design elements including F-mesh grille pattern, an exclusive rear bumper design with chrome highlights, unique 18-inch alloy wheel designs, sports seats and aluminium pedals and footrest.

The F Sport models benefit from exclusive tuning of the suspension and are also available with a specifically tuned version of the new high-response adaptive variable suspension (AVS) system featured on the Lexus LC flagship coupe.