2019 Lexus UX Sub-Compact Crossover Preview


The new Lexus UX offers the brand’s innovative luxury and safety in a package that combines bold new design elements and ultra-efficient new powertrains. For many customers, the UX will not only be their first Lexus, but also their first luxury vehicle.

The UX name is derived from the design team’s guiding concept and describes the vehicle’s mission: Urban + X-over (crossover) = UX.

“The Lexus UX is designed for the modern urban explorer seeking a fresh, contemporary and dynamic take on luxury driving,” said Chika Kako, executive vice president of Lexus International and chief engineer of the UX. “We designed the UX to appeal to buyers in their 30s who seek not only what is new and exciting, but what is also relevant to their lifestyles.”

Infused with dynamic attitude, the UX is engineered to deliver quick and engaging driving with a Lexus-smooth demeanour, making it a unique entry in the luxury compact crossover segment.

Lexus UX Rear Driving

The UX is the first Lexus constructed using the new Global Architecture – Compact (GA-C) platform. A lightweight yet super-rigid structure, extremely low centre of gravity and refined suspension tuning endow the UX with exemplary handling agility and ride comfort, along with a distinctive driving personality.

“I wanted to positively overturn the image of a crossover with a high body that requires careful manoeuvring, and offer a car with nimble performance and excellent manoeuvrability that makes it as easy to drive as a sedan,” said Chief Engineer Kako.

The UX is available in two versions: the UX 250h with a fourth-generation self-charging hybrid powertrain featuring a new high-efficiency 2.0-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine engineered specifically for this platform, and the UX 200 where the 2.0-litre petrol engine is coupled with a new Direct-Shift Continuously Variable Transmission (D-CVT).


EUROPE – A KEY MARKET FOR THE NEW LEXUS UX

The European market offers great potential for the new Lexus UX, a region in which customers are increasingly looking for premium quality alternatives to conventional sedans, wagons and hatchbacks that better suit modern lifestyles. Although this has led to a wealth of choice in the growing compact crossover / SUV segment, the UX stands apart from the competition as more distinctive, stylish player with strong dynamic appeal and the unique benefit of Lexus’ clean and efficient self-charging hybrid technology.

Lexus UX Side 2

In essence the UX is a new genre of crossover, an “urban explorer” that offers a new take on what luxury means for today’s motorists. Alongside the well-established CT hatchback, it will take its place as a gateway model for Lexus and will play a key role in helping the company achieve its target of 100,000 annual sales in Europe* by 2020. Its self-charging hybrid technology has growing appeal, as the market moves away from diesel power to embrace alternative, electrified powertrains.

The UX will have broad appeal in Europe, particularly for customers with young families who want the flexibility of a crossover, but also a car that’s as agile to drive around town as a hatchback. In this regard the UX will be the ideal partner for day-to-day travelling as well as journeys to discover new places and enjoy new experiences. At the same time, the UX will be a prime choice for downsizing households where the children have grown up, and for couples whose travel often mixes business with leisure.

lexus UX Another SHot

As Lexus’ first compact crossover, the UX joins its larger NX and RX stable mates to complete a powerful European SUV and crossover range that fully expresses the pillars on which the brand has been transformed: brave design, exhilarating performance, imaginative technology and takumi superior craftsmanship.

*Lexus Europe sales include the European Union countries, Norway, Iceland and Switzerland, as well as the following Eastern markets: Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Caucasus region, Turkey and Israel.


EXTERIOR DESIGN AND AERODYNAMICS

Lexus designers created an overall design theme combining strength with refinement, stylish yet functional.

Lexus UX Spindle Grille

The spindle grille, though sharing its basic shape with other Lexus models, is unique to the UX. It features a new mesh pattern with individual elements that gradually change in shape as they radiate out from the central Lexus emblem. The grille creates an intriguing three-dimensional appearance that appears to change with the viewing angle.

Lexus UX Front Headlights

The headlamp design completes the UX’s face, giving it a determined, confident gaze. Daytime running lights are arranged in an arrowhead motif above the headlights, emphasizing the Lexus L-shaped lighting signature. These appear like brows above the standard single-projector dual-beam LED headlights or the optional ultra-small 3-projector LED units.

Lexus UX Birds Eye

The vehicle’s basic form flows out from the lines of the spindle grille to envelop the cabin. Crisp, prominent sculpted surfaces and dramatically flared front and rear wings reflect strength, while an aerodynamic profile, large wheels pushed to the corners and a bold front fascia create the agile stance.

Lexus UX Side Profile

The wheel arch mouldings that protect the body from gravel thrown up by the tyres, use airflow over their edges to reduce turbulence and lift, contributing to the vehicle’s stability.

Lexus UX Rear

A similar contribution is made by the rear combination lamps. The Aero Stabilising Blade Lights begin at the top of the rear wings and span the rear of the vehicle. By guiding airflow around the rear of the UX, this design also reduces turbulence and lift, contributing to vehicle stability when cornering and driving in crosswinds.

Lexus UX Tail Lights

The full-width lights project a distinctive night-time signature formed by a sequence of 120 LEDs and tapering toward the centre, measuring just 3mm thick at its narrowest point. A wing-type spoiler at the rear edge of the roof, along with a flat underbody, contribute to vehicle quietness and fuel efficiency.

Takumi (Japanese for “artisan”) modellers worked with design and engineering to refine all exterior surfaces of the UX. Their work was crucial to refining surfaces down to the 0.01 mm level, pushing the boundaries for what could be produced in the body-stamping presses.

Lexus UX Wheels

The standard 5-spoke 17×6.5-inch aluminium alloy aero ventilating wheels feature Gurney flaps along the spoke edges designed to reduce wind resistance while also increasing the airflow to cool the disc brakes.

The design pulls air from the inside of the wheel, while the air flow on the outer side of the vehicle is regulated to follow the wheel surface. The aero wheels are available in a choice of silver metallic and dark grey metallic colours. The UX also offers (non-aero) 18-inch aluminium wheel designs including exclusive F SPORT-specific wheels.


COLOURS AS UNIQUE AS THE UX

The Lexus UX is offered in a total of 13 exterior colours that accentuate the vehicle’s bold lines.

Three exclusive new colours were developed for the UX:

  • Blazing Carnelian creates vividness and a sense of depth using a multi-layer painting process that combines a red colour base layer with a yellow interference mica layer.
  • Terrane Khaki offers a strong contrast between bright highlights and dark, calm shades. The mica particles have been enlarged as much as possible without creating colour unevenness, achieving high brilliance while expressing toughness.
  • Celestial Blue creates a solid blue colour with glass flakes that sparkle in sunlight.

INTERIOR DESIGN: A NEW KIND OF LEXUS LUXURY

Lexus designed the UX cabin to evoke the feel of a dynamic, luxury sedan, but with the higher seating position and versatility desired in a crossover. The materials and workmanship are pure Lexus, combining Japanese traditions in craftsmanship and hospitality with innovative production techniques.

Lexus UX Interior Full

At the same time, the UX interior design also conveys a sense of security. As one example, the form of the interior door shoulders evokes a robust frame, expressing a secure feeling inside the vehicle.

Inspired by a traditional Japanese concept that blurs the boundary between a home’s exterior and interior, designers created a feeling of seamless continuity inside the UX. From the driver’s seat, the upper section of the instrument panel appears to extend out beyond the windshield into the wings. The result gives the driver an excellent field of vision and a clear sense of the vehicle’s dimensions and tire placement. When viewed from outside the vehicle, the hood appears to connect directly to the instrument panel through the windshield.

Lexus UX Interior Seats

Entering and exiting the UX is made easier through optimal placing of the hip-point and unique shaping of the seat cushion. The human-centred approach shows clearly in the instrument panel’s low, unobtrusive design and slim A-pillar mouldings, which are shaped to improve visibility. Even with a higher seating position than a standard passenger car, the reduction in distance between the hip and heel points gives the UX driver a feeling of being closer to the road than in a conventional SUV.

Typical of Lexus, the UX offers a quiet driving experience, thanks to the high-strength structure and optimal placement of specially designed sound- absorbing and insulating materials throughout the body. Also in typical Lexus fashion, engineers traced noises to their sources to keep them out of the cabin. Even the sound of water being thrown by the tyres is reduced.


“SEAT-IN-CONTROL” CONCEPT

The UX makes the driver feel more in touch with the road thanks to a “seat-in-control” concept. Critical vehicle functions are grouped around the driver’s side of the cabin, and the seatback shape allows the driver to operate them while maintaining a comfortable, natural posture.

The UX offers 6-way manual or 8-way power adjustable front seats, the latter with adjustable lumbar support for the driver. Front seat cushions use springs and foam specially designed to gently envelop occupants and to disperse pressure under the occupant’s sciatic area.

Lexus UX Interior Steering Wheel

Lexus luxury extends throughout the UX cabin. The three-spoke steering wheel and analogue clock come from the Lexus LS, for example, and Lexus Climate Concierge, as used in other Lexus models, automatically links heating and cooling airflow with the heated and ventilated seats to optimise interior temperature comfort. Renowned Lexus attention to detail is also evident in a headliner design that eliminates distracting shadows at the windshield header, as well as control switches with a signature “Lexus feel.”


LUXURIOUS NEW FINISHES

From its inception, Lexus has drawn on Japanese traditions in craftsmanship and hospitality to infuse its vehicles with a unique sense of contemporary luxury. Lexus adapted this approach to the UX to appeal especially to younger customers experiencing their first luxury vehicle.

Chief Engineer Kako drew on her extensive experience in materials development and time spent working in Europe to help define the UX interior’s appearance and quality. The result is an uncluttered “less is more” approach that makes the UX feel more inviting and accessible.

Lexus UX Interior Door

“When it comes to determining whether an interior is good or bad, controlling the overall balance between the continuity, unity and contrast is more important than the relative specifications of individual components,” she said.

One example is an optional leather upholstery finish inspired by sashiko, a customary Japanese stitching technique that is also used in the making of judo and kendo martial arts uniforms. It’s combined with a “calculated art” perforation pattern on the lower part of the seat that is derived from mathematical curves and gradations in perfect alignment.

The Lexus UX offers a wide choice of interior colour combinations, each of which conveys a specific mood and accentuates the premium design. The seating is available in fabric, leather or a combination of fabric and Tahara leather. The standard models offer a choice of five colours, including Cobalt, Black, White Ash, Rich Cream and Ochre. In addition to Black, the F SPORT also offers exclusive Flare Red and White seat colours.

Lexus UX Interior Pattern

The sweeping instrument panel and cabin trim offer a choice of two different grain patterns and four colours. In a Lexus first, the UX offers a new trim finish inspired by Japanese paper, known as washi. It’s common in traditional Japanese homes and it evokes a calm and warm feeling. A leather-like grain finish, also featured in the Lexus LC coupe and LS sedan, is also available.


INTUITIVE CONTROLS AND CLEAR DISPLAYS

The UX instrument panel design combines unique Lexus traits and intuitive technology. A 7-in. TFT LCD display meter digitally creates realistic, analogue gauges in a three-dimensional space.

Lexus UX Instrument Panel

An available head-up display underscores the Lexus UX’s high-tech feel while putting vital vehicle information in the driver’s line of sight. The large colour display projects the information to a virtual “screen” 2.5m (8 ft.) in front of the driver, making it easier to focus on the display as well as objects in front of the vehicle. The bright, high-contrast display is easy to see in daylight and in snowy conditions.

Lexus UX Remote Touch

The Lexus Remote Touch Interface (RTI) with haptic interface in the UX is designed to feel as familiar to use as a smartphone. The RTI utilises intuitive operations, such as double tapping and flicking, to mimic common phone gestures. Frameless construction eliminates edges, and a special coating on the touch pad surface lets fingers easily slide over it while minimizing the appearance of fingerprints. The touchpad can recognize Roman block letters when typing a search name. Touchpad surface haptic vibrations indicates to the user when the cursor is moved, making it easier to align the cursor with the desired function button.

A switch at the base of the touch pad can call up an operation screen with related functions, such as air conditioning and navigation, enabling easier access without going through menus. In a unique touch of high-tech elegance, the Lexus logo on the pad surface is backlit at night.


IMAGINATIVE TECHNOLOGY

Lexus designers created a refined cabin atmosphere, for instance by integrating subtle LED cabin lighting. White LEDs illuminate the front foot wells, glovebox, and console switches and also serve as the dome light, map lights and cargo area light.

Lexus UX Single Knob

As another example, each of the UX’s air vents uses a new single-knob control for airflow direction and volume. By combining the two functions in a single control, the air passages of each vent could be made larger, improving airflow while reducing noise.

Luxury-grade models feature illuminated vent controls with distinctive LED light source wirelessly powered by electromagnetic resonance of two adjacent coils vibrating at the same frequency. Using the same design principle as the Lexus LC’s rear combination lamps, the vent control LEDs use mirror optics to create the effect of floating lighting depth, even though the light element is just 3mm thick.


VERSATILITY THROUGH THOUGHTFUL PACKAGING

The UX package is suited to making urban exploring easier. A 2640mm (103.9-in.) wheelbase contributes to a smooth, stable ride and cabin roominess. The 4495mm (177-in.) length and best-in segment 10.4m (34-ft) curb-to-curb turning diameter help make the Lexus UX easy to manoeuvre and convenient to park.

Getting in and out is made easier through several factors including optimal placing of the hip-point, a cut-off profile for the rocker panel below the doors and the shape of the seat cushion. For interior storage, the UX offers the largest console box in its class.

An available hands-free power rear gate makes loading the UX more convenient, and solid aluminium roof rails allow installation of a variety of accessory carriers.

Depending on model configuration, tyres and markets, the UX features a repair kit, run-flat tyres or a spare tire. The newly-developed 2nd generation run-flat tyres are quieter and more comfortable, while now allowing the vehicle to travel with a flat tire at speeds up to 80 km/h (50 mph) for up to 160 km (99 miles).


IMMERSIVE TECHNOLOGY AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

The Lexus UX models offer the latest in the brand’s multimedia and navigation technology. A 7-inch EMV (Electro Multi Vision) display is standard, and a 10.25-in. EMV display is used with the available Lexus Navigation system.

Lexus UX Screen

The standard Lexus Premium Sound System can play back the highest-resolution digital audio formats (WAV, FLAC, ALAC, and OGG Orbis) from a USB device, conveying more musical data than a CD. Dual rear-seat USB ports enable passengers to use and recharge their smartphones or tablets.

The standard 6-speaker system and available 8-speaker upgrade system use bamboo charcoal speaker diaphragms to reduce mass and deliver natural-sounding voices and improved mid-range sound. Both systems create a more lifelike soundstage by using tweeters mounted at the sides of the instrument panel, and reflecting sound off the windshield. The 8-speaker system adds a centre-dash tweeter, a subwoofer mounted in the luggage area and a more powerful amplifier.

The available Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound System – a segment exclusive – uses a 13-speaker array, low-distortion 668W Class D 8-channel amplifier, Quantum Logic Surround Sound and ClariFi™ 2.0 technology to deliver an immersive concert-like sound experience in the UX.


A SOLID STRUCTURE TO BUILD ON

Lexus instilled the UX with an outstanding combination of handling agility and smooth, quiet ride comfort that urban customers will find pleasing. Key to achieving that balance is building the UX around the high-strength GA-C global architecture platform. Extensive use of high-tensile steel, high-strength adhesives and Laser Screw Welding results in a highly rigid structure, an essential foundation for achieving dynamic handling and luxurious ride comfort.

Lexus UX Structure

By using aluminium for the side doors, wings and hood and composite materials for the tailgate, the UX has the lowest centre of gravity of any vehicle in its class (594mm / 23.4 in.). As a result, the UX delivers a secure, agile feeling normally associated with lower dynamic hatches. A unique ring structure around the hatch opening and behind the rear seats increases torsional rigidity to enhance crash performance, improve handling and reduce noise and vibration.

The MacPherson strut front suspension and multilink rear suspension with trailing arms, both mounted to subframes, are specially tuned to deliver a combination of agility and comfort over well-worn urban street surfaces. Carefully refined details such as the quality of the damper oil, oil seals and friction control in the shock absorbers make a significant positive impact on ride quality.

Lexus UX Suspension

An upper strut brace increases torsional rigidity of the engine bay, and the steering rack bolts directly to the subframe without rubber bushings for improved steering feel.

Active Cornering Assist (ACA), a function integrated with Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), helps the vehicle trace the driver’s desired line through a turn by applying some brake control on the inside wheels, suppressing the tendency to understeer. As a result, the UX drives through corners with greater precision while maintaining stability.


A SUSPENSION THAT ADAPTS TO YOUR NEEDS

The latest version of Lexus Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS), which debuted on the flagship LC Coupe, is available for the UX F SPORT and Luxury grades. The new AVS system decreases body roll when cornering and enhances ride comfort over bumpy urban streets.

AVS uses linear control solenoids to vary the amounts of shock fluid to bypass the shock absorber’s piston assembly. Thus, the system can vary suspension damping through 650 levels, making its operation transparent to the vehicle occupants.

Based on signal inputs from the steering, yaw rate and linear G sensors, AVS continually adjusts damping force to minimize body roll in cornering while maintaining optimum tire contact and ride comfort on all surfaces. Damping force is reduced at low speeds and increased at high speeds. Integrated functions including Roll Posture Control, Anti-pitch Control, Repercussion Control and Roughness Sensing Control adapt AVS performance to all road surfaces and driving dynamics.

The driver can set damping performance using the Drive Select controller. When Eco, Normal or Sport S mode is selected, or when Custom mode is selected with the chassis setting in NORMAL, the damping force remains unchanged to maintain an optimal balance of ride comfort, steering response and a flat ride.

By selecting Sport S+, or Custom mode with the chassis setting in SPORT, the damping force control mode switches to firmer dampers settings to provide the most dynamic driving feel.

In addition, using Pre-Collision System Cooperative Control, AVS can instantly increase damping force to limit vehicle pitch or roll when the driving support computer judges that there is a possibility of rapid driver input to avoid a collision. VSC Cooperative Control applies appropriate damping in response to vehicle side-skid and changes in the road surface friction, helping to maintain the effectiveness of VSC.


SHARP STEERING AND MULTIPLE WHEEL OPTIONS

An Electric Power Steering system with a new compact and highly rigid column assist motor delivers handling with crisp, immediate response to driver inputs, and provides excellent steering feel.

A newly developed electric tilt and telescopic steering column is available for UX models equipped with power-adjustable front seats. In addition, on models with memory function, ingress and egress are made easier with the auto away / auto return controls linked to the driver’s seat belt and the engine start-stop switch or hybrid power switch. Using the switch, the tilt and telescopic motors can adjust the steering wheel up and down or forward and back through 40mm ranges.

Standard 17 x 6.5-inch alloy aero ventilating wheels feature 215/60R17 tyres. The optional 18-inch alloy wheels get 225/50RF18 95V run-flat tyres. F SPORT models are available with performance summer tyres.


UX 250h: NEW-GENERATION LEXUS HYBRID DRIVE

The UX 250h is equipped with a new-generation Lexus Hybrid Drive powertrain. With 178 PS total system output, the UX 250h combines high fuel efficiency with a smooth, natural and responsive driving experience.

Lexus UX Badge

The UX’s new 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder engine is one of the most efficient engines in its class, thanks to revolutionary laser-clad intake valve seats with an all-new intake port profile, high compression ratio (13:1), D4-S fuel injection combining direct and secondary port injectors to achieve high-speed combustion. VVT-iE intelligent variable valve-timing with an electric actuator on the intake side also enhances drivability while reducing emissions.

A continuously variable capacity oil pump and a variable cooling system with an electric water pump contribute to ultra-low internal friction, further optimising engine performance and fuel efficiency. The system also ensures quicker cabin heating on cold days and quicker cool-down when the air conditioner is used.

Lexus UX Hybrid

Exhaust heat recirculation enables quick engine warm-up to reduce emissions, while a gasoline particulate filter provides high-efficiency particulate material removal to conform to EURO6d PN (particulate number) regulations.

The UX’ hybrid system couples this new engine with two electric motor generators in a new-generation hybrid transaxle that is more compact, lighter and has less internal friction than previous Lexus hybrid systems. The Power Control Unit (PCU) is more powerful yet 20% smaller and 10% lighter.

Optimising the level of electric motor assistance and engine rpm produces a linear acceleration feel without the engine running at high revs. Engine speed is synchronised with vehicle speed to create an immediate and continuous acceleration feel.

Lexus UX Hybrid 2

The new transaxle mounts the electric motor generators (MG1 and MG2) coaxially rather than in-line. The resulting smaller and lighter package reduces frictional losses by 25%. In addition, MG2 is now a higher-speed motor, yielding better performance and efficiency.

The Sequential Shiftmatic feature delivers responsive engine braking force in six steps with a shift feel similar to a manual transmission, using steering wheel paddle shift switches or the S position on the shift lever.

The speed at which the hybrid system can shut off the petrol engine, such as when driving on long downward slopes, has been raised to 115 km/h (71 mph).

The new compact and lightweight nickel metal-hydride (NiMH) battery and compact cooling system are located below the rear seat, which supports the vehicle’s low centre of gravity.


E-FOUR ALL WHEEL DRIVE

The UX 250h is available with either front-wheel drive or E-Four electric all-wheel drive.

The E-Four all-wheel drive system uses a separate, dedicated electric motor generator integrated into the rear differential. Power distribution between the front and rear axles is automatically optimised by the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system when accelerating, cornering, or driving on slippery surfaces. E-Four provides stable driving on uphill slopes or snow-covered roads with lower fuel consumption than a conventional all-wheel drive system that employs a power split device and driveshaft. E-Four does more than assist traction in slippery conditions: The system can actively improve stability by adjusting rear-wheel power to help correct an over- or understeer condition.


UX 200: INNOVATIVE TRANSMISSION MEETS ULTRA EFFICIENT ENGINE

The UX 200 is equipped with the same 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder engine as the UX 250h.

At 171 PS, the UX 200 engine offers output similar to some competitors’ lower capacity turbo engines, but with less complexity, less underhood heat and lower powerplant weight for better vehicle balance. The engine produces 205 Nm of peak torque.

Lexus UX Engine

The new Direct-Shift-Continuously Variable Transmission (D-CVT) combines the smooth, fuel-efficient performance of a continuously variable transmission with a more direct driving feel. The key to its distinct performance feel is a mechanical gearset that is used to start from a stand-still and accelerate before handing off to the continuously variable transmission traditional pulley system.

The result is quicker, more linear initial acceleration, while maintaining the benefits of a continuously variable transmission at mid- and higher speeds. Also, because the fixed-ratio first gear reduces the load on the belt and pulleys mechanism for start-off and low-speed driving, the pulley can be made smaller and lighter while providing a wider range of gear ratios. The result is quicker ratio changes during acceleration and an overall ratio spread that maximises fuel efficiency.

Under strong acceleration, the D-CVT can freely adjust the transmission ratio to simulate gear changes like a multi-gear automatic transmission. Synchronisation of the increasing engine revs and vehicle speed provides a linear acceleration feel.


DRIVE MODE SELECT

Both the UX 200 and UX 250h Hybrid are equipped with Lexus Drive Mode Select, which allows the driver to tailor the driving experience by selecting from three different drive modes.

Normal mode provides an optimal balance between driving performance and fuel efficiency; ECO mode maximises fuel savings across all driving conditions by smoothing the throttle response, and by moderating air conditioning operation; Sport Mode delivers quicker throttle response and increased power steering feel.

In Luxury and F SPORT models equipped with AVS, five different driving modes are available: normal, ECO, Sport S, Sport S+, and custom.


SAFETY TECHNOLOGY AND DRIVER ASSIST

The UX models are equipped with eight airbags: driver and front passenger airbags; driver and front passenger knee airbags; driver and front passenger seat-mounted side impact airbags and front to rear side curtain airbags.

The Lexus Safety System+ includes All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Road Sign Assist (RSA), Adaptive High-beam System (AHS) and Intelligent High-Beam headlamps/Automatic High Beam (AHB).

The Pre-Collision System (PCS) couples with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. The system can operate relative to a vehicle ahead that is traveling 10 to 180 km/h (7 to 110 mph). Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Road Sign Assist (RSA) can quickly reset the vehicle speed setting in accordance with the speed limit information recognized by RSA.

PCS uses camera-based detection to recognize pedestrians in low light, and its radar capability has been extended to enable detection of cyclists during the day. (In markets where PCS is not available, the UX comes standard with conventional cruise control.)

The UX is capable of low-speed following, including stop-and-go traffic, up to speeds of about 30 km/h (18 mph).. Thus, the UX driver enjoys more relaxed driving in situations that can be normally annoying and fatiguing, while also gaining a measure of safety.

Lane Tracing Assist uses the Electric Power Steering motor to aid the drive in keeping the vehicle centred in its lane. Lane Departure Alert detects not only yellow or white traffic lanes, but also the sides of the road.

Other available safety systems include Parking Support Alert that can detect crossing vehicles from the sides and static vehicles in front of or behind the UX when parking over a broader range of conditions than previous clearance sonar or rear cross traffic systems, and uses digital camera images on the centre display along with a beeper to alert the driver to potential risks.

A related Parking Support Brake system adds active drive force (throttle) and braking control to audible and visual warnings to reduce the possibility of contact with moving objects ahead or behind the UX when parking.


UX F SPORT

The F SPORT package is available for both the UX 200 and UX 250h.

The F SPORT transformation includes an exclusive grille design featuring a mesh-pattern created by individual L-shaped pieces. The exclusive F SPORT front bumper features large fog lamp bezels with L-shaped chrome mouldings and the same mesh pattern as the grille. A revised rear bumper and jet-black trim on the front and rear mouldings complete the F SPORT look.

Lexus UX F SPORT

Two of the available 13 exterior colours, White Nova and Heat Blue, are exclusive to the F SPORT.

F SPORT-exclusive interior features include front sports seats made with an integrated-foaming technique first developed for Lexus F models, which helps the seats conform to the occupant’s body. With this process, the upholstery is set into the mould and is then filled with foam to complete the seat in a single process. The special 8-way power-adjustable F SPORT front seats feature lumbar adjustment, as well as manual forward/backward adjustment for the headrests.

Lexus UX F SPORT Interior

The F SPORT features a larger 8-in. TFT LCD display that varies depending on the powertrain (petrol or hybrid) and the selected drive mode. For the F SPORT only, the movable meter ring, which originated in the Lexus LFA supercar and is also featured in the LC premium coupe, allows displayed content to be easily changed. Pushing a switch on the steering wheel moves the ring to the right and enlarges the multi-information display.

A leather-covered F SPORT steering wheel, leather-trimmed shift knob, aluminium footrest and aluminium pedals are also part of the package.

The UX F SPORT can be equipped with a UX tailored version of the high response Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system that debuted on the Lexus LC and LS flagship models. The system increases damping force to minimize roll when cornering or changing lanes and reduces damping force in straight line driving to preserve ride quality.

Lexus UX F SPORT Driving

Exclusive F SPORT suspension tuning includes specific springs and stabiliser bars, plus a rear performance damper for a more refined ride. The 18-inch, five twin-spoke aluminium alloy wheels, which are unique to the F SPORT, are even more rigid than standard UX wheels, contributing to responsiveness and handling agility.

The UX F SPORT driving experience can be further enhanced with Active Sound Control (ASC), which generates the aural effect of up- and down-shifts like those of a geared automatic transmission. An additional Sonic Interaction Design (SID) function adjusts the sound the vehicle makes when driving in Sport S+ mode (S+ Sound).

FeaturesLexus UX: First Generation
Comments
Gecko
I keep saying this and everyone tells me I'm wrong... but yes. A lot of these newer products, aside from Camry, are a few hundred pounds too heavy.
you pay for increased interior and suspension quality with weight though... C-HR is based on mid-size platform, not small car platform.

Difference between Rav4 and C-HR is vast right now - it is 330kg in weight. That means that Rav4 will likely lose some weight, since the difference will be mostly in lenght.

And in the same day I drove both C-HR and Suzuki Vitara, which is based on small car platform... while Vitara is affordable and decent for price, it was at least one category lesser vehicle... Their suspensions are miles apart, with C-HR handling curves with big bumps and highway 100mph ride much, much better, not to mention interior quality being miles apart... C-HR is only Toyota right now i can see myself driving, just not the hybrid due to my usual 100mph drives.

If they keep doing vehicles, i can see myself driving next Prius SUV or Rav4, which currently has way too cheap interior for me. Here taxes on lexus are very expensive, so good Toyota would be great.

Also, current TSS-P in Europe works really well... i had no complaints, it was doing city traffic without any issue or jerks, and it was following at reasonably short distance in both city and hwy driving, ie like i would.
Lexus Execs Pushing For Tiny UX Crossover For Sale In US

With the CT200h gone, the company could use the UX to fill that spot in the lineup.


Lexus execs in the United States see the potential for expanding the lineup in the country by introducing a production version of the UX – a concept for a subcompact crossover from the 2016 Paris Motor Show.

“It’s something that our consumers are looking for. Our dealers are all over us to produce that concept vehicle,” Lexus General Manager Jeff Bracken said during the Los Angeles Auto Show while speaking about the UX. “We are in the process of helping our company understand what we’re leaving on the table. So it’s laser focused and stay tuned.”

The UX would be Lexus’ entry-level product in the United States. The CT200h previously occupied that spot, but the company decided to axe the hybrid hatchback in the United States due to lack of sales.

At the Geneva Motor Show, Lexus International Executive Vice President Yoshihiro Sawa confirmed plans to put the UX into production. However, it wasn’t clear whether the automaker planned to bring the little crossover to the United States.

Details about the production UX remain scant. However, the company already holds trademarks on the UX 200, UX 250, and UX 250h in the United States, which could point to powertrain possibilities, including a potential hybrid. In addition, Bracken said that Lexus has decided not to offer models with an MSRP below $30,000, meaning the UX would cost at least that much.

Bracken said that crossovers and SUVs currently occupy around 60 percent of Lexus’ sales in the United States. The company has been doubling down on the segment, too. At the L.A. show alone, the automaker unveiled the new three-row version of the RX and a two-row variant of the LX.
https://www.motor1.com/news/222999/lexus-ux-crossover-us-rumor/
If this is about the size of a CX-3 or just a hair bigger with AWD option. Perfect for our area.
WardsAuto's Christie Schweinsberg writes about Lexus UX, in an article that combines information from the motor1.com article cited above with a shout-out to the Lexus Enthusiast article atop this thread and some commentary on UX's potential U.S. competition.

Lexus Studying UX Small CUV for U.S.
Dec 4, 2017 - Christie Schweinsberg | WardsAuto

LOS ANGELES – Lexus’ top U.S. sales executive says the brand is considering bringing the European-centric UX small CUV here.

With the CT 200h entry-luxury car discontinued, and the strong popularity of utility vehicles, Lexus is making its case to parent Toyota for bringing the UX, introduced as a concept at the 2016 Paris auto show, to the States.

“Our dealers are all over us to produce that concept vehicle,” Jeff Bracken, general manager-Lexus Div. for Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A., tells WardsAuto during a roundtable interview at the Los Angeles auto show.

“We’re in the process of helping our company understand what we’re leaving on the table” by not having an entrant in the burgeoning small-luxury CUV segment, he says.

A production version of the UX, said to be a subcompact rather than a compact CUV, will debut at March’s Geneva auto show, LexusEnthusiast.com says via a translated report from Spanish website Motor.es.

While their collective volume is meager – 99,785 units sold through November – small luxury CUVs have been one of the fastest-growing segments in the U.S. this year.

WardsAuto’s Small Luxury CUV group rose 52.1% in the period largely due to three models: the all-new Chevrolet Bolt and Infiniti QX30, as well as the BMW X1.

Of models on sale for at least a year, BMW’s X1 has seen the most growth, up 11.6% to 26,372.

Infiniti’s all-new QX30, riding on the Mercedes GLA platform, accounts for an estimated 13,542 of the segment’s tally. (Due to technical glitch, Nissan will not report November sales until later today.)

The GLA is down from the first 11 months of 2016, slipping 3.0% to 21,524, but with volume good enough to make it second in sales behind the X1.

Sales of the Audi Q3 small-luxury CUV are up 1.5% through November to 18,266.
http://wardsauto.com/industry/lexus-studying-ux-small-cuv-us

The article goes on to discuss the RX L. I'll post those bits of information in the separate RX L thread.
https://www.sae.org/publications/technical-papers/content/2018-01-0370/

Just found this entry of a report on the TNGA 2.0L engine which will become the workhorse of main Toyota models. It will be published before SAE WCX18 (April 3rd). We will see debut of a TMC model with this engine around that timeframe. The UX200 will definitely use this engine. Unfortunately it will be mated to a CVT...

The engine is also confirmed by the president of FAW/Toyota during an interview in November 2017 in which he claimed "the FAW/Toyota Izoa will boast a 2.0L engine based on TNGA technology and the tooling for the new engine plant has been acquired". The Izoa is the FAW version of the C-HR which will debut on the Beijing Motor Show this April. He also claimed "FAW/Toyota will be the first branch of TMC to utilise this engine" and "the engine will deliver 2.5L level power with better efficiency than a 1.2L turbo".

We can expect 160-170hp for the regular version and 140-150 (170-180 with electric motor) for the hybrid version.

http://www.xinhuanet.com/auto/2017-12/05/c_1122061001.htm
So we can likely expect D4S for that engine if output is going to be high.
spwolf
So we can likely expect D4S for that engine if output is going to be high.
The 6AR-FSE it replaces already has D-4S, so that's a no brainer.
ssun30
The 6AR-FSE it replaces already has D-4S, so that's a no brainer.
Keep in mind they sold that engine only in Russia and China, in Camry and ES.

This time around, D4S goes everywhere. 30hp gain over of non D4S 2.0 should be noticable.
This should bear an A20A-FKS engine code and debut in UX 200. The C-HR is due for a mid-cycle refresh around fall 2019 (2020 model year) so it'll probably get it then. That's also the expected debut for E190 (12th-gen "International Corolla"), which should also offer this engine.
Joaquin Ruhi
This should bear an A20A-FKS engine code and debut in UX 200. The C-HR is due for a mid-cycle refresh around fall 2019 (2020 model year) so it'll probably get it then. That's also the expected debut for E190 (12th-gen "International Corolla"), which should also offer this engine.
2.0l in CHR is only for Russia and USA, so I wonder when will they change it. This engine should come in new Camry and ES for Asian and Russian markets too.
spwolf
2.0l in CHR is only for Russia and USA, so I wonder when will they change it. This engine should come in new Camry and ES for Asian and Russian markets too.
There are two different 2.0L NA engines used by Toyota: the 6AR-FSE with a square block (shared with 8AR-FTS), VVT-iW, and D-4S; the 3ZR-FAE with an undersquare block (similar to Dynamic Force) and Valvematic. The two are very close in output and efficiency; basically Toyota wants to spread technology between the two to reduce cost and risk.

The AR is the 'big block' four cylinder while ZR is the 'medium block'; there's also the 'utility block' TR and 'small block' NR. With Dynamic Force, Toyota won't be distinguishing block families since all engines will use unified architecture (I doubt TR will be replaced though) and no intermediate displacement will be offered: engine output will be tuned by ECU mapping only. Naturally we can expect a 1.5L Dynamic Force for their smaller vehicles, but considering the NR is still relatively new, I think such engine won't appear until 5th gen Prius.

At the mean time TMC's engine lineup will be even more of a mess: the Asian market TNGA Camry still uses the 6AR-FSE, and the 8AR-FTS is not due for a replacement yet (which sucks since the 8AR isn't that good). The 3ZR-FAE will still be used by the RAV4/NX and USDM C-HR until they get their remodels. FAW/Toyota will be producing 'A20A' for the Izoa and possibly share the capacity with GAC's own C-HR. Lexus will probably produce their own Dynamic Force 2.0, with and without turbo, for the UX/ES.

In three years the situation will get much cleaner. Every manufacturer experienced logistic headaches when they started downsizing and standardizing engine architecture; GM/VAG/Ford are still cleaning up dozens of engine models populating the same segment. The ones who have sorted out are relatively lightweight, agile players like Mazda/MB/BMW. That's why these companies are always at the forefront of engine technology.
ssun30
At the mean time TMC's engine lineup will be even more of a mess: the Asian market TNGA Camry still uses the 6AR-FSE, and the 8AR-FTS is not due for a replacement yet (which sucks since the 8AR isn't that good). The 3ZR-FAE will still be used by the RAV4/NX and USDM C-HR until they get their remodels. FAW/Toyota will be producing 'A20A' for the Izoa and possibly share the capacity with GAC's own C-HR. Lexus will probably produce their own Dynamic Force 2.0, with and without turbo, for the UX/ES.
nobody replaces every engine at the same time, it would be impossible and logistical nightmare. Usually it comes with MMC and it this case, some engines have to wait for FMC before introduction.

Since Toyota sells around 100+ different models worldwide, there will always be a wide range of engines for them... Indian, Brazilian and other markets will likely never get all the same engines like Europe or China, it all depends on the cost.

What I like here is that Toyota is willing to sell their vehicles at premium cost these days and is including extra technology even in base models, like never before. With TNGA, new engines and finally new multimedia, there will be few weaknesses to their range but it will certainly be a bit more expensive than before.
Sorry but I have a question

http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2018/01/spied-2019-toyota-rav4-reborn-breadwinner/

The next gen. Rav-4 will be appeared this year as next year model, is this means that the next NX will appear within this year or next year at most?

And if so, I think it will have the same LF-UX, LF-1 body concept
maiaramdan
Sorry but I have a question

http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/2018/01/spied-2019-toyota-rav4-reborn-breadwinner/

The next gen. Rav-4 will be appeared this year as next year model, is this means that the next NX will appear within this year or next year at most?

And if so, I think it will have the same LF-UX, LF-1 body concept
As much as I remember, NX is behind Rav4 at least 2 years, possibly more. It just got an facelift.
R
  • R
    RAL
  • January 30, 2018
I think I like the front of the UX better than the conglomerated bodacious fascia of the LF-1
J
I wonder what powerplant they will decide to use and if a hybrid version would be launched alongside it?
I hope they are planning a BEV model of the UX too. But with the rumors of the CT coming back as an EV model, maybe it will happen as a MMC or with the second generation UX.
Finally!
R
  • R
    RAL
  • January 30, 2018
Welcome new member! ... @John Estrella
John Estrella
I wonder what powerplant they will decide to use and if a hybrid version would be launched alongside it?
2.0L Dynamic Force with 160-170hp (UX200), hybrid with 170-180hp (UX250h) 2.5L Dynamic Force with 201hp (UX250). The three will launch simultaneously.

That's what they'll offer at the beginning
I feel like US will probably just get UX 250 and UX 250h... 165hp would be a tough sell here. 206hp if they do quad exhaust! :joy:
D
  • D
  • January 31, 2018
Can't wait to see it! Lexus needs to bring it to the States (mostly because I think I want one lol)! I would love to see the same shaped spindle grille as the concept - looks unique and works well for that body size. The interior canNOT be cheap like the NX. Please, please, Lexus.
After many times watching videos and steady pics for both LF-UX and LF-1 I found a lot of common design cues which makes me believe this design language will be their design language for the next generations CUVs
The 2018 Geneva Motor Show has finally posted its press conference schedule. Although, nominally, there are 2 press days, all the carmaker press conferences are crammed into the first day, much more often than not happening 2 at the same time. A Lexus press conference (widely expected to be for the new UX line) will be held on Tuesday 6 March starting at 10:00 AM Central European Time (4:00 AM U.S. Eastern Time / 1:00 AM U.S. Pacific Time)
I was hoping the unibrow wouldn't make production, but otherwise, very excited!
L
I wonder if this new hybrid drive line will be of the multi-stage type. Any thoughts?
At least '50' more than CT200h.
Lasse J. Nordvik
I wonder if this new hybrid drive line will be of the multi-stage type. Any thoughts?
My sense is that the packaging of the multi-stage hybrid system would probably be nearly impossible for a FWD vehicle that's so small. Plus, it might be engineering overkill for what's about to be Lexus' most entry level product.

However, we can still dream :innocent:o_O

I'm expecting a new 2.0L Dynamic Force I4 with a Li-Ion battery pack, mated to a CVT.

G