The engine powering the all-new Lexus UX 250h has been named to the annual WardsAuto Best Engines list:
Underhood is the 2.0L Dynamic Force 4-cyl. high-compression engine (see photo, lower left) that achieves 40% thermal efficiency and relies on both port and direct fuel injection. Consider it a sibling to the 2.5L engine that helped the Camry Hybrid earn a 10 Best Engines trophy last year.
We enjoyed the turbo-like punch from the 24-kW battery, while noticing an impressive 38 mpg (6.1 L/100km) during our test drives. The UX 250h is an affordable, upscale hybrid billed as America’s most fuel-efficient utility vehicle without a plug.
The UX hybrid powertrain benefits from three electric motors – two inside the transmission, and the third embedded in the rear differential to drive the rear wheels and provide all-wheel drive.