It’s designed for modern urban motorists who seek a fresh, contemporary and dynamic take on luxury driving, something that is not just new and exciting, but also relevant to their lifestyles, and for many young urban explorers, it will most likely be their very first Lexus. 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 SUV market.

To recap, Lexus in South Africa is now available in hybrid only, once again taking another confident step on the path to Carbon Neutral by further lowering fuel emissions and providing a realistic entry to electrified motoring. (It’s worth noting that Lexus’ NEV share has grown from 8% in 2017 to 34% in 2021 YTD – and of that share, UX hybrids account for a 76% average.)

Lexus South Africa introduced the EX grade (entry level) hybrid model in June last year. Fast forward to 2021, the brand is excited to launch the F Sport model grade for UX hybrid. This brings the total range to three grades: namely Lexus UX 250h EX, UX 250h SE and now the newly-minted UX 250h F Sport.

PERFORMANCE

Like its siblings, the front-wheel drive Lexus UX 250h F Sport boasts superior performance thanks to fourth-generation self-charging hybrid powertrain technology which provides exhilarating driving with high-speed responsiveness and a feeling of smooth, natural acceleration.

The 2.0-litre petrol engine alone delivers 107kW of power at 6000rpm and 180Nm of torque at 4400rpm, but when combined with the electric motor, provides a total system output of 135kW.

This equates to a very laudable 0-100km/h sprint time of 8.5 seconds. Fuel economy though is a real eye-opener – returning figures of 4.5-litres/100km combined and CO2 emissions of just 103g/km.


EXTERIOR DESIGN AND AERODYNAMICS

The UX is the first Lexus to be 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 it with exemplary handling agility and ride comfort, and a distinctive driving character reinforced by some bespoke F Sport* fettling under the skin.

Lexus designers created an overall design theme for the UX that combines strength with refinement and is stylish yet functional. The treatment of the spindle grille – a signature feature of all Lexus models – is unique to the UX, featuring a mesh pattern with individual elements that gradually change in shape as they radiate out from the central Lexus emblem.

The UX F SPORT has all-LED headlamps that feature L-shaped Daytime running lights. Its re-defined spindle grille remains an integral part of the Lexus Brand as it cements its bold presence, while simultaneously differentiating it from other Lexus SUVs.

The F Sport transformation includes an exclusive grille design featuring a vertical mesh pattern created by individual L-shaped pieces. Several other items that strengthen the F SPORT image include differentiated front and rear bumpers, jet-black trim on the front and rear mouldings as well as unique alloy wheel ornamentation. Also worth mentioning are the large fog lamp bezels with L-shaped chrome mouldings and featuring the same mesh pattern as the grille.

Based on its design – which is quite bold and unique, I think you will agree with me that this vehicle will draw many consumers who are considering a non-typical, fuel-efficient luxury crossover that appeals to their day-to-day lifestyle.


MORE ABOUT F SPORT

*Bespoke 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 unique to the F Sport are even more rigid than standard UX 250h wheels, contributing to responsiveness and handling agility.

The F Sport package comes standard with a UX-tailored version of the new high-response Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system that debuted on the Lexus LC and LS flagship coupe and sedan. The system increases damping force to minimise roll when cornering or changing lanes and reduces damping force in straight-line driving to preserve ride quality. With AVS, the vehicle’s Drive Mode Selector adds the Sport S+ mode which activates the system.

Moving indoors, the F Sport-exclusive cabin features include front sports seats made with a highly supportive integrated-foaming technique first developed for Lexus F models. The digitally-rendered instrument meter features a movable virtual ring inspired by the Lexus LFA supercar. A leather-covered F SPORT steering wheel, leather-trimmed shift knob, eight-inch TFT colour display, aluminium pedals and footrest round off the interior package.


SAFETY KIT

The UX 250h F Sport features the advanced safety technology expected from a Lexus. All 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 comes standard in the hybrid F Sport:

• Standard Adaptive Cruise Control,

• Pre-Crash System (PCS) – Brake Synchronised,

• Blind Spot Monitor,

• Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist,

• LED Adaptive High-beam System (AHS).


VARIETY OF COLOUR OPTIONS

This model comes standard with three different interior trims for customers to select from. The trim comprises Flare Red, White and F Black.

In the range, there are nine colours available for the exterior. However, unique to F Sport are the new-for-UX White Nova and Poseidon Blue.


LEXUS RC PRICES AND SERVICE INFORMATION

The Lexus UX models retail from R745 100 for the hybrid EX grade, R824 000 for the hybrid 250h SE and R874 800 for the new hybrid F Sport. The entire UX range boasts a Lexus best-in-class 7-year/105 000km Warranty and Full Maintenance Plan. The vehicle service intervals are at every 15 000km, alternatively once a year.