Juliet McGuire headed to Sweden to drive this all-new compact SUV: the Lexus UX. Here’s why you’ll be obsessed with it too.
1. It’s a way in
This model forms an entry into the Lexus brand and was built to attract a new type of customer, someone Lexus describes as “an urban explorer.” This compact SUV sits just beneath the Lexus NX and offers younger buyers the chance to be a premium Lexus owner.
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2. Good looks
Love it or hate it, there’s no denying that the UX will turn heads. It has a very angular design, which makes it look somewhat like a Transformer, so it could take some getting used to. But we’re certain there will be customers out there who will revel in its uniqueness.
3. Woman warrior
We love it when women take the lead. Chika Kako is not only the chief engineer of the UX, but she’s also the executive vice president of Lexus International. Kako explains that the car was engineered to provoke an emotional connection with it and it’s filled with luxury, which she believes involves time, experience and beauty.
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4. Keeping it green
You can opt for the UX 200, which sports a 2.0-litre engine, or you can choose the UX 250h, which is a hybrid and combines the 2.0-litre engine with two electric motor-generators – making it the perfect choice for all urban dwellers. Both the 250h and the 200 are equipped with Lexus Drive Mode Select, so the driver can opt for ECO mode and maximise fuel savings across all driving conditions.
5. Keep calm
Kako’s luxurious vision carries through to the cabin with its air of calm and tranquillity. The materials used throughout are of the highest quality, barring a few less than satisfactory plastics in the rear, and one has the choice of five different trim colours of which two are two-tone. There are also different finishes available for the seats and Lexus opted to use some non-traditional textures (so not the usual wood and leather) inspired by Japanese washi paper.
