The Lexus UX, a small luxury crossover, makes city driving a snap as it easily maneuvers tight parking spaces that can be a chore in large crossovers. The UX 250h F Sport is a hybrid offering better fuel economy. With 181hp total system horsepower, the UX 250h isn’t going to win any races but is peppy in the city. It seems to run out of steam as the speed builds.
Where this little Lexus excels is the luxurious interior with high quality materials. The F Sport model carries a sportier vibe inside. With red leather seats and red stitching on the dash, steering wheel and shifter boot, it’s a brighter interior than most.
The exterior styling is as bold and wears its large grill well. The unique F Sport front and rear bumpers along with 18-inch wheels gives the car a racier appearance than many small luxury crossovers.
Cost: $36,000; as tested $42,930
MPG: 41 city/38 highway; 42.6 mpg over 380 miles of mixed driving
Safety: Lexus Safety system +2.0 Pre-Collision system with Pedestrian Detection, All Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Road Sign Assist
Options: $100 Heated F Sport steering wheel with paddle shifters; $565 Parking Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert with Braking; $2,200 NAV system with 10.3 inch color multimedia display, Dynamic Voice Command, Lexus Enform Destination Assistant, power tilt/telescoping steering wheel; $2,895 F Sport Luxury package with moon roof, heated/ventilated front seats, power rear hatch, blind spot monitor, easy access driver’s seat with memory
Things to know: A new small crossover with hybrid system makes for an efficient urban ride. With a leather trimmed cabin, this little Lexus pushes luxury and style in a competitive new class. But the new UX crossover is better suited for those who won’t need to haul large items or carry lots of people.
Pros:
- Smaller size makes it easy to drive in the city and to park
- Hybrid system allows excellent mpg easily beating the sticker
- Stylish interior with high-quality fit and finish
Cons:
- Leg room in back seat is tight
- Cargo space is at a premium
- Power is good in the city; it struggles when merging at higher speeds
