Lexus UX: slight technical and aesthetic update

Lexus offers its SUV UX some technical and aesthetic improvements: more imposing multimedia system, new upholstery and body colors…

Since 2019, Lexus has successfully marketed the UX, its most compact SUV. The model, which is one of the brand’s best sellers in France, is slightly revised before the summer with a new multimedia system and some technical and cosmetic improvements. Lexus isn’t talking about a restyling here, but the relatively large modifications almost make one think so.

The Lexus UX takes advantage of this update to replace its F Sport finish with an F Sport Design, more focused on style than performance. It is distinguished by a specific body kit (black grille, revised shields, black tailgate spoiler), new badges and 18-inch wheels with a dark metallic finish. Above, a more dynamic F Sport Executive finish is also offered. It comes standard with Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) and performance control arms front and rear. Finally, Lexus is integrating new colors into the catalogue: a metallic Iridium Gray on the outside, supplemented by several two-tone choices with a black roof, as well as cream-coloured leather upholstery and reworked upholstery.

A larger, touchscreen

On board, the changes are significant with a new screen for the multimedia system. The screen, moved forward 143 mm on the dashboard, is closer to the driver and sharper thanks to HD graphics. It oscillates between 8 and 12 inches depending on the version, and becomes tactile. The old touchpad that controlled the whole, not very ergonomic, disappears from the center console. It is replaced by additional storage space or heated seat controls. Connection to Apple CarPlay (wireless) and Android Auto (wired) is standard, in addition to integrated navigation.

The UX also benefits technical improvements on rigidity (additional spot welds on lower edge of side rails and lower rear panel opening, stiffer steel rear door reinforcement) for improved driving feel. On the other hand, the mechanical part is identical, with a 250h hybrid engine of 184 hp. In addition to that, a 100% electric variant UX 300e is also in the catalog. But it does not seem affected by the modifications for the moment.

Marketing and prices

Lexus will release this “2022 vintage” of UX this summer, although orders are already open. The changes made increase the tariffs, with a call price raised by €3,300 at the entry level, displayed at €40,990. The top of the range F Sport Executive, delivered with all-wheel drive, is increased by €3,100. The UX therefore climbs to €61,390.