UX

Make
Lexus
Segment
SUV

The Lexus UX is one of the best-looking crossovers around and is well-equipped in its various trim levels. Although we don't get the full-electric version in the US, we do get the hybrid and there's a Black Line model coming soon that looks incredible. However, you need more than just striking looks to keep a model fresh, and Lexus is upgrading the 2021 model with more standard features to make it more attractive on paper. As a result, pricing for the new model will be rising slightly, but don't fret - the UX will remain one of the cheapest cars in its segment.

The base UX 200 model is expected to increase by $600 to $32,900 and will feature blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert as standard, as well as additional Type-C USB ports in the rear and retuned throttle settings for better responsiveness. The hybrid UX 250h will also get a new board for the cargo area that will increase cargo capacity with the seats up to 21.7 cubic feet, an increase of 4.6 cubes. This variant will increase in price by $600 to $35,100 while the F Sport variant gets the same increase for a 2021 sticker of $37,100. The range-topping Luxury trim gets a much more minor increase of 100 bucks to $39,800. In addition, new paint colors - Autumn Shimmer and Silver Lining Metallic - will be joining the palette for 2021.

Despite these increases, the Lexus UX still undercuts the competition, with its nearest rival in terms of pricing, the Volvo XC40, asking for at least $33,700. Other rivals like the BMW X1 and Audi Q3 are pricier still, with prices of over $35,000. The UX, therefore, looks like great value, but as much as we're glad to hear that the upgrades haven't affected the MSRP too much, we're much more interested in getting Lexus to bring a contemporary successor to the LFA to market. Come on, Lexus. Stop making good cars and bring us great ones again. The world deserves some positive news after the year it's had.