As the most affordable model in the Lexus lineup, the UX has to convince shoppers that it's still a premium vehicle and much more than a high-spec Toyota. For the most part, the subcompact UX has done just that over the last few years with its upscale interior and smooth ride. This year, Lexus has abandoned the lackluster non-hybrid model entirely - every UX now comes with a hybrid powertrain. The chassis has been tweaked and the technology improved, which the UX Hybrid will need to fend off sportier alternatives like the all-new BMW X1.
When Is The 2023 Lexus UX Hybrid Coming Out?
There's no need to wait for the Lexus UX Hybrid's release date - it's already available to configure on the brand's website, and will start arriving this summer.
2023 Lexus UX Hybrid Price And Competition
The 2023 Lexus UX Hybrid's price starts at an MSRP of $34,775, excluding a destination charge of $1,075. From there, expect to spend $37,235 on the Premium, the same $37,235 on the F Sport Design, and $42,205 on the F Sport Handling.
Following those models are the all-wheel-drive models, starting at $36,175. The AWD Premium and AWD F Sport Design both cost $38,635, and the AWD F Sport Handling costs $43,605.
Rivals include the all-new 2023 BMW X1 that begins at $38,600 and the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class that starts at $38,400, so the UX Hybrid is cheaper than both. The new X1 will only be coming out in the fourth quarter of 2022 in the USA.
New Lexus UX Hybrid Exterior
The Lexus UX Hybrid's exterior design hasn't dramatically changed. As before, the styling is distinctive but rather busy, with heavily defined creases on the doors and rear fenders, and the brand's large Spindle grille in front. Lexus says that the new UXh has different 18-inch Bridgestone tires that reduce noise and vibration even further.
New F Sport Design and F Sport Handling models look the part with their bespoke grilles, a black roof, a power moonroof, and painted wheel arch moldings. Standard on even the base model are bi-LED headlights, LED taillights, and heated wing mirrors.
Some of the available Lexus UX Hybrid colors include Eminent White Pearl, Iridium, Redline, Grecian Water, and the eye-catching Cadmium Orange.
Lexus UX Hybrid Dimensions
Longer than the new BMW X1 but narrower and not as tall, the Lexus UX Hybrid's dimensions are perfectly suited for congested cities. The 103.9-inch wheelbase is concealed in a body that is 177 inches long, 72.4 inches wide, and 60.6 inches tall with the shark fin antenna included.
With standard FWD, the new Lexus UX Hybrid SUV has a curb weight of 3,483 pounds, increasing to 3,605 lbs with AWD.
Lexus UX Hybrid Engine And Performance
The Lexus UX Hybrid engine's specs has never been one of its strong points, and the 2.0-liter four-cylinder remains. Fortunately, two electric motors make up the hybrid system and boost the total system output to 181 horsepower. That's far below the 2023 X1's 241-hp engine, but the Lexus has always been more about relaxed cruising than racing from one traffic light to the next. Lexus claims a 0-60 mph time of 8.4 seconds with FWD.
Paired with the hybrid system is a continuously variable transmission that is actually quite smooth, if not as decisive at higher speeds as a conventional automatic would be. Driven in a subdued fashion, the Lexus is relaxing around town and more refined than the average crossover of this size.
Although not a sporty vehicle, the new F Sport Handling model aims to remedy this with performance dampers and an active variable suspension. Lexus promises better steering responses and flatter cornering.
Gas Mileage
Lexus' own 2023 gas mileage figures are the same as the EPA's ratings for last year's model. The highly efficient powertrain returns 43/41/42 mpg city/highway/combined with FWD and 41/38/39 mpg with AWD. Even with a small 10.6-gallon gas tank, the FWD version will cover around 445 miles between refills. An EV drive mode is available, but the range won't challenge that of a plug-in hybrid.
Lexus UX Hybrid Interior And Cargo
Lexus has been gradually upgrading its infotainment interfaces over the last few years, as they lagged behind rivals in this area for some time. The worst culprit has been the touchpad controller, but this has been scrapped in favor of either an eight- or 12.3-inch touchscreen interface. With a higher resolution and positioning that's closer to the driver, the infotainment system is a highlight of the 2023 Lexus UX Hybrid's interior.
Other improvements inside include a vertically extended wireless charging area, two USB ports in the front of the console, and a new voice assistant. The interface also enables wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and access to cloud navigation.
The base Lexus UX Hybrid's seats are finished in attractive NuLuxe upholstery, while the Premium adds front-seat heating and ventilation. The F Sport Handling, meanwhile, adds paddle shifters and F Sport bolstered front seats. The Lexus Safety System+ 2.5 suits has been expanded with a superior pre-collision system and more.
If you don't travel lightly, the Lexus UX Hybrid's cargo space might disappoint. It has just 17.1 cubic feet behind the second row, so will be a bit tight for a family of four.