2026 Lexus UX Review, Specs, Performance

2026 Lexus UX Review, Specs, Performance – Despite being a bit late to the small SUV game and taking a while to bring an EV to market, Lexus essentially pioneered the premium crossover when it introduced the RX in 1998. However, Lexus initially introduced the NX in 2014, followed by the UX three years later, and the UX 300e, the company’s first electric vehicle, three years after that.

Due to its aggressive driving style and coupe-like look, the BMW X2 is said to be the UX’s closest competitor; other competitors include the Volvo XC40, Mercedes GLA, BMW X1, Audi Q3, and Alfa Romeo Tonale. Under comparable circumstances, the Mercedes EQA, BMW iX1, Volvo EX40, and Volvo EC40 compete with the UX 300e. 2026 Lexus UX Review

2026 Lexus UX Redesign and Update Plan

Exterior & Interior

It is clear that the 2026 Lexus UX is not like any of its competitors. The outward design is a refreshing difference in a market full of me-too designs, despite being based on the bigger Lexus SUVs.

LED headlights and the recognizable Lexus “spindle” grille on the front are standard on all models. The rear lights cover the whole width of the car, and the wheel arch moldings are made for the rough conditions of the urban jungle rather than demanding off-road situations.

Although non-aero 18-inch alloy wheels are available on higher trim levels, the standard-fit 17-inch alloy wheels include an aerodynamic design to improve airflow and decrease wind resistance. There are ten paint colors available in the UK, including two that were created especially for this nation: Terrane Khaki and Celestial Blue. Although we’re not sure how many customers would choose this daring strategy, it looks particularly stunning in solid red or glossy blue.

The richness of the interior sets the user experience (UX) apart in a crowded market. To make the UX showroom appealing, Lexus has put a lot of effort into making it seem like its bigger saloons and SUVs.

Engineers, for instance, took the Lexus LS luxury saloon’s analog clock and three-spoke steering wheel out and using brainwave research to create the “ideal door-closing sound.” Lexus has even made a concerted effort to lessen the electric windows’ juddering and loudness. The UX is the industry standard because to its distinctive cabin design, premium materials, and meticulous attention to detail.

The seats come in nine distinct colors and three different finishes: leather, fabric, or a mix of the two. Remember that not every material and color is available for every trim. For instance, F Sport vehicles can have either the eye-catching Flare Red leather or more subdued black leather, while regular UX versions can only have black fabric seats.

The instrument panel may be completed with trim that resembles the grain of Japanese “washi” paper for the first time in Lexus history. According to Lexus, this produces a “calm and warm” atmosphere. The infotainment system of the UX, which is already utilized in the Toyota C-HR, has been expanded by two displays. Urban, Premium, and F Sport Design trims have an 8.0-inch screen, while F Sport Design Tech and above models have a bigger 12.3-inch screen.

After comparing the two systems, we concluded that the smaller one was noticeably better. Its reaction speeds are noticeably quicker, and its interface is easier to use and comprehend.

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available on all UX models; however, if you want a wireless phone charging pad, you will need to upgrade to the Premium Plus trim. The fact that this trim contains a 10-speaker sound system instead of the typical 6-speaker layout is another benefit of selecting it. The 13-speaker Mark Levison audio system has been improved for the Takumi and F Sport Takumi, the two top trim levels. 2026 Lexus UX Review

2026 Lexus UX Specs

Engine & Performance

According to our research, Lexus has produced a fun SUV, and the UX’s rapid powertrains and precise body control allow for a degree of driver engagement that is rather out of character for the brand.

Since the steering rack is attached to the subframe directly rather than via rubber bushes, the steering is straight and well-weighted. This provides a degree of steering precision that is generally lacking in this market by lowering flex and vibrations.

We would even go so far as to suggest that the CVT automatic gearbox is a good component of the user experience, even though it may occasionally be a disadvantage in otherwise enjoyable cars. Power delivery is linear, and switching from a gasoline engine to an electric motor is seamless. There is no need to shift gears because electric UXs feature a single-speed automatic gearbox.

On UX 300e models, the regenerative braking system may be controlled via paddles behind the wheel when the driver depresses the throttle. This helps the UX generate some power for its battery. Sadly, without the help of its conventional mechanical brakes, even the maximum level is insufficient to completely stop the UX.

The E-Four option is offered for individuals who desire the additional traction benefits of four-wheel drive, even though the majority of hybrid UX 300h vehicles sold in the UK are probably front-wheel drive. The latter drives the back wheels using an independent electric motor built inside the rear differential. On snowy roads, four-wheel drive offers a number of benefits, but normal driving won’t make a difference. We would continue to use the front-drive type in spite of the additional cost.

The E-Four variant can reach 62 miles per hour in 7.9 seconds instead of 8.1 seconds with the normal UX since it has higher grip thanks to the four-wheel drive option. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine that powers both models produces 196 horsepower and 190 Nm when paired with an electric motor. All hybrid UX versions have a peak speed of 110 mph.

The most lively of the three is the electric UX 300e. Despite weighing more than 200 kg more than the hybrid automobiles, it claims higher power and torque with 201 horsepower and 300 Nm of torque. Consequently, the acceleration time from 0 to 62 miles per hour is less than 7.5 seconds. However, the maximum speed is just 99 mph.

When necessary, the CVT transmission provides smooth and quick acceleration, and the standard hybrid is more than quick enough for a small SUV. The user experience smoothly transitions to a luxurious and relaxing journey when performance is not needed. 2026 Lexus UX Review

2026 Lexus UX Fuel Economy

Because the battery generates power when braking, the 2026 Lexus UX 300h is referred to as a self-charging hybrid as it doesn’t need a charging station. However, since the 300h’s actual all-electric range is only a few miles, you shouldn’t anticipate the same high levels of fuel economy that a plug-in hybrid like the BMW X1 xDrive 25e delivers.

Four-wheel drive and front-wheel drive UX models have official WLTP fuel efficiency ratings of 50.4 and 56.4 mpg, respectively.

According to Lexus, automobiles with all-wheel drive would emit 126–129 g/km of CO2, whereas cars with two-wheel drive would emit 113–119 g/km. According to Lexus, the current UX 300e’s 72.8kWh battery pack—of which 64kWh is usable—allows it to go 279 miles. It is fair when compared to a BMW iX1, but it is still significantly less than a Genesis GV60’s range of more over 300 miles.

The UX 300e has a low maximum charging speed of 50kW in comparison to its competitors, such as the BMW iX1 (which can accept a charging rate of 128kW) or even the GV60 (which can charge at a rate of 233kW). On longer excursions, you should bear this in mind. Since most quick chargers have a 60-minute time restriction before you have to pay extra, this implies that a standard 10 to 80% top-up will take the 300e more than an hour.

Furthermore, rather of using the more popular CCS charging port used in practically all other contemporary EVs on the market today, including the brand’s second EV, the Lexus RZ, the 300e utilizes the similarly antiquated CHAdeMO charger. Although many chargers still use the 300e connection, it is less prevalent than CCS, which may make route planning more difficult.

A typical 7kW home wallbox would likely be used by the majority of owners to charge their 300e, taking about 11.5 hours to fully recharge the battery. The UX 300e’s battery pack is guaranteed not to deteriorate below 70% of its original capacity by an independent eight-year, 100,000-mile warranty. If you often get your car serviced at a Lexus facility, you may be able to extend your warranty for an additional 10 years or 600,000 miles. 2026 Lexus UX Review

2026 Lexus UX Safety Features

Experts in safety In 2019, Euro NCAP gave the 2026 Lexus UX the highest possible grade of five stars. These included 96% for the protection of adult occupants, 77% for safety support devices, 85% for minors, and 82% for vulnerable road users.

Eight airbags and the Lexus Safety System+, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, lane departure alert, road sign assist, and autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian protection, are standard on all models.

Given that the UX features a semi-autonomous mode in stop-go traffic at up to 18 mph, it’s a fantastic combo. The cruise control may also be configured to follow the posted speed limits on traffic signs.

Lexus’s consistent high results in the most recent 2023 Driver Power consumer satisfaction survey suggest that the firm does not have a reliability problem. Out of thirty-two manufacturers, the brand came in at number eight, ahead of Mercedes at number twenty-five, BMW at number twenty-one, and Jaguar at number 10. After similar luxury SUVs like the Volvo XC40 (61st), electric vehicles like the Kia E-Niro (44th), and the Jaguar I-Pace (65th), the UX came in at number 38 out of 75 vehicles.

2026 Lexus UX Release Date & Price

In the UK, there are three different drivetrain options. The legendary 2.0-liter gasoline-electric hybrid drivetrain, which drives the front wheels and is present in Toyota and Lexus, is the oldest and most well-known. The “300h” emblem is used to identify certain cars. Although it features four-wheel drive and the suffix “E-Four” at the end of its name, the second is likewise a gasoline-electric hybrid. The all-electric “300e,” which debuted in late 2020, is one noteworthy example. Since then, its range has expanded from 196 to 279 miles using a significantly larger 72.8kWh battery.

As is customary with Lexus, the standard specification is extensive and encompasses a wide range of active and passive safety features. The hybrid version of the 300e offers up to eight trim options, while the electric version only offers three. The flagship battery-powered vehicle may cost up to £57,000, although it is little less than £35,000.

Conclusion

Our investigation indicates that the 2026 Lexus UX is a potent substitute for the top small SUVs available. It boasts an amazing array of safety features, a unique and eye-catching appearance, and an interior that is polished to Lexus’s typically high standards.

Even if the user experience is frequently subpar, family clients may be concerned about the absence of back passenger amenities. Not only do hybrid vehicles emit less CO2 than their plug-in equivalents, but business travelers are also expected to choose them. They lack the range and charging speeds of the smaller electric SUVs produced by Mercedes, BMW, and Volvo, and they are also quite costly.

Note: The details included in this blog post are derived from pre-release material that was accessible when the article was written. If you want the latest information, you should check official sources or call your nearest dealership.