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2020 Lexus UX250h – Test Drive, Review, Ratings, Specs

Authentic Luxury

The Lexus UX250h is set out to compete in the subcompact cross-over segment alike the Audi Q3 and BMW X1. It’s got one upper hand though, and that’s Lexus’ bomb-proof hybrid powertrain that nets an incredible 40 mpg with standard AWD.

It’s ultimately a game of push and pull. While the European brands are striving for performance and innovation, the Japanese manufacture takes the route of continuous refinement of luxury and efficiency. That being said, which side you take as a buyer matters.

What’s New for 2020

All models now come equipped with all connected car services as part of the Lexus Audio Display system. Apple Car play and Android Auto are also now made available. On the powertrain front, the Lexus UX sub-compact series now come with an option of gasoline powered (UX200) in FWD configuration, or with a hybrid powertrain (UX250h under test) in AWD. Other than that, all key features remain intact.

Powertrain

The UX250h is powered by a 2.5L 4 cylinder working in tandem with a small electric motor and a battery pack to hold its electrical charge. Coupled to a CVT transmission, the UX250h will net 181 horsepower with an incredible 40 mpg EPA with the benefit of standard AWD. On the other hand, the UX200h gets a smaller 2.0 L turbocharged engine and a six-speed automatic transmission with a lower power output of just 168 horsepower.

Purchase Options

You’ll get 3 luxury options with the UX250h hybrid model as opposed to just the F-Sport Series 1 option for the UX200. Still, the F-Sport Series 1 option for an additoina $2,100 offers cosmetic upgrades include larger 18″ F-Sport wheels, heater steering wheel, digital instrument cluster and paddle shifters. Embedded navigation will require upgrade to the Luxury package that comes with a heads-up display, a larger 10.3″ infotainment display and driver-seat memory system.

Luxury Amenities

The UX250h luxury features are generous including electric side-view mirrors and front seats, keyless touch front door handle sensors, synthetic perorated leather seats, a hi-def rear-view camera, automated electric park brake, and power lift gate. However, being at the entry-level pricepoint, there are deficiencies in the luxury level such as capacitive keyless entry limited to only the front doors, the leather material is down a notch from its upper-scale models, and the audio system doesn’t give quite give the same ear-candy as exclusive Mark Levinson audio system available in the higher-up Lexus Lineup.

On the Road

It’s reminiscent of the now-legacy Lexus CT00h – reliable and predictable. And just like its predecessor, steering is not quite as precise and granular in the performance realm. Acceleration is adequate for the most part, but wouldn’t tick the exhilarating experience checkbox in our books.

Overall Value

The UX250h starts at $40,000 and is a great entry barrier with excellent fuel economy and AWD capability for added traction in the colder months. At just 181 horsepower, power is decent, but it’s certainly not its competitive advantage over its competitors in the European continent. What is Lexus’ competitive advantage is quality, and because of that, we’d recommend going full out to upgrade straight to the F-Sport 2 package at $48,900. It’s significantly more, but the higher quality NuLux perforated leather, larger 10.3″ infotainment system and ventilated front seats certainly adds more than just a nice touch in our experience.

Specifications

  • Vehicle : 2020 Lexus UX250h
  • Model : UX250h
  • Price as Tested : $45,300
  • Vehicle Type : Compact Cross-over
  • Seating Capacity : 2+3
  • Powertrain Configuration : Hybrid
  • Engine : 181 HP AC Induction Motor + 4 Cylinder Atkinson Cycle
  • Transmission : CVT
  • Horsepower : 180
  • Fuel Economy: 40 mpg city/highway combined

Pros

  • Good luxury offerings for entry level price barrier
  • Ultra-efficient and proven hybrid powertrain
  • Standard with AWD System

Cons

  • Boring driving experience
  • Requires upgrading to F-Sport Series 2 for Lexus quality features including NuLux perforated interior leather material