THE NEW 2024 LEXUS UX: MORE ELECTRIFIED POWER, GREATER DRIVING REWARDS AND ADDED REFINEMENT FOR THE LUXURY COMPACT URBAN CROSSOVER

• Lexus enhances its compact luxury urban crossover with more powerful self-charging hybrid system, new digital instrumentation and enhanced safety features
• Introduction of the new UX 300h featuring higher-capacity lithium-ion battery, increasing total system power by 8% 
• Higher output and faster acceleration, yet improved fuel consumption and CO2 emissions compared to the UX 250h 
• UX 300h with E-Four all-wheel drive benefits from a new rear motor with more than five times the power of the previous model, giving sharper throttle response and a more engaging drive 
• New digital driver’s instrument display and additional measures to counter noise and vibration 
• New interior and exterior colour options 
• Extension of Lexus Safety System + features, including new Proactive Driving Assist, Driver Monitor and Safe Exit Assist 

Introduction

The UX compact luxury urban crossover, one of the Lexus’ best-selling models in Europe, receives a substantial powertrain upgrade and a series of other detail refinements for 2024. These changes enhance the dynamics and driver rewards of a vehicle that combines the flexibility of a crossover with the rewarding driving characteristics of a sophisticated hatchback.

The range introduces the new UX 300h self-charging hybrid, replacing the UX 250h, alongside the UX 300e battery electric model. Together these models play an important role in Lexus’ global electrification strategy and the application of new technologies to advance vehicle performance, handling, control and driver enjoyment.  With the “Lexus Electrified” vision, Lexus is progressing towards carbon neutrality in a way that makes luxury electrified driving accessible to customers through a variety of powertrain options.

The new, more powerful UX 300h

The most significant change in the UX range for 2024 is the introduction of the new UX 300h self-charging hybrid model, replacing the previous UX 250h. While retaining the established 2.0-litre petrol engine with its world-class thermal efficiency, the new model adopts fifth generation Lexus hybrid technology features to increase power and enhance performance.

The changes include the introduction of a new, more efficient 60-cell 222 V lithium-ion battery in place of the previous 180-cell 216 V nickel-metal hydride unit, and a redesign of the inverter which changes from a separate unit to be unified with the electric motor. The new battery supports an 8% increase in total system output, which rises from 184 DIN hp/135 kW in the UX 250h to 199 DIN hp/146 kW in the new UX 300h.

In models equipped with the E-Four all-wheel drive system, there is a new permanent magnet high-torque motor-generator that is 5.6 times more powerful than the previous induction-type unit, producing 30 kW (vs 5.3 kW) and 84 Nm of torque (vs 55 Nm). This provides sharper throttle response and an even more satisfying drive with enhanced stability and feeling of control.

The rear motor also serves as a generator for the car’s regenerative braking system, increasing the amount of kinetic energy that can be captured when braking or decelerating and stored in the hybrid battery.

Optimising the level of electric motor assistance to synchronise engine speed with the vehicle speed produces a sense of immediate, linear acceleration, without the engine having to run at high revs. The hybrid system can switch off the petrol engine to run on electric power at speeds as high as 115 km/h, for example when driving on long downhill slopes.

The 2.0-litre engine plays a key role in the UX 300h’s overall efficiency, benefiting from advanced engineering features such as laser-clad valves seats, a precisely designed air intake profile, a high, 13.0:1 compression ratio and a fuel injection system that combines direct and secondary port injection to achieve high-speed combustion. VVT-iE intelligent variable valve-timing with an electric actuator on the intake side enhances driveability while helping reduce exhaust emissions. Engine performance and fuel efficiency are further optimised by a fuel pump with continuously variable capacity and a cooling system that uses an electric water pump, features which reduce internal friction losses. This system also ensures rapid cabin warming on cold days and quicker cool-down when using the air conditioner.

Stronger performance, greater efficiency

Thanks to the increase in power, the UX 300h delivers faster acceleration. The 0-100 km/h time for the front-wheel drive model has been reduced from 8.5 to 8.1 seconds, while with E-Four all-wheel drive the benchmark time has been cut from 8.7 to 7.9 seconds.

Thanks to increased powertrain efficiency and measures to reduce the car’s weight, fuel efficiency has been improved. With front-wheel drive the WLTP combined cycle rating is 5.0– 5.2 l/100 km; with all-wheel drive it is 5.3 – 5.7 l/100 km. Using the same WLTP metric, the respective CO₂ emissions are 113 – 119 g/km and 121 – 128 g/km. Comparative performance data are shown in the table below:

 Enhanced driving dynamics

Faster acceleration in the UX 300h is complemented by more composed driving dynamics that reinforce the Lexus Driving Signature qualities of control, confidence and comfort at all times. The car underwent rigorous testing at Lexus’ new Shimoyama development centre, to ensure drivers on all kinds of roads will appreciate the same enhanced manoeuvring stability, ride comfort and cabin quietness.

Body roll is better damped during hard cornering and the car’s posture is even more stable under braking, with front and rear brakeforce distribution and independent pitch and roll control on each wheel. This technology enhancement produces a linear braking feel under initial braking and keeps the car composed under heavy braking, giving the driver a reassuring feeling of all four wheels maintaining strong contact with the ground.

Body rigidity has been increased with the addition of a of a new radiator support brace and stiffening of the lower back panel. These measures support faithful line-tracing with flat body control.

The UX 300h with E-Four also offers greater controllability when turning, braking and acceleration on road surfaces where there are different grip levels on either side of the car, increasing driver confidence. This has been achieved by fine-tuning the drive force distribution control. The vehicle stability control (VSC) automatically optimises drive torque distribution between the front and rear wheels, immediately supplying torque to the rear axles when it detects a loss of grip at the front. Cornering stability is improved with adjustment of rear-wheel power to help correct oversteer and understeer.

On all UX models, the driver can use the Lexus Drive Mode Select to tailor the driving experience to suit the journey. Choosing Normal mode ensures the best balance of performance and fuel efficiency; Eco mode priorities fuel and energy efficiency by smoothing throttle response and moderating air conditioning operation; and Sport gives sharper acceleration and adds reassuring weight to the steering feel.

The UX 300h F SPORT is equipped as standard with adaptive variable suspension (AVS), which allows for additional Sport S, Sport S+ and Custom drive modes. With the chassis setting in SPORT, selecting Sport S+ or Custom modes engages firmer damper settings for a more dynamic driving feel. Custom mode also allows the driver to combine their preferred settings for the powertrain, chassis and air conditioning functions.

Easy to handle, enjoyable to drive

The UX was conceived as a “creative urban explorer,” a vehicle that offers the practicality of a high-riding SUV combined with Lexus’ world-class refinement and engaging driving dynamics. From the moment the driver settles behind the wheel, the UX communicates the feel of an agile luxury hatchback with a driving position with a relatively short hip-to-heel distance, giving the feeling of being closer to the ground than in other SUVs.

The car is built on Lexus’ GA-C global architecture platform, a light and exceptionally rigid structure which gives prompt responses to the driver’s inputs. The 2,640 mm wheelbase contributes to a smooth, stable ride and a spacious cabin, while the 5.2 m kerb-to-kerb turning radius makes for easy manoeuvring and parking.

The driving characteristics further benefit from the vehicle’s low centre of gravity, helped by the location of the battery – beneath the floor under the rear seats in the UX 300h and under the cabin floor in the UX 300e. Lightweight body components also play their part, including aluminium doors, wings and bonnet and a back door made from a composite material.

A quiet and calm cabin environment

A calm and quiet cabin environment is assured, not just when the new UX is running on its electric power. Measures have been taken throughout the car to avoid or mitigate noise and vibration, from the inherent strength of the vehicle’s structure to the strategic placement of sound insulating and absorbing materials and the use of acoustic window glass. The wing liners reduce the intrusive sound of water, stones and dirt thrown up by the tyres

Additional sound-absorbing material has been added beneath the centre pillars and to the vehicle floor, together with extra vibration-damping from the dashboard coating and in the rear wheel house. Together these steps have reduced noise inside the car by 1.7 dB.

Fully digital driver’s cockpit

The optional 12.3-inch digital driver’s instrument display on can be customised for appearance, style, and type of information delivered, creating a seamless and intuitive user experience for accessing information, entertainment, and connectivity. Its appearance changes according to the selected drive mode and its layout can be adapted to suit the driver’s personal preferences. The system can save the preferred multimedia, audio, and navigation settings of up to three people.

Intuitive multimedia systems

The 2024 UX features the latest multimedia systems: according to model grade, Lexus Link Connect with an eight-inch touchscreen display, or, with additional functionality and 12.3-inch screen, Lexus Link Pro (newly provided as standard on Comfort grade). As well as being simple to operate, the systems have increased computing power and give quicker response to inputs.  Both versions present graphics in high definition for good readability in all lighting conditions.

The voice recognition system includes the option of using the “Hey Lexus” on-board assistant. This responds to voice commands to make it easier to connect to phone calls, operate audio and climate controls. It is programmed to understand more conversational terms, to recognise whether it is the driver or front passenger speaking and to distinguish between background noise and commands so that it is not necessary to mute the audio.

To make journey planning easier and help avoid traffic delays, cloud-based navigation is provided as standard, giving access to real-time road and traffic information. Additionally, the Lexus Link Pro system includes embedded navigation, maintaining operation even if cloud connection is unavailable. To make it easy to find out about such things as local parking and charging points, “Hey Lexus” can also be linked to cloud-based information.

The convenience of the multimedia system includes wireless smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Connectivity also extends to the Lexus Link smartphone app, which allows the driver to remotely lock or unlock the doors, trigger the hazard lights and set the air conditioning to cool or warm the cabin before getting into the car. The app can also check the battery’s charge-level, available range with the air-conditioning on or off and time remaining until charging is complete.

The convenience of a digital key

An optional digital key will be available for the new UX, allowing the car to be unlocked and started by using a smartphone app, thus removing the need for a key fob. The app can be authorised for up to five people at one time; just having your smartphone on your person is all that’s required to access and drive the car. The system makes car-sharing easier and more secure.

Interior finishes: high quality and craftsmanship

The materials and finishes applied to the UX’s interior are pure Lexus, combining Japanese craftsmanship traditions with innovative production techniques.

Three upholstery options are offered: fabric, synthetic leather, and genuine leather. The leather and synthetic leather feature a stitchwork pattern inspired by the Japanese “Sashiko” (little stabs) quilting technique; the perforated leather displays a hexagonal “Kagome” pattern taken from traditional basket-weaving. The dashboard trim (excluding F SPORT models) replicates the look of the textured “Washi” grained paper familiar from the sliding doors of traditional Japanese houses.

Ammonite Sand has been added to the interior colour-ways, joining Hazel, Black and White Ash. Options for the F SPORT mode are Flare Red, White and Black.

The quality feel of the cabin has been enhanced with detail touches include new-design switches on the door panels; a re-shaping of the instrument panel hood; and a new metallic finish for the console and shift lever. The wrapping of the shift lever has been changed to synthetic leather, so a fully leather-free interior is now available. The steering wheel has also been revised to incorporate a driver monitor camera (further details in the safety section).

Exterior colours and finishes

Lexus introduces the new UX with a bold new exterior colour option, Sonic Copper, available on all model grades. This special finish uses Lexus’ advanced sonic paint technology, which incorporates a layer just a few microns deep in which metallic flakes are brought into closer, more uniform alignment, producing greater brilliance and deeper shading across the bodywork.

There are 12 colour choices in all, with F White and Sapphire Blue exclusive to the F SPORT and F SPORT Design models. These versions also offer a new-look bi-tone execution with the contrast black extended beyond the roof to the upper edge of the side window frames and the front and rear pillars. At launch, this is available with the Sonic Titanium, Sonic Copper and Sapphire Blue paint colour options.

Lexus Safety System + with extended capabilities

Lexus continues to expand the capabilities of the active safety and driver assistance features with the latest evolution of Lexus Safety System +.

For the new UX, there are significant additions to help safeguard against common accident risks. Proactive Driving Assist uses the car’s front camera to detect hazards when driving at lower speeds around town, such as parked cars, cyclists and pedestrians walking along the margin of the road or preparing to cross. If there is a collision risk, the system will provide braking and steering to help avoid the obstacle, while keeping the car in its traffic lane.

The UX is also newly equipped with rear hazard lights that automatically illuminate at high speed if there is a collision risk with a vehicle approaching from the rear. Also looking to the rear, the Safe Exit Assist gives a visual warning if there is a risk of opening a door into the path of traffic or cyclists coming from behind, sounding an alert if a door is released.

The Driver Monitor uses a camera mounted above the steering wheel which keeps a constant check on the driver’s condition. If it detects that they have lost concentration through being tired or unwell, it triggers visual and audible alerts. It is linked to the car’s active safety systems, so that should the driver fail to respond, the car can be brought smoothly to a controlled halt with the hazard lights activated (Emergency Driving Stop). 

These additions complement the established features of Lexus Safety System +. These include a Pre-Collision System which can detect pedestrians at night and objects such as motorcycles during the day. Lane Tracing Assist helps the driver keep the car centred in its lane and can provide support when driving through bends. Road Sign Assist recognises traffic signs to provide information to the driver via the multi-information display or the optional head-up display. Intersection Turning Assist detects oncoming vehicles, and pedestrians crossing in the opposite direction, when making a turn at an intersection. Emergency Assist, when enabled, makes small corrective inputs to the steering to help prevent the vehicle from unintentionally departing from its lane. And the Dynamic Radar Cruise Control’s Curve Speed Reduction automatically adjusts the vehicle’s speed to suit the radius of bends in the road.

The UX 300e

Launched in autumn 2020, the UX 300e was Lexus’ first battery electric vehicle, a natural progression in the company’s leadership in electrification in the premium car market, established since 2005 with the introduction of the RX 400h, the world’s luxury hybrid vehicle.

For 2024, the time taken to charge the battery to 80% using a DC rapid charging system has been reduced, from 80 to 60 minutes.

A series of technical enhancements were rolled out for the model during 2023 which extended the driving range by 40%.  Introducing a new, higher capacity 72.8 kWh lithium-ion battery enabled the car to cover up to 450 km when using 17-inch wheels, or up to 440 km with 18-inch wheels (WLTP data). The driving range is further supported by aerodynamic details include a flat and smooth surface to the underside of the battery and extensive floor undercovers.

At the same time that the higher-capacity battery was introduced, the UX 300e’s steering and suspension were fine-tuned, enhancing the “Lexus Electrified” driving experience. The model also adopted the new multimedia system with eight and 12.3-inch touchscreens, as now also featured in the UX 300h.

To optimise battery performance and lifecycle, sensors constantly monitor the voltage of each battery cell and module and check temperature at individual cell level. This advanced battery management systems maximises the usable cell capacity and driving range. Cool air is circulated inside the battery pack to maintain stable output, even in extended periods of high-speed driving and during repeated charging. Heating elements beneath each module minimise the impact of colder external temperatures on the driving range and help ensure maximum power is available from start-up.

Owners can use the Lexus Link app to check their vehicle’s battery status, available driving range and time remaining to complete a charge and to programme a charging schedule remotely, so they can take advantage of lower off-peak energy tariffs. When the vehicle is being charged, electrical equipment such as the air conditioning and audio system may still be used.

Lexus’ confidence in the durability of its all-electric vehicle technology is affirmed by a standard warranty for eight years or 160,000 km (whichever comes first), covering degradation of BEV battery capacity below 70%. This is complemented by a five-year/100,000 km warranty on all functional defects of the BEV main battery. Extended BEV Care is available to cover main battery defects and capacity degradation below 70% for up to 10 years or 1,000,000 km, provided that regular maintenance programme health checks and servicing are completed at an authorised Lexus dealer. Lexus is confident, however, given its long experience in battery technologies, that actual capacity after 10 years should be greater than 85%.