The compact SUV segment is, by a large margin, the fastest growing in Europe. Currently, there are few brands that are not present in this segment that represents so many sales.
This was the case with Lexus, which did not yet have, in its wide range of models, a compact SUV. Well, it was! Next year, the Lexus UX arrives in Portugal . A premium compact SUV with all the Lexus DNA.
Directly targeting “weight” rivals in this segment, such as the Volvo XC40, BMW X2 and Audi Q3, the Lexus UX doesn't lack arguments. And we already had the opportunity to test it:
premium feel
In this first contact with the Lexus UX, in the 200 version, equipped with the new 2.0 gasoline engine with high thermal efficiency — 40% according to Lexus —, coupled with the new Direct Shift-CVT gearbox, what stands out from this experience was the attention to detail.
Lexus is one of the last brands to reach this segment, but it does so with a very well prepared product.
With the exception of the infotainment system, which continues to require a long period of adaptation, everything is pleasing inside the Lexus UX. From materials to the driving position, not forgetting the design of the components or the interior space.
The Lexus UX likes curves
At the base of the Lexus UX we find the new platform called GA-C. According to the brand, this new platform guarantees high structural rigidity and, at the same time, the lowest center of gravity in the segment.
Chika Kako, Lexus UX Engineering DirectorWe have the crossover with the lowest center of gravity in the segment. (…) We were concerned about the materials and the feel of all the components (inside). We debut a new wa shi material, (which reveals) a unique aesthetic reference to a typical Japanese paper.
The Lexus UX suspension is made up of a MacPherson layout at the front, while at the rear we find a layout with overlapping double wishbones. The practical result surprised us with the good compromise between dynamics and comfort.
In terms of dimensions, we have a model that looks more compact than it really is. The dimensions of the new Lexus UX put it at the center of the segment: 4,495 m long, 1,520 m high, 1,840 m wide and 2,640 m wheelbase.
The Lexus UX hits our market as early as 2019 , with prices still to be defined.
