The 2022 Lexus UX is perfect for folks who want a small hatchback marketed as a crossover with premium features at a premium price. Unfortunately, that audience isn't very big, especially when many rivals have higher seating positions, larger cargo areas, and superior tow ratings. While the UX is more affordable than most luxury alternatives, it's less practical and a lot less powerful. Its proletariat powertrains betray Lexus's cachet with their leisurely acceleration and coarse engine sounds. The hybrid UX250h at least brings all-wheel drive and better fuel economy, but the front-drive-only UX200 actually proves thriftier at highway speeds. Thanks to their small proportions and low center of gravity, both variants are entertaining to drive. Although the 2022 UX has a nicely appointed cabin and comes packed with standard equipment, its compromises keep it from being a crowd-pleaser.
Engine
The Lexus UX is available with either a gas-powered or a hybrid powertrain paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). However, only the hybrid UX250h offers all-wheel drive; the regular UX200 is front-drive only. The latter uses a 169-hp four-cylinder engine. The last UX200 we tested needed a lengthy 8.5 seconds to get to 60 mph, and the engine sounded unrefined at high revs. While the UX250h hybrid version we tested makes 181 horsepower, it had equally unimpressive acceleration. Thankfully, both had great steering feel and quiet refinement endearing enough to help make up for their lack of quickness. An F Sport package brings performance-oriented upgrades such as a sport-tuned suspension, 18-inch wheels on run-flat tires, and exclusive interior and exterior appointments.
Comfort
Inside, Lexus ensures that passengers know this is a luxury vehicle thanks to an attractive layout and posh materials. It also boasts a bunch of standard features that includes dual-zone climate control and power-adjustable front seats. The experience can be elevated with options such as heated and ventilated front seats, a head-up display, and snazzier materials. While the back seat is far from spacious, it's also not as cramped as one might expect. Unfortunately, the cargo area behind those seats is pretty small and it's even smaller on hybrid models. We managed to fit four carry-on suitcases back there on the regular UX, but we could cram an extra three carry-ons in the rear of the BMW X1.
Price
UX200 $34,600
UX250h $36,900
UX200 F Sport $36,940
UX250h F Sport $39,240
UX200 Luxury $39,640
UX250h Luxury $41,940
Source: www.caranddriver.com
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