It hasn’t been too long since the smallest Lexus crossover hit the market. The company is not going to redesign the vehicle, but the focus is on the new drivetrain. The UX 300e is already available in Europe. We expect the EV to debut in the US as the 2022 Lexus UX. A different configuration might lead to higher outputs and different badging. Due to the COVID-19 outburst, the Japanese carmaker is not rushing to the market with a new model. Nevertheless, the changes will be needed, especially with a lot of other companies electrifying their vehicles.
The UX is the smallest vehicle in the crossover lineup. The competition in the luxury subcompact segment is not too huge like it is in the slightly larger tier. Nevertheless, German carmakers are dominating here. Japanese rivals are out of the game, with both Acura and Infiniti starting their offer with compact models. On the other hand, there are no EVs with luxury equipment. However, it is also about to be changed, with Mercedes EQA and BMW iX1 on the way.
2022 Lexus UX Engine and Specs
Under the bonnet of the 2022 Lexus UX will still be a small four-cylinder block. A 2.0-liter naturally-aspirated engine is good for 170 hp and 150 lb-ft of torque. This is an upgrade compared to the non-premium segment, where most crossovers are out with less than 150 horsepower. Still, the UX is not as powerful as a BMW X1 or Audi Q3. German carmakers opted for turbocharged units to maximize power and performance. A CVT sends energy to the front axle. The UX is not offering an all-wheel drive, which is also available with BMW, Audi and Mercedes.
On the other hand, the optional drivetrain for the subcompact crossover is a hybrid. The main source of power stays the same, but the electric support will add 12 more horsepower for 181 hp total. A pair of electric motors are there to improve the gas mileage, and the 2022 Lexus UX250h is in the exclusive club of crossovers returning more than 40 mpg. Even the standard gasoline configuration is pretty efficient with 29/37 mpg in city/highway. A CVT is there again as the gearbox, and this time both axles will move the crossover, thanks to the electric motor mounted on the rear end.
2022 Lexus UX 300e Electric Crossover
The electric version of the subcompact vehicle is not out yet, but the company provided almost everything about it. The motor will be 54.3-kWh and fully charged it can take you up to 400 km (250 miles). It is not an impressive range, but we need to have in mind this is a small vehicle with no space for a larger battery. We could see a slightly improved configuration for the US when the crossover comes out as the 2022 Lexus UX 300e. A current battery is good for 200 hp and acceleration to 60 mph takes 7.5 seconds.
Lexus is working on the recharging system. Current estimations are that a quick DC charge will refill the battery in less than an hour. In a year or so, this time will definitely drop. Also, in 20-25 mins, the vehicle could gain up to 80 percent of the battery life. Front-wheel drive is confirmed and we still don’t know if there will be AWD version, with batteries on the rear axle. Max speed of an all-electric Lexus UX will be 99 mph.
Packages
The 2022 Lexus UX will still be available with three different packages. First of all, you will have to pick a drivetrain. The UX200 is the conventional model, UX250h is using a hybrid unit, and the UX300e is the upcoming EV. The all-electric vehicle will probably bring its own equipment, with autonomous drive and advanced safety systems.
The base offer includes heated side mirrors and a leather steering wheel. Also, the upholstery is from simulated leather, which improves an overall impression. Highlights of the infotainment system are the 6-speaker audio and Apple Carplay and Android Auto services.
If this is not making you happy, then you can upgrade the offer by enhancing drive or comfort. The 2022 Lexus UX F Sport is the most interesting model in the squad. However, suspension upgrades won’t add extra power and make the UX competitive to the BMW X1 or Audi Q3. Sport buckets are added and perforated leather is wrapping the steering wheel. F Sport badges will remind you how special this model is.
The premium crossover can become even more attractive with the latest offer that includes the Luxury package. Some of the most advanced features can be found here, including rain-sensing wipers, sound isolation, large 10-inch touchscreen display, navigation, heated and ventilated seats, and larger wheels. There is a lot more for the model that tops the range with $39,000 starting price, $1,500 above the F Sport and more than $6,000 over the base version.
