Lexus is introducing a new model for its popular compact luxury SUV, the UX. The new hybrid model, the UX 250h powered by Lexus Self-Charging Hybrid technology, comes with a new and advanced multimedia system with improved connectivity.
The UX, first launched in 2019, is an urban crossover vehicle, which is a gateway to the Lexus brand. It is built on the Lexus GA-C global architecture platform and presents a series of advantages, including a low center of gravity and high body stiffness for rewarding driving and faithful reactions to the driver’s actions. The UX became one of the most sought after models in the premium market and in 2021 it would have taken the second place in sales in the PREMIUM C SUV segment, with a market share of about 13%.
With the introduction of the new UX model, Lexus is increasing its electrification trend and the transition of all the models sold to electrified drive systems – hybrids and plug-in, and this electrification according to its vision for an electrified future in the automotive field. Already in 2021, 94% of the UX vehicles sold in Israel were hybrid or electric – (467 hybrid vehicles and 120 electric) a trend that in 2022 will be expanded to 100% electrified UX vehicle sales.
The new UX 250h is equipped with a state-of-the-art multimedia system with an advanced operating system equipped with a screen with a fast and intuitive operating interface, allowing for high resolution, with touch technology that replaces control using a touch pad. The screen is located closer to the driver and allows convenient operation.
The new UX 250h model also introduces a new voice recognition system, which includes the “Hey Lexus” voice assistant that allows giving voice commands to make phone calls and operate the other supporting vehicle systems. The smartphone can also be connected to the system using Apple CarPlay (wireless connection) or Android Auto (wired connection). In addition, the software updates of the multimedia system will be carried out over the air using the vehicle’s data communication unit (DCM).
The new UX 250h also gives expression to upgrades in the Lexus Safety System + system that provide improved performance with a pre-collision system (Pre-Collision System) equipped with intersection assistance for making safe turns at intersections and emergency steering assistance (Emergency Steering Assist) that helps the driver steer to avoid obstacles without leave the travel lane. The upgrades also include a dynamic radar cruise control system (Dynamic Radar Cruise Control), which slows down the speed in curves, automatically changing the vehicle’s speed according to the radius of the road bend.
The UX 250h achieves excellent efficiency and improved performance with Lexus’ fourth-generation hybrid electric technology, and a 2.0-liter system that reaches 184 horsepower/135 kW. The vehicle will be marketed in three trim levels, the UX 250h KYUSHU model is equipped with: a multimedia system with an 8-inch screen, an advanced safety system (Lexus Safety System+ 2.5) which includes, among other things, adaptive cruise control, an active lane keeping system and a system to assist crossing an intersection. Digital dashboard (7 inches), headlights with LED technology, 17 inch rims, seats with synthetic leather upholstery and heated front seats, reversing camera, Keyless system for keyless opening and entry, and more. And the price is NIS 225,000