2023 Lexus UX 250h Review

The Lexus UX 250h was a breath of fresh air in the crossover segment when it was introduced in 2018. It has got a great reputation as a subcompact vehicle that ticks all the boxes in luxury, capability, and dependability.

The UX is Lexus’s smallest crossover, and its success is not surprising since Lexus pretty much pioneered the premium crossover segment. Now, its latest version, the 2023 UX 250h, is upon us and is available for sale. So, the following is a comprehensive review of its highlights:
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Features

The new Lexus UX 250h is still in its first generation. It offers four trim levels – two being F Sport ones – along with a single mild hybrid powertrain. As far as updates are concerned, there are changes made to the powertrain, the infotainment system, and trim levels.

Powertrain and Numbers

The 2023 UX 250h comes with a 2-liter hybrid engine which is good for 181 hp and 133 lb-ft. Front-wheel drive is standard, with optional all-wheel drive – the power is sent to these systems courtesy of a CVT gearbox. It can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in about 8 seconds.

One of the reasons for the UX 250h’s success is its high fuel efficiency thanks to the hybrid powertrain. The EPA says that it will do up to 43 mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the highway with FWD. With AWD, you can expect 41 mpg city and 38 mpg highway, also stellar for the class.

Interior and Technology

Expect nothing but perfection from the 2023 UX 250h’s interior. It is spacious enough to seat five occupants comfortably and provide a premium environment for them thanks to its high build quality and selection of exquisite materials throughout the cabin.

Even though this is a small CUV, the UX provides you with proper storage capabilities. The highlight is the capacious trunk which can be made even bigger by folding down the second row of seats. Adequate cubby storage and an adjustable rear cargo deck board are also offered.

The following are the trim levels on the 2023 UX 250h and their standard features:

2023 UX 250h
The 2023 UX 250h comes with Washi interior trimmings and a leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob. The tech includes dual-zone climate control, push-button ignition, keyless entry, 8-way power-adjustable front seats, and an electronic parking brake.

You also get remote start via the Lexus app. Then you also have an 8-inch infotainment system, a set of 6 speakers, and a 7-inch instrumentation screen. Other niceties include wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, wifi hotspot capabilities, power outlets and USB ports.

The suite of safety features includes automated emergency braking (w/pedestrian detection), lane-departure warning (w/lane-keeping assist), blind-spot monitoring (w/rear cross-traffic alerts), a backup camera, parking assists, and adaptive cruise control (w/lane-centering).

2023 UX 250h Premium
Next, we have the Premium trim which adds heated and ventilated front seats, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a one-touch power moonroof, and a powered rear door. You also get some more optional extras and some updates to the exterior.
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2023 UX 250h F Sport Design
The UX 250h F Sport 2023 is a high-performance model which loses a few features to make the UX lighter and improve its power-to-weight ratio. This gets some sporty updates to the exterior as well.

2023 UX 250h F Sport Handling
The top trim is also an F Sport model, and it adds unique bolstered front seats, steering wheel, shift knob, aluminum pedals, and front door-sill scuff plates. You also get a massive 12.3-inch touchscreen, a larger 8-inch instrumentation screen, and a premium 10-speaker stereo.

2023 UX 250h F Sport Design

2023 UX 250h F Sport Handling

2023 UX 250h Premium

Exterior and Driving

The 2023 UX 250h comes with a stylish exterior featuring bi-LED headlamps, LED taillamps and DRLs. Other features include heated side mirrors and 18-inch alloy wheels on all trims, while the upper trims get rain-sensing windshield wipers, and color-keyed over fenders.

Meanwhile the F Sport models come with custom accents on many components, plus a lot of other unique components – bumpers, front grille, fenders, roof rails, etc. These models successfully give the UX 250h a more aggressive look.

You can find the 2023 Lexus UX 250h in the following colors, differing by trim level:

A highlight of the UX 250h is how cruise-friendly it is. Not only do you get a serene environment free from the troubles of the road, but a great powertrain that is smooth as silk. Expect ECO, Normal and Sport modes – the top trim also offers Sport S, Sport S+ and Custom drive modes.

Reliability and Warranty

For 2023, the Lexus UX 250h has been given a score of 81 out of 100 by JD Power in predicted reliability, putting it in the ‘Great’ category. Consumer Reports expects it to be more reliable than the average new car as well.

Lexus offers the best warranties and aftersales for the premium segment. There is a limited warranty of 4 years/50k miles, a powertrain warranty of 6 years/70k miles, and complimentary maintenance for 1 year/10k miles.

Verdict

The Lexus UX 250h continues to be an obvious choice amongst small crossover buyers for obvious reasons. It is great to drive and efficient in terms of fuel. You get a gorgeous interior that’s built well and is ergonomical, despite the rather small size of the UX.

You also get a lot of technology no matter which trim level you go for. The
F Sport models are in a league of their own as they improve performance and make the UX stand out even more on the road due to the company’s modifications.

Lastly, the 2023 UX is a dependable vehicle according to its ratings and you get free maintenance for a limited time.

To get the 2023 Lexus UX in Fort Thomas, Fort Michel, and Highland Heights, check out Performance Lexus RiverCenter here.