Lexus unveils its most sensuous new UX hybrid

While not wishing to sound in any way misogynistic, Iain Robertson believes that Lexus is producing currently some of the sexiest and most alluring new cars of an era, an impression he has felt since the launch of the LC, RC and now UX models.

Providing solutions to perceived problems, however minor, has been the Lexus remit ever since the brand first arrived in the UK. The luxury arm of Toyota (its ‘Audi’) has never endured less than an uphill battle to both make its mark and build vital degrees of exclusivity. When I tested the miraculous LC500 high-performance model at the start of 2018, I recognised that Lexus was on the cusp of true greatness, not suggesting that any of its former efforts were much less than marvellous.



The latest addition to the company’s gently growing UK range is the UX. If specified with the red leather and Alcantara interior, it could be called the family car version of the gorgeous LC. It is utterly beautiful inside, with an exterior design that is as memorable and likeable as its ‘lesser’ little brother from Toyota, the CH-R. I have always believed that Toyota is a brand worthy of closer focus and this latest UX simply proves that theory.



The amount of detail intensity explored by Lexus in creating the UX is the stuff of legends. As the car doors are the inevitable first point of contact for humans, a substantial investment has been made in creating just the right sound and tactility to provide high-quality enhancements. Every car leaving the Japanese (Kyushu) plant is subjected to close inspection in this area.



Having remarked before about Lexus delving into Japanese history, when you encounter the seat stitching pattern on the UX be aware that it follows Sashiko form, essentially the same as on Kendo and Judo uniforms. It is both artful and practical, measures that are also introduced on the slim-line air-vent controls, which are LED backlit wirelessly and three-dimensionally, affording them a depth perception that belies the actual size of the control. It is magical.



Opening and closing the power windows, all of which feature non-entanglement and non-entrapment functionality, is a completely silent action. Using brushless motors is a clue but, with in-door anti-vibration pads and encapsulation, the actions are smooth and painlessly high-quality. However, user-friendliness even extends to the windscreen wipers. While they feature rain sensors, they also slow down progressively to avoid driver distraction. Yet, the really clever bit lies in them pausing, as occupants alight from, or enter the UX, so as not to splash them. It may seem ‘silly’ but it is eminently obliging and in the politest vein of Japanese manners.



Although far from a final example of Lexus’s pursuit of excellence, behind each precision-fit hatchback is the most practical of rear luggage covers. Unlike most types of luggage cover, that of the UX can be folded like a net and stowed within the boot, demanding minimal space. Driving the hybrid UX is a sheer delight in terms of both smoothness and frugality.

FCD Summary

When it boils down to attention-to-detail, Lexus sky-rockets to the top of the class. Imparting an air of effortlessness to every aspect of its excellence, the latest Lexus UX, due very soon, is the new benchmark in the luxury SUV category.

Welcome to Forces Cars Direct

If you serve, you save

We provide new car discounts for all
Armed Forces personnel, past and present.

To discover the discounts available for you and to find your ideal car, please select your eligibility from the list below:

Not sure if you’re eligible? Find out if you are here

Join the Priority Club

Whether it’s your weekly grocery shop, reducing your utility bills or looking for a weekend take-away delivered to your door, Priority Club has a deal to save you money!