2023 Lexus UX Drops Gas Engine, Refines Ride, Revises F Sport Packages
The Lexus UX lineup sees some changes for the 2023 model year, but most significant among them is what’s missing: the absence of a gas-only powertrain. The luxury brand’s baby SUV range has dropped the UX 200 for the new model year, retaining only the UX 250h hybrid variant. The latter returns with minor adjustments to ride quality and a couple of new packages for the F Sport trim.
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The front-wheel-drive UX 200 and its 169-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine has been ditched as Lexus parent Toyota works toward a carbon-neutral future. Instead, the UX 250h will carry on the nameplate solo with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder and electric motor with a combined system output of 181 hp mated to a continuously variable automatic transmission — but unlike 2022, all 2023 UX 250h variants offer FWD; all-wheel drive had previously been standard.
Changes also lurk elsewhere underneath the skin. The subcompact SUV sees increased body rigidity and other improvements designed to enhance handling and quietness. More noise and vibration reduction was achieved with an all-new set of 18-inch run flat tires, Lexus says. New F Sport Design and Handling packages add black exterior accents, unique wheels and painted wheel arch moldings, and the F Sport Handling Package offers performance dampers and an active variable suspension, plus minor interior tweaks.
The interior mostly carries over, but Lexus shuffled the infotainment system options around for 2023. A standard 8-inch touchscreen replaces the old 7-inch unit, and buyers can upgrade to a bigger 12.3-inch touchscreen. Both displays are now mounted closer to the driver and come with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a new voice assistant that can be activated with phrases like “Hey, Lexus.”
Pricing and Release Date
The 2023 Lexus UX 250h is available now. Pricing for each trim is below (all prices include $1,075 destination charge), and AWD tacks on $1,400 to each trim:
- Base: $36,925
- Premium: $39,385
- F Sport Design: $39,385
- F Sport Handling: $44,355
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