2024 Lexus UX

The Lexus UX has a lot of attributes packed into its subcompact SUV format. It’s the only hybrid in its class, making for great fuel economy. It’s also the most affordable model in the Lexus lineup, yet doesn’t scrimp on quality or the marque’s renowned reliability. These virtues lead to another — robust resale values. From the original purchase price, to the running costs, to when the time comes for an upgrade, the UX performs admirably. Interior space is hardly generous and that excellent fuel economy comes at a compromise in power, but the UX offers more than enough acceleration and room for a lot of shoppers. Maybe you, for instance.

We’ve tested several examples of the Lexus UX since it debuted for the 2019 model year, including the 2023 Lexus UX 250h F Sport Handling pictured here. This one’s coated in Ultrasonic Blue Mica 2.0 (an extra $595) and has a sticker price of $47,440 (view window sticker).

The only notable change to the Lexus UX for 2024 is the addition of an available hands-free power liftgate, making it easier to open and close when your hands are full. It comes standard on the Premium model, and it’s an option on every other trim. Looking ahead, the UX 250h becomes the UX 300h for 2025, reflecting an upgrade that includes a more refined, more powerful, next-generation hybrid powertrain.

Excellent Resale Value

The Lexus UX is among the class leaders in resale value, with Lexus the 2023 champion and eight-time winner of our Best Resale Value Award for a luxury brand. Recouping more money when you sell a vehicle can mean a bigger down payment and lower monthly payments on your next one.

The Lexus UX is powered by a 181-horsepower hybrid system matched with an automatic transmission and front- or all-wheel drive. Not surprisingly, the most efficient vehicle in the segment is not the most powerful. It’ll get to 60 mph in roughly 8.4 seconds, which is as leisurely a run as you’ll find in this segment. Nevertheless, we found the electric boost and seamless automatic transmission combine to deliver exceptionally smooth and responsive acceleration, especially around town. Its mere footprint makes it easy to navigate city streets and parking lots, and it’s as comfortable on the highway as just about anything of its small stature. The more time we’ve come to spend in the Lexus UX, the more we appreciate it as an exceptionally pleasant and refined little luxury SUV.

Fuel Economy

Front-wheel-drive UX models boast a class-leading EPA combined fuel economy rating of 42 mpg. For reference, the more powerful BMW X1 and Mercedes-Benz GLA each top out at 28 mpg combined. At 15,000 miles per year, the UX will consume about 15 fewer gallons of fuel every month. Even at $3 per gallon, that’s not insignificant savings of $45 per month.

From the inside, there’s nothing to give away the UX as the most affordable entry in the Lexus lineup. Design, craftsmanship, and material quality are all first-rate. The infotainment system has a standard 8-inch screen or an optional 12.3-inch screen, both with easy-to-operate, smartphone-like menus and controls. We love that it comes standard with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay for effortless phone connectivity.

The front seats are spacious and comfortable, but we’ve found the rear seat among the segment’s least accommodating. If you regularly welcome adult guests in the backseat, your best option could be waiting at another dealership. Cargo space is similarly compromised compared to the competition, with 17 cubic feet of volume behind the rear seat. That’s notably less than the cargo space afforded by competitors such as the Cadillac XT4 and BMW X1. But fold down the rear seatbacks down and there are few real-world loads the UX couldn’t handle as well as any of them.

Whether you want to call the UX a small SUV or a tall hatchback, it’s a nice-looking little Lexus. It has the characteristic “spindle” grille associated with the brand and a nicely sculpted body, adding a little athleticism to its appearance. The F Sport models have a unique appearance package enhancing the sporty look without sacrificing practicality or efficiency.

Efficient Lexus Hybrid Drive
A fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain comes standard under the hood of the UX. It gets an impressive combined fuel economy rating of up to 42 mpg.

High-tech Lexus Interface
The Lexus Interface infotainment system comes standard with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. An 8-inch screen is standard, and it’s upgradable to a bigger and more feature-rich 12.3-inch screen.

Lexus Safety System+ 2.5
This advanced standard safety tech suite bundles many driver assistance features like automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and more.

Low ownership costs
The Lexus UX is the reigning champion of our Lowest 5-Year Cost to Own Award in its class thanks to its affordable price tag, great resale value, and low fuel costs.

Available head-up display
An optional color head-up display improves safety and convenience in the UX. This is a feature often found in more expensive luxury SUVs.

F Sport models
The F Sport Design trim adds a sporty appearance package to the UX. The range-topping F Sport Handling model further adds a sport-tuned suspension, and the front seats, steering wheel, and shift knob get the F Sport treatment.

Total system output of 181 horsepower isn’t a lot. But the same electric motors that help deliver excellent fuel economy also provide a seamless off-the-line boost. The UX isn’t the fastest subcompact luxury SUV, but around town it might be the smoothest. And it’s just as quick as something as popular and familiar as a Honda CR-V, for instance.

2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine + electric motors
181 total horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
EPA combined fuel economy: 42 mpg (43 city, 41 highway) with front-wheel drive, 39 mpg (41 city, 38 highway) with all-wheel drive

4-Year/50,000-Mile Warranty

The UX is backed by a 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty and a 6-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty. That’s a longer powertrain warranty than what’s offered by most European competitors. You also get complimentary maintenance for one year of 10,000 miles, whichever comes first.