GENEVA MOTOR SHOW: Lexus UX lands
Japanese luxury marque unveils its first compact crossoverLexus has today revealed a bold answer to the Audi Q2 and BMW X2 at the Geneva motor show — the UX compact crossover.
A week after the first image of the high-riding baby SUV materialised — with Melbourne's skyline in the backdrop — powertrain and specification options have been released for the new Lexus UX.
Riding on a new platform with a fresh design and two new powerplants, the Lexus UX has been slated for Australian arrival in early 2019, when it will enter one of the industry's fastest growing segments.
Measuring 4495mm long, 1520mm high and 1840mm wide, the UX rides on a 2640mm wheelbase and boasts a 5.2-metre turning radius.
Powertrain choices include a fourth-generation version of Lexus' hybrid system, comprising a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and electric motor, mated to a new direct-shift continuously variable transmission.
The claimed output of the combined system is 131kW, the powertrain bringing "remarkable fuel efficiency", and the same 2.0-litre four-cylinder lies at the heart of the UX 200 petrol variant.
Cosmetically, Lexus' design language is projected via aggressive lines, a high beltline and prominent wheel-arches. These points are further accentuated on F Sport models, which ride on a firmer suspension tune.
The sporty design previews what is expected to be a formidable dynamic brief on the road. Lexus claims the UX delivers the lowest centre of gravity in its class, plus "exceptional body rigidity and an agile, hatchback-like driving experience".
Inside the cabin, the Lexus UX focusses on the driver in its layout, while still claiming to offer decent space and storage options.
The vehicle's safety repertoire will include a pre-collision system that identifies pedestrians and cyclists, along with road sign assist and lane tracing assist.
The new addition has been hailed as Lexus' most important car to date by the car-maker's Australian chief executive, Scott Thompson.
"The UX with its all-inclusive luxury will further broaden our range and enable Lexus sales to cross over the 10,000 sales barrier for the first time in our history," he said.
"For the first time, Lexus can compete in the luxury small-SUV segment, growing that category by attracting new, younger customers while offering an aspirational alternative to our long-standing customers," he said
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