Lexus UX updated

Lexus has rolled out a wide-ranging update overseas for its 2022 Lexus UX that is headlined by improvements to the premium small SUV's infotainment system and dynamic performance
 
Set to be introduced to the Lexus UX range from around the third quarter of 2022, the changes apply to both the Lexus UX 250h hybrid and the regular Lexus UX 200 petrol-engined model.
 
As part of the mid-life upgrade, engineers have added a further 20 spot-welding points around the side and back doors to boost structural rigidity.

With a stiffer, more rigid platform, Lexus claims it's also made changes to the electric power steering and dampers to hone the SUV's handling, while adding new run-flat tyres.

The result, engineers say, is an improvement in both ride comfort and refinement.
 
The F Sport model, meanwhile, now gets adaptive dampers that have been developed in partnership with Yamaha and are said to improve agility.

Steering feel of the sportiest model grade has also been boosted by new steering rack supports and suspension bracing that are also claimed to add rigidity.

Inside, there's a faster, more responsive infotainment system that is available as either an 8.0-inch or 12.0-inch display that is now operated via a touch-screen rather than the current car's dated trackpad controller.
 
To improve ease of use, the actual displays have been remounted 143mm forward in the dash.

Now featuring cloud-based navigation and 'always connected' functionality, the new system also bags a 'Hey, Lexus' on-board assistant.
 
Smartphone integration includes wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto. The entire car's infotainment system can be updated and continually improved via over-the-air updates.

If you're wondering what happened to the space where the trackpad controller once lived, Lexus has relocated the controls for the heated seats.

There's also a handy small storage space if you haven't got the premium heated armchairs.
 
As part of the upgrades, owners can also use their smartphone app to lock, unlock or pre-heat or cool the cabin.
 
Safety has been improved too. The standard pre-collision driver assist aids now help with turning left or right at junctions, while a new emergency steering assist system self-steers to avoid obstacles without changing lanes on the highway.

Even the adaptive cruise control smartens up its act with a new 'curve speed reduction' function that slows the speed during high-speed cornering on the highway.

Other changes include the introduction of the F Sport Design trim in some markets that features cosmetic and other elements from the flagship F Sport including 18-inch wheels, spindle grille, LED headlights, chrome roof rails, black wheel arch mouldings and 'F' badging.

Inside, there's synthetic leather upholstery and an air filtration system.

Finally, as part of the refresh there's a wider choice of two-tone finishes, with six colours available that can be combined with a contrasting black roof on the F Sport and F Sport Design.

Under the bonnet, Lexus says the current range of powertrains carries over unchanged which means there's still the choice of a 125kW 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine or 135kW 2.0-litre petrol-electric hybrid.

Australian-market launch details are still to be confirmed.

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