Did you know that Lexus only launched its first compact SUV in 2020? Easily one of the most anticipated car launches in recent times, the Lexus UX 200 was designed and built from the ground up to combine the best innovative traits of an SUV with the sporty elegance of a hatchback, complemented by several other “firsts”. Not to mention, it was creatively engineered by a team spearheaded by Lexus’s first female Chief Engineer. Here’s everything you need to know about the Lexus UX 200, which comes in three variations: UX Urban, UX Luxury, and UX F-SPORT.
1. Performance
Right off the bat, the Lexus UX 200 houses a newly-developed 2.0L normally-aspirated engine, delivering 169 hp and smooth acceleration with an in-line four-cylinder 16-valve petrol engine and 10-speed Direct-Shift CVT gearbox. Despite that powerful performance, the cherry on top is that you still get fantastic fuel efficiency with lower emissions.
2. Driving dynamics
There’s a saying that the power is in your hands, and in the case of the Lexus UX 200, that power feels almost effortless to use as the compact SUV is built on the latest Global Architecture-C Platform with refined dynamics and handling. For example, thanks to Active Cornering Assist and the low centre of gravity of the Global Architecture-C Platform, sharp corners are easy to manoeuvre with less body roll. This experience is even more elevated in the UX F-SPORT with front performance rod and rear performance damper, thus increasing chassis rigidity for better control, safety and comfort.
3. Comfort and convenience
No one spends more time in a car than the driver so, with that in mind, Lexus has designed the UX 200 to be as convenient as possible for the person behind the wheel. Adapting the ‘Seat-in-Control’ concept from the LC 500 Coupe, the driver has the best view of his/her surroundings and is assisted by the upper section of the instrument panel to get a better sense of the car’s dimensions and positions. Plus, the most critical vehicle functions are literally at the driver’s fingertips (or within easy reach, at least). If you opt for the UX Luxury, this sense of control extends further thanks to the Panoramic View Monitor, which is especially helpful when parking or driving on narrow streets.
Passengers aren’t forgotten either as the Lexus UX 200 is equipped with an auto dual-zone air conditioner with a rear air conditioning duct for better rear passenger comfort. In the UX Luxury, the driver and front passenger seats come with ventilation and a heater, which will benefit long drives. Plus, if anyone has their hands full, the UX Luxury and UX F-SPORT have a kick-open sensor for smart entry and back door without needing to take out the key.
4. Multimedia features
All three variants of the Lexus UX 200 offer the Lexus Remote Touch Interface (RTI), which gives you a similar feeling to using a smartphone thanks to its haptic interface. The UX Luxury and UX F-SPORT, on the other hand, are fitted with a 10.3-inch display with a split-screen that’s conveniently placed within the driver’s field of vision for easy access. A further upgrade in the form of a Head-Up Display exists in the UX F-SPORT, projecting driving data and navigation on the windscreen to allow the driver to better focus on the road, and thereby reducing fatigue.
5. Safety features
The Lexus UX 200 comes equipped with the Lexus Safety System + (LSS+), which is a comprehensive suite of advanced safety systems, utilising multiple sophisticated sensors and cameras. These safety systems include Pre-Collision System (PCS), Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) with Stop & Go Function—particularly useful during traffic jams or cruising down the highways—and Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), as well as Adaptive High-beam System (AHS).
6. Sporty yet chic design
The Lexus UX 200 was designed following an ‘Urban Explorer’ concept to ensure its form remains sporty and functional, but still stylish. The exterior gleams with fluid lines, crisp, prominent sculpted surfaces and a distinctive spindle grille with its sleek aerodynamic profile that is extended by a sexily-sculpted combination tail lamp. That architecture draws to a close with flared wings and large wheels for a definitive muscular and agile stance.
On the other hand, the interior takes most of its inspiration from Japanese hospitality, craftsmanship and traditions. The trim finish alone is inspired by washi (a type of Japanese paper found on shoji doors in traditional homes) to set up a calm, cosy vibe within the Lexus UX 200. Comfort-meets-luxury for both the driver and passenger is at the forefront of the cabin’s design. The seats have been given the full quilted leather treatment, decorated with perfect perforation patterns made possibly by skilled Takumi craftsmen. The touch-and-feel is especially luxurious in the UX 200 Luxury as sashiko quilting—a traditional Japanese quilting technique that’s widely used for judo and kendo uniforms—was used for the smooth leather upholstery.
Overall, as a result, the driver receives the ultimate driving pleasure and confidence. As the brand’s first compact SUV, the Lexus UX 200 shines as both a game-changer as well as an all-rounder.
Test drive the Lexus UX 200 for yourselfDate: 11 & 12 December | 18 & 19 DecemberStand a chance to win the lucky draw when you take the Lexus UX 200 for a test drive at the brand’s Christmas showroom weekender.
The Lexus UX 200 starts from RM236,443.50 (without insurance, with sales tax exemption) with a comprehensive warranty of five (5) years with unlimited mileage.
For more info, visit Lexus Malaysia’s website.
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