Lexus UX 300e review

 

Zapmap verdict: “Lexus trusts in electric rather than hybrid for the first time in the UX. Unsurprisingly, it turns out electric is better.”

 

 

Lexus UX 300e: Range & charging

Lexus has created a range that’s useful, but not huge. There’s one battery and power choice for buyers, with ranges approaching 200 miles on a charge and rapid charging capabilities.

There are two configurations available:

• • ● Lexus UX 300e – 150 kW – 54.3 kWh – 196 miles

Range

The official WLTP driving range for the Lexus UX 300e is as much as 196 miles on a charge, which is aided by five brake energy recuperation levels and three driving modes.

The UX 300e tested (with 18-inch alloys) had an official range of 190 miles, which translated to just 150 miles on a charge in real-world conditions. However, this was largely from faster roads such as A-roads and dual carriageways, with the driving routes skewed away from urban driving a little. Calculations indicate that 160 miles on a charge would be a more reasonable real-world range, and 170 miles on town-biased routes.

Braking

There are five different levels of brake energy recuperation, selectable via steering wheel mounted paddles, which is a useful system and allows for drivers to easily drive efficiently. D is the middle setting, with moderate brake regain. From there, there are two settings above for slight and no regen, and two settings below for strong and stronger regeneration.

Charging

Charging is possible at up to 6.6 kW AC and 50 kW DC, thanks to Type 2 and CHAdeMO inlets respectively. The inlets are found on the rear flanks – one each side. It will take around eight hours for a full charge on a 7 kW charger, or about 50 minutes on a DC unit.

 

The Lexus UX 300e on the road

With 150 kW available, the Lexus UX 300e can be a quick little car, though it’s not going to trouble the performance EVs. Still, with instant response and quick bursts of acceleration a speciality, the Lexus can feel sprightly both in traffic and on the open road.

What’s the Lexus UX 300e like to drive?

With a stiff-ish suspension set-up, Lexus’ UX 300e can prove agile when driving. This means that not only is it a fun car to drive on country lanes, it also has great benefits in urban driving. The compact dimensions and relatively low centre of gravity make parking a doddle and, despite a fairly restricted view out the back, it’s an easy car to pilot. Thankfully, the driving experience is even decent on the motorway, though there are more comfortable cars in its class here.

Lexus UX 300e: Comfort & Practicality

Lexus has long done well in terms of cabin comfort, and even this entry model to the range continues this theme. A good set of seats up front helps make the drive a comfortable experience, despite the stiffness in the suspension. Interior space is not such a strength however, since the US – both hybrid and EV tested here – is not the most practical car around. It’s great for two, and will deal with a couple of young children too, but not much more for regular trips thanks to limited leg and head space. The boot isn’t particularly large either, so think twice before considering the US 300e as a spacious family car. It’s much better as a ‘two-seater’ with occasional use for two more occupants.

Design and functionality

Like many Lexus models, the UX is frustrating when it comes to the interior. The controls are logically placed, and materials used feel good. It’s certainly a premium model, and there are some great touches like the drive mode select placed on a stalk from the instrument binnacle. However, the infotainment system is controlled using a small touchpad with haptic feedback, and it’s not as good as any rival’s system.

 

Lexus UX 300e: Tech & Specifications

There is one core trim available, with the choice of two different packs to upgrade the UX 300e – Premium and Takumi. Fitted as standard are:

 

1. 17-inch wheels
2. 7-inch touchscreen system with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
3. Reversing camera
4. Climate control
5. Electric front seats

Lexus has done good job fully-electrifying the UX. In fact, the UX 300e is comfortably a better car to drive than the hybrid model, and has a driving range that will suit most UX buyers as well. However, there are rivals with a similar range and more space, or similar space and more range, so buyers need to be looking at a small section of the market really to consider the UX 300e. It’s a premium product, good to look at, and fun to drive however, so there will certainly be a number of drivers swayed by Lexus’ EV.

And how much is the road tax on a Lexus UX 300e? Use our Car Tax Calculator to find out.

All information above correct at time of publication. Official economy figures, pricing, and tax rates supplied by the manufacturer. Cost to charge based on 0-100% charge at home on a tariff of 16 p/kWh.