Utilities clearly rule the road these days, and lately the smallest are stealing the spotlight. That’s where the all-new 2019 Lexus UX comes in. The U stands for Urban… the X for crossover. As the most compact crossover in the Lexus line-up… it’s about 5-inches shorter than the NX, but with similar proportions as engineering cousin Toyota C-HR. 

A solid feel comes from Toyota’s new Global Architecture Compact platform. The front wheels of the UX 200 get power from a 2.0-liter I4 good for 169–horsepower. It shares the smooth CVT with the Toyota Corolla hatchback…so there’s a fixed ratio first gear that makes launches more forceful before the belt and pulleys take over.  The hybrid UX 250h adds 6-horses, a two-motor-generator hybrid transmission, and all-wheel drive. 

We first saw the UX at this year’s Geneva International Motor Show…. and recently headed to Sweden for a drive.

“It is tough, yet nimble handling.”

Inside things are on the sporty side of luxury, with a tech feel and functions. And while room is at a premium there’s no skimping on safety. Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 is standard. 

Lexus is well versed in producing plush crossovers on a larger scale. So, they’ve obviously worked hard to fit luxury and a modern energetic attitude into this much smaller package… for a rapidly growing market.

The 2019 Lexus UX starts at $32,000 when it arrives in dealers this December.

Specifications

  • Engine: 2.0 liter
  • Horsepower: 169
  • Price: Starts at $32,000