Lexus is introducing a package of upgrades for the 2023 Lexus UX 250h compact luxury SUV this summer, focusing on more style choices, improved multimedia and connectivity and a sporty new model grade, F Sport Design.
Launched in 2019, the UX is a stylish and capable urban crossover that enjoys the role of a gateway model to the Lexus brand. Built on Lexus’s GA-C global architecture platform, it reaps the benefits of a low centre of gravity and a highly rigid body for a rewarding drive with faithful responses to the driver’s inputs. Its SUV credentials are enhanced with the option of Lexus’s electronic E-Four all-wheel-drive system.
2023 Lexus UX: new multimedia systems
The revised 2023 Lexus UX 250h benefits from Lexus’s new multimedia systems, giving a faster, more intuitive response, focused on the human-centred operation and increased functionality.
According to equipment grade, models are fitted with either eight or 12.3-inch displays, with touchscreen technology replacing the previous trackpad control. The new displays have been moved forward on the instrument panel, bringing them closer to the driver for comfortable operation. They present crisper graphics – in high definition on the 12.3-inch screen. Significantly increased computing power means command responses are quicker, while “always connected” cloud-based navigation is provided as standard, giving access to real-time road and traffic information for easier journey planning. The 12.3-inch system has embedded navigation, so operation is available in areas where cloud connection is unavailable.
The system’s new voice recognition system includes the option of using the “Hey Lexus” onboard assistant. This makes for easier use of voice commands to make phone calls, operate the audio and climate control and search the net. It can link to cloud-based information, so, for example, it can be asked about nearby fuel prices and other local information. It is programmed to understand more conversational terms and is better able to recognise commands when there is background noise – the audio doesn’t have to be muted and the microphones can identify whether it is the driver or front passenger speaking.
Smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay (wireless connection) or Android Auto (wired connection) is provided as standard and, for complete convenience, updates to the multimedia system software can be delivered over the air using the car’s DCM (data communication module). Connectivity options include a USB-A port in the centre console box for playback of high-resolution sound sources and two USB-C ports for device charging on the console. The multimedia system can save the personal preference profiles of up to three people, customising the multimedia, audio and navigation settings.
The space on the centre console where the multimedia trackpad was located is now home to controls for the heated front seats or, where these are not specified, a handy small storage cubby. The console also features an illuminated tray in front of the air conditioning control panel, with space to hold a large smartphone.
True to Lexus’s famous omotenashi hospitality, owners will be able to use the Lexus Link smartphone app to lock or unlock the doors or operate the air conditioning system remotely, so that the cabin can be cooled or warmed before they set off on a journey.
Introduction of new F Sport Design grade to UX 250h
The F Sport Design grade is a new addition to the 2023 Lexus UX 250h range, making powerful F Sport exterior styling accessible to more customers.
Its road presence is enhanced with the F Sport spindle grille, featuring a Lexus L-motif mesh pattern, finished in black with a chrome surround for the lower section that accentuates the car’s planted stance. The same pattern is featured in the enlarged bezels housing the fog lights and cornering lights in the F Sport front bumper, with contrasting chrome L-shaped surrounds. The rear bumper also has an F Sport-specific design, with a jet black roof spoiler and moulding details around the light clusters. The 18-inch F Sport alloy wheels have a 10-spoke design and a dark metallic finish.
Other F Sport Design standard specification details include synthetic leather seat upholstery, heated front seats, dual-zone automatic air conditioning with Lexus’ Nanoe-X air quality system, reversing camera, automatic wipers, LED headlights with Automatic High Beam, chrome roof rails, black wheel arch mouldings and Lexus “F” badging.
Revisions to UX 250h F Sport
The revised F Sport specification makes Adaptive Variable Suspension and front and rear performance rods standard features, elements that contribute to the model’s sharper handling and chassis response and smoother ride quality on all road surfaces. The AVS’s control system has been adjusted so there is a seamless shift to high damping force when conditions require, so there is a less abrupt change in vehicle behaviour. Tuning of the system has also reduced high and mid-frequency vibration.
The steering feel has been improved with a new rigid joint between the top of the steering gearbox mount and the suspension member. In line with this extra rigidity, the shock absorber damping force has been appropriately adjusted for optimum performance.
Improved rigidity
Improvements to the 2023 Lexus UX include measures to further increase body rigidity with additional spot welds on the bottom edge of the side member opening and the lower back panel opening and a more rigid steel back door reinforcement.
Colour choices
The UX is available with a new exterior paintwork option, Sonic Platinum. This special finish uses Lexus’s advanced sonic paint technology in which a layer just a few microns thick brings the metallic flakes in the paint into a closer, uniform alignment, creating an extra brilliance and deeper shading across the car’s bodywork.
The revised range also provides a wider choice of bi-tone finishes, with six colours available in combination with a contrast black roof on the F Sport and F Sport Design models.
In the cabin, there is a new Hazel colour option available for all the upholstery options – fabric and synthetic and genuine leather – for all UX versions apart from the F Sport. The perforated leather upholstery has a fresh look with a new kagome stitchwork pattern, inspired by a traditional Japanese basket weave. The synthetic leather upholstery has a new sashiko pleating effect.
Lexus Safety System+
Revisions to the UX 250h’s Lexus Safety System+ bring improved performance in the Pre-Collision System, equipping the car with Intersection Turning Assist for safer left and right turns across traffic at intersections and Emergency Steering Assist, which helps the driver steer to avoid obstacles without departing from their traffic lane. The Dynamic Radar Cruise Control adopts Curve Speed Reduction, which automatically adjusts the vehicle’s speed to suit the radius of a bend in the road.
Efficient powertrain
The UX 250h’s powertrain is unchanged, delivering excellent efficiency and refined performance with fourth-generation Lexus hybrid electric technology; the 2.0-litre system develops 181bhp/135kW.
Following its launch in 2019, the Lexus UX rapidly became our best-selling model in Europe, with its urban twist on the luxury crossover theme resonating with more than 50,000 new car buyers. In order to make the hybrid Lexus UX 250h more alluring than ever, a number of exterior and interior refinements have been applied for the 2022 model year.
All information was correct at the time of publishing.
I have a 2020 UX luxury with Levinson.
I have to say that my biggest complaint is the infotainment system it’s fiddly dangerous as in, DO NOT TRY TO USE IT ON THE MOVE! BMW iDrive leaves this system miles ahead in every area on all the models.
No auto fold in mirrors (what amount did that save on design costs)?
Same for no seat memory buttons.
Storage in the doors is pathetic too much room taken up in the door panels with what?
Loads of pushbuttons/switches are out of sight and difficult to use or find.
I have had to strip out most of the boot area to load a disabled electric scooter (taken apart of course).
The touch handle locking is hit & miss mostly as is the kick under to open the tailgate/boot.
So overall for the huge cost and a change from BMW I did not make a good move.
I’m still waiting to “Experience Amazing”.
Hello David,
Thank you for taking the time for provide this feedback.
We have passed this onto our Wider Product Team.
If there is anything else we can to assist you at this time, please let us know.
Thanks.
Totally agree
I have just driven the Toyoto CHR it as a better infotainment system, auto folding mirrors and an electric drive on the auto gears.
I have had my lexus for just over 2 years and love the style but am thinking about going back to the CHR.
Have to agree I took a rental CHR to compare to the UX and the CHR wins out against the UX.
The new Rav is better value than the NX.
The EX….fugly.
I have had my Lexus 20 yrs and the latest models are uninspiring and expensive.
Did you not test drive before buying. I admit the UX is a ‘ compromise car’ but trim levels are good, reliability is excellent and it isn’t that expensive. Mine is Sport Premium trim and I miss keyless entry and an electronic tailgate but otherwise I love it.
I think your problem doesn’t lie with Lexus, I think you made the wrong choice of car for your needs and are now trying to blame Lexus for your mistake. I have just purchased a 2022 Lexus ux250h and was given a full tour of the car buy the Lexus sales team at Gecar Genova Italy and I made the decision to purchase the car not Lexus. Thank you Gecar for a very pleasant experience…
Well all i can say is that having owned Audi BMW and Lexus is that Lexus is a far superior vehicle in the important area which is reliability. I found Audi to be a great Car to drive but was very poor with Electrics. The BMW was a great looking Car but had reliability issues. Lexus Cars are amazing and currently owning a UX have been very impressed with the new NX.
I am looking to change and i have looked at both BMW and Audi but to be honest it is me belief that Lexus offers the best options. I do not believe Lexus are that expensive they are in my view good value and the % interest rates make purchasing very competitive.
All in all i have been very impressed with my Lexus Cars that i have owned. I have owned 8xLexus Cars and not one in over 8 years of ownership has had any issues whatsoever not even a lightbulb nothing nothing at all…
I agree completely, I have also had all the other makes but on my 7th Lexus now, but every time I look to change my car I do look at other makes of similar price to compare, but end up getting another Lexus and again not one single problem with any of the Lexus cars I have owned.
Hello, received new 250ux takumi two weeks ago does not have kick open boot .
I took it back to dealer; they said not fitted.
Still very pleased with car & dealer.
thanks len.
Hi Len,
Thanks for your comment and congratulations on your new UX.
We wish you many more happy miles.
Thanks.
When I was looking to order a basic model UX in October I noticed that it came with a reversing camera as standard.
Has this been removed from the basic model now?
If so, when was it removed?
Hi Kevin,
Since December 2020, the base model UX does not get a reversing camera as standard. This features has been available with either the Premium Pack, Premium Plus Pack or Premium Pro Pack.
The Premium Pack costs £2400 and includes the following features:
Front and Rear Parking Sensors
Auto-dimming Interior Rear View Mirror
Heated Steering Wheel
Heated Front Seats
Parking assist monitor with on-screen guides
Reversing Camera with Back Guidelines
Roof Rails (Aluminium)
LED Front and Rear Fog Lights
Rain-sensing Wipers
Privacy Glass, Rear Doors and Tailgate
17″ Alloy Wheels, Black, 5-wide Spoke Design (215/60 R17 Tyres)
Please let us know if you have any further questions.
Thanks
Do you mean December 2021 and not December 2020?
In October 2021, the dealer told me the basic model came with a camera as standard.
Hi Kevin,
We are referring to official Lexus product specification documents. They show that since December 2020, when the MY21 UX was introduced, it no longer came with a reversing camera as standard. This features was instead added to the packs, as described in our previous comment.
Regardless, this information does not impact the specification of a vehicle ordered today. If you’d like a reversing camera, you’ll need to choose one of the packs.
Thanks
So I ordered my car Feb 2020, but would prefer the new informatics system, what options do I have?
Hello Raj,
Thank you for your question.
We would recommend contacting your Lexus Centre to see what options are available to you.
Thanks.
Spoken to dealer, no option to delay delivery and they cannot give me price impact if I re-order as apparently they do not have new price lists.
With the new 2023 UX recently announced (with new infotainment) I am now able to consider changing my NX. Will the new UX have an increased towing capacity from the currently extremely poor 750kg.
Thanks
Hello Kev,
Thanks for your comment.
Unfortunately, due to supply and part limitations, the UX will not be able to tow.
If you would like to tow with it, this would need to be fitted independently from Lexus.
We apologise for the inconvenience this causes.
Thanks.
What will the towing capacity be for the “stronger” new UX model.
Thanks
Hello Kev,
Thank you for the question.
The towing capacity will remain the same at 750kg.
Thanks.
I found this site by accident. When I read the 1st letter from David R Connell, I thought he must be a mind reader. All his complaints are spot on, the only thing he missed was the space between the bottom of the steering wheel and the seat is too narrow – I am only 5ft 10.
Maybe the 2023 version will resolve the many silly poor design aspects?
I’m very happy to say that my particular model has everything included that seems to be missing from everybody else’s, having read all the comments above, including auto bright headlight beam, of which I only found out about recently, having driven a Ford Explorer rental in the US with this extra. On return I asked the dealer and he explained that it was already included. However when I bought my first model the mirrors did not retract and I was appalled and felt cheated. I returned the vehicle to be exchanged for the spec that I have now, and I’m very happy with it with no real complaints, now that I have got used to all the technology that comes with it. I think the engine performance is very good and it goes as fast as I would like, and for sure is a great improvement on the 1800 engine in the Prius of which I had many examples, prior to switching to Lexus. However obviously the overall mileage performance does not return the same results as I had with all my previous Prius models. I think also the turning circle for city use is excellent as with all the parking camera views. Overall I don’t really have an issue with this vehicle which I have now had for 18 months, other than I had to learn and familiarise myself with all the relatively new and modern technology of the latest vehicle in the Toyota family. Lastly the dealer did appreciate my frustration with the first vehicle as we all assumed the mirrors would retract but they didn’t and thought this very silly of Lexus to omit such a valuable function on any of their models, having had it as standard on all my previous Prius models. The dealer behaved honourably and facilitated an easy exchange.
Hello Rex,
Thank you for your kind words.
We are glad to hear that you are pleased with your UX.
Please enjoy many more luxurious miles and let us know if there is anything we can do to assist you.
Thanks.
I have been searching around and unable to find the answer, so I come here.
Do Lexus 2023 UX have model with CoDrive / Lane change assists ?
Hi,
Thanks for your question. UX has a number of features as standard, including Lane Trace Assist and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.
Lane Trace Assist helps keep you in the lane by adjusting steering input if your vehicle starts to wander out of the lane.
When Dynamic Radar Cruise Control is being used, the turn signal lever is operated and you move your vehicle to an overtaking lane while
driving at 80 km/h (50 mph) or more, the vehicle will accelerate to help to overtake a passing vehicle.
There is no lane change assist feature though.
We hope this helps.
Thanks
When are 2023 demonstrator cars expected to be available to test drive at UK dealers? I understand the changes include some alterations to the suspension settings and extra spot welds to stiffen the body. Comfort is a key criteria for me so I would like to test drive the new model before making a final purchase decision.
I think the change from the touch pad to a larger touch screen will be a welcome improvement and the screen looks to be nicely integrated into the new dashboard design.
Hello Roger,
These demonstrators should be available in late September.
Thanks.
Thank you
Hi, I’m wondering if the 2023 UX250h is still scheduled to go into production in August and demonstrator cars are still expected in dealers at the end of September? One reason for asking is the http://www.lexus.co.uk configurator is still showing the pre-facelift details which seems strange when delivery times are six or seven months.
Many thanks
Roger
Hi Roger,
Thanks for your comment.
This is due to be updated soon, please keep an eye on the website for further information.
Thanks.
Thanks