Lexus has been big on hybrids for a long time, or more specifically since it emerged as an early pioneer with its RX 400h back in 2005, and by 2025 the Japanese luxury brand plans to offer an electrified version of every model in its line-up.
During the course of this transition to electrification it’s inevitable that some models will become hybrid-only, and eventually electric-only, and the compact Lexus UX range now has the honour of being the company’s first model range to be offered in hybrid format only in South Africa.
This means that the 200 EX petrol model falls away, along with the F-Sport derivative, leaving the UX 250h EX as the entry model, at R719 600, and the UX 250h SE as the flagship, priced at R795 800. This represents a small price cut as the models were previously priced at R734 000 and R811 700 respectively.
Both hybrid models are powered primarily by a 2,0-litre normally aspirated petrol engine, which pairs with an electric motor to produce a system output of 135 kW. This should be good for an 8,5-second 0-100 km/h run, Lexus says, while the top speed is limited to 180 km/h. More importantly, however, the company claims a combined consumption figure of 4,5 litres per 100 km, with CO2 emissions of 103 g/km.
Standard features in the EX include an electric tailgate, infotainment system with satnav, reverse camera and park distance control, cruise control, heated retractable side mirrors and seven airbags. The SE model adds safety systems such as adaptive cruise control, Pre-Crash System, Blind Spot Monitor, Lane Keep Assist with improved Lane Departure Alert (with steering assist) and Adaptive LED headlights.
Both derivatives are backed up by a seven-year or 105 000 km warranty and maintenance plan.
For those seeking something a little bigger and flashier than the Lexus UX, the all-new NX range is set to hit South African shores in early 2022.
