The 2022 Lexus Ux 250h enters the competitive compact crossover market, promising a blend of Lexus luxury and hybrid efficiency. Based on the same platform as the Toyota C-HR, the UX aims to offer a premium experience in a smaller footprint. But does it truly deliver, or does its size and performance compromise the luxury expected from Lexus, especially with a price tag reaching $44,115 for the ‘Luxury’ trim tested? Let’s delve into a comprehensive review of the 2022 Lexus UX 250h to uncover its strengths and weaknesses.
The Upsides: Fuel Efficiency and Interior Refinement
One undeniable highlight of the 2022 Lexus UX 250h is its exceptional fuel economy. During a week of testing, the vehicle consistently achieved an impressive 35 MPG. This figure is a testament to Toyota’s advanced hybrid technology, providing significant savings at the pump. For drivers prioritizing fuel efficiency in a luxury vehicle, the UX 250h stands out. With its modest 10.6-gallon fuel tank, a range of nearly 400 miles per tank is achievable, reducing the frequency of gas station visits.
Beyond fuel efficiency, the UX 250h delivers on the Lexus promise of interior quality. The cabin exudes a sense of polish and durability, characteristic of the Lexus brand. The seats are upholstered in Lexus’ NuLuxe synthetic leather, which convincingly mimics the feel of genuine leather. While some buttons may feel less premium, the majority of touchpoints throughout the interior are well-crafted, creating a genuinely luxurious ambiance. Lexus is renowned for its interior design and build quality, and the UX 250h largely upholds this reputation.
The driving experience is also commendable in certain aspects. The steering is precise and responsive, contributing to a secure and competent feel on the road. While the run-flat tires limit its sporty cornering capabilities, the handling remains decent and predictable. For everyday commuting and city driving, the UX is easy to maneuver and operate. Despite its aggressive styling, it’s crucial to recognize that the 2022 Lexus UX 250h is not designed for sporty performance; instead, it prioritizes comfort and ease of driving for daily commutes.
The Downsides: Space, Performance, and Price Concerns
However, the advantages of the 2022 Lexus UX 250h are overshadowed by significant drawbacks, primarily related to its price, interior space, and performance. The as-tested price of $44,115 raises serious questions about its overall value proposition.
Despite its overall length of 177 inches, the UX 250h suffers from a severe lack of interior space, particularly in the rear. Rear legroom is cramped, especially for taller adults. The short 103.9-inch wheelbase, even shorter than a Toyota Corolla’s, combined with its low 60-inch height, contributes to a claustrophobic feeling in the back. While suitable for children or small pets, the rear seats are not comfortable for adult passengers on longer journeys. Similarly, the cargo space is limited, making it less practical for larger items or family trips. Prospective buyers should carefully consider their needs for passenger and cargo space before opting for the UX 250h.
Performance is another area where the UX 250h falls short. The hybrid powertrain produces a modest 181 horsepower, which is insufficient for a vehicle weighing 3,600 pounds. Acceleration is slow, with a 0-60 MPH time of around nine seconds. Furthermore, the engine noise under hard acceleration is unrefined, exacerbated by the continuously variable transmission (CVT) that tends to hold the engine at high RPMs, creating a droning sound. This powertrain performance and noise detract from the expected luxury experience. The absence of a smoother and more powerful powertrain option is a notable weakness, especially in the luxury segment where refinement is paramount.
Adding to the usability concerns is the Lexus touchpad interface. While Lexus has started to phase this out in newer models like the NX, the 2022 UX 250h still features this system, which many users find cumbersome and distracting to operate while driving. The user experience (UX), ironically in a vehicle named UX, is far from ideal.
Verdict: Hard to Justify the Price
In conclusion, the 2022 Lexus UX 250h presents a mixed bag. If priced significantly lower, perhaps around $10,000 less, it could be considered a compelling option for those seeking a fuel-efficient and luxurious compact car. At its current price point, however, the compromises in interior space and performance are difficult to overlook. The UX 250h ends up being too small and underpowered for the asking price. Toyota’s own Venza hybrid, priced similarly, offers comparable fuel economy, a more spacious interior (being based on the larger RAV4), and similar levels of interior refinement. Even stepping up to a Lexus NX hybrid could be a more worthwhile investment.
2022 Lexus UX 250h Luxury
Price as-tested: $44,115
Pros: Excellent fuel economy
Cons: Cramped interior, sluggish performance, high price
Verdict: Too expensive and too small for what it offers.
Better Alternatives:
Consider these alternatives that offer better value or performance:
- Toyota Venza: Matches the UX 250h’s fuel economy with significantly more interior space and similar interior quality at the same price point.
- BMW X1: While slightly less fuel-efficient, the X1 offers superior driving dynamics, significantly better performance, and a more spacious interior in the compact luxury SUV segment.
- Mazda CX-30 Turbo Signature: For almost $10,000 less, the CX-30 Turbo Signature provides a more engaging driving experience, a higher-quality interior than expected at its price, and stronger performance, making the slightly lower MPG a worthwhile trade-off.
