Lexus UX: The Urban Warrior

4.3 / 5
Lexus UX
Comfort
8.5
Performance
7.0
Value
8.0
Reliabiliy
9.0
Author
Oliver Jenkins
December 23rd, 2022
When it comes to city commuting, the Lexus UX promises to be the perfect blend of luxury, efficiency, and practicality. As someone who has spent years pushing cars to their limits on the track, I was curious to see how this compact SUV would handle the daily grind of urban life. Would it live up to the Lexus name, or would it fall short in the hustle and bustle of city driving? Let's dive in and find out.

First Impressions

City Driving Dynamics

Now, let's talk about how the UX handles city driving. The compact size is a massive advantage in tight urban environments. Maneuvering through traffic is a breeze, and parking in tight spots is less of a headache. The steering is light but precise, making it easy to weave through congested streets.

The suspension is well-tuned for city roads, absorbing bumps and potholes with ease. It's not too soft to feel disconnected, nor too firm to be uncomfortable. Lexus has struck a good balance here, ensuring a smooth ride without compromising on handling.

Performance and Efficiency

Under the hood, the UX comes with a 2.0-liter inline-4 engine, producing 169 horsepower. While it won't set any speed records, it's more than adequate for city driving. The power delivery is smooth, and the CVT transmission does a good job of keeping the engine in its sweet spot.

One of the standout features of the UX is its fuel efficiency. With an EPA rating of 29 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway, it's one of the more economical choices in its class. This is a big win for those looking to save on fuel costs during their daily commutes.

Convenience and Practicality

When it comes to convenience, the UX has a lot to offer. The cargo space, while not the largest, is sufficient for most urban needs. The rear seats can be folded down to create more room when needed. The UX also comes with a host of driver-assist features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. These features make city driving less stressful and add an extra layer of safety.

Parking Challenges

Parking in the city can be a nightmare, but the UX makes it a bit easier. The compact dimensions mean you can fit into tighter spots, and the available parking sensors and rearview camera provide additional assistance. The optional 360-degree camera system is a game-changer, giving you a bird's-eye view of your surroundings and making parallel parking a breeze.

Conclusion

Overall, the Lexus UX is a solid choice for city commuters. It combines luxury, efficiency, and practicality in a compact package. While it may not have the raw performance of a sports car, it excels in areas that matter most for urban driving. If you're in the market for a stylish and efficient city commuter, the Lexus UX should definitely be on your shortlist.

Specifications

SpecificationValue
Engine2.0-liter inline-4
Horsepower169
Fuel typeGasoline
Mpg city29
Mpg highway37
TransmissionCVT
DrivetrainFWD
Cargo space21.7 cubic feet