Lexus UX 300e is the first battery-electric vehicle from the Lexus. Does it meet expectations? We answer many of these questions in this detailed car review. Our experts have evaluated this Lexus model regarding its charging time efficiency, the overall drive experience and performance.
The Final Verdict
The Lexus UX 300e offers a powerful and luxurious driving experience, living up to Lexus' high standards. Despite initial reservations about its battery, the impressive performance and solid build quality make it great value for money. The beautifully designed interior, with its user-friendly infotainment system, is perfect for families and long road trips.
Overall, the UX 300e is an excellent choice for a luxury electric SUV.
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A Quick Overview
The Lexus UX 300e comes with the following features.
0-62 in 7.5 seconds
Acceleration
Top Speed
99 mph
Range
279 miles
Charging
0-80%
80 minutes
Touch Screen
12.3 inch
(top spec)
About the Lexus UX 300e 2024
The Lexus UX 300e - the UX stands for Urban Explorer - was first launched in 2019, just after the launch of its hybrid variant earlier that year. The vehicle got its first major update in the spring of last year.
The 2023 model got some significant updates.
The first is an improved driving range. The earlier Lexus E had an electric range of 196 - 200, which was improved to 279. This update made the vehicle an attractive choice and a strong contender in the luxury SUV segment.
Other updates are primarily focused on enhancing the driving experience, particularly in terms of handling and responsiveness. Adjustments are made to the suspension, body rigidity, steering, and shock absorbers, resulting in a more agile and responsive performance. These tweaks significantly improves the vehicle's overall driving dynamics, making it a more compelling choice for luxury SUV enthusiasts.
There are also changes in the interior. The top-of-the-line variant (Takumi Pack) gets a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, which improves the vehicle's usability and gives it a modern look and feel.
What is the 2025 Lexus UX 300h?
The 2025 Lexus UX 300h is a new entrant in the market. Currently, the UX 300 is only available with a hybrid powertrain. Its powertrain consists of a 2.0-litre inline-four gasoline engine and electric motors that combine for 196 horsepower.
There is no update for the electric variant yet.
What Does the Lexus UX 300e Contain?
The Available Colour Options
Lexus has always been strong with colours; its unique colour offering represents the luxury that the brand stands for. The UX 300e comes in three different colour types: Solid, Metallic and Special Metallic (our favourite).The solid colour type comes in velvet black and Fuji red colour options. These colours have an on-the-road price of £0.
The metallic type comes in mercury grey, satin silver, graphite black terrane khaki and celestial blue with the on-the-road price of £570.
The special metallic colour options come in three mesmerising colours: Sonic White, Sonic Titanium, and Blazing Carnelian. These colour options have an on-road price of £820.
Lexus Additional Services
To get the most out of your electric vehicle, Lexus offers a range of service plans that ensure the vehicle is maintained to high standards. Their service plan also offers an annual EV battery health check, which extends the EV battery warranty.
To support fast charging at your home, Lexus also offers a national installation service collaboration with Centrica British Gas.
The Multimedia System
The multimedia system has significantly improved compared to the earlier model. Previously controlled by a mousepad on the central console, it was considered outdated and difficult to use. Now, it features a more user-friendly touchscreen interface.
It still lags behind the advanced systems of competitors like the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Audi Q4 e-Tron. Despite this, the touchscreen brightness and responsiveness are impressive.
Our experts found that Android Auto and Apple CarPlay work flawlessly, with no frequent issues. This reliability is expected in an electric vehicle of this class. The interface and navigation are up to standard, with a pixel-perfect display and effective Siri integration.
The Lexus multimedia system delivers a rock-solid and dependable performance. Its user-friendly interface and outstanding visual quality make for an enjoyable experience. The screen size, though improved, retains a traditional hybrid aesthetic rather than the sleek, modern vibe associated with the latest electric vehicle designs.
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Lexus as a BEV - What Sets it Apart?
The Driving Experience
The smooth and comfortable driving experience that Lexus is known for in its hybrid and ICE vehicles is also present in this electric vehicle.
The UX 300e is powered by a 150kW electric motor that delivers 204 DIN hp and 300 Nm of torque, providing smooth and instant acceleration.
The driving experience is up to the standard due to Lexus's refinement, build quality and excellent balance handling.
Also, the Lexus is built on a Lexus GA-C global architecture platform, which results in a sharper response and enhances the overall driving experience. This quality of the Lexus puts it in the category of top electric vehicles like the Audi q4 e Tron, BMW i3 and BMW X1.
The Quality and Efficiency
The quality and efficiency of the Lexus UX 300e stand out. The build quality is supreme — just like what Lexus is known for. The interior of the UX 300e is crafted with high-quality materials, including premium fabric and smooth leather upholstery.
The vehicle is known for its attention to detail. From the dashboard to the seat stitching, everything reflects a high standard of craftsmanship.
The Battery and the Range
The vehicle is equipped with a lithium-ion battery pack with a capacity of 54.3 kWh, which is substantial for a midsize electric SUV. The improved 279 mile range makes it a strong contender. Competitors like the Audi Q4 e-Tron offer a range of 302 - 329 miles. The range is less, but if you compare it as a whole package, the vehicle does compete strongly
The total capacity of the battery is 72.8 kWh. It has been improved and is now much more suitable for long-distance travel due to its extended driving range. Also, the extended battery gives it a consistent power output, which gives the vehicle more consistent power and enhances its performance, particularly in terms of acceleration and sustained high-speed driving.
The Charging
The improved battery capacity does make the vehicle a competitive choice in the EV market. It can be charged using a standard home wall box, which takes about 8 hours to charge from 0 to 100% using a 6.6 kW charger. It also supports fast charging and uses a CHAdeMO connector. The fast charging time from 10% to 80% is approximately just 52 minutes.
This vehicle undoubtedly shines in the areas of luxury, impeccable craftsmanship, and an unparalleled driving experience. While its charging capabilities lean towards a traditional approach, utilizing the tried-and-true CHAdeMO connector and a maximum charging speed of 50 kW, it caters to a segment of drivers who prioritise familiarity and reliability.
Competitors like Tesla Model Y, Hyundai Kona Electric, and Kia e-Niro use CCS plug for fast charging to meet the ever-evolving demands of the modern electric vehicle enthusiast.
The vehicles 279-mile range, and its charging speed is uncompromised in any instance, providing an adequate driving experience. Recently, we had the opportunity to interview Dr. Colin Herron, a renowned electric vehicle expert and a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) from the University of Newcastle. He shared his insights on range anxiety, a common concern among electric vehicle owners.
Lexus UX300e Exterior
Just like the hybrid variant, the Lexus exterior is modern and stylish. The spindle grille gives it a bold and distinctive front look. The sleek, triple-beam LED headlights are visible and sophisticated. The DRLs also integrate the headlight into signs and ads for hybrid vehicles.
To improve stability and handling, the UX 300e features a streamlined body with smooth curves and sharp lines, reducing drag. The aerodynamic shape also enhances performance and contributes to a quieter ride.
The UX 300e has a standard 17-inch alloy and an 18-inch optional. The wheel design complements the overall styling and adds to the vehicle's sporty character.
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Comparison with the Competitors
When compared with its competitors, the Lexus UX 300e offers a luxurious and distinctive design, which is what Lexus is known for. The Tesla Model Y, in comparison, has a more minimalist and futuristic design blended with innovative features like a panoramic glass roof.
The Hyundai Kona is a compact SUV that shares some similarities but has a unique electric-specific design and more vibrant col000our options. It also shares some similarities with the Kia e-Niro, but Niro has a more practical and versatile crossover design with aerodynamic efficiency.
Lexus UX 300e Interior
The Seating and the Comfort
As mentioned above, the vehicle is the epitome of luxury. The interior is crafted with high-quality materials, including smooth leather upholstery in higher trims, ensuring a premium feel throughout the cabin.
If you are impressed by only vertical and horizontal seat adjustment, these 8-way electrically adjustable front seats are something else. They allow for precise customisation and enhance comfort during long drives. They also have lumbar support, which allows you to adjust the support to the most comfortable position, ensuring optimal lower back comfort. The seats also come with heated and ventilated front seats.
This compact SUV offers a spacious interior with ample legroom and headroom for front and rear passengers. Its design focuses on maximising space and comfort for both front and rear passengers.
The high driving position does not affect its comfortability. The vehicle's overall ergonomic design ensures that the driver and front passenger remain comfortable regardless of the external temperature.
The Cargo Space Comparison
With the rear seats up, the vehicle offers around 367 litres of cargo space, sufficient for daily errands, groceries, and small luggage.
With the rear seats folded, the cargo capacity increases significantly, providing more room for larger items. The exact expanded volume is not always specified but typically doubles the standard capacity.
The UX 300e has practical features like a flat loading floor, a cargo cover, and underfloor storage, which help optimise the available space.
Compared with its competitors, it is not the highest in the class but adequate enough to meet the needs. The Tesla Model Y stands out for its extensive cargo space and additional front trunk.
The Difference Between the Hybrid Interior and the EV Interior
The interior of the Lexus UX hybrid and EV is the same, as both vehicles are almost the same inside and out.
One key difference is that the specific display and control are tailored to their respective powertrains. The UX 300e has a more electric-focused interface with settings for managing battery and energy use, while the hybrid has hybrid-specific displays and controls.
Also, the hybrid has better cargo space due to its compact battery setup. Besides these differences, both powertrains maintain a high standard of luxury and comfort—a trait for which Lexus is known.
Lexus UX Interior FAQs
The base variant includes premium fabric upholstery, which is standard on base models and offers a high-quality and comfortable seating experience.
The Premium Plus Pack features smooth leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated rear seats. The Takumi Pack offers superior leather and added comfort features, including a 360° panoramic view monitor, Head-Up Display (HUD), 10.3" Lexus Navigation, 13-speaker Mark Levinson® premium surround sound system, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, and a sunroof for extra luxury.
The interior has a range of safety features that provide comprehensive protection.
From multiple airbags and advanced seatbelt systems to child safety provisions and driver assistance technology, the UX 300e ensures high safety and peace of mind. This makes the UX 300e a secure and reliable choice for drivers and passengers.
Yes, the R line does come with heated seats. However, it's worth noting that the base model of Tiguan Life does not have this feature. Only the front seats are heated in the R line.
The Lexus UX 300 offers five standard and optional interior colour options that cater to different tastes and preferences.
The standard model only includes black and rich cream, the premium plus pack include two additional which are cobalt, ochre, the standards one black and rich cream are also available with premium leather upholstery. The White ash colour option is available with the Takumi Pack and provides a clean and modern look.
Performance
Like the other Lexus, the UX 300e is a peaceful and smooth car. Compared to its hybrid versions, it is quicker. Though it is not the most powerful in the EV market, it provides sufficient power and does not feel underpowered at all. The 201 horsepower (150kw) equipped front-mounted electric vehicle provides an overall comprehensive experience.
How good is the steering?
Like the other Lexus and quite typical among Electric vehicles, the steering wheel is very light, providing effortless manoeuvring. It is a delight to park, and it is definitely one of the best out there compared to the other electric SUVs in the market.
Light steering also makes it extremely effective as a city car. In stop-and-go traffic, like in cities with heavy traffic, the light steering and smooth driving experience remove fatigue and provide an overall tireless driving experience. The light steering and overall driving experience also prove vital for longer commutes or drivers with limited mobility.
How good is the visibility?
As typical with SUVs, the Lexus UX 300e provides a higher seating position, which results in better visibility over the bonnet and a commanding view of the road. It is not compact, so there is no compromise of comfortability with the high driving position. The large windshield, more than average compared to other SUVs, also provides better forward visibility. The dashboard is also low in design enhancing the clearer view.
Most SUVs' A-pillars create blind spots, but this is not the case with the Lexus UX 300e. They are designed to minimise the obstruction.
Rear visibility is a bit of a compromise, primarily due to the design of the rear window. In the higher trims, the panoramic view monitor provides a rear view around the car mitigating the risk of low rear visibility.
Advanced safety features such as blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert help mitigate the risks of rear-view visibility.
Regenerative Breaking
As with other EVs, the regenerative braking in the Lexus UX 300e recovers energy during deceleration. This reduces the need to use the brakes in slow-moving traffic and provides a smooth transition between regenerative and traditional braking, ensuring a comfortable drive.
However, it does not support one-pedal driving, where the car can come to a complete stop using regenerative braking alone. Competitors like the Audi Q4 e-Tron and BMW i4 offer this feature with their advanced systems. While the UX 300e doesn't include one-pedal driving, its regenerative braking system still contributes to an efficient and comfortable driving experience.
Driving on motorways
The 201 bhp electric motor, which is adequate for motorway driving, and its strong accelerations make it an ideal vehicle for motorway driving.
The overall comfort of the Lexus means you can drive for hours without feeling fatigued. The cabin environment and low engine noise all contribute to overall driving comfort. It is an absolute delight for motorways.
The range anxiety, one of the critical concerns for electric cars on motorways, is also reduced as the average 270-mile range proves to be adequate for longer journeys- it is not the best compared to competitors but it is sufficient.
The vehicle's suspension system adjusts to road conditions in real-time and offers superior comfort. It provides better ride quality and handling making it ideal for motorways.
Price
The Lexus UX 300e entry variant starts at £47,495, and the all-equipped electric Takumi pack costs £57,095. This price range puts the Lexus UX 300e into the premium mid-range to luxury category, which includes vehicles with very strong performance, advanced technology, superior build quality, and a reputable brand tag.
Is it complete value of money in this price range?
In this price range, the Lexus UX 300e directly competes with vehicles like the Tesla Model 3, Audi Q4 e-tron, and BMW i4, to name a few when it comes to comfort, build quality, overall driving experience, luxury interior, and technology,
The vehicle offers complete value for money and justifies its price. The brand tag is reputable; Lexus consistently ranks highly in reliability surveys and customer satisfaction studies.
The Lexus LBX, a small SUV in its category, has just won two European first major honours, named the Car of the Year and Small SUV of the Year 2024, indicating intense customer satisfaction with the Lexus brand.
The UX 300e provides a respectable range that is very practical for city driving. While the Tesla Model 3 averages a range of 310 miles, the Audi Q4 e-tron offers 302-329 miles, and the BMW i4 provides 320 miles, the UX 300e’s 270 miles is quite competitive. Thanks to its overall ride quality and comfort, it ensures a worry-free driving experience for everyday commutes and city travel.
Additionally, other vehicles in the same price range or even more expensive than the Lexus UX 300e offer less range.
For example, the Jaguar I-PACE and Mercedes-Benz EQC are notable mentions. This highlights the UX 300e as a well-rounded and efficient choice in its segment, exceptionally balancing luxury, technology, and practicality.
Save Big With Motorfinity
In this price range, the Lexus UX 300e does provide complete value for money.
With Motorfinity, as part of our eligible audience, you can save even more.
On a 300e 150kw 72.8 Kwh 5dr E-CVT, you can save an astonishing £14,654 and get your hands on this model for just £32,841.
Motorfinity and the Lexus UX300e
The Lexus UX300e is proving to be a popular choice with Motorfinity customers. It’s very impressive in its class and with equally impressive discount available through Motorfinity, it’s a great option for a family or simply those wanting more all-round space without compromising both performance and elegance.
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