Updated Lexus UX 300e comes with more range and better tech

The entire Lexus UX range is getting an update in Europe but it is the UX 300e that sees the biggest changes. The most important change is the new battery pack that offers up to 450 km (280 miles) of range according to WLTP and as long as the car is fitted with the standard 17-inch wheel and tire combo. Upgrading to 18-inch wheels results in a slightly lower, 440 km range.

Where does this difference come from? Lexus finally decided to up the capacity to 72.8 kWh - that’s a 40 percent increase over the previous 54.3 kWh battery pack. Interestingly enough, the electric motor remains the same at 150 kW or 204 HP and 300 Nm of torque.

Just as with the previous model, the top speed is restricted to 160 km/h (99 mph), the company hasn’t released acceleration times yet but the smaller battery model used to manage 0 to 100 km/h spring in 7.5 seconds, the new and slightly heavier version will most likely do it in around 8 seconds.

Lexus improved the handling as well with new power steering and improved shock absorbers which means the extra weight shouldn’t affect the driving in everyday conditions. The company improved the chassis as well and introduced more spot welding in order to stiffen the entire structure.

It is the interior that gets the most notable upgrade - the center screen grows to a decent 12 inches across and the driver gets a new, 8-inch display. The improvements go deeper than just the size of the screens, Lexus updated the interface as well and it should be much faster and smoother this time around. There are new and improved connectivity options and both Apple Play and Android Auto are supported.

Upholstery got a refresh as well, there are new colors available for the interior as well as for the exterior. The car is available in a range of new colors and even two tone paint options are on offer.

For the first time Lexus UX 300e will be available in F Sport Design trim. It will feature a front grille with L-motif pattern, black wheel arches, F Sport rear bumper plus a roof spoiler. The 18-inch F Sport wheels will come in a dark metallic finish for a complete look. The Adaptive Variable Suspension is standard now and the steering gets an upgraded cross-member rigid joint.

Lexus UX 300e is the most successful vehicle from the brand, its sales have gone up by more than 25 percent since last year and the company is trying to keep the car up to date before a replacement arrives in the next few years. While the hybrid model UX 250h and the gas-powered UX 200 go on sale immediately, the updated UX 300e will be available from the spring of 2023.

Source