While it was limited to 300 kilometres, Lexus’ first electric model, the Lexus UX 300e, is a brand new version with a larger battery. As a result, its range has jumped dramatically!
While Lexus has always favoured hybridization over 100% electric, the Japanese firm is gradually reviewing its strategy. Indeed, like all manufacturers, it will also have to comply with the European Union’s decision to ban the sale of combustion engine cars from 2035.
2023 Lexus UX 300e: A CLEAR IMPROVEMENT
In 2020, the brand launched its first 100% electric model, the UX 300e. This is not a full-fledged model but a hybrid version of an existing car. We had to wait for the new Lexus RZ 450e, prefigured by the Lexus LF-Z Electrified concept and officially unveiled last April, to see the first electric model based on a dedicated platform in the Lexus range.
Launched in a hurry, the UX 300e was only offered in one version, with 204 horsepower and a 54.3 kWh battery that only offers 313 kilometres of WLTP range.
But now Lexus has decided to correct the situation by finally offering a new, more durable version of its compact SUV, as detailed in its official press release. This time around, the star of the lineup gets a brand new 72.8 kWh battery, allowing it to travel up to 450 kilometres on a single charge, a 40 per cent increase in range.
The engine remains unchanged at 300 Nm, as does charging, which is still limited to 50 kW (only!) in direct current via a CHAdeMO connector. This translates into 50 minutes to go from 10 to 80 per cent.
2023 Lexus UX 300e: SOME ADDITIONAL OPTIMIZATIONS
The Lexus UX 300e also takes the opportunity to upgrade its technology, including the arrival of a new 8- to 12.3-inch touchscreen, depending on trim level, which hosts Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, as well as online mapping via the cloud, which comes standard. The infotainment system can now be controlled via the “Hey Lexus” voice assistant.
Also of note, the Lexus Link app can now be used to lock and unlock the car remotely and adjust the air conditioning and heating before getting into the vehicle.
READ MORE: 2023 Lexus RX review: Hybrid & Turbo Luxury SUV
2023 Lexus UX 300e: SAFETY
New safety systems, such as intersection assistance and active lane departure warning, have also been added. The dynamic radar cruise control can now regulate speed in curves automatically. Finally, the body rigidity has been improved while the electric power steering and shock absorbers have been modified to make the driving experience more dynamic.
2023 Lexus UX 300e: PRICE AND FIRST DELIVERIES
The price of this new Lexus UX300e with an improved range has not yet been announced, but the brand says that the first deliveries will start in spring 2023.