2022 Lexus UX Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

Feel the power and sophistication of the 2022 Lexus UX- an agile, luxuriously equipped crossover SUV. Its Hybrid Drive system combines with AWD for renowned fuel economy on any given terrain or urban environment; perfect for families seeking to stay one step ahead in their day-to-day journeys. Furthermore, take advantage of intuitively designed technology like a 10.3" monitor featuring advanced multimedia applications – all accessible through Lexus Enform Multimedia System.

What's New for 2022?

The 2022 Lexus UX is here, featuring a completely redesigned exterior with new colors Cloudburst Gray and Grecian Blue. Stepping into its interior reveals an improved electric tilt-and-telescoping steering system for better ergonomics - up to 1.6 inches of motion available! You can also experience the Hybrid Drive's innovative Predictive Eco Drive Control that offers enhanced efficiency and performance like never before.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2022 Lexus UX – The Pros

1. Amazing Efficiency

Generating up to 181 net horsepower, the Lexus Hybrid Drive is installed on the 2022 Lexus UX models carrying the 250h badge. This efficient hybrid system incorporates a high-output electric motor and 2.0-L gasoline engine. Running on an all-wheel drive (AWD) system, the hybrid models offer a class-leading fuel economy of up to 41 mpg in the city. Such an incredible EPA fuel economy is possible with assistance from the VVT-iE and VVT-i technologies in the 16-valve DOHC valvetrain. Activated manually by the driver, the fuel-conserving EV Mode delivers an all-electric drive for short distances.

2. Nimble and Agile Handling

As a small crossover SUV that's tuned for the city, the 2022 Lexus UX appropriately offers a turning radius of only 17.1 feet. Eliminating the need for three-point turns, such a class-leading specification gives urban drivers more confidence and convenience for navigating narrow streets. An electronic power steering (EPS) system delivers additional leverage for making sharp turns and other sporty maneuvers on the road. Composed of a steel-welded unibody with aluminum doors, this small Lexus model registers a curb weight of only 3,307 pounds. Having a 0.33 coefficient of drag, this sporty car smoothly accelerates to a top track speed of up to 118 mph.

3. Custom Driving Settings

Creating up to 10 gear combinations, a continuously variable transmission (CVT) system propels the 2022 Lexus UX. Conveniently mounted on the driver's side dashboard, the ergonomic Drive Mode Select dial optimizes the shifting points in the signature Direct-Shift gearbox. Increasing the throttle output, the Sport Mode certainly tests the limits of this lightweight crossover SUV. This custom driving mode also changes the lighting effects in the instrument cluster. Other options from the Drive Mode Select interface include the ECO Mode and Normal Mode.

4. Intuitive Controls

Positioned just below the driver's side armrest, a unique control unit adjusts the settings of the audio system. Centrally located on the center console, the highly sensitive Remote Touchpad responds to a wide range of hand gestures and movements. This flat surface is surrounded by multiple hard keys that control the multimedia system. Seamlessly integrated into the sleek dashboard, the climate control buttons don't disrupt the overall interior design. Steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters and the engine push-button start are some other driver-centric installations inside the sporty cockpit.

5. Advanced Visual Technologies

Installed on the 2022 UX, the standard Lexus Multimedia System includes a 7.0-inch LCD monitor. This entry-level infotainment console is available with an optional 10.3-inch LCD touch screen. Likewise, all trims include the default 7.0-inch multi-information display with bright and clear graphics. An 8.0-inch multi-information display is exclusively installed inside the 250h F Sport edition. Projecting readings from the tachometer, speedometer, audio system and other electronic systems, a color head-up display is available for this subcompact Lexus crossover SUV.

6. Helpful Digital Applications and Services

Optional on the 2022 UX, the Lexus Enform Dynamic Navigation System includes cloud-based maps and other intelligent guidance. When properly imported from a connected iPhone, the Waze application provides accurate traffic information on the multimedia touch screen. This upscale family car is compatible with the Lexus Enform Remote, which may be managed through Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. Some of the remote services may be activated on the Lexus app, which works smoothly with smartphones and smartwatches. All trims also come with a 90-day trial subscription to a 4-GB data plan for the Lexus Enform Wi-Fi network.

7. Convenient Liftgate

The 2022 Lexus UX's Power Rear Door may be opened in several convenient ways. By moving the feet under the Kick Sensor, a person will activate the hands-free opening of the highly responsive liftgate. A dedicated button on the lid also opens the Power Rear Door to an appropriate position. Using a traditional key fob, the driver could remotely unlock and open the liftgate. When inside the cabin, the driver may open the Power Rear Door with the push of a button near the steering wheel.

8. Alluring Exterior

Some of the most dazzling paint colors that are available on the 2022 Lexus UX include Redline, Cadmium Orange, Nori Green Pearl and Grecian Water. Urban consumers seeking a more refined and sophisticated finish could choose Obsidian Black, Caviar or Atomic Silver. This lavish crossover SUV is fitted with 18-inch, five-spoke alloy wheels with the Dark Grey paint. Aluminum roof rails and color-keyed overfenders augment the vehicle's sporty look. Additionally, this athletic Lexus model offers the Triple-Beam LED headlamps and continuous LED taillamps for dramatic styling.

9. Rich Interior Design

The 2022 UX's patented NuLuxe trimming is available in Glazed Caramel, Birch, Lapis and black. Providing several advantages over conventional leather, this perforated synthetic material comes in the stunning Circuit Red color on the F Sport trims. Featuring a sliding bezel, performance-inspired instrument panels are installed inside these cool models. The floating-style dashboard is available in the unique Washi theme, which draws heavy inspirations from Japanese design. Illuminated by LED lights, ergonomic knobs control the positions of the air vents inside this premium family vehicle.

10. Accident-Prevention Technologies

The signature Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 suite manages six standard safety technologies on the 2022 UX. Forecasting a potential crash, the Pre-Collision System might turn on the Active Braking. Sensing a sudden change in traffic flow, the All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control adjusts the accelerator and brake pedal accordingly. Anticipating potential conflicts with other vehicles in neighboring lanes, the Lane Tracing Assist and Steering Assist provide a helping hand for the driver. This agile Lexus crossover SUV also offers the Intuitive Parking Assist with Auto Braking for accurate maneuvering in parallel and perpendicular orientations.

Reasons Not to Buy a 2022 Lexus UX – The Cons

1. Limited Headroom

When sold with a moonroof, the 2022 UX 200 base model offers only 35.7 inches of headroom in the front row. Without this accessory, this entry-level edition offers up to 37.3 inches of headroom. Not available with a moonroof, the Luxury trims only have 35.7 inches of headroom in the first row. All models provide a maximum of 36.3 inches of legroom for the rear passengers.

2. Slow Acceleration

When powered by the standard 2.0-liter engine, the 2022 UX goes from 0 to 60 mph in 8.9 seconds. Delivering its peak torque on a relatively high tachometer reading, the I-4 gas powertrain isn't engineered for explosive performance. The more powerful Lexus Hybrid Drive reduces the acceleration time to 8.6 seconds. Such a minor improvement may be attributed to the electric motor, which quickly delivers maximum torque to the all-wheel drive. When merging on highway ramps or passing other cars on the freeway, Lexus UX drivers might be frustrated by such disappointing performance.

3. Rough Ride Quality

The 2022 Lexus UX takes noticeable beatings from rough roads and other poorly maintained pavement. Conventional coil springs and shock absorbers don't fully dissipate the vibrations from the ground. Similarly, the F Sport-tuned suspension system mainly improves lateral stability instead of vertical travel on the road. The steel-welded unibody construction is relatively rigid and stiff, contributing to an unpleasant ride in harsh driving conditions.

 

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

2022 Lexus UX vs 2022 Buick Envision Avenir

Built by General Motors, the 2022 Buick Envision Avenir competes well against the Japanese-designed 2022 Lexus UX. This small Buick crossover SUV runs on the 2.0-L ECOTEC engine block, which whips out 228 hp. Creating nine gear sequences, the Envision Avenir's standard automatic transmission is less dynamic than the UX's 10-speed CVT system. Measuring 10.2 inches wide, the Buick's generic navigation system isn't as advanced as the Lexus Enform Dynamic Navigation. Additionally, the Buick Connected Access doesn't have as many applications and services as the entire Lexus Enform suite.

2022 Lexus UX vs 2022 Cadillac XT4

This year, the luxury crossover SUV market certainly has some beefy contenders. The 2022 Lexus UX offers drivers a larger touch screen display coupled with 39 mpg of combined fuel efficiency while its rival from General Motors' umbrella - the Cadillac XT4 - provides an unmistakably sophisticated design and tops out at 30 mpg on the highway. Both models have advanced interfaces for user enjoyability so it's ultimately up to you which one is right for your adventures in style.

2022 Lexus UX vs 2022 Genesis GV70

With the new 2022 models, luxury car shoppers have one more exciting option to consider. The Lexus UX and Genesis GV70 are two of the highly anticipated crossovers on the market this year. Both cars boast impressive specs - a 300-horsepower engine for the GV70 and an efficient 37 mpg highway rating with its standard powertrain for the UX. Going further into detail reveals minor differences like transmission gear ratios; 10 speeds from a CVT system in comparison to 8 from an automatic as seen in their respective vehicles. Whichever model you choose will be sure to deliver quality results.

Conclusion

Combining premium luxury and urban agility, the 2022 Lexus UX is an ideal choice for city drivers. With its innovative Hybrid Drive system featuring customizable settings such as Eco Mode and several others through the signature Drive Mode Select, this subcompact crossover SUV offers impressive fuel efficiency to get you where you need to be quickly while keeping costs down. An advanced suite of safety features including 10 airbags ensures families have peace-of-mind on any commute around town.