The Lexus UX hasn’t always been a vehicle showered with praise, particularly by enthusiasts seeking sporty dynamics or those balking at its initial price point. Past iterations, especially the F-Sport models, seemed to miss the mark with a confusing price tag and a lack of genuine sporting credentials. Coupled with the notoriously frustrating trackpad interface, recommending the UX felt like a stretch, especially considering its compact size and somewhat mundane driving experience. However, the 2024 model year introduces a shift, particularly with the Premium trim level of the Lexus UX 250h. This version, surprisingly more affordable than previous trims, starts to carve out a niche where it genuinely makes sense.
Alt text: Front quarter view of a 2024 Lexus UX 250h Premium in silver, showcasing its updated design and premium appeal.
The changes for the 2024 Lexus UX 250h are not extensive, but they are impactful. The most significant improvement is the complete removal of the much-maligned mousepad interface, replaced by a user-friendly touchscreen. This transformation from arguably the worst infotainment control system to one of the easiest to use is a remarkable achievement by Lexus. While the screen itself may not boast flashy graphics and can appear somewhat basic in its color scheme, its simplicity and ease of operation are paramount. This addresses a primary point of criticism across various recent Lexus models, making interaction significantly less distracting and safer while driving. No more navigating menus while trying to stay on the road!
Alt text: Side profile of the 2024 Lexus UX 250h highlighting its compact SUV dimensions and sleek lines.
Previously, a 2023 UX F-Sport model carried an astonishing price tag of $47,440, a figure that seemed detached from reality for what you were getting. The term “Premium” attached to this 2024 Lexus UX 250h might initially raise eyebrows, but this Premium trim is actually more accessible, priced at $41,645. This substantial price reduction is noteworthy. After spending a week with this Premium version, the question arises: where exactly did that extra six thousand dollars go in the F-Sport model, besides a purely cosmetic body kit? The Premium trim starts to make the Lexus UX 250h a far more compelling proposition.
Stepping inside the UX 250h Premium, the interior lives up to its name, offering a genuinely premium feel, especially when considering similarly priced vehicles like the larger Toyota RAV4. While the seat material is likely imitation leather, it’s of such high quality that it convincingly mimics genuine leather, likely to fool most occupants. The steering wheel, however, is indeed wrapped in leather and feels excellent to the touch. The door panels are perhaps the least impressive element, appearing somewhat basic and plain, a minor drawback in an otherwise well-appointed cabin, but unlikely to be a major concern for most buyers. One minor observation is that the cabin could be slightly quieter at highway speeds, with a touch more road and wind noise than typically expected in a luxury vehicle.
Alt text: Interior shot of the 2024 Lexus UX 250h Premium showcasing the dashboard, touchscreen, and premium materials used in the cabin.
A potential concern for some will be the interior space. Front seat occupants will find ample comfort and space, feeling comfortably snug rather than cramped. However, the Lexus UX 250h shares its platform and wheelbase with the Toyota C-HR, which at 103.9 inches, is even shorter than a Corolla. Consequently, rear legroom is not generous. Longer journeys with rear passengers might require understanding friends. Cargo space is even more limited, with a shallow depth and a high floor further restricted by the sloping rear roofline. The UX 250h is not a spacious vehicle, feeling smaller inside than its 177-inch overall length suggests. A RAV4, only slightly longer, offers significantly more cargo and passenger volume.
On the positive side, the fuel economy of the Lexus UX 250h is exceptional. The 181-horsepower hybrid system prioritizes efficiency over outright speed, resulting in a leisurely 8.5-second 0-60 MPH time. However, the payoff is an impressive average fuel economy of around 37 MPG in mixed driving conditions. This fuel efficiency is a major selling point. Conversely, it’s one of the slower vehicles in its price bracket, though Lexus anticipates that its target demographic is unlikely to prioritize rapid acceleration. The four-cylinder engine, while efficient, becomes less refined when pushed hard, producing a less-than-luxurious engine note. Under brisk acceleration, this front-wheel-drive model also exhibits a degree of torque steer, a slight tug on the steering wheel as power is applied and weight shifts.
Alt text: Rear seats of the 2024 Lexus UX 250h Premium, illustrating the legroom and seat design in the compact crossover.
Drivers seeking engaging dynamics will find better options elsewhere. While the Lexus UX 250h feels secure and composed on most roads, with controlled and compliant suspension, the steering is devoid of feedback, and the chassis exhibits a lack of enthusiasm for cornering. Alternatives like the BMW X1 or Mazda CX-30 offer significantly quicker acceleration and more engaging driving experiences. However, the typical Lexus or Toyota buyer will likely find the UX 250h‘s driving characteristics familiar and agreeable. Notably, the Premium trim drives indistinguishably from the supposedly sportier F-Sport version, further highlighting the questionable value of the latter.
Returning to the price, at $41,645, the 2024 Lexus UX 250h Premium starts to make considerable sense as a compact luxury vehicle positioned at the lower end of the luxury spectrum. For buyers who prioritize a smaller footprint but still desire comfort, luxury features, and excellent fuel economy, the UX 250h delivers. At the previously tested F-Sport price of $47,440, the size compromises were harder to justify, especially when considering the superior and larger Lexus NX hybrid which overlaps in price. However, in this lower price bracket, the Lexus UX 250h Premium is a pleasant, well-equipped compact crossover that could perfectly suit a specific niche of buyers. While personally, a more engaging and slightly less expensive option like the Mazda CX-30 Turbo is more appealing, for those prioritizing fuel efficiency and Lexus refinement in a small package, the UX 250h is now a genuinely viable option.
2024 Lexus UX 250h Premium
Price as-tested: $41,645
Pros: Great fuel economy; Compact and easy to maneuver
Cons: Limited cargo and rear passenger space; Uninspiring driving dynamics
Alt text: Rear exterior view of a 2024 Lexus UX 250h, showcasing its taillights, rear design, and compact SUV form factor.
Alt text: Cargo area of the 2024 Lexus UX 250h, illustrating the limited space and shallow depth of the trunk.
Alt text: Front interior of the 2024 Lexus UX 250h, highlighting the dashboard layout, steering wheel, and overall cabin design.
