You’ll have to wait until December to buy one, though
Following its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show, the all-new Lexus UX compact luxury crossover makes an entry into North America at the New York Auto Show. The smallest Lexus crossover brings efficient new powertrains, new features, and a bold design to the table, targeting "urban explorers" in their 30s.
The UX is 177-in (4,496-mm) long and has a 103.9-in (2,639-mm) wheelbase, allowing for "ample passenger space" and a best-in-class 17.1-ft (5,212-mm) turning radius that may come in handy in crowded cities.
As with the Euro-spec model, the 2019 Lexus UX for North America offers two powertrains. The front-wheel-drive UX 200 is powered by a new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine mated to a new Direct-Shift continuously variable transmission (CVT), while the UX 250h combines an Atkinson Cycle version of the same gasoline engine with a new fourth-generation hybrid drive system and optional eAWD.
The UX 200 delivers 168 hp and 151 lb-ft (205 Nm) of torque, and when mated to the Direct Shift-CVT it returns an estimated 33 mpg (7.1 l/100 km) in combined driving. The UX 250h has a system power of 176 hp and an estimated fuel economy of 38 mpg (6.2 l/100 km). The UX 250h can be had either with front-wheel-drive or with eAWD thanks to an electric motor added to the rear axle.
The hybrid UX is the first Lexus to offer Predictive Efficient Drive, a system that analyzes driving habits as well as road and traffic conditions to optimize charging and discharging of the hybrid battery.
The Lexus UX also marks the first use of the new GA-C (Global Architecture – Compact) platform that's said to feature a super-rigid structure and low center of gravity for "precise handling and exemplary ride comfort."
Standard features include Amazon Alexa integration, Apple CarPlay compatibility, and the Lexus Safety System+ pack.
Lexus will start production of the UX 200 and UX 250h this fall, with sales beginning in December 2018. For the first time in the history of the company, customers will be able to access subscription services in addition to the usual purchase and lease options.
READ MORE: For added space and practicality, check out the 2018 Lexus RX L