Baby SUV to rival the likes of the BMW X1 with distinctive petrol-electric hybrid drivetrain.
Lexus, the upscale nameplate of Toyota, will debut the all-new UX at the Bangkok International Motor Show next week.
With prices kicking out at 2.49 million baht, the UX baby SUV takes part in a tough segment now consisting of the Audi Q3, BMW X1, Jaguar E-Pace, Mercedes-Benz GLA and Volvo XC40.
The variance chosen for Thailand is UX250h powered by 178hp 2.0-litre petrol-electric hybrid drivetrain to stand out in the premium compact SUV class. Transmission is via CVT automatic.
Apart from eight airbags, the UX features an array of driver-assist technologies to put itself ahead of the bigger-selling X1 and GLA. The XC40 is also filled with features and, like the X1, is available with either petrol or diesel power.
As Lexus needs to import the UX250h from Japan in completely built-up form, prices are mostly higher than its competitors despite a tax-beating hybrid.
The UX250h goes for 2.49 million baht in Luxury trim and an additional 200k for Grand Luxury, both being front-wheel drive. The range-topping version costs 3.69 million baht and boasts the racy F Sport look and all-wheel drive.
The UX shares the same basic platform as the Toyota C-HR but has a bigger and more powerful combustion engine. Like in other Lexuses and Toyotas, the UX’s battery is of the nickel metal-hydride type.
