Lexus has given the compact UX 300e electric crossover a major boost in range, thanks to a much bigger battery.
The previous 54.4kWh battery has been replaced by a much larger 72.8kWh unit, which raises the UX 300e's range to 450km - that's a 40 per cent increase. The bigger battery also helps to lower the centre of gravity somewhat (although Lexus doesn't mention what the weight penalty is) and the rear suspension has been given new dampers. The body has been stiffened thanks to 20 extra spot-welds.
Leading light in 'Lexus Electrified'
"As Lexus' first BEV model and a core part of the UX family, the UX 300e embraces the continual performance development and evolution of advanced technology applied to the UX 200/250h announced earlier this year, while enhancing the attributes unique to an all-electric vehicle. Most notably, based on an "Always On" philosophy we significantly extended the cruising range to further enrich the lifestyles of our customers. As a leading light for 'Lexus Electrified,' the refinement of UX 300e is a key step on the path towards a carbon-neutral society" said Mitsuteru Emoto, Lexus' international chief engineer.
CHADEMO rapid charging
Lexus quotes a 16.7kWh/100km average energy consumption for the revised UX 300e, and the single electric motor remains rated at 204hp and 300Nm. The UX 300e also continues with CHADEMO rapid charging, meaning it can use 50kW DC public fast charging.
Lexus has also boosted the UX 300e's safety credentials, adding an improved forward-facing camera and radar that can detect cyclists in the daytime and pedestrians in both day and night conditions. It can also monitor across junctions to prevent you turning into the path of an oncoming vehicle, while the steering has an emergency support setting, which helps you swerve away from danger.
New touchscreen
The radar-guided cruise control now also has a curve speed control system that slows you down for corners, while the lane-keeping steering gently slows the car down if it gives you warnings to take control and you ignore them.
The UX 300e now also comes with a digital smartphone key, a panoramic surround-view parking camera setup and a new 12.3-inch infotainment screen that gets the latest Lexus software, shared with the NX and the new RX.
Lexus Ireland confirmed that it will be in a position to announce Irish pricing and specifications of the updated UX 300e in March 2023, ahead of first deliveries in May.