The smallest, most affordable, and I dare say most appealing SUV in the luxury Lexus lineup is the UX, available only as a hybrid. Previously known as the UX 250h, for 2025 the compact SUV is more powerful, as evidenced by a new name, UX 300h. Output gets a good boost to 196 horsepower from the somewhat sedate 181 horsepower generated by the earlier version.
Fuel economy hasn’t been diminished by the power increase. The 2025 UX 300h with front-wheel drive has an EPA rating of 45 mpg city, 41 mpg highway, and 43 mpg combined. Even with all-wheel drive, ratings don’t fall below 40 mpg. Those numbers are 44/40/42 mpg. Closest competitors of the Lexus UX 300h don’t come anywhere near that impressive amount.
There are four UX trim levels: 300h, 300h Premium, 300h F Sport Design, and 300h F Sport Handling. Front-wheel drive is standard and AWD is available across the board.
Pricing starts at $38,640 including a $1,150 delivery, processing and handling fee (DPH).
My test vehicle, a UX 300h F Sport Handling model with AWD, weighed in at $47,525 plus $2,020 for five optional enhancements. They include a wireless phone charger, cold area package (windshield deicer), head-up display, premium paint and bi-tone paint.
As with any Lexus, the UX 300h cabin gets the luxury treatment. Top-quality materials are pieced together with precision, the design is clean and modern, and front seats excel in their ability to be comfortable and supportive. Unwanted noise is not allowed to intrude, and the ride is placid but interesting.
By definition in a small SUV, the back seat environment is not as accommodating as what the driver and front passenger enjoy. Based on seat-belt count, there’s seating for
three in back, but two adults is realistic. And the BMI for each adult will need to be in the healthy range. Legroom is adequate for short trips; headroom is generous.
For my tastes and purposes, the UX 300h is ideal. The cargo area is large enough to be perfect for my Tractor Supply runs to stock up on wild bird food. The floor is level with the rear bumper for easy slide-outs.
There’s a bonus lower level in the cargo area for more stowage, and concealment of valuable items.
Rear seats fold down easily and gently; none of the violent slamming typical of most manually operated SUV seats. The seats lift back up just as easily and gently. Cargo space created with rear seats folded is tall, wide and unencumbered.
Driving characteristics of the 2025 UX 300h are a main attraction. Acceleration isn’t head-snapping, but the average intelligent driver on public roads likes to avoid whiplash. Great maneuverability in tight spaces, one of my top priorities for getting along well with any vehicle, is a hallmark of the UX 300h.
This SUV’s compact size enables sportiness. The F Sport Handling trim’s active variable suspension will abet an enthusiast’s temptation to get down.
2025 LEXUS UX 300h F SPORT HANDLING AWD
Base price, including destination charge: $47,525
Price as driven: $48,395
Mary Lowry is a member of the Motor Press Guild and a member and past president of the Northwest Automotive Press Association. She lives in Snohomish County. Vehicles are provided by automotive manufacturers as a one-week loan for evaluation purposes only. Manufacturers do not control content of the reviews.
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