Nitish S. Rele takes the purpose-built 2025 Lexus UX Hybrid for a spin and breaks it down by the numbers.
If you’ve been looking for the modern urban explorer, you might want to check out the overhauled-for-2025 UX 300h (which replaces the previous 250h), the smallest SUV in the Lexus lineup.
This city-focused vehicle, part of the rapidly growing compact SUV segment, is powered by a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated 4-cylinder engine that produces 196 hp at 6000 rpm and 139 lb-ft of torque at 4400 rpm.
The front-wheel-drive model is paired with a continuously variable transmission. Suspension is handled by a MacPherson strut front and trailing-arm multilink rear setup, designed to smooth out road imperfections. The rack-and-pinion steering with electric power assist is quick, accurate and well-balanced.
It goes from 0 to 60 mph in about eight seconds, with eco, sport, sport+ and normal drive modes available. A 34.2-foot turning circle helps with maneuverability in tight spaces and sharp curves, and making a U-turn is a breeze.
The UX300h employs a gas engine, two electric motors and a 220-volt lithium-ion battery. At higher speeds, the gasoline engine takes the lead, while regenerative braking captures energy during deceleration to help recharge the battery.
Specifications
Tires: 225/50RF18
Wheelbase: 103.9 inches
Length: 177 inches
Width: 72.4 inches
Height: 60.6 inches
Fuel capacity: 10.6 gallons
Mileage: 45 city/51 highway
Weight: 3,455 pounds
Standard bi-LED headlights and daytime running lights flank a massive black mesh spindle grille with chrome accents to give the UX a muscular stance. Attention to detail is apparent in the cabin, with its robust three-spoke steering wheel, which turns effortlessly.
Tech-driven aficionados will appreciate the 10 speakers, four USB ports, 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless phone charger, Amazon Alexa and Apple CarPlay integration. Passenger volume is at 88.5 and trunk space at 17.1 cubic feet, which is just OK for a compact SUV.
Notable safety features include blind spot and rear cross-traffic alerts, parking assist, and the Lexus Safety Sense 3.0 suite with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steer assist, adaptive cruise control and smart beam headlamps.
This Urban + X-over is efficient (43 mpg combined) and well-equipped, with the only drawback being a somewhat tight rear seat. With improved horsepower and thoughtful updates, the 2025 UX300h remains a solid and enjoyable option—backed, of course, by Lexus’ strong reputation for reliability and durability.
Nitish S. Rele, the editor/publisher of Motoring Tampa Bay and Khaas Baat, can be reached at motoringtampabay@gmail.com
