Lexus UX 200 makes its way to Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR: The Lexus UX is now officially ready to take on the global stage and has made an entrance in the Malaysian markets. It’s time to lift off the covers and see what does it has in store for crossover fans. UX in itself stands for Urban Crossover, it marks one of the new clans of premium compact SUV’s, that looks more of a hatchback but is designed for an urban jungle voyage, for that matter. The premium compact SUV segment is currently dominated by the Mercedes-Benz GLA, BMW X1, Audi Q3, and Volvo XC40. Having said that, we assume Lexus Malaysia is the last one to introduce a car for this already dominated segment. Probably, it’s kind of saving the best for the last!

You can enjoy three variants of Lexus UX lineage, which includes the UX 200 Urban, UX 200 Luxury and the UX 200 F Sport. They all come with a new 4-cylinder Dynamic Force 2.0-litre engine, which is proclaimed to have a higher torque compared to a conventional engine. Equipped with D-4S direct injection, the engine can spark 169 hp at 6,600 rpm and 205 Nm at 4,800 rpm. Not only that, but it is also paired with a Direct-Shift CVT and has a launch gear of 10-speed virtual ratio function.

No matter which variant you go for, all models are capable of igniting from zero to 100 km/h in 9.2 seconds before reaching a top speed of 190 km/h.

Getting to the countenance of the UX, the exterior dons much of a muscular look, though the body is pretty much petite. The shoulder line is largely upswept and front and rear bumpers appear to be slightly bulgy. At the front, the trademark Lexus shafts the grille, which has a block-like design. The uniqueness of the front grille is perhaps it changes appearance depending on the angle we are looking at it. Belted with slim headlights, triple LED projectors and arrow-shaped Daytime Running Lights, the front fascia looks much boxier.

Prominently, the fog lights also feature the cornering function, which is interesting to note. The UX rides on dark grey 17-inch wheels with aerodynamic ventilation.

Going to the inside of UX, we see a wraparound dashboard design that is driver-centric. The upper layer of the dashboard seamlessly contours with the bonnet. Audio controls are placed at the front of armrest which is noticeably different than the usual remote touch interface for the infotainment system.

Lexus UX 200 comes with most of the pervasive features including keyless entry, push-button start, seven-inch displays for infotainment, dual-zone climate control, eight-way power-adjustable heated front seats, faux leather upholstery, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, six speakers, and a reverse camera. Rear cross-traffic alert is also available with blind spot monitoring.

The crossover is also quiet which is like a testimonial NVH muting, Lexus is known for. Implying that even at fast speeds you can still converse in your own quiet space. Seats are super comfortably designed even without adjusting much.

If you are willing to try the Lexus UX range, you just need to loosen your pockets with RM243,888 for the Urban model, followed by the Luxury at RM283,888 and the top-of-the-line F Sport at RM299,888.

Also Read: Lexus GX 460 concept revealed