2025 Lexus UX Hybrid Review: Is the Price Increase Justified?

The 2025 Lexus UX Hybrid boasts a new lithium-ion battery, modern infotainment system, and up to 44 mpg. However, it faces high prices for top trims and a compact cabin.

Pros

Fresh, modern lithium-ion powertrain
Snappy infotainment system
Up to 44 mpg

Cons

High price for top trims
Small cabin
Tight driving position

The 2025 Lexus UX300h name might not be familiar because this version of the UX subcompact crossover is brand new. The 300h replaces the 250h, marking the first Lexus model powered by the automaker’s fifth-generation hybrid system. Key upgrades include a new lithium-ion battery and an increase in power output from 181 to 196 horsepower.

This shift signifies Lexus’ move away from nickel–metal hydride batteries to a more energy-dense lithium-ion battery, aligning the UX’s powertrain with that of the 2024 Toyota Prius, which was recently named MotorTrend’s 2024 Car of the Year. Despite a roughly $2,000 price increase for certain UX hybrid trims from 2024 to 2025, we took the UX hybrid for a spin to see if it’s worth the cost.

Beyond the New Powertrain

The new powertrain is a major change, but many will find the 12.3-inch display in Premium and F Sport models even more attractive. This upgraded infotainment system represents a significant leap forward from Lexus’ previous setups. The UX now offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in full-screen mode, enhancing navigation usability. The updated graphics, rapid responsiveness, and streamlined menu layout greatly improve the user experience compared to the outgoing system. Such modern features are likely to attract first-time buyers and foster brand loyalty.

Enhancing the driving experience is the quiet cabin. Our F Sport Handling model was equipped with an Active Variable suspension, which significantly improved ride quality and comfort. The suspension effectively absorbed bumps on city streets and highways, ensuring a smooth journey and minimizing vibrations within the cabin. This provided an above-average ride quality for a small, entry-level luxury SUV.

However, the UX300h’s compact size presents some drawbacks. As one of the smallest luxury crossovers, its interior feels cramped. Taller adults may find the front seats lacking in legroom, and the low steering wheel combined with the raised seat can create an awkward driving position. Additionally, the rear seat is tight in headroom and legroom, and cargo space is limited due to the battery placement under the cargo floor, resulting in a cargo capacity of 17.2 cubic feet, smaller than the Volkswagen Golf GTI’s 19.9 cubic feet.

Comparing to the Prius

The UX300h shares its powertrain with the Prius, leading to a similar driving experience. Despite its F-Sport badge, the UX300h doesn’t deliver thrilling speed or agility. In our tests, it reached 60 mph in 8.0 seconds and completed the quarter mile in 16.1 seconds. In comparison, the 250h was slightly slower, taking 8.2 seconds to reach 60 mph and 16.3 seconds to complete the quarter mile. The performance differences are minimal, maintaining continuity rather than significant gains.

On the road, the UX300h doesn’t feel significantly faster, but it’s not sluggish either. The hybrid system provides quick acceleration from a standstill, with the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine seamlessly integrating with the electric motors for respectable power delivery. Engaging Sport+ drive mode enhances acceleration slightly, though the difference is not dramatic. The UX300h maintains a balanced profile, offering adequate performance without veering into sports car territory.

Braking performance has notably improved. The UX300h transitions smoothly between regenerative and mechanical braking, even during aggressive braking. This improvement addresses previous criticisms of rough braking in Toyota and Lexus hybrids. The steering’s weight and speed are similar to those of the current Prius, adding a touch of sportiness to this taller vehicle and enhancing overall handling and responsiveness.

Is the 2025 Lexus UX 300h Worth It?

While the new hybrid system and upgraded infotainment enhance the UX300h experience, the $49,445 price tag for the top-of-the-line F Sport model is hard to justify. At this price point, the base 2025 Lexus NX350h, with significantly more interior space and advanced design and technology, seems more appealing. Although the UX’s fuel economy (44/40/42 mpg) is impressive, the NX Hybrid isn’t far behind.

In isolation, the UX300h performs well and is a solid choice for those seeking a subcompact luxury vehicle or sticking to lower trims. However, Lexus’ pricing strategy makes it a tough sell in its priciest configurations.

Specifications for the 2025 Lexus UX 300h AWD F-Sport (Handling)

Base Price: $47,525
Price as Tested: $49,445
Vehicle Layout: Front-engine, front/rear motor, AWD, 5-passenger, 4-door SUV
Engine: 2.0L Atkinson-cycle DOHC 16-valve I-4, plus electric motors
Power (SAE Net): 150 hp @ 6,000 rpm (gas), 111+40 (electric); 196 hp (combined)
Torque (SAE Net): 139 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm (gas), 152+62 lb-ft (electric)
Transmission: Continuously variable automatic
Curb Weight (F/R Distribution): 3,564 lb (57/43%)
Wheelbase: 103.9 in
Length x Width x Height: 177.0 x 72.4 x 60.6 in
0-60 MPH: 8.0 sec
Quarter Mile: 16.1 sec @ 85.9 mph
Braking, 60-0 MPH: 128 ft
Lateral Acceleration: 0.80 g (avg)
MT Figure Eight: 28.0 sec @ 0.60 g (avg)
EPA City/Hwy/Combined Fuel Economy: 44/40/42 mpg
EPA Range, Combined: 445 miles
On Sale: Now