The Lexus UX 300e has been upgraded with a new battery to extend the driving range by more than 40%, giving up to 279 miles on a single charge.
The UX 300e alsos gain detailed changes to the body and chassis, the latest Lexus Link multimedia systems, improved Lexus Safety System+ safety and driver assistance functions, and a wider choice of upholsteries and trims.
Lexus is significantly extending the UX 300e’s driving range by increasing the lithium-ion battery’s capacity from 54.3 to 72.8kWh. Maximum power remains 201bhp/150kW with 300Nm maximum torque.
Previously the UX 300e offered a range in the WLTP combined driving cycle of 189-196 miles, depending on options such as wheel size.
The new battery improves this by more than 40. Models running on 17-inch wheels now achieve a WLTP combined range (depending on options) of up to 279 miles; those on 18-inch wheels have a combined range (also depending on options) of up to 274 miles.
Aerodynamic efficiency helps maximise the UX 300e’s range. Shutters in the lower front grille open and close automatically, depending on battery state and how much airflow is needed for cooling. This helps reduce the car’s coefficient of drag to Cd0.31.
The underfloor covers have been enlarged, compared to other UX models, and the bottom-surface of the battery made flat and smooth, for clean underbody aerodynamics.
Detailed changes to enhance the driving experience include fine-tuning of the steering and shock absorber settings to sharpen dynamic performance, while additional spot-welding increases body rigidity.
Changes have also been made to the sound insulation to achieve a quieter cabin.
The UX 300e follows the UX 250h in adopting the new Lexus Link multimedia systems. According to equipment grade, models are fitted with either eight-inch (Lexus Link connect) or 12.3-inch (Lexus Link Pro) displays, with touchscreen technology replacing the previous trackpad control.
The new displays sit further forward on the instrument panel, bringing them closer to the driver.
Significantly increased computing power, says Lexus, means command responses are quicker, while ‘always connected’ cloud-based navigation is provided as standard, giving access to real time road and traffic information.
The Lexus Link Pro system has embedded navigation, so operation is available in areas where cloud connection is not available.
The system’s new voice recognition system includes the option of using the “Hey Lexus” on-board assistant.
Smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay (wireless connection) or Android Auto (wired connection) is provided as standard and updates to the multimedia system software can be delivered over-the-air using the car’s DCM (data communication module).
Connectivity options include a USB-A port in the centre console box for playback of high-resolution sound sources and two USB-C ports for device charging on the console.
The multimedia system can save the personal preference profiles of up to three people, customising the multimedia, audio and navigation settings.
A redesign of the centre console uses the space where the multimedia trackpad was located for the controls for the heated front seats or, where these are not specified, a small storage cubby.
The console also gains an illuminated tray in front of the air conditioning control panel, with space to hold a large smartphone.
Owners will be able to use the Lexus Link smartphone app to lock or unlock the doors or operate the air conditioning system remotely, so that the cabin can be cooled or warmed before they set off on a journey.
Interior and exterior changes
The UX 300e is available with new exterior paintwork option, Sonic Platinum, while in the cabin, there is a new hazel colour option available for both the fabric and leather upholstery options.
Revisions to the Lexus Safety System+ bring improved performance in the Pre-Collision System, equipping the car with Intersection Turning Assist for safer left and right turns across traffic at intersections and Emergency Steering Assist, which helps the driver steer to avoid obstacles without departing from their traffic lane.
The Dynamic Radar Cruise Control adopts Curve Speed Reduction, which automatically adjusts the vehicle’s speed to suit the radius of a bend in the road.
On the road pricing starts from £47,495.
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Gareth has more than 20 years’ experience as a journalist having started his career in local newspapers in the 1990s. Prior to joining Fleet News in 2008, he worked in the public sector as a media advisor and is currently news editor at Fleet News.
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