The Lexus UX 300e electric crossover will receive a major upgrade next year, including a new battery that increases the range by more than 40 per cent to 280 miles.
The first electric model from Toyota’s premium brand was launched in 2019, and the new version, due to reach the UK in the second half of 2023 receive a wide range of hardware updates.
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The most significant change is that the battery in the machine will grow from 54.3kWh to 72.8kWh. That is enough to increase the range to up to 280 miles, compared to 196 miles for the current model. That’s if you pick the 17in wheels, by the way: plump for the 18in wheels and you’ll have to make do with 273 miles.
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Lexus has also made a number of change to the steering and shock absorber settings, which it says will sharpen the dynamic performance. It has also added extra spot-welding in places to increase the body rigidity, with the aim to make the car feel more responsive.
The firm has also promised extra sound insulation to make the cabin even quieter – which should make you even more relaxed when playing with the upgraded infotainment system. The new UX 300e will get the same system in the recently launched UX 250h, including either an eight or 12.3in infotainment touchscreen – replacing the trackpad on the old model.
There’s also a new ‘Hey Lexus’ voice recognition system, wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto, and the ability to accept over-the-air updates.
As well as the infotainment, Lexus has redesigned the centre console: where the now-ditched trackpad previously sat are now controls for the heated front seats. There’s also a large try big enough to shove a smartphone in.
Series of upgrades increase the appeal and capability of Lexus’s all-electric compact crossover.
Lexus says that pricing and exact UK specifications will be announced prior to the revamped car going on sale in the second half of next year. However, it has confirmed that Joy Crookes’s song Feet Don’t Fail Me Now will be used on TV commercials in Europe, just in case you like to know such things.
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