Master craftsmanship: Lexus UX urban-SUV

Last month I headed to the Regatta Restaurant and Bar in Takapuna, Auckland for the launch of the all-new Lexus UX urban-SUV.

The UX will feature in the Lexus line-up as the smallest SUV next to the popular NX and RX. The range consists of seven different models, including F-Sport and Limited variants, five of which are hybrids. Prices start at $59,900 for the entry-level UX 200 FWD (126kW/205Nm) with a 2.0-litre petrol engine with CVT box, and finish at the range-topping UX 250h Limited Hybrid (135kW/188Nm) with AWD at $75,900.

The UX comes with 18-inch alloys as standard, with a handsome LED rear light bar giving us something never before seen on a car like this. The inside features lane departure warning, three drive modes, 10.5-inch infotainment screen, front and rear parking sensors and reversing camera. F-Sport models get a racier interior and exterior and the ‘Limited’ models benefit from Lexus’ awesome Mark Levinson Sound System, sun roof and interior trim highlights styled to resemble the same paper used in Japanese art.

According to Lexus New Zealand Senior General Manager Paul Carroll, “It’s a car that really connects with people’s emotions, from its striking looks to its intelligent orchestration of the interior’s parts and the Japanese Takumi master craftsmanship”.
Well I for one am definitely looking forward to driving both petrol and hybrid versions over the coming months.