Likes
- Class-leading build quality and reliability.
- Excellent support network.
- Some of the best residuals in this category.
- Hybrid powertrains very appealing.
Used Lexus UX review
2019 - current
Dislikes
- Worst cargo space in this category.
- Pre-update infotainment takes getting used to.
- Small fuel tank.
- Some find the UX a little…boring.
Stuff you should know
The Lexus UX first landed in Australia in early 2019 as the brand’s smallest and most affordable SUV, sitting beneath the larger NX and RX in the line-up. Targeted squarely at city-based buyers wanting Lexus levels of refinement and badge appeal in a compact package, the UX has always played in that same luxury small SUV space as the Audi Q3, BMW X1, Volvo XC40, Mercedes-Benz GLA and Range Rover Evoque. While it might wear the sharp Lexus styling and cabin finish, under the skin the UX shares much of its platform and running gear with the Toyota Corolla Cross, which in many ways is a positive as it ties the UX into Toyota’s excellent parts and servicing network across Australia.
At launch the range kicked off with the UX 200, powered by a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol (engine code M20A-FKS) producing 126 kW (169 hp) and 205 Nm (151 lb-ft). Power was sent exclusively to the front wheels through a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Above that sat the UX 250h hybrid, also using a 2.0-litre four-cylinder (M20A-FXS) paired with one or more electric motors depending on trim. In front-wheel drive form it produced a system total of 131 kW (176 hp) and around 202 Nm (149 lb-ft), while the all-wheel drive version added a rear electric motor for extra traction. Both used a CVT as well, though with the electric torque filling in the gaps the hybrid always felt the more responsive option in daily driving.
A full battery-electric version, the UX 300e, joined the line-up in 2021, offering 150 kW (204 hp) and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) from its single front-mounted motor. Originally equipped with a 54 kWh battery, this was upgraded to 72.8 kWh in 2023 for a range of roughly 450 km (WLTP). However, in 2025 Lexus pulled the plug on the UX 300e in Australia, citing limited supply and a shift towards the larger RZ electric SUV. From 2025 the hybrid was renamed UX 300h, bringing a revised system output of 145 kW (196 hp) and 188 Nm (139 lb-ft), a lithium-ion battery for better efficiency, smoother drivetrain calibration, and the latest Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 features.
Trim levels have always been straightforward. The base “Luxury” brought dual-zone climate control, synthetic ‘Nulux’ trim, power front seats, heated front seats, bi-beam LED headlights, parking sensors and an 8-inch or optional 10.3-inch infotainment system. The F Sport layered on unique bumpers, mesh grille, sports seats, larger digital driver display and in some cases an adaptive suspension. Sports Luxury spec leaned towards comfort, adding ventilated leather-accented seats, a hands-free tailgate, memory functions, privacy glass, and options like the Mark Levinson 13-speaker audio or 360-degree camera system. The 2023 update ditched the fiddly touchpad controller for a proper 8- or 12.3-inch touchscreen, brought the Lexus Safety System+ up to 2.5, gave the centre console a redesign and added new colour and trim choices. The 2025 refresh extended this further with new tech, a 12.3-inch digital cluster on upper trims, and subtle chassis tuning.
On the road, the UX has always leaned towards refinement and comfort rather than outright sportiness, though in F Sport trim with adaptive dampers it can feel surprisingly agile for a city-sized SUV. Interior space is one of its compromises – the rear seats and boot (367–401 litres depending on version) are smaller than rivals like the BMW X1 or Audi Q3, but for singles, couples or small families it can work just fine. The upside of its Corolla Cross DNA is durability and cost of ownership. With Toyota and Lexus service centres everywhere in Australia, parts availability is outstanding and running costs tend to be lower than some of its European rivals.
In the broader market, the UX has carved out a niche as a “safer bet” premium compact SUV. While the Germans often woo buyers with more performance or space, the Lexus counters with its reputation for reliability, strong resale and that unbeatable Lexus aftersales support experience. It’s aimed squarely at buyers who want luxury and style without the long-term headaches some European brands can bring.
That said, while the UX generally lives up to Lexus’ reputation for quality, it isn’t perfect. In our “what goes wrong” section below we’ll get into the few issues it can suffer from, but as an overview the Lexus UX is one of the most sensible entries into the luxury small SUV market, offering Toyota-like dependability dressed up in a Lexus suit. For those shopping used, the sweet spot is often a facelifted UX 250h from 2023 onwards, or if budget allows, the new UX 300h with its improved drivetrain and safety tech.
What goes wrong?
Exterior:
According to plenty of owners, the paint on the Lexus UX can mark and scratch way too easily, especially if you’ve gone for one of the darker colours. If the damage goes back to bare metal, getting it repaired properly can be seriously expensive, so it’s worth checking how well the paint has been cared for on any used example.
But honestly, that’s about it for exterior complaints. Compared to rivals, the UX actually sidesteps many of the headaches that small premium SUVs can throw at you. Competitors like the Audi Q3, Volvo XC40, Range Rover Evoque, Mercedes-Benz GLA and BMW X1 can all suffer from exterior electrical gremlins, disappointing fit and finish, water leaks and in some cases even badges falling off. The UX by contrast feels far more robust in its build and avoids most of those dramas.
Interior:
Generally speaking, Lexus interiors have a reputation for being solid and well put together, and while the UX does live up to that in many ways, a number of owners have mentioned that some of the plastics do scratch and mark more easily than expected. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it is worth noting if you’re picky about keeping the cabin looking pristine.
The biggest complaint inside though, and this is pretty typical for both Toyota and Lexus models, is the infotainment. Now, not in terms of reliability – in fact, we struggled to find any reports of Bluetooth constantly dropping out or Apple CarPlay and Android Auto misbehaving. These were added to the range from late 2019, and became wireless with the 2022 update, and both work well. The issue is actually using the system itself. The infamous trackpad has frustrated plenty of owners, the graphics and interface feel dated, and even basic commands come across as clunky.
If you’re left-handed in a right-hand drive car or the other way around, you do eventually get used to it, but the trackpad’s sensitivity is cranked right up. The lightest nudge and your selection goes flying across the screen, which isn’t ideal if you’re trying to focus on the road, especially over bumps. The 2022 update did bring a larger touchscreen, improved voice command and a fresher overall interface, and it’s a big step forward – but it still doesn’t quite match BMW’s iDrive in the X1 or Audi’s MMI in the Q3.
As for the more practical side of things, rear seat space is on the cramped side, and the UX also has the smallest boot in the class. To make matters worse, the parcel shelf/blind is fiddly to fold into its little storage bag. Compared to its rivals, practicality
Exterior:
According to plenty of owners, the paint on the Lexus UX can mark and scratch way too easily, especially if you’ve gone for one of the darker colours. If the damage goes back to bare metal, getting it repaired properly can be seriously expensive, so it’s worth checking how well the paint has been cared for on any used example.
But honestly, that’s about it for exterior complaints. Compared to rivals, the UX actually sidesteps many of the headaches that small premium SUVs can throw at you. Competitors like the Audi Q3, Volvo XC40, Range Rover Evoque, Mercedes-Benz GLA and BMW X1 can all suffer from exterior electrical gremlins, disappointing fit and finish, water leaks and in some cases even badges falling off. The UX by contrast feels far more robust in its build and avoids most of those dramas.
Interior:
Generally speaking, Lexus interiors have a reputation for being solid and well put together, and while the UX does live up to that in many ways, a number of owners have mentioned that some of the plastics do scratch and mark more easily than expected. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it is worth noting if you’re picky about keeping the cabin looking pristine.
The biggest complaint inside though, and this is pretty typical for both Toyota and Lexus models, is the infotainment. Now, not in terms of reliability – in fact, we struggled to find any reports of Bluetooth constantly dropping out or Apple CarPlay and Android Auto misbehaving. These were added to the range from late 2019, and became wireless with the 2022 update, and both work well. The issue is actually using the system itself. The infamous trackpad has frustrated plenty of owners, the graphics and interface feel dated, and even basic commands come across as clunky.
If you’re left-handed in a right-hand drive car or the other way around, you do eventually get used to it, but the trackpad’s sensitivity is cranked right up. The lightest nudge and your selection goes flying across the screen, which isn’t ideal if you’re trying to focus on the road, especially over bumps. The 2022 update did bring a larger touchscreen, improved voice command and a fresher overall interface, and it’s a big step forward – but it still doesn’t quite match BMW’s iDrive in the X1 or Audi’s MMI in the Q3.
As for the more practical side of things, rear seat space is on the cramped side, and the UX also has the smallest boot in the class. To make matters worse, the parcel shelf/blind is fiddly to fold into its little storage bag. Compared to its rivals, practicality just isn’t the UX’s strongest point.
Mechanically:
Mechanically, the UX is a standout. It’s overall extremely reliable – arguably the most reliable small premium SUV in this class – and it also benefits from some of the lowest parts and maintenance costs. That’s largely thanks to its shared DNA with the Toyota Corolla Cross, which means there’s a huge support network across Australia and parts are inexpensive compared to most European rivals.
That said, no car is perfect, and there are a couple of things to be aware of. The M20 family engines use an electronically controlled water pump, which contains plastic internals. If one of these pumps fails, it can quickly cause overheating, though most commonly the issue is leaking. It’s not widespread, but it’s something to keep an eye on.
The EGR valve can also cause problems in certain conditions. Symptoms include rough idling, reduced power, coolant loss if a cooler leaks, or EGR-related fault codes. If the car has mostly done short trips or heavy city driving, the EGR components can get clogged with grime, so regular diagnostic checks and cleaning or replacement when codes appear is good preventative maintenance.
Finally, there’s the question of oil. Toyota recommend 0W-16 oil for these engines, which is excellent for fuel economy and emissions, but it’s arguably too thin for our hotter Australian climate. Running a thicker oil like 5W-30, which Toyota does approve for hot climates, makes no noticeable difference to economy in the real world but offers more protection. The other thing to note is service intervals: the official 15,000km interval isn’t ideal for long-term engine health. Dropping that to every 10,000km is a much safer bet.
Exterior:
According to plenty of owners, the paint on the Lexus UX can mark and scratch way too easily, especially if you’ve gone for one of the darker colours. If the damage goes back to bare metal, getting it repaired properly can be seriously expensive, so it’s worth checking how well the paint has been cared for on any used example.
But honestly, that’s about it for exterior complaints. Compared to rivals, the UX actually sidesteps many of the headaches that small premium SUVs can throw at you. Competitors like the Audi Q3, Volvo XC40, Range Rover Evoque, Mercedes-Benz GLA and BMW X1 can all suffer from exterior electrical gremlins, disappointing fit and finish, water leaks and in some cases even badges falling off. The UX by contrast feels far more robust in its build and avoids most of those dramas.
Interior:
Generally speaking, Lexus interiors have a reputation for being solid and well put together, and while the UX does live up to that in many ways, a number of owners have mentioned that some of the plastics do scratch and mark more easily than expected. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it is worth noting if you’re picky about keeping the cabin looking pristine.
The biggest complaint inside though, and this is pretty typical for both Toyota and Lexus models, is the infotainment. Now, not in terms of reliability – in fact, we struggled to find any reports of Bluetooth constantly dropping out or Apple CarPlay and Android Auto misbehaving. These were added to the range from late 2019, and became wireless with the 2022 update, and both work well. The issue is actually using the system itself. The infamous trackpad has frustrated plenty of owners, the graphics and interface feel dated, and even basic commands come across as clunky.
If you’re left-handed in a right-hand drive car or the other way around, you do eventually get used to it, but the trackpad’s sensitivity is cranked right up. The lightest nudge and your selection goes flying across the screen, which isn’t ideal if you’re trying to focus on the road, especially over bumps. The 2022 update did bring a larger touchscreen, improved voice command and a fresher overall interface, and it’s a big step forward – but it still doesn’t quite match BMW’s iDrive in the X1 or Audi’s MMI in the Q3.
As for the more practical side of things, rear seat space is on the cramped side, and the UX also has the smallest boot in the class. To make matters worse, the parcel shelf/blind is fiddly to fold into its little storage bag. Compared to its rivals, practicality just isn’t the UX’s strongest point.
Mechanically:
Mechanically, the UX is a standout. It’s overall extremely reliable – arguably the most reliable small premium SUV in this class – and it also benefits from some of the lowest parts and maintenance costs. That’s largely thanks to its shared DNA with the Toyota Corolla Cross, which means there’s a huge support network across Australia and parts are inexpensive compared to most European rivals.
That said, no car is perfect, and there are a couple of things to be aware of. The M20 family engines use an electronically controlled water pump, which contains plastic internals. If one of these pumps fails, it can quickly cause overheating, though most commonly the issue is leaking. It’s not widespread, but it’s something to keep an eye on.
The EGR valve can also cause problems in certain conditions. Symptoms include rough idling, reduced power, coolant loss if a cooler leaks, or EGR-related fault codes. If the car has mostly done short trips or heavy city driving, the EGR components can get clogged with grime, so regular diagnostic checks and cleaning or replacement when codes appear is good preventative maintenance.
Finally, there’s the question of oil. Toyota recommend 0W-16 oil for these engines, which is excellent for fuel economy and emissions, but it’s arguably too thin for our hotter Australian climate. Running a thicker oil like 5W-30, which Toyota does approve for hot climates, makes no noticeable difference to economy in the real world but offers more protection. The other thing to note is service intervals: the official 15,000km interval isn’t ideal for long-term engine health. Dropping that to every 10,000km is a much safer bet.
Shoud you buy one?
Something else to keep in mind is that Lexus enjoys some of the highest levels of customer loyalty in the industry. Time and again we’ve come across owners saying that before their UX they’d had various Volkswagens, Audis, BMWs and Mercedes-Benz models, but the Lexus has surpassed the lot of them when it comes to build quality, fit and finish, reliability and just the overall ownership experience. For many, once they’ve gone Lexus, they simply don’t go back.
Another big plus is that the UX shares the vast majority of its components with Toyota models, which means that unlike its European rivals, parts availability isn’t a headache and ongoing maintenance is often noticeably more affordable. Combine that with Lexus’ reputation for bulletproof reliability, and it’s one of the most painless premium ownership experiences you can have.
So, should you buy one? As long as the example you’re looking at has been through a proper pre-purchase inspection, or better yet is a Lexus Certified Used Car, then absolutely, yes. The only real caveat is practicality – if you’re after loads of cargo space, the UX probably isn’t the best choice. But if you can live with a smaller boot and slightly cramped rear seats, then yes, buy one.
Something else to keep in mind is that Lexus enjoys some of the highest levels of customer loyalty in the industry. Time and again we’ve come across owners saying that before their UX they’d had various Volkswagens, Audis, BMWs and Mercedes-Benz models, but the Lexus has surpassed the lot of them when it comes to build quality, fit and finish, reliability and just the overall ownership experience. For many, once they’ve gone Lexus, they simply don’t go back.
Another big plus is that the UX shares the vast majority of its components with Toyota models, which means that unlike its European rivals, parts availability isn’t a headache and ongoing maintenance is often noticeably more affordable. Combine that with Lexus’ reputation for bulletproof reliability, and it’s one of the most painless premium ownership experiences you can have.
So, should you buy one? As long as the example you’re looking at has been through a proper pre-purchase inspection, or better yet is a Lexus Certified Used Car, then absolutely, yes. The only real caveat is practicality – if you’re after loads of cargo space, the UX probably isn’t the best choice. But if you can live with a smaller boot and slightly cramped rear seats, then yes, buy one.
Shoud you buy one?
Something else to keep in mind is that Lexus enjoys some of the highest levels of customer loyalty in the industry. Time and again we’ve come across owners saying that before their UX they’d had various Volkswagens, Audis, BMWs and Mercedes-Benz models, but the Lexus has surpassed the lot of them when it comes to build quality, fit and finish, reliability and just the overall ownership experience. For many, once they’ve gone Lexus, they simply don’t go back.
Another big plus is that the UX shares the vast majority of its components with Toyota models, which means that unlike its European rivals, parts availability isn’t a headache and ongoing maintenance is often noticeably more affordable. Combine that with Lexus’ reputation for bulletproof reliability, and it’s one of the most painless premium ownership experiences you can have.
So, should you buy one? As long as the example you’re looking at has been through a proper pre-purchase inspection, or better yet is a Lexus Certified Used Car, then absolutely, yes. The only real caveat is practicality – if you’re after loads of cargo space, the UX probably isn’t the best choice. But if you can live with a smaller boot and slightly cramped rear seats, then yes, buy one.
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Please note that pricing information is subject to fluctuations in the automotive market.
Information correct as of August 17, 2025.
The advice provided on this website is general advice only. It has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on this advice, you should consider the appropriateness of the advice, having regard to your own objectives, financial situation and needs.
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