2019 Lexus UX First Drive - A 9/10ths Scale NX

[@Domzen]

I have watched plenty of Lexus UX reviews so far on KZbin and almost all reviewers were not excited at all about this vehicle. It felt like they had written off this car right from the start. You, however, gave it a chance and reviewed it more objectively and thoroughly than any other reviewer I went to see. Thanks. :)

[@aacmove]

I just read a Whatcar review which actually said "other cars to consider - Dacia Duster". I mean seriously!

[@Mattiu75]

Excellent, from a Lexus owner perspective this is the best, most honest and unbiased review I've come across about the UX model. My compliments!

[@Tendertroll1]

This car is going to be perfect for me for Los Angeles city driving. Definitely the hybrid version. Super agile. I am really excited about it.

[@ModernDayMixtapes]

Amber turn signals FTW. Go Lexus!

[@TheDragonlove25]

Toyota corolla hack back 19

[@EdgarRenje]

As a German I like the yellow or amber colored turning signals more, because red should always have to meaning of "attention, stop, here is something serious going on", while yellow is just an information. I don't like those nubs, but at least they're symmetrical here. If I recall correctly, there were models with only one, which looks dumb.

[@colleenhenderson8302]

I have an NX, and have been waiting for the UX to hit the shelves, so to speak. My lease will be up in the near future, and I have been considering going down a size. Your review has been very helpful, especially in explaining what the hybrid is all about. Thanks for such a thorough review.

[@robertom883]

Best channel for auto reviews I have seen so far, I finally got a chance to drive this vehicle and your review just nailed it.

[@Jrbettis]

Red =Stop and Amber = Turn and Hazards. Quiet Cabin test there's an app for that, I use Decibel X.

[@tobinchristapher3735]

I have always liked the red turn lights the American cars have. As a person who does not live in the US, this feeling might be cause of not having that as an option here. But yes, I have always loved the red turn signals be it on a Mustang or an Chevrolet Caprice Classic. Thank you. Hope you all have a good day😊😊

[@OneAndOnlyMe]

I love the Lexus grilles. Used to prefer the F Sport grille, but now I prefer the new non-F Sport grille, it looks more stylish.

[@guniseran]

I like that naturally aspirated engine, much more reliable than turbo ones

[@NJRipeStrawberry]

Yes! Lexus knows their bread and butter selling points 👍

[@swanblake]

Clearly fanboys make excuses for anything

[@alexkid408]

Yep this new 2.0 hybrid seems to be great and provide instant response according many reviewer.

[@yuliabaykovskaya2485]

But they also eat way more gas

[@commenterperson4481]

@Blake Swan, yep

[@IceJavawd]

Some personal thoughts: *I like amber turn lights. To me it adds some nice contrast, and is also more noticeable vs a red turning light. *I actually like the styling, inside and out. I seem to have an odd sense of taste vs most though. I especially like the rear. *For the Hybrid, I'm not sure if the performance/fuel economy is a good trade off. The Accord hybrid for example is quicker, while getting higher mpg (at least on paper. Actual mileage is likely somewhat close). I live in a large city with terrible traffic, so mpg is a big consideration for me, up here in Canada where gas prices are significantly higher. *The cargo room is terrible, especially on the hybrid (and this is from someone that had a CT200H), and honestly one of the points that would likely stop me from buying it. *No Android auto, which I use a lot. News statements suggest that Android Auto is being worked on by Toyota, but there is no promise it will come to this. *Seat comfort looks terrible, or at least limited (especially in the rear) Overall, it's a shame as I had high hopes for this (Girlfriend wants an SUV, I want Good MPG/Technology/Fun to d rive), but it falls low on a few grades. I'll likely wait for the new Q3, maybe even perhaps wait to see if they come out with a Hybrid/Plug in version.

[@sic22l]

It's not about Toyota, Android Auto doesn't work with touch pad based interfaces.

[@corradomr2]

I like the amber lights, placement of the radio controls, and the trick knobs around the instrument pod reminiscent of the LFA! The UX will do well and should be easy for Lexus USA to hit the yearly 20k unit sales target.

[@jimpanagas]

Fantastic review of the new Lexus UX. I'm currently driving the Lexus CT200h and thrilled with its 42mpg - delighted to see that the larger and more comfortable UX is going to offer the same mpg and perhaps a bit more. Agree that the amber turn signals are much more likely to be seen here in the U.S. Also LOVE the integration with Apple's carplay system. As an Apple user, I'll now have a seamless transition from home to iPhone to Lexus. Looking forward to test driving the hybrid model of the UX in January 2019.

[@ClarkeP]

Lexus's marketing material tells you nearly nothing about the vehicles, these reviews are so much more useful. Thanks. I think I am getting one of these, my current IS is 12yo and it's time....

[@daevdel2993]

you are one of the best car reviewers! thanks

[@markusdeep42]

I now like Alex’s auto reviews. He’s not that much biased like his European fellows

[@davidmulligan42]

I prefer the amber signals these days. Growing up in Ireland, the only red turn signals I ever saw were on a few American imports, and back then I thought they were cool, mostly because we couldn't have them :)

[@KirkKreifels]

I love the UX. It's going to sell very well...especially in europe and big cities.

[@Mgoblagulkablong]

I am fron europe and the sad reality is europeans are extremely ignorant, view all japanese cars as crappy "rice bowls" (that's really what they call them) and blindly buy their domestic brands (Germans buy german, French buy French, italians buy italian, etc.). Even after Dieselgate VW gained even more market share. It's disgusting.

[@mishari554]

LEXUriouS Kirk Jesus your every where

[@Whoracle8531]

It is waaaay too expensive in europe, fully loaded it costs over 51k € and thats without any power still..

[@KirkKreifels]

What does an equivalent MBenz or BMW competitor cost? Just curious

[@Mgoblagulkablong]

Mercedes and BWM cost more and don't even offer a comparable hybrid version. But europeans don't care, instead they call the Lexus crap for not offering more power and then they lease a base Mercedes with the same 110 hp Renault diesel engine used in Dacias that needs 12 secs 0-100, manual transmission of course because automatic is too expensive, but big, heavy, expensive rims to impress their neighbour and then they eat only cheap stuff like noodles so they can afford it. German society in a nutshell.

[@CB-RADIO-UK]

Thats a great review. Loads of information and well explained. Well done that man.

[@DJNuMAN]

Great review you really gave excellent details between the different trim levels.

[@rightlanehog3151]

Alex, You said the engine choices were "controversial" which suggests opinion is divided but I disagree. I think there is near universal agreement on how under-powered this vehicle is. The gasoline version is slower than a Corolla hatch while the hybrid burns more fuel than a Camry Hybrid. In short , there is nothing about the UX powertrain which merits the title "Premium" at all. Had Lexus borrowed the Camry's regular 2.5 engine as well as its Hybrid system, performance would have been much more in keeping with the Lexus badge without hurting mpg.

[@RBzee112]

I feel the same way. But, people will still buy it, validating Lexus' choices.

[@rightlanehog3151]

RBZ, Time will tell.

[@sic22l]

Thing is - such small car with big 2.5 engine wouldn't sell anywhere outside US.

[@rightlanehog3151]

Let them sell it with a Corolla engine elsewhere and with a decent engine here. To repeat, in real world driving the 2.5 would not consume more fuel, as the Camry is clearly demonstrating equal or superior fuel economy compared to the new Corolla hatch.

[@sic22l]

@Right Lane Hog It makes no economical sense to make such drastic changes to one market.

[@Jia1337]

I feel like the UX is basically the replacement for the CT. They're both small and designed to save fuel and they're not exactly sedans/SUVs. They're more of a hatchback.

[@PoorDog69]

How do you know? You're just a talking grape or whatever fruit or vegetable you are.

[@joskjj3625]

@@PoorDog69 😂

[@sic22l]

CT is still offered around the world along the UX. More - there are rumors that next gen CT is possible.

[@tominftlthomasp3559]

Maybe same as the new RAV4. Probably on the same chassis like most of Toyota

[@g1981c]

that's what it is. it's a less embarrassing to own version of a Prius.

[@MrCarpediem6]

Awesome, Alex, per usual. I didn't think I'd like this as much as you've explain it to be. Hopefully it does well for Lexus. You need to look at the Q3 2, from Audi, that looks like it's going to be hit out of the park, but goes back to what you were saying about European luxury pricing..

[@leddik]

Thanks Alex for the review. It’s almost time for a new car and was waiting for your input. Great video!

[@RafaCena41]

Really love the format of your videos Alex! Keep up the good work.

[@rightlanehog3151]

In her role as Chief Engineer, Ms. Chika Kako did a fine job.

[@jmasoncars4452]

If you need some extra -grill- *Grille* in your life, Lexus has you covered

[@jmasoncars4452]

@Joshua Jacob that's for damn sure!

[@tinhinnh]

It’s “grille”.

[@jmasoncars4452]

@@tinhinnh spell check police to the rescue!! I fixed it for you so you don't write me a -sitation- *citation*

[@tinhinnh]

jmasoncar s tank u4 ur kooperation hav a nice day

[@penvon]

Stop watching Lexus/Toyota business because they have no problem selling unlike the GARBAGE Acura sells they call luxury...Infinite on the hand is another “luxury” joke. I don’t view their garbage for a reason,I will get this in the hybrid version...Lexus has NEVER let me down 🙂

[@EsadBxakaxGyrule]

Amber turn signals are better for visibility and not to be confused with red brake lights.

[@SamVillegas]

Alex you are extremely knowledgeable and provide an enormous amount of both objective and subjective criticism & information in a reasonable amount of time. TCO based on factory service intervals would be useful a comparason and predicted depreciation if reasonably available. Keep up the good work!

[@phuckhugh2698]

Its a luxury corolla Hatchback with the prius's hybrid and e-AWD system. I like it. I'd buy it. it will be reliable and cheap to fix with corolla parts.

[@nickolastiguan]

Watching Alex's review helps me fall asleep lol

[@ELP1125]

😂😂😂

[@positronicfeed]

I like this car. If I were in the market for a compact SUV I would choose between this, The Volvo XC40 or biting the bullet and paying a bit more for the NX or the XC60.

[@BPEKSupraInteractive]

I agree with you! I'm a fan of amber turn signals. I hate, mostly American vehicles, how they integrate the red turn signal with their brake lights. Whenever someone steps on their brakes and release them while they're signaling, I get confused because all of their red lights blink and went off and blinked again. It's very confusing! The fact that I have to take my time to identify and comprehend what the driver's intent is means I'm not 100% focused on the road.

[@sallypalomino2628]

I drive the 200 CT, super excited for this model. Got distracted at the gym to look at the specs on this 😻. Is it just me tho or does the side view look similar to Subaru? But nothing beats that Lexus grill and I’m so glad they updated the safety features and the interior cockpit which is my favorite part of the car. I feel like a pilot ready for lift off every time I drive. I’m happy they finally added the memory setting seats adjustments as well.

[@kdsewell01]

Great work was as always Alex! By any chance, has Lexus said when and if Android Auto will be offered in the UX?

[@user-sc6lp1om9y]

What is the line of crossover vs hatchback? This looks more like a car then an SUV to me.

[@devongee1776]

Height. Crossovers are called crossovers because they are still based on a car's platform but they are taller. Some more than others, giving them the appearance of "crossing over". In america the term SUV is very overused and generalized because most americans don't know the difference between an SUV and a crossover so manufacturers just call everything an SUV. SUV used to mean a body on top of a truck platform which is why vehicles like the Chevy Suburban and GMC Yukon can very clearly be seen as having the chasis of a truck underneath their appearance whereas crossovers are based off of sedans. Some crossovers have their own platform not shared by their sedan cousins in the lineup but that's not usually the case for a lot of brands for ex: the new Nissan Kicks is based off the Nissan Versa. Regardless of platform sharing or not. All crossovers tend to be unibody platforms, not body-on-frame platforms previously used to distinguish utility and cargo vehicles from sedans. Cargo space doesn't always constitute "suv" > hatchback... it's likely just the height, as there are some sedans with fastback designs or hatchback designs , as you've noticed, that offer just as much storage and sizing (head and leg room) as some of these compact crossovers.

[@newwavetheo]

Small crossovers like this tend to have gray non-painted plastic around the wheel arches and rocker panels. This is supposed to make it appear taller than they are. Regular hatches generally don't have this ugly plastic. These plastic unpainted areas (or even painted body panels) will not look great after 10 years of UV light damage. Cars are getting ultra-disposable now and it is sad to see that.

[@Mgoblagulkablong]

height

[@tinhinnh]

well, this replaces the CT...

[@dahmenpiotraschke9236]

It's supposed to be like a hatch/cross. Renewal of the great, CT200 , the new face of Lexus' killer design, and the UX's fearless matchups with the A3, and X2. Both more hatchbackian than any other luxo-hybrid--cross-5-cuv..!!

[@abhisheknarang4814]

The only reason the UX is larger on the outside is because of its superfluous crazy styling. It actually even has a shorter wheelbase than the X1, and GLA.

[@dahmenpiotraschke9236]

I love it, and don't care that it has less HP and legroom than the Euro-lame competition. First off, it's a Lexus!! which is the undisputed King of refinement and enduring reliability, which will always take me to Lexus, and not Audi, as tempting as they are. Audi will cost more to maintain, and give u stress after a year or two when something breaks. The UX is a lower built crossover and gives the lineup a break from it's many SUVs...and is a perfect replacement for the retired CT250, which I still love. The interior is perfect for 4, but as most all drivers, each day is a solitary time of peace and exaltation. The master engineering and arcade like infotainment screen and controls, complete the rush of a perfectly made car that revels.

[@msbgone]

Can you use the lexus pad with gloves on?

[@victorsherpa2816]

I found that drive selector thing like a sore thumb. It is a lot sticking out for something that could be three flush buttons for Sport, Normal, and Eco mode. Other than that it is an exceptional design and mileage.

[@NotKenBlock94]

Tbh I never really liked Lexus, but I'd totally drive this. Reminds me of a sporty Subaru Crosstrek

[@Omfcody1]

Great little SUV with an equally great price.

[@Sacto1654]

Essentially, the Lexus UX is essentially a version of the same 2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback. Please note Toyota has finally announced Android Auto support, and the software for the infotainment system on 2019-model Toyota and Lexus models may get the update probably before the end of 2018.

[@geethsan1567]

I think Lexus cheaped out a little more in the UX.

[@Justsome_Randomdude]

Although red turn signals may look “better” for an all around took for the vehicle, I for one hardly notice when people put them on to switch lanes during the day. Especially during super bright days or when the sun starts to go down

[@delphisrichard5279]

Good video and accurate information .Thank You !

[@LifeISMagix]

This will look badass in all black with tinted windows.

[@nimab8935]

I liked it. I would get one if I wanted a compact CO. Especially the hybrid with great MPG

[@willnye9788]

One of the best reviews I have seen. I have a Juke so need a bigger trunk and car overall...The UX200 has a decent trunk size. What is the volume for seats down?

[@chengyoujiang6076]

Amber turn signal is more visible and much safer, but red turn signal looks better.

[@Curryolla]

Personally, I really wanted an UX...but, the lack of a 360 Camera is a deal breaker. I also wish it had Mark Levinson Audio and was a PHEV or even better an EV.

[@drivethrucountertops4709]

Awesome review,like always,thank you!!!

[@jodyh2283]

Alex, great review! What is your opinion on the hybrid battery? Do you think the battery will need replacing in 10 years and end up costing a few thousand dollars?

[@juelzm149]

Love amber turn signals, wish they would mandate them.

[@rayx9644]

I also prefer the Amber turn signal. Always have.

[@bdoleza]

Great review Alex as always. For the life of me though I can't think of one reason to buy this car. Gutless crossovers are a dime a dozen these days in the U.S. I didn't know that the UX is a replacement for the Lexus CT; with that information I can at least see why the UX would be so underpowered. The CT was basically a Prius made by Lexus, and I found it attractive for a time. But this is 2018 and I would think if you really want an economy-minded crossover, the Kia Niro would be a much better choice. It would be thousands less than this Lexus and it would be more efficient; I believe Alex you said the Niro was one of the more efficient cars you've tested. One may think the UX is a completely different car than the Niro, but honestly except for brand recognition and some more gadgets and nicer interior in the UX, in the real world I really don't think the differences between these vehicles would be that noticeable. Especially comparing the UX with a fully loaded Niro. I'm really not too impressed by Lexus crossovers so far...

[@sic22l]

Niro is a budget car with budget interior and even more anemic drivetrain.

[@theMLBfan]

Taillights are an upside down version of the Avalon's. 😁

[@mark_r49]

There was a time when green taillights were suggested. Humans see a change of color, from green to red, better than a change in intensity, red to brighter red. So, at least, amber turn signals are a step forward.

[@kolyan1980]

Corolla engine, CHR platform , Lexus badge

[@Smile-nh6ig]

I want this car for you get a good balance of looks, reliability and luxury for a fair price.

[@georgiiarakelov6560]

Red turns !

[@Jaymac720]

I’ve been waiting for one of these. Saw some press pics several months ago and I was so excited. I really do wish that Lexus would standardize their name system. It makes no sense

[@MonicaVendrell]

I don’t know if I’m a fan of the screen itself and the controls on the arm rest... hmmm this car seems a bit odd but very comparable to the Toyota CHR

[@ksinouye]

Amber turn signals looks great. Were those LED turn signals on that UX? Hard to tell with my frame rate.

[@donellclemons2195]

The CT had so much potential. Imagine the mini e4 engine in that.

[@jmer3536]

Should have had the Camry 2.5 Liter engine in it instead .

[@rightlanehog3151]

And the Camry hybrid system as well.

[@sic22l]

It's closer to the Corolla so it shares the same engines. Also it was designed with big cities and Europe in mind where bigger engine means much more money out of oyur pocket.

[@rightlanehog3151]

The Euro____ can have the undersized engines, we want reasonable power.

[@sic22l]

@Right Lane Hog You don't need 300 hp to go to a mall at 65 mph. There's more ego and "me want" than reason.

[@speedchannel1778]

Amber is the way to go!!

[@jeremycorte8634]

I love my amber led turn signals on my Camry 👌🏾😄

[@jeffreysegal2065]

Despite the droning, I like CVT. It's always on power.

[@sic22l]

Engine is on power, transmission itself is abolutely awful at transferring it to the wheels.

[@greentjmtl]

If I recall CVT has worse friction lose compare to geared auto, but making up for it by being able to keep a constant efficient engine RPM. So having a "geared" CVT is essentially the worst of both worlds.

[@DiwaGalvez]

Amber turn signals are less confusing and better for me. :)

[@FinestInstinct]

Amber led turn signals. Amber led turn signals! Amber LED TURN SIGNALS! When will car manufacturers get that!? I love Lexus, for that alone.

[@bassicuk1986]

This will sell well in England, UK.

[@dada-ut1xq]

Excellent review. Do the front wheels powered my second motor in addition to the gas engine?

[@DeadofWinter321]

I can tell that that ringtone at 11:50 is the "Popcorn" notification found on the Google Pixel 2/3 (Pixel user here, I love these phones).

[@Trades46]

The hybrid powertrain in the UX250h is better than the outgoing CT200h thanks to AWD & more power, but the design...I prefer the CT significantly more. The body panels are WAY too big & the windows too small.

[@rightlanehog3151]

Indeed.

[@deko29]

What driving mode were you on to get 41 mpg? Eco / Normal / Sport? Any noticeable differences in mpg between them?

[@artagain8977]

If the lift over height was better and they lost the track pad this would be a good replacement for my wife's Golf.

[@stupid8911]

Hear me out...the rear looks like the Lincoln MKT rear...! Rest of vehicle looks good, definitely right, Alex, a CT 200h replacement. The litte knubs atop the instrument cluster are "ehh"...and the infotainment center looks great, not crazy about the placement of the volume/tune "knobs".

[@tropicalstorm339]

Seat comfort does not depend on adjustability. It depends on the overall shape and size.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Without adjustability it won't confirm to people of varying sizes or shapes.

[@tropicalstorm339]

@@AAutoBuyersGuide aaahhh.. but it does have adjustability... not just as many as some of the others. You also judged the LC500 as not comfortable just because it doesn't have as much adjustments as the others but most, if not all, other reviewers said it was very comfortable and that BMW should take note on how Lexus makes sporty but very comfortable seats.

[@joa8593]

I actually think it's quite an attractive vehicle, but why would anybody buy this over a fully loaded RAV-4 hybrid? You might lose some of the luxury, but it's a larger more practical vehicle and the 2019 will have the TNGA platform.

[@ft9kop]

Urban people with money. Think Starbucks buying Williamsburg young college graduate working corporate job in Manhattan

[@sic22l]

Not everyone needs space and a bigger car.

[@foxgloves321]

The RAV 4 hybrid is really really terrible to drive. A medium-sized car that weighs two tons yet for some reason feels skittish on the road.

[@thomasmcneill18]

Ux is very small! I don’t recommend that vehicle 🚗

[@rogerthat24]

Grill isn't as big? It's huge, especially relative to the size of the car. I like the headlights, though.

[@newwavetheo]

Rev up your Lexus! It's time for the Scotty Kilmer Channel!

[@anamericanhero278]

Theo T. Lmao 🤣

[@alvie2139]

Cant forget starbucks

[@dygardion9130]

This car is a little under powered for the class but I love the deisgn!!! A And I prefer turn signals that are LED, doesn’t matter if it’s amber or red. Led is brighter and more noticeable in any color

[@rightlanehog3151]

It is needlessly under-powered. The engine choices actually provide no real benefit in mpg over Toyota's 2.5 gas/hybrid.

[@sic22l]

It has sufficient power to drive in a city center. Also Lexus wants to sell more of them in Europe where 2.5l engine would be too big.

[@eganfo]

Amber, they're so much easier to see. I don't understand red rear turn signals.

[@dennisfeng6626]

I hate red turn signals. I can't tell if the person has two broken tail lights and is just breaking or if they are actually signaling.

[@brooks886]

Dunno. Seems like a Scion xb in mid development changed to a Lexus. Competes too much to the corolla wagon so it was bumped up to Lexus. It should be a $20k Scion. The awd and hybrid was an afterthought to justify the upcharge. Can even see the scion center gauges on that floating screen.

[@rabbitruck]

Wow, the cargo capacity is terrible on the hybrid. Lately, we've seen manufacturers do a lot better with packaging of hybrid batteries, but this is the exception, along with the Crosstrek hybrid. Fail on both accounts.

[@efavuzza73]

When I sat in both the NX and UX. I felt the UX is more roomy in the front

[@BanBiofuels]

The front grill is not too big? Alex, I respectfully disagree with your assessment. You could catch a cow with that grill.

[@ビップレクサス]

A bit confused here. In Europe, many of the German cars have Amber turn signals. Do the German brands purposely change them out for the US-Spec because they think we like red turn signals?

[@sic22l]

All cars in Europe have amber turn signals, they're mandated by the law. Yes, if you see European car with red turn signals it means that the manufacturer decided to make a change for the US market (they didn't have to do so),

[@brink668]

How did you get that car already?! I still have received any info yet from Lexus. This is nice

[@artagain8977]

Have you gotten rid of the scoring now Alex? I liked that format.

[@kkswun]

First drive, not a review

[@ahmedsyed3436]

I prefer amber (yellow) for turn signals.

[@i3drivingnerd]

Amber rear signals all the way!

[@rod22lt]

I don’t mind the drive mode knobs but I did flash back to a similar thing in my old Chevy Corsica (shudder)

[@calbob750]

Could this Lexus be an Uxelated Toyota C- HR? I believe it is. Alex is still the go to guy for comprehensive car reviews.

[@sic22l]

@Jonathan A It's a completely different engine. Technically it's closer to the new Corolla.

[@goetzliedtke]

Oh my, the return of rocket fins is imminent.

[@techieaddict]

What about this or a loaded accord hybrid? I'm constantly debating between entry level luxury cars like the ux over a loaded mainstream vehicle..

[@IdrisFashan]

Hey, I don’t see the RDX in any of your chart comparisons. Is his not a direct competitor of that, or is the NX a better fit for that? Not up on my Lexus products. ☺️