Lexus is unveiling the US-spec version of the 2019 Lexus UX compact crossover this week at the New York Auto Show. Since the 2019 UX was unveiled earlier this month in Geneva, there’s no big surprises here, but Lexus has announced that buyers will have a new option if they decide they want one – a subscription service.
Just like Volvo, Cadillac and Porsche, Lexus has announced a new subscription service for the 2019 UX, which will be another option if a traditional lease is unappealing to you. Lexus hasn’t announced the specifics of the subscription plan, but it will likely be similar to other plans that lump the monthly cost of the car, insurance and service into one payment. Lexus also hasn’t announced what other models will be available under its new subscription service.
When the 2019 Lexus UX arrives in December, it will be offered in two versions, the UX 200 and UX 250h. The UX 200 is powered by a new 168-hp 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine that sends its power to the front wheels a new Direct Shift-CVT. The new Lexus CVT will attempt to improve the poor driving experience that plague most CVTs, since it will feature traditional gears in addition to the belt mechanism. The UX 200 will have a 33 mpg combined rating. Just like the Toyota C-HR, the gas powered UX will not be offered with all-wheel drive.
If you step up to the UX 250h, you’ll get an Atkinson Cycle version of the 2.0-liter gas engine found in the UX 200 with a hybrid system that generates a combined 176 horsepower and has a 38 combined MPG rating. The UX 250h is also the one you’ll have to get if you need all-wheel drive, since it adds an electric motor to the rear axle.
Lexus has not announced the pricing for the 2019 UX, but it will arrive in December 2018.
Source: Lexus
