Lexus displays UX crossover at KLIMS 2018 in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR: Lexus has showcased its UX crossover at the KLIMS (Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show). It is the smallest crossover from the Japanese automaker and the previewed model is a left-hand drive unit. Lexus brings the vehicle to answer the likes of Mercedes-Benz GLA and BMW X1.

The UX crossover is based on the Compact (GA-C) platform and shares the underpinnings of the C-HR. The platform results in the low centre of gravity and further gets the support from doors, bonnet and fenders, which are made by aluminium. The resin tailgate is also made of aluminium.

The brand-new UX crossover comes with the typical spindle grille from Lexus. On the edges, sharp headlights along with arrow-shaped DLRs mark their prominence presence. At the sides, fenders are bulging out, adding to its boldness. Completing the exteriors are the squared wheel arches and a low-slung roofline.

Interior of the UX is pretty similar to the other Lexus models like ES and LS. It gets a 10.25-inch freestanding centre display and adorns sweeping dashboard design. For controlling the display, a Remote Touch interface is featured on the dash. Wireless lighting is offered in the air vent control knobs and the lighting gets an infinite reflective effect.

The UX 200, which is the variant that was displayed, is equipped with a four-cylinder 2.0-litre Dynamic Force, direct injected and naturally aspirated petrol engine. It is capable of churning out a maximum of 165 hp of power along with a peak torque of 205 Nm. The power is sent down to the wheels by a 10-speed Direct Shift automatic transmission.

The UX crossover is also available in a hybrid variant as UX 250h and the system has two electric motors along with a petrol engine. An electric motor is coupled with the mill, offering a total of 181 hp of maximum power and the other electric motor is present at the rear to provide all-wheel-drive.