Expanding its buyer profile, Lexus has added an entry-level variant to UX hybrid range in the form of the EX250, bringing the model choice up to four.

The range starts with an entry-level petrol 200 EX, followed by the new ES 250h EX, the UX 250h SE (top spec) and topped off by the UX 200 F Sport.

The competitively-priced EX grade delivers the same outputs and drive as its SE sibling. Both hybrid models are equipped with a 2,0‑litre petrol engine with a new fourth-generation hybrid drive system engineered specifically for this platform.

As with the SE Hybrid model grade, the new UX 250h EX is similarly-specced, and comes standard with features such as park distance control with a reverse camera (without panoramic view), push start system, Drive Mode Select, which allows the driver to tailor the driving experience by selecting from three different drive modes (Normal, ECO and Sport), as well as niceties such as two rear USB charging ports (ideal for passengers), a navigation system and a hands-free rear boot. In addition, other standard features include Normal Cruise Control, Heated Power Retractable Side Mirrors as well as Day and Night Mirrors.

In the cabin, the UX 250h EX model is available with five standard Nulux (simulated leather) interior options, namely Black, White Ash, Rich Cream, B Ocher and Cobalt. The Lexus Remote Touch Interface (RTI) with haptic feedback is designed to feel as familiar to use as a smartphone. It also features the Lexus 8-Speaker Premium Sound System which uses bamboo charcoal speaker diaphragms to reduce mass and deliver natural-sounding voices and improved mid-range sound.

Exterior-wise, the UX 250h EX comes standard with 18-inch aluminum alloy aero-ventilating wheels which are available in a standard silver metallic colour. The model also features front LED daytime running lights, arranged in an arrowhead motif above the headlights which complement the Lexus L-shaped lighting signature.

The front-wheel-drive UX 250h delivers 107 kW of power at 6 000 r/min and 180 Nm of torque at 4 400 r/min, equating to a 0-100km/h sprint time of 8,5 seconds, topped off by a maximum speed of 177 km/h.  It produces fuel economy figures of 4,5 l/100 km combined, CO2 emissions of 103 g/km.

Lexus Sales and Marketing Vice President, Glenn Crompton says: “Expanding the UX 250h line-up was a natural extension for the Lexus newbie, which has been a sales driver in the local market for the brand. Lexus has furthermore enjoyed a good market share for hybrid sales over the last year. In 2019 Lexus commanded a 39% market share of all hybrid and electric sales in the premium sector.”

“The greater number of Lexus customers purchasing the UX can now have the luxury of choice, supplemented by a new standard of range-wide connectivity,” Crompton concludes.

An all-new feature across the UX 2020 range is the revised infotainment system which now includes Apple CarPlay2 and Android3 Auto compatibility as standard, this includes free Wi-Fi connectivity for the driver and passengers under the ‘Lexus Connect’ banner.

The Lexus UX 250h EX retails for R690 300. The entry-level petrol UX 200 EX retails for R654 700, the UX 250h SE model retails for R756 200 and the F Sport for R785 400.

The EX Hybrid model joins the rest of the Lexus models with a standard 7-year/105 000 km Warranty and Full Maintenance Plan. Vehicle service intervals are set at every 15 000 km, alternatively once a year.