Lexus Introduces New Gateway Model

BY Diane Marini

Lexus Introduces New Gateway Model – Nov 05, 2018 – Aichi, Japan (Techreleased) – Lexus Australia today announced aggressive pricing to accompany the introduction of the striking design, advanced technology and luxurious quality of the new luxury compact UX SUV.

Prices for the new UX range start below $45,000*, which ensures it is the most affordable of all Lexus vehicles other than the Luxury version of the CT 200h hatch.

As well as offering the most power and fastest acceleration, the UX 250h is also the most fuel-efficient with combined cycle economy from 4.5 litres/100km**.

Both front and all-wheel-drive versions of the UX 250h will be available, the latter equipped with a compact, lightweight and fuel-efficient E-Four system for an additional $4,500.

The innovative E-Four provides electric motor drive to the rear axle, automatically providing extra grip in slippery conditions. All-wheel drive will be an option on Sports Luxury and F Sport variants.

Lexus chief executive Scott Thompson said the arrival of the UX range with affordable pricing would enable the luxury lifestyle brand to introduce an entirely new customer base to its “experience amazing” commitment.

“The UX delivers a fresh and contemporary appeal to young buyers seeking new and exciting experiences relevant to their lifestyles,” Mr Thompson said.

Lexus Safety Sense + is standard, including a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, all-speed active cruise control, lane trace assist, traffic sign recognition, auto high beam, blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert.

Additional safety features include eight airbags, reversing camera, parking sensors, tyre inflation warning, vehicle speed-limit warning and an anti-theft system.

Luxury models are equipped with a 10.3″ display screen, satellite navigation, 8-speaker DAB audio, 7″ thin-film transistor meter, GPS clock and illuminated entry.

Their technical specification extends to 750kg towing capacity (UX 200 only), front performance rod and three drive modes (normal, eco, sport).

Notable exterior features include 17″ alloy wheels, acoustic windscreen glass, roof rails, LED headlamps, fog lights and tail lamps, power-adjustable heated mirrors.

The spacious cabin offers a leather-accented steering wheel and shift lever, power-adjustable steering column, electro-chromatic rear-view mirror, 8-way power-adjustable front seats with heater.

Moving up to Sports Luxury, additional features include 18-inch wheels with run-flat tyres, leather-accented seats, ventilated and 8-way power-adjustable driver and front passenger seats, 13-speaker Mark Levinson audio, an adaptive high beam system, panoramic view monitor and high-grade finishes.

Unique F Sport is distinguished by its bumpers, grille and special 18-inch wheels plus sports seats, steering wheel, shift lever and pedals. This grade is also equipped with adaptive variable suspension, five drive modes, rear performance damper and active sound control.