Lexus recently invited The Peak to experience its latest compact SUV the UX200. A true urban explorer, the UX200 is best described as a vibrant, free-spirited and dynamic vehicle that lets you conquer the city on your own terms.
The new UX200 combines the best attributes and versatility of an SUV. Featuring the sleek yet elegant styling of a hatchback, the UX200’s fluid lines and distinctive spindle grille highlights its premium heritage.
Lexus has brought three distinct variants of the UX200 into Malaysia: the Urban, Luxury and F- Sport.
Aesthetically, the UX200 dons a rather muscular look though the body itself is rather petite. There are some notable design choices that make it unique such as the trademark Lexus spindle grille. Interestingly, the front grille actually changes its appearance depending on the angle you look at it.
Also worth noting is the inclusion of triple LED headlights and arrow-shaped Daytime Running Lights.
Perhaps the most striking exterior feature of the new UX is the new horizontal sequence of 120 LEDs that create a distinctive line of light across the rear. This full-width tail light also features upright fins at the corners that Lexus claims to give it greater stability.
One notable difference between the F-Sport variant is the inclusion of larger air intakes and a unique criss-cross grille mesh as well as a larger 18-inch wheel design.
All three models come with a new 4-cylinder Dynamic Force 2.0-litre petrol engine that is paired with a 10-speed virtual ratio function and goes from zero to 100km/h in 9.2 seconds before reaching a top speed of 190km/h.
Lexus arranged for a special session for members of the media to drive the UX200 Luxury from its flagship facility in Mutiara Damansara to The LINC shopping mall in downtown Kuala Lumpur.
Stepping into the UX200 and we were greeted by a futuristic-looking wraparound dashboard that is orientated towards the driver. Take a closer look and you will find the upper layer of the dashboard features a textural quality and tactile feel of Japanese washi paper.
For those who want to be on the sportier side, there is the option for the aggressively designed F Sport style that reflects the vehicle’s high-performance nature.
Everything is within easy reach with the audio controls placed on the front armrest and near the remote touch interface for the infotainment system.
Speaking of which, the Multi-Information Display has a low profile that seamlessly blends with the bonnet, giving you a clear view of the road ahead.
With Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, we were able to connect with our smart devices to access our favourite apps such as Spotify, WhatsApp, navigate with Google Maps and request for information with a voice assistant.
Adding to that, the Luxury variant we were given to try has a few extra niceties like automatic wipers, auto-dimming mirrors, ventilated front seats with driver’s side memory and leather upholstery with sashiko quilting.
Another nice touch is the rear kick sensor that opens the power rear door without having to fish out the keys or reach for the button. Particularly, useful if you have your hands full with groceries.
During our time driving the UX200, we were thoroughly impressed by the vehicle’s smooth handling and power as it easily picked up speed on the open highway. The drive was also noticeable quiet even as the engine roared on the highway thanks to the UX200’s excellent sound insulation.
Just like Lexus’ previous models, is safety is a top priority for the UX200. Outfitted with Lexus’ Safety System+ that gives the car a set of autonomous functions. This includes a Pre-Collision System (PCS), Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Lane Tracing Assist and Adaptive High-beam System.
In testing the UX200’s safety features, we felt in good hands as features like the Dynamic Radar Cruise Control allowed us to experience stress-free driving, freeing our attention from tapping on the accelerator and on other conditions on the road. Even in the event should a vehicle in front come to a sudden stop, the feature gradually slows the vehicle down to a controlled stop.
In fact, driving the UX200 through heavy traffic proved not to be a problem and was even enjoyable as we left the stop and go action to the car completely and focused on the where we were actually going.
The UX200 is also fitted with Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert and a Panoramic View Monitor in full colour with dynamic gridlines to assist you with parking and other manoeuvres.
The Lexus UX200 Urban, Luxury and F-Sport are priced at MYR243,888, MYR283,888 and MYR299,888 respectively.
