The Lexus UX Is the Brand's Best-Seller in the UK, Despite a Genuinely Tiny Boot
All three reviews note the same trade-off with real puzzlement: this compact hybrid SUV somehow remains Lexus's best-selling UK model despite cramped rear seats and one of the smallest boots in its class — proof that low running costs and Lexus's reliability reputation can outweigh real practical shortcomings.
Illustration for editorial purposes
Proof That Efficiency Can Trump Practicality
Small premium SUVs usually succeed by balancing space and efficiency. Reviewers keep noting the UX leans almost entirely on the efficiency side of that equation, and UK buyers have kept choosing it anyway.
Specs at a Glance
| Body style | Small premium SUV / hatchback-crossover |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L self-charging hybrid (196bhp), E-Four all-wheel drive optional |
| 0–62mph | 8.1 sec (FWD) to 7.9 sec (E-Four) |
| Boot space | 17.1 cubic feet — small for the class |
| Warranty | Up to 10 years / 100,000 miles with Lexus servicing |
Full Review Summary
Autocar
Autocar found the hybrid transmission avoids the flared-revs, screeching-away problem that's afflicted other CVT hybrids, with the car running silently on electric power for 57% of a 63-mile mixed test route, achieving 45.1mpg. They praised the touchscreen as one of the better systems on the market, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a genuinely useful shortcut to disable the speed-limit warning chime, though rated the boot as too small and the rear seats disappointingly impractical for adult passengers.
What Car?
What Car? found the UX runs out of front-end grip in bends sooner than the BMW X1, with light, smooth steering that doesn't inspire much confidence at higher speeds, and rated ride comfort as reasonable on motorways but fidgety over rippled surfaces compared with the Volvo XC40. They praised the low-set driving position for making the car feel stable and less prone to body roll than taller rivals, though flagged more wind and road noise at motorway speeds than the best family SUVs.
🎬 Watch: Lexus UX 300h review (same video, watch above ↗)
Top Gear
Top Gear rated the UX as Lexus's answer for buyers not yet ready for a plug-in hybrid or full EV, offering a proven powertrain, low tax and zero range anxiety instead. They found the cabin comfortable with good room for two adults in the back, provided front occupants aren't too tall, though rated the interior as feeling somewhat dated in places, from the chunky steering wheel to a rather drab colour scheme on lower trims.
🎬 Watch: Lexus UX 300h review (same video, watch above ↗)
Strengths
- Genuinely impressive real-world fuel economy
- Lexus's renowned reliability reputation and long warranty
- Comfortable, stable-feeling low driving position
- Improved, easy-to-use touchscreen with wireless smartphone mirroring
Weak points
- Genuinely small boot and cramped rear seats for the class
- Light steering that lacks confidence at higher speeds
- Interior feels dated in places despite recent updates
- No plug-in hybrid or fully electric version currently offered
Who It Actually Suits
Buyers who prioritise genuine running costs and Lexus's reliability reputation over outright practicality or driving engagement. If rear seat space or boot capacity matter to you, every review agrees rivals like the Volvo XC40 or BMW X1 are worth checking first.
More Lexus Reviews
Watch the Reviews
Lexus UX review ↗ (same video, watch above ↗)