2024 Lexus UX300e Review: The luxury electric hatchback smaller than a Tesla

What is it:

This is the fully electric version of the Lexus UX small SUV (though it’s more of a high-riding hatchback).

It’s also available as a petrol-electric hybrid.

It packs a lot of luxury into a small space, so the price may initially come as a shock – but don’t let that put you off until you finish reading this review.

Price:

This is the top-of-the range Lexus UX300e Sports Luxury variant – listed at $88,190 plus on-road costs, which equates to $98,355 drive-away according to the Lexus Australia website.

Tesla fans will tell you that’s at least $30,000 more expensive than a Tesla Model Y.

But not everyone wants a Tesla or a vehicle as big as a Tesla.

Plus the Lexus has familiar cabin controls and has a number of mod-cons the Tesla lacks.

Translated: don’t judge this car by its price just yet.

Engine:

The Lexus UX300e is powered by a 150kW/300Nm electric motor that drives the front wheels, and it is equipped with a 72.8kWh battery pack.

It has a claimed driving range of 440km (using energy at a rate of 16.9kWh/100km).

In our real world testing the driving range figure was closer to 370km and consumption was closer to 18-19kWh/100km.

0 to 100km/h (as tested):

The Lexus UX300e is surprisingly brisk.

It did 0 to 100kmh in 7.7 seconds according to our precision VBox timing equipment.

This compares to 6.9 seconds for the Tesla Model Y standard range.

Emergency braking from 100km/h (as tested):

The 225/50/18 Michelin Primacy 3 tyres on the Lexus UX300e are superb.

They deliver exceptional ride comfort (combined with excellent suspension tuning) and also an impressive stopping distance.

In an emergency brake test from 100kmh to 0, the Lexus UX300e pulled up in 37.8 metres , which is at the pointy end of the electric-car category.

As a reference, the Tesla Model Y pulled up in 37.1 metres on the same test area.

Good points:

This car is the perfect size for anyone who doesn’t want a medium-size sedan or SUV.

It feels like you’re being pampered by the soft leather and smooth cabin materials.

All buttons and dials are well placed and easy to use.

It has a conventional indicator stalk and a wiper stalk, as well as an intuitive gear selector.

We mention this because Tesla has switched to a radical design on its updated Model 3 sedan and this could be off-putting for some people.

The Lexus UX300e also has a widescreen infotainment display, premium audio, and Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and AM radio.

We mention this because Tesla does not have Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and AM radio and we reckon, understandably, that could be a deal-breaker for a significant proportion of buyers.

It also has exceptional low and high beam headlights, conventional steering wheel button controls, and a futuristic look inside and out.

In addition to the overall luxury feel, this really is a beautiful car to drive.

Frankly, the suspension was so supple and so well sorted it came as a surprise.

Not every Lexus drives this nicely. The latest Lexus UX300e is one of the best Lexus vehicles I have driven in terms of comfort.

The steering is light and easy, the brake and accelerator pedals are responsive without being jerky.

While the price might initially be a deterrent, there is actually a lot of substance to this car.

A nice touch: Lexus has sweat the details and equipped the UX300e with both types of electric-car charging sockets (one on each side, pictured below), so you’ll never be stranded.

Bad points:

The driving range, charging time and energy consumption are not as good as a Tesla.

But not everyone needs that much range or charging speed.

So if you want a luxurious, small electric car for short hops – that still has enough range for the occasional trip up or down the coast to see family and friends – this is definitely worth putting on your shopping list.

Other points to consider. Small boot. No ‘frunk’ (front trunk, which many electric cars have). Tight back seat.

Sun visors don’t extend far enough to completely block side glare, they only swing out.

What the haters say:

This costs how much?

What the haters don’t understand:

Beauty – and budget – are in the eye of the beholder.

Not every review has given the updated Lexus UX300e the thumbs up, but I can see the appeal of this car.

Should you buy one?

If you like Lexus, want familiar features and cabin controls, don’t want a big electric car – and this is in your budget – put the Lexus UX300e on your shopping list.

It’s a great option. We would happily recommend it.

Also consider:

Toyota BZ4X, Subaru Solterra, Tesla Model Y.