The Lexus UX 300e, introduced in March 2023, represents Lexus’s inaugural foray into the all-electric vehicle (BEV) market. Built upon the established UX compact crossover platform, the 300e variant is designed to deliver a premium electric driving experience. Initially targeted towards the European and Asian markets, where demand for luxury electric vehicles is particularly strong, it has also become available in select US states. The UX 300e, specifically the 72.8 kWh variant producing 204 horsepower, plays a crucial role in Lexus’s broader electrification strategy, aiming to balance range, performance, and luxury within the competitive compact EV segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lexus |
| Model | UX |
| Generation | UX |
| Type (Engine) | 300e 72.8 kWh (204 Hp) |
| Start of production | March, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 160 km/h (99.42 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.8 kg/Hp, 113.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6 kg/Nm, 166.7 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 72.8 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 355.2 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 440-450 km (273.4 – 279.62 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 16.7-16.9 kWh/100 km (26.88 – 27.2 kWh/100 mi) |
| MPGe | 125 – 124 |
| km/kWh | 6 – 5.9 |
| mi/kWh | 3.7 – 3.7 |
| Electric motor power | 204 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 300 Nm (221.27 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor model/code | 4KM |
| Electric motor location | Front axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 204 Hp |
| System torque | 300 Nm (221.27 lb.-ft.) |
| Kerb Weight | 1800-1855 kg (3968.32 – 4089.57 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2245 kg (4949.38 lbs.) |
| Max load | 390-445 kg (859.8 – 981.06 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 367-486 l (12.96 – 17.16 cu. ft.) |
| Length | 4495 mm (176.97 in.) |
| Width | 1840 mm (72.44 in.) |
| Height | 1545 mm (60.83 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2640 mm (103.94 in.) |
| Front track | 1550-1560 mm (61.02 – 61.42 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1550-1560 mm (61.02 – 61.42 in.) |
| Front overhang | 970 mm (38.19 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 885 mm (34.84 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm (5.51 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.4 m (34.12 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 14.4° |
| Departure angle | 25.8° |
| Ramp-over angle | 22.9° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | One electric motor drives the front wheels. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 1 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Trailing arm |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 305×28 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 317×18 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/60 R17; 225/50 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Lexus UX 300e employs a single, front-wheel-drive electric motor, internally designated 4KM, which generates 204 horsepower and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque. The powertrain’s core is a 72.8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack strategically positioned under the vehicle floor. This placement contributes to a lower center of gravity, enhancing handling stability. The battery pack operates at a voltage of 355.2 volts. Lexus opted for a synchronous electric motor, favored for its inherent efficiency and smooth, linear power delivery. The UX 300e utilizes a single-speed, direct-drive automatic transmission – a common configuration in electric vehicles – providing seamless acceleration without traditional gear changes. Regenerative braking is integrated into the system, capturing kinetic energy during deceleration to improve overall efficiency and extend range.
Driving Characteristics
The UX 300e delivers brisk acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 7.1 seconds. The hallmark instant torque of electric motors provides a responsive and engaging driving experience, particularly in urban environments. While not positioned as a high-performance EV, the UX 300e offers a comfortable and refined ride quality. The single-speed transmission ensures a linear power delivery, and the low center of gravity contributes to stable and predictable handling. Compared to potential future, higher-output variants, this 204 hp model prioritizes efficiency and everyday usability over outright speed and sporty dynamics. The steering feel is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in city traffic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The UX 300e is typically well-equipped, aligning with Lexus’s luxury brand image. Standard features generally include the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies encompassing pre-collision systems with pedestrian detection, lane tracing assist, and dynamic radar cruise control. The interior boasts a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, seamless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and premium upholstery materials. Optional extras often include a panoramic sunroof, heated and ventilated front seats, and a high-fidelity Mark Levinson premium sound system. Trim levels can vary depending on the specific market, generally offering progressively enhanced levels of luxury features and technological sophistication.
Chassis & Braking
The UX 300e features an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a trailing arm suspension at the rear. This suspension setup is carefully tuned to strike a balance between ride comfort and handling responsiveness. The vehicle is equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The electronic braking system incorporates ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and brake assist for enhanced safety. The steering system utilizes an electric power-assisted rack and pinion design, delivering precise and responsive steering feel. Tire sizes typically range from 215/60 R17 to 225/50 R18, depending on the chosen trim level and wheel design.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lexus UX 300e has received generally positive reviews from automotive critics, who have praised its comfortable ride, refined interior, and Lexus’s well-established reputation for reliability. However, some reviews have pointed out its relatively limited all-electric range compared to some competitors in the luxury EV segment. Energy consumption ranges from 16.7-16.9 kWh/100 km, equating to approximately 125-124 MPGe. Compared to other models within the UX lineup – which are primarily hybrid variants – the 300e offers the advantage of zero-emission driving but carries a higher price tag. Key competitors include the Audi Q4 e-tron, Volvo XC40 Recharge, and Tesla Model Y, each offering different strengths in terms of range, performance, and technology.
Legacy
As Lexus’s first all-electric vehicle, the UX 300e represents a pivotal moment in the brand’s transition towards electrification. While initial reports suggest robust build quality, the long-term reliability of the battery pack and electric powertrain components remains under ongoing evaluation. In the used car market, the UX 300e is anticipated to maintain strong resale value, benefiting from Lexus’s brand prestige and the increasing consumer demand for electric vehicles. The UX 300e serves as a crucial stepping stone for Lexus’s future EV development, laying the groundwork for a broader portfolio of electric models in the years to come, and establishing a foundation for the brand’s commitment to a sustainable automotive future.
