Lexus UX300e (2022) Review

This week, I’ve had the pleasure of driving the 2022 Lexus UX300e, the brand's first all-electric vehicle (EV). The model I tested was the Premium Plus spec, priced around £46,000, and competing with the likes of the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Polestar 2, Kia e-Niro, Skoda Enyaq, and VW ID.4. Let’s dive into what this EV has to offer.

If you’re in the market for a small, mid-sized SUV and don’t mind compromising on tech and storage, the UX300e is worth checking out.

Exterior & Design

The first thing you notice are the 17-inch wheels, which contribute to a surprisingly smooth ride. Although the back seats aren’t exactly spacious, you can fit four six-foot adults — though taller passengers might struggle a bit with foot space. Overall, it maintains that sleek, premium Lexus look, but what really matters is how it drives.

Driving Experience

So, what’s it like behind the wheel? Honestly, it’s just… nice. There’s nothing ground breaking about the performance, but it excels in comfort. We took it for a family trip to Weymouth, and for the first time in five years, my daughter fell asleep on the way home — a testament to how serene the ride is. The seats are incredibly comfortable, and the quietness of the electric motor adds to that relaxing atmosphere.

At a casual 50 mph, the car feels effortlessly smooth. There’s a touch of wind noise from the mirrors, but nothing too intrusive. It’s also quite responsive, delivering a decent burst of speed when you need it, with a 0-60 mph time of 6.9 seconds. However, it’s worth noting that with front-wheel drive, the traction control kicks in quickly if you accelerate too aggressively, so putting all that power down isn’t always straightforward.

Interior Quality & Features

Inside, the build quality is mostly what you’d expect from Lexus — premium, with a few exceptions. The luxurious seats and metal gear surround are great, but some of the plastics feel a bit cheap for a car at this price point. The chunky leather steering wheel is a hit for me, but its size might not suit everyone’s tastes.

One disappointment is the 7-inch infotainment screen. It feels outdated and lacks the high-resolution visuals you’d hope for in 2022. You only get a bigger 10.3-inch screen if you opt for the Takumi trim. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay come as standard, so that’s a plus, but built-in satnav is also reserved for the Takumi level, which seems odd for a premium car.

Range & Charging

Now onto the big question — range. The Lexus UX300e has a claimed range of 196 miles, but like many EVs, expect to lose 20-30 miles if you’re running the air conditioning. Charging is decent but not particularly fast, as the car is equipped with a CHAdeMO connector that supports up to 50 kW charging. It also has a Type 2 connector, which works for home charging and even comes with a ‘granny plug’ for emergency charging.

Practicality & Storage

Here’s where things fall a little short. Boot space is limited to 367 litres, which is enough for a weekly shop, but not much more. There’s a small compartment under the boot floor to store charging cables, though it’s quite cramped. A front trunk (frunk) would’ve been a smart addition, especially since this vehicle was originally designed as a petrol/hybrid, and later converted to an EV. Without it, accessing the charging cables can be inconvenient if your boot is packed.

On the Road

In everyday driving, the UX300e is a joy. It’s smooth and comfortable, especially for cruising through scenic routes like the New Forest. While many EVs have a firm ride due to the extra battery weight, this Lexus strikes a nice balance. It’s not too floaty but still soft enough to absorb most road imperfections with ease.

Verdict: Is It Worth It?

So, where does the 2022 Lexus UX300e stand? It’s a good car, but not a great one. The range is fine for city driving or short trips, but it won’t blow you away compared to its competition. The limited boot space and lack of cutting-edge infotainment are drawbacks, especially considering the price point. Still, the comfort, quietness, and smooth ride are all big wins.

If Lexus had given this model a longer range, more storage, and a modern infotainment system, I’d be raving about it. As it stands, it’s a solid choice, but it’s not the standout in its segment. However, Lexus’ reputation for reliability means that in a few years, this could be a great used buy.

For now, if you’re in the market for a small, mid-sized SUV and don’t mind compromising on tech and storage, the UX300e is worth checking out. Keep an eye out for some great lease deals too, as Lexus often offers competitive prices that make this EV even more tempting.

To find out the latest lease prices for a Lexus UX300e, Click here.