[Taboleo] Forgot It Was an Electric Car While Driving the Lexus UX 300e

Clean Interior Design Stands Out
But Disappointing Button-Type Center Fascia
Excellent Acceleration, Cornering, and Noise Control
Maximum Driving Range 233km

[Asia Economy Reporter Yoo Hyun-seok] Electric vehicles (EVs) are still a polarizing choice for me. I tend to prefer the unique engine characteristics of internal combustion engines. Nevertheless, I feel that EVs are becoming the mainstream now. This is because leading global automakers are rushing to launch electric vehicles.

Lexus is also part of this trend. Lexus has announced that it will complete a full electrification lineup offering customers diverse needs and choices by unveiling electric vehicles in addition to hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and fuel cell vehicles. Among them, the UX300e is the first model of the Lexus brand to open the era of electrification.

-How does the exterior of the Lexus UX300e look?

▲For reference, the UX300e is a derivative electric vehicle based on Lexus's first compact sport utility vehicle (SUV), the 'UX.' Therefore, there is not much difference in design. The word ‘ELECTRIC’ located at the bottom of the rear door simply indicates that this vehicle is electric.

However, I personally like Lexus's design. The bold grille looks stylish. At the front, the iconic Lexus spindle grille and triple LED headlamps are positioned. The arch molding on the side helps reduce air resistance, which contributes to improving energy efficiency.

This vehicle has a length of 4495 mm, a width and height of 1840 mm and 1525 mm respectively, and a wheelbase of 2640 mm. The curb weight is 1830 kg. It inevitably becomes heavier due to the battery.

-How is the interior?

▲The interior is somewhat disappointing. Perhaps because EVs are strongly associated with future cars, the interior felt quite classic. For example, there is a stick-type gear knob, which is rarely seen in electric vehicles. Especially, the gauge on the lower right side of the instrument cluster is analog rather than digital, which was a big letdown.

In particular, the center fascia uses buttons instead of a touchscreen. It is operated via a touchpad next to the gear knob rather than a touchscreen. Considering that most vehicles nowadays support touchscreens, this is a drawback. Also, the 7-inch infotainment monitor does not have navigation.

However, although it was like this at first, I got used to it and found it convenient after continuous use. Since the infotainment monitor is positioned far away, I eventually thought it was more comfortable. Another advantage is the clean interior design. Although the seats are made of synthetic leather, they are soft and comfortable to sit on. Oh, and for reference, the cargo space is 305 liters, which is 41 liters larger than the existing hybrid model.

-How was the driving experience?

▲The test drive course was from the Lexus showroom in Jeju City to a cafe in Daejeong-eup, Seogwipo City. The distance was about 78 km. It was a winding mountainous road in the mid-mountainous inland area of Jeju Island. Starting from the city, there were straight roads and various curves, making it suitable to experience different driving conditions.

Several advantages stood out during driving. The biggest was acceleration performance. The vehicle responded immediately as soon as the accelerator pedal was pressed, and the speed increased quickly. Especially, the noise was so low that at some point, I looked at the instrument cluster and thought, "Has the speed already increased this much?" For reference, the Lexus UX300e has a maximum output of 204 horsepower and a maximum torque of 30.6 kg·m. The zero to 100 km/h acceleration time is 7.5 seconds. Additionally, it was impressive how stably it exited corners.

Noise control was particularly excellent. Irregular road surfaces and wind noise during acceleration were not very noticeable. You could fully experience Lexus's quiet and smooth ride comfort. The battery mounted under the vehicle acts as a sound barrier that reduces road noise entering the cabin during driving. Also, to reduce noise emitted through the tires from small stones, dirt, and water, an expanded underfloor cover compared to the hybrid model was applied, and sound-absorbing materials were used in the fender liners.

-So, what about the price and maximum driving range?

▲The maximum driving range and price of the Lexus UX300e may be somewhat disappointing. The official energy efficiency of this vehicle is 4.7 km/kWh on a combined basis. It can travel 233 km on a single charge. Considering that most new vehicles nowadays can go about 400 km, this comparison is quite significant. Charging time is 50 minutes from 0% to 75% and 80 minutes to 100% with fast charging. For reference, the price of the UX300e, applying a 3.5% individual consumption tax, is 54.9 million KRW. It qualifies for the full electric vehicle subsidy.

Although the Lexus UX300e is Lexus's first electric vehicle, it has many shortcomings. However, despite that, I think it is practical for use in cities or places with sufficient charging infrastructure. Especially for those who want the unique driving feel of Lexus, I believe it will be a satisfying vehicle.