2025 Lexus UX 300h F Sport Handling: Driving Impressions & Hybrid Updates

2025 Lexus UX 300h Powertrain Updates

• ⚡ The 2025 Lexus UX 300h features Toyota's fifth-generation hybrid system, shared with the Corolla and Prius, now producing 196 net combined horsepower.
• ⛽ This front-wheel-drive model maintains excellent fuel economy, averaging over 40 MPG even with aggressive driving, and is rated at 45 city / 41 highway.
• 💨 The new powertrain is noted as being quieter and less droney than previous iterations, requiring fewer revs to get going.

Exterior and Interior Design

• 🎨 The exterior styling remains largely unchanged, with the F Sport Handling model shown in a Copper Crest paint color.
• 🤏 The interior packaging is described as tight, especially in the rear seats, making it less spacious than some competitors in its class.
• 🛋️ The F Sport Handling package includes NuLuxe®-trimmed heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and aluminum scuff plates.

Driving Experience and Technology

• 🛣️ The ride quality is praised as nice and comfortable, with good NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) levels, contributing to a premium feel.
• 🔊 The vehicle offers physical controls for climate and infotainment, with a 12.3-inch touchscreen primarily used for wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™.
• ⚙️ Drive modes include Eco, Sport, and Sport Plus, with the latter engaging adaptive dampers and increasing throttle response, though some piped-in engine noise is noted and can be turned off.
• 🛑 Lexus and Toyota have significantly improved the hybrid braking system tuning, offering a smooth and well-calibrated experience.

Value and Practicality

• 💰 The F Sport Handling model is considered expensive at around $48,000, with a suggestion to consider mid-grade UX models for better value if the sport features aren't essential.
• 🏙️ Its compact proportions are beneficial for city driving and parking.
• 🔌 While some tech features are not as up-to-date as other Toyota/Lexus models, the UX 300h provides a smooth, quiet, efficient, and luxurious driving experience.
• 🚗 The steering is noted as having perfect weight and a feel comparable to higher-end Lexus products, enhancing the overall driving connection.