Although unconfirmed, the new Lexus crossover might break cover at this year’s Geneva Motor Show. Based on the UX concept from the 2016 Paris Motor Show, the new UX will be the entry-level crossover and replace the discontinued CT in the Lexus’ line-up. The UX crossover will be Lexus' take on the likes of the BMW X1, Mercedes-Benz GLC and Audi Q3.
Lexus wants a piece of the crossover pie which is in high demand these days. The Japanese carmaker has patented UX 200, UX 250, and UX 250h monikers already. However, there are no test mules or any sort of prototypes spotted on test yet. We suspect that might happen once the production-ready show car makes its public debut.
Going by the appearance, it is safe to say that the production-ready UX won’t be as flashy and outrageous as the UX Concept. However, the imposing Spindle grille will carry forward the proceeding while all the other design elements will be scrounged from the bigger Lexus SUVs. There is no word on the engine yet, but the patented badging hints at the same 1.8-litre four bangers attached to the Toyota’s hybrid tech.
The crossover/SUVs account up to 60 per cent of Lexus’ sales in America alone. Therefore it seems like a viable decision from the Japanese carmaker to expand its portfolio with a new entry-level crossover. The UX is a big step forward against the highly competitive Germans. Guess we will have to wait for the Geneva Motor Show to find out more. Keep watching this space for a detailed coverage of the Geneva stage.
