Can a Lexus UX pull a trailer?
Yes, but only light trailers up to about 1,000 pounds, and only with the proper towing equipment and adherence to official limits.
The Lexus UX is a compact crossover designed for urban use, not heavy hauling. Its towing capability is modest by design, reflecting its small engine and suspension. This article explains the official capacity, what that means for towing in real life, and how to prepare safely if you need to tow with a UX.
Official towing capacity and what it means
Lexus’s current guidance for the UX in North America lists a maximum towing capacity of 1,000 pounds (roughly 450 kg) when the vehicle is properly equipped with a compatible hitch and towing setup. This rating covers both the UX 200 and the UX 250h hybrid variants and is intended for light-duty trailers. Heavier loads exceed the design limits and should not be attempted. Since ratings can vary by market and model year, always verify the exact figure with a Lexus dealer or the owner’s manual for your specific vehicle.
Market and year variations
Differences in regional specifications or changes across model years can affect the rated towing limit. If you are outside the North American market, or if your vehicle is a newer or older model year, consult local Lexus documentation or a dealer to confirm the precise towing capacity for your UX variant.
What towing with a UX means for driving and safety
Even within the 1,000-pound cap, towing adds weight, affecting braking, acceleration, and handling. The UX’s small engine and chassis are not optimized for heavy towing, so expect longer stopping distances and slower acceleration when towing. You should also consider trailer sway, proper weight distribution, and compliance with local towing laws.
Before hitching up, you should understand the practical implications and comply with local towing laws. The following points summarize key considerations to keep in mind when towing with a UX.
- Trailer weight must not exceed 1,000 pounds (about 450 kg) gross trailer weight, and the combined weight of passengers, cargo, and trailer must stay within the vehicle’s GVWR and the GCWR as published for your model.
- Use a properly rated hitch and an electrical wiring harness specified for towing; some regions require a dealer-installed towing package to ensure electrical reliability.
- Trailers over a certain weight may require trailer brakes; check local regulations and ensure the trailer braking system complies if your load approaches the limit.
- Load distribution matters: aim for about 10-15% of the trailer’s weight on the hitch (tongue weight) to maintain stability.
- Expect reduced braking performance and longer stopping distances; plan your route with extra distance and smoother driving.
These considerations explain why the UX is best suited for light trailers such as small utility trailers, camping gear trailers, or other low-weight loads.
Checklist before towing with a Lexus UX
To avoid surprises, go through this checklist before hitching up a trailer. Each item helps ensure the configuration stays within the official limit and that safety systems function correctly.
- Verify the exact towing rating for your specific model year, drivetrain, and market with the owner’s manual or a Lexus dealer.
- Install or confirm a factory-approved towing hitch and electrical wiring harness.
- Ensure proper load distribution: trailer tongue weight about 10-15% of trailer weight.
- Check that the combined weight does not exceed GCWR and that passengers and cargo inside the UX stay within GVWR.
- Confirm trailer brakes are installed if local laws require them or if your trailer weight approaches the limit.
- Test trailer lights and wiring before departure; verify that the trailer’s lights synchronize with the UX’s signals.
- Plan your route and drive with increased following distances, smoother acceleration, and cautious turns.
By following these steps, you can tow within the safe and recommended boundaries of the UX’s design and official specifications.
Alternative options for heavier towing needs
If your hauling or camping plans require heavier trailers or more frequent towing, consider a larger vehicle with a higher tow rating, such as the Lexus NX or other midsize SUVs designed for greater towing capacity. For occasional heavy towing, renting a vehicle suited to the task can be a practical alternative.
Summary
The Lexus UX can tow light trailers, up to about 1,000 pounds, when properly equipped and within the vehicle’s weight limits. For heavier towing, a different vehicle is advisable. Always verify the exact rating for your year and market, prepare your setup carefully, and obey all safety regulations and local laws.
Can you put a hitch on a Lexus UX?
Each custom-fit class 3 hitch package is made for vehicle-specific mounting. This particular kit fits certain years of the Lexus UX 250h (see application info to verify vehicle compatibility). It provides a weight carrying capacity of 2,000 lbs.
What Lexus can pull a trailer?
Our Top Pick for Towing with a Lexus: The LX
With the LX, you'll have a max hauling capacity of an impressive 8,000 pounds.
Can the Lexus UX tow?
Although the Lexus UX is the perfect option for drivers looking to make the most of their weekend, it is not rated for towing. The UX excels at delivering outstanding fuel economy and can be equipped with the capability of All-Wheel Drive to help you get out and explore.
What are common Lexus UX problems?
Common Lexus UX Problems
According to consumerreports.org, here are some significant Lexus UX issues: Engine faults. Transmission errors. Faults with the electrical accessories.
