Does the Lexus UX have CVT transmission?
The gasoline UX200 and the UX250h hybrid use CVT-type transmissions (the hybrid uses an e-CVT), while the UX300e electric uses a single-speed transmission.
Across the current UX lineup, Lexus applies different transmission configurations depending on powertrain. Gasoline models typically rely on CVTs, hybrids use electronically controlled CVTs, and the electric model uses a fixed-gear system designed for electric propulsion. The following breakdown explains how these setups differ and what they mean for driving dynamics.
Transmission options by UX powertrain
The following breakdown covers the three powertrain options currently offered in the UX lineup.
- UX200 — Gasoline 2.0-liter engine paired with a CVT (continuously variable transmission).
- UX250h — Hybrid powertrain paired with an e-CVT (electronically controlled CVT) that blends engine and electric motor output.
- UX300e — All-electric model paired with a single-speed transmission (no traditional multi-gear automatic).
In practice, this means the UX200’s CVT prioritizes smooth, efficient acceleration, the UX250h’s hybrid setup uses an e-CVT to optimize power delivery between engine and electric motor, and the UX300e’s single-speed transmission is tuned for immediate electric torque and simple operation.
Driving implications by powertrain
- The UX200’s CVT aims for fuel efficiency and seamless acceleration, with characteristic CVT belt/ pulley behavior rather than fixed gear shifts.
- The UX250h’s e-CVT integrates the gasoline engine and electric motor to maintain optimal RPM and efficiency across a wide range of speeds.
- The UX300e’s single-speed setup provides immediate torque from the electric motor, with no gear changes to manage during typical urban and highway driving.
Summary
Overall, the Lexus UX lineup uses a CVT configuration for both gas and hybrid variants, while the electric UX300e uses a single-speed transmission. This aligns with the distinct powertrain goals of each model: efficiency and smoothness for the gasoline and hybrid versions, and straightforward, torque-rich performance for the electric version.
