Is Lexus UX a hybrid?
The Lexus UX is offered with a hybrid option and, in some regions, a fully electric variant. In markets like the United States, the lineup centers on the hybrid and gasoline versions, while other regions offer an electric version. Here’s how the options break down and what it means for prospective buyers.
Overview of the UX lineup
The UX nameplate spans gasoline, hybrid, and electric configurations depending on country and model year. The hybrid variant, known as the UX 250h, is the most consistently available electrified option in many markets. In selected regions, Lexus has also introduced the UX 300e, a dedicated battery-electric model built on the same compact crossover platform. Availability varies by market, so buyers should check local dealer configurations.
Hybrid powertrain (UX 250h)
The hybrid UX 250h uses a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle gasoline engine paired with electric motor assistance. The system is designed for smooth, efficient performance and does not require plugging in to recharge.
- Drivetrain: 2.0-liter inline-four gasoline engine plus electric motor(s) with a continuously variable transmission (CVT)
- All-wheel-drive option: Optional AWD in some trims under Lexus’ hybrid system (often marketed as E-Four in certain regions)
- Power delivery: Smooth, linear acceleration aided by the hybrid system; no external charging needed
- Efficiency focus: Designed for strong urban efficiency and comfortable highway cruising
Concluding note: The UX 250h offers a practical, non-plug-in hybrid solution with Lexus Hybrid Drive, combining efficiency with everyday usability and optional AWD for certain markets.
Electrified options: UX 300e and regional availability
The UX 300e represents Lexus’ first mass-market battery-electric iteration of the UX platform. It has been rolled out in several regions since its introduction, but not universally. In some markets, the UX 300e is the sole electrified option, while others rely on the hybrid or gasoline variants only.
- Battery and motor: BEV with a dedicated electric motor and a lithium-ion battery pack
- Charging: supports standard charging, with options for faster DC charging where available
- Range and performance: varies by market and testing standard (WLTP vs. EPA); official numbers differ between Europe, Canada, and other regions
- Market availability: offered in select countries/regions; not universally available everywhere Lexus sells the UX
Conclusion: The UX 300e is the BEV path within the UX family, but its availability depends on local market strategy. If a pure-electric UX is important, confirm regional availability and incentives with a local Lexus dealer.
Frequently asked questions
Is every Lexus UX a hybrid?
No. While the UX 250h hybrid is widely available in many markets, some regions offer the UX as a gasoline-only model, and the UX 300e is only present in markets where Lexus has launched the BEV variant.
Does the UX offer plug-in capability?
The UX 250h hybrid is non plug-in and recharges through the engine and regenerative braking. The UX 300e BEV requires external charging to replenish its battery.
Summary
Is the Lexus UX gas or electric?
This may be a small crossover, but it packs quite a punch, courtesy of its 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder hybrid powertrain. It generates a healthy 196 net horsepower by combining the power of the 2.0-liter gas engine with Lexus Hybrid Drive technology, featuring a high-torque electric-drive motor with EV mode.
When did Lexus UX become hybrid?
Specifications
| ICE models | ||
|---|---|---|
| Type | Model | Cal. years |
| Petrol | UX 200 | 2019-2022 |
| Petrol hybrid | UX 250h/260h | 2019-2024 |
| UX 300h | 2025-present |
Is the Lexus UX a hybrid car?
Class-Leading Combined MPG
The UX Hybrid not only offers ample power, it's the most efficient non-plug-in luxury SUV available.
Is there a non-hybrid Lexus UX?
The Lexus UX is no longer available as a non-hybrid model, as all versions from the 2023 model year onward are exclusively hybrid. Previously, Lexus offered the UX 200, a gasoline-only version, but discontinued it after the 2022 model year due to a company-wide shift to hybrid and electric powertrains. The UX lineup is now exclusively hybrid, with the most recent model being the UX 300h.
You can watch this video to learn more about the UX 250h and its hybrid system: 1mRaiti's RidesYouTube · May 25, 2021
- Past models: From 2019 to 2022, Lexus offered both the non-hybrid UX 200 and the hybrid UX 250h.
- Discontinuation of non-hybrid: Lexus discontinued the non-hybrid UX 200 for the 2023 model year.
- Current models: As of the 2023 model year, the Lexus UX is only available as a hybrid vehicle. For 2025, the model is the UX 300h, which features an updated hybrid system.
