What is the difference between Lexus UX 250h and UX300H?
The short answer is that there isn’t a meaningful mechanical difference in today’s lineup; these names have mainly reflected regional or historical branding for the same hybrid powertrain. In current markets, Lexus commonly uses UX 250h for the hybrid, while UX 300h appears mostly in older materials or in certain regions. The fully electric version is called UX 300e, which is a different powertrain altogether.
Hybrid powertrain and naming history
Across markets, Lexus has used different labels for the hybrid version of the UX over time, which can lead to confusion for shoppers and enthusiasts.
- UX 250h is the prevailing designation in most current markets for the Lexus UX hybrid with a 2.0-liter engine paired with an electric motor.
- UX 300h has appeared in some older brochures and regional materials as a name for the same hybrid variant; it is not the standard label in most new model lines today.
- UX 300e is the name used for Lexus’s fully electric UX variant in markets where it is offered, representing a different powertrain altogether from the hybrid.
In practice, if you are shopping today, the hybrid version you’re most likely to encounter is the UX 250h. The UX 300h label is mainly of historical interest or regional variation, while the UX 300e denotes the electric version.
What powers the hybrid and how it compares to the electric version
Both the UX 250h/UX 300h hybrids and the UX 300e electric model sit in the same family but use different propulsion systems. The hybrid combines a petrol engine with an electric motor and uses a continuously variable transmission (CVT), while the electric model runs solely on battery power and an electric motor.
- Hybrid variant (UX 250h/UX 300h): A 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle petrol engine works with an electric motor to provide a combined output around 181 horsepower, with front-wheel drive as standard and all-wheel drive (referred to as E-Four in some markets) available on certain trims. The system is designed for efficiency and smooth, seamless switching between electric and petrol power, and the battery is small enough to support regenerative charging but not a plug-in system.
- Electric variant (UX 300e): A fully battery-electric powertrain featuring a dedicated electric motor and a larger battery pack (roughly 54 kWh in many markets) to enable all-electric driving. It offers a distinct driving character from the hybrid, with regenerative braking, no internal combustion engine, and charging options including DC fast charging. Range and charging performance vary by market and model year, but the UX 300e is positioned as the all-electric option in the UX lineup.
In short, the main practical difference today is the powertrain: the UX 250h/UX 300h is a hybrid that uses gasoline plus electricity, while the UX 300e is fully electric. The badge differences (250h vs 300h) are primarily branding and market history, not a fundamental split in the current hybrid engineering.
How to tell them apart when shopping
If you’re buying a used or even a new model, the easiest way to confirm which powertrain you’re looking at is to check the brochure, window sticker, or dealer listing. Look for indicators such as “hybrid” or “UX 250h/UX 300h” versus “UX 300e” for the electric version. In many regions, the latest hybrid uses the UX 250h badge; the electric model uses UX 300e, and there is no new model today marketed as UX 300h.
Summary
The Lexus UX 250h and UX 300h names refer to the same hybrid system in most markets, with UX 250h as the current standard label and UX 300h appearing mainly in older materials or regional usage. The UX 300e is the separate fully electric variant in the lineup. When shopping, rely on the powertrain badge or the brochure to confirm whether you’re looking at a hybrid or an electric model, and you’ll find the differences are primarily about branding and drivetrain type rather than a fundamental mechanical split between 250h and 300h.
Is the Lexus UX 300h a good car?
The Lexus UX 300h is a good luxury hybrid for those who prioritize a premium interior, comfortable ride, and city-friendly maneuverability over cargo space and rear-seat room. It offers a more comfortable and upscale experience than the Toyota Prius, which it shares a platform with, and has respectable fuel economy and a more responsive feel with its 2025 model year upgrade. However, its compact size means limited cargo and rear legroom, and some reviewers find its performance a bit bland despite the new power increase.
Pros
- Premium and comfortable interior: The UX 300h features a well-appointed interior with high-quality materials, good seats, and a quiet cabin.
- Easy to drive: Its compact size, responsive steering, and available all-wheel drive make it ideal for city driving and parking.
- Good fuel economy: It delivers impressive fuel efficiency, with the 2025 model estimated to achieve around 44/40 mpg city/highway.
- Improved performance: The 2025 model has a power increase to 197197197 horsepower, making it more peppy for daily driving compared to earlier versions.
- Lexus reliability: While some users report early issues, the Lexus brand is generally associated with reliability, and the vehicle is covered by warranty.
Cons
- Limited cargo and rear space: The rear seating is tight for adults, and the cargo area is smaller than many competitors.
- Bland performance: While improved, some reviewers still describe the acceleration as not particularly exciting or "special" for a vehicle in its price range.
- Price: It is significantly more expensive than the Toyota Prius, a difference of around $10,000 or more, even for similarly equipped models.
- Other potential issues: Some early models experienced battery issues in cold weather, though this was addressed under warranty. Some users also report a software issue with the navigation screen resetting itself.
Who is it for?
- Individuals who want a reliable, comfortable, and luxurious compact hybrid for daily driving, especially in urban environments.
- Those who prefer a premium brand experience and interior over the utility of larger SUVs or the more basic features of a non-luxury vehicle.
- Buyers who can accept the trade-off of less cargo and rear-seat space for a smaller, more agile vehicle.
When did the UX 300h come out?
Specifications
| ICE models | ||
|---|---|---|
| Type | Model | Cal. years |
| Petrol hybrid | UX 250h/260h | 2019-2024 |
| UX 300h | 2025-present |
What are the UX 300h's main competitors?
The 2025 Lexus UX Hybrid effortlessly outshines rivals like the 2025 BMW X1 and 2025 Volvo XC40 by delivering premium features and hybrid performance at a more compelling value.
Is the Lexus UX being discontinued?
Yes, the Lexus UX is being discontinued, with production for the hybrid and electric versions scheduled to end in late 2025. This is part of a broader phase-out of the UX line, with various models being retired over the next year or so.
- Production end: Production for both the gas/hybrid and fully electric (UX 300e) models is scheduled to end by November 2025.
- Replacement: In some markets, the smaller Lexus LBX is being introduced to replace the UX, while the larger RZ450e is expected to take over as the primary all-electric option in others.
- Reasoning: Reports suggest the decision is due to lower-than-expected sales and the introduction of the new, smaller LBX model.
