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What is the difference between UX Premium and Sport?

The UX Premium trim focuses on luxury and comfort, while the Sport trim emphasizes sportier styling and handling. Exact equipment and availability vary by model year and region.

In depth, the two trims sit at opposite ends of the UX spectrum: Premium leans into comfort, convenience, and safety tech for everyday driving, whereas Sport targets a more dynamic driving experience with performance-oriented styling and chassis tuning. Market-by-market differences mean some features listed here may appear under different names or packages in your area.

What Premium typically includes

The following features are commonly associated with the UX Premium trim, though specifics can vary by year and region.

Comfort-oriented interior: leather or synthetic leather seating surfaces, power-adjustable front seats (with memory in some markets), heated front seats, and often dual-zone automatic climate control.

Infotainment and connectivity: an intuitive touchscreen (size varies by year), Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Bluetooth, and sometimes built-in navigation.

Safety and driver-assistance tech: Lexus Safety System+ with features such as pre-collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and road-sign information where available.

Convenience and practicality: keyless entry, push-button start, a rear seat with split-folding functionality, and a power liftgate in many configurations.

Interior ambience and materials: higher-quality trim, softer-touch surfaces, ambient lighting, and refined cabin detailing.

In practice, Premium prioritizes a refined, comfortable ride with an emphasis on convenience, everyday usability, and safety features that help in varying conditions.

What Sport (often marketed as F SPORT in several markets) typically includes

The Sport/ F SPORT trim adds features aimed at more engaging driving dynamics and a bolder visual presentation. Availability can differ by market and year.

Exterior styling cues: sportier grille treatment, unique bumpers or body accents, and available two-tone schemes or dark chrome finishes to convey a performance-oriented look.

Wheels and tires: larger alloy wheels (typically 18- or 19-inch) paired with lower-profile tires for sharper handling grip.

Suspension and handling: sport-tuned suspension (firmer ride with the goal of crisper handling) and sometimes a more direct steering feel or altered steering ratio.

Interior accents: sport-oriented touches such as bolstered seats, contrast stitching on the seats and steering wheel, metal or aluminum pedals, and an F SPORT badge or branding in the cabin.

Driver-focused technology: the core infotainment and safety suite remains present, but some comfort features (like heated rear seats or certain memory settings) may be included variably depending on market and package.

Overall, Sport aims to deliver a more kinetic driving experience and a more aggressive visual identity, typically at a higher price and with a trade-off of some ride comfort compared with Premium.

Market variations by region

The exact equipment and naming can differ between the United States, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region. In many markets, the sporty variant is called F SPORT rather than simply Sport, and some markets mix or rename packages to align with local preferences.

United States

In the U.S., Premium generally emphasizes comfort and technology, while the Sport/F SPORT trim adds sportier styling, larger wheels, and a sport-tuned suspension. Some features may be group-specific, and pricing reflects the upgrade in dynamics and aesthetics.

Europe

Across European markets, Sport/F SPORT typically prioritizes handling and visual impact, with exterior kits and interior touches that underscore performance cues. Comfort amenities may be bundled differently, and availability of options like heated seats or advanced audio can vary by country.

Asia-Pacific

In the Asia-Pacific region, the Sport/F SPORT designation often highlights dynamic styling and chassis tuning, while Premium remains focused on luxury and convenience. Equipment lines can differ by country due to local market requirements and tax structures.

Key takeaways

Choosing between UX Premium and Sport comes down to what you value most: uninterrupted comfort and value-packed tech (Premium) vs. sharper handling, more aggressive styling, and a sport-conscious driving experience (Sport). Always check the exact build sheet for your year and market, as features shift with model updates and regional packages.

Summary

The UX Premium trim prioritizes luxury, comfort, and safety tech, making it ideal for those who want a refined daily driver. The Sport (or F SPORT) trim emphasizes performance-oriented styling and handling, offering sport-minded visuals, larger wheels, and a firmer ride. Region-specific differences mean the precise features can vary, so verify local specifications for the exact year you’re considering. In short, Premium is about comfort; Sport is about driving dynamics.

What is the difference between all the Lexus NX models?

The 2025 Lexus NX is a compact luxury SUV that is offered in four main versions: NX 250, NX 350, NX 350h and NX 450h+. This lineup can seem a little confusing at first, but in most cases, the only difference is the engine. The NX 250 is powered by a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter inline-four making 203 horsepower.

Is Lexus discontinuing the UX?

Yes, Lexus is discontinuing the UX, with production of the fully electric UX 300e ending in November 2025. Reports indicate that the hybrid and gasoline versions are also being phased out, with production ending in 2026, and a new hybrid version is likely to be developed to take its place. This is part of a larger product lineup refresh as Lexus shifts towards more electrified models.
You can watch this video to learn more about the discontinuation of the Lexus UX: 58sLSFTYouTube · Dec 27, 2024

Electric model: The fully electric UX 300e will have its production end in November 2025.
Hybrid/Gasoline models: The gasoline and hybrid versions are also being discontinued, with production expected to end in the 2025 fiscal year (March 2026).
Replacement: A new hybrid version of the UX is likely in development, though a direct successor has not been officially announced. The new model is expected to be part of a broader strategy to simplify the product lineup and move towards electrification.

This video shows the features of the new 2026 Lexus UX: 48sNext-Gen CarYouTube · Nov 4, 2025

What is the difference between Lexus UX 250h and F Sport?

What is the difference between the UX and UX F Sport? Differences between the base UX 250h and UX F SPORT models include things like the F SPORT models having unique features such as F SPORT 18-in split-five-spoke alloy wheels, black roof rails, and a black roof.

What is the difference between Lexus RX luxury and F Sport?

The main difference is that the Lexus RX F Sport prioritizes performance and a sporty aesthetic, while the RX Luxury focuses on a more traditional, soft, and upscale driving experience. The F Sport features a sport-tuned suspension, more aggressive styling, performance-inspired gauges, and unique interior trim like aluminum accents and F Sport seats. The Luxury model offers softer seats, wood trim, and a smoother, more comfortable ride with a traditional Lexus feel.
You can watch this video for a visual comparison of the F Sport and Luxury models: 57sMichael LintermanYouTube · Aug 22, 2023
Lexus RX F Sport

Performance: Features a sport-tuned adaptive variable suspension and sport-tuned electronic power steering. It also includes a performance-focused digital tachometer and paddle shifters.
Exterior: Has a distinct F Sport look with a unique mesh grille, exclusive front and rear bumpers, black roof rails, and 21-inch gloss black or gunmetal gray wheels.
Interior: Includes F Sport seats with enhanced bolsters, a perforated leather-trimmed steering wheel, and sport-style aluminum pedals and door-sill scuff plates. The trim is typically brushed aluminum instead of wood.
Braking: Comes with bigger, more powerful brakes.

Lexus RX Luxury

Performance: Aims for a softer, more comfortable ride, prioritizing traditional luxury over sportiness.
Exterior: Features more traditional styling with body-color-matched mirrors and gray roof rails (on some models). It often comes with 21-inch alloy wheels, and the Luxury package can be optioned with smaller wheels suitable for winter tires.
Interior: Focuses on premium materials like open-pore wood trim and features more comfortable, less aggressive seats.
Braking: Comes with smaller, standard brakes.
Comfort Features: Often includes more upscale comfort features, like seat adjustability and climate controls, as standard or with fewer packages compared to the F Sport.

This video compares the comfort features of the F Sport and Luxury models: 57sFCReviewsYouTube · Nov 3, 2023
Which one should you choose?

Choose the F Sport if you want a more engaging driving experience, a sportier design, and are willing to trade some ride comfort for performance.
Choose the Luxury model if your priority is a smooth, quiet, and comfortable ride, more traditional upscale interior styling, and a classic Lexus luxury feel.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.