What platform is the Lexus UX based on?
The Lexus UX is based on Toyota's Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) GA-C platform, a shared underpinning with compact Toyota models. This platform underpins its chassis, ride quality, and hybrid options, shaping both how the car drives and how its interior is laid out.
Platform family and origin
The TNGA umbrella is Toyota's move toward modular, scalable architectures. GA-C, the compact-car variant, underpins front-wheel-drive layouts and supports gas and hybrid powertrains. It emphasizes rigidity, a lower center of gravity, and efficient packaging to maximize interior space in small crossovers like the UX.
Shared with Toyota compact models
GA-C is used across several Toyota compact models, allowing shared engineering, parts, and production processes. The Lexus UX sits on the same basic architecture as its Toyota cousins, which helps streamline development and maintenance while preserving distinct Lexus tuning and styling.
Examples of GA-C-based Toyota twins commonly cited in markets include:
- Toyota C-HR
- Toyota Corolla Hatchback
These models illustrate GA-C's flexibility for compact cars and the shared engineering approach behind the UX.
Implications for performance and design
Using GA-C gives the UX a predictable handling balance, a relatively low center of gravity, and the ability to house hybrid drivetrains. The platform's rigidity supports safer crash performance and more precise steering feedback, while its packaging flexibility helps Lexus maximize interior space in a compact crossover.
In practice, this translates to a refined ride, composed road manners, and efficient use of interior space—key expectations for a premium compact crossover like the UX.
Design and engineering notes
Although built on GA-C, Lexus preserves its distinct design language, chassis tuning, and interior detailing that differentiate the UX from its Toyota siblings, while still benefiting from shared engineering and supply chains.
Summary
The Lexus UX is powered by Toyota's TNGA GA-C platform, a compact-car architecture shared with Toyota models such as the C-HR and Corolla Hatchback. This underpins the UX's ride, handling, and hybrid options, while allowing Lexus to tailor tuning and styling for a premium experience. The shared platform approach supports efficient manufacturing and ongoing improvements across the model family.
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
Is the Lexus UX the new CT?
In 2019, Lexus announced the UX Crossover would replace the CT.
Is the Lexus UX the same as the NX?
Is Lexus NX bigger than UX? Yes, the new Lexus NX is bigger than the Lexus UX premium crossover. While both models are considered compact and offer two-row seating for up to five, the NX is longer, at 183.5 inches long compared to 177 inches. The NX is also wider and taller and rides on a longer wheelbase.
What is the Lexus UX similar to?
We drive the 2019 Lexus UX – a compact crossover that takes on the BMW X1, Jaguar E-Pace and Volvo XC40.
