Lexus UX300e review

As with the exterior aesthetic, the interior of the UX300e is… busy. There’s a mix of interior textures, a whole geometry’s worth of angles and a slightly confusing array of buttons. As basic, the UX gets a seven-inch display in the centre console (which jumps to 10.3 inches in the more expensive model) and a touchpad (a feature which is confusing at first, but soon resolves with a bit of exposure) cloth seats (with power only for the driver’s seat) and the full suite of Lexus safety gear.

Top Gear has only tested the top-of-the-range Takumi Pack-equipped car, so a verdict will have to wait on exactly how well a basic UX fares - though Lexus reckons that most will plump for the mid-range Premium Plus Pack anyway, with which comes a raft more luxury (leather, heated everything, privacy glass, keyless entry and the like).

It’s a bit gloomy in the rear, too, so be aware if you’re regularly toting children around - the high waistline and relatively small windows aren’t great for small ones. Saying that, it’s a pleasant place to be in the front two seats, with decent vision, high quality and interesting spaces. It feels nicely Japanese - and that’s a compliment.

There’s also access to an aggregated charging network via Digital Charging Solutions, a range of home wall box options (Lexus reckons most people will do their charging at home for the UX300e) and Lexus Link, which does all the usual App stuff like finding a local charger, pre-preparation of the car, and timed charging.