# Lexus UX 250h: Test Drive Review

- Link: https://greenlivingguy.com/2021/06/lexus-ux-250h-test-drive-review/
- Published: 2021-06-20T00:43:00-04:00
- Author: greenlivingguy

### _UX 250H: NEW-GENERATION LEXUS HYBRID DRIVE_

Expect in good weather a 50 MPG in the Lexus UX 250h hybrid ECO on the highway and
35 in bad locations. Great fun also a sporty interior for this 2021 Lexus UX 250h!

## Featuring the Lexus UX Hybrid Drive powertrain.

For the 2021 UX 250h boasts 181 total system horsepower. For that’s the fuel-efficient
[leader](https://greenlivingguy.com/2024/07/lexus-ux-300h-awd-2025-test-drive-results/)
with the best [MPG](https://greenlivingguy.com/2024/07/lexus-ux-300h-awd-2025-test-drive-results/)
of any CUV or SUV. I mean without a plug in the U.S. market.

This [hybrid](https://greenlivingguy.com/2018/07/test-drive-results-2018-lexus-lc-500h-hybrid-electric-sportscar/)
is also equipped with all-wheel drive standard. Moreover some high-speed responsiveness.
As well as a feeling of smooth and also really a natural acceleration.

## Dedicated Electric Motor Generator

The UX 250h model all-wheel drive (AWD*) system. For the [Lexus UX hybrid](https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/05/lexus-hs-250h-hybrid-a-new-era-in-luxury/)
uses a separate, dedicated electric motor-generator. One most interestingly with
7 hp output. I mean it’s integrated right into the rear differential. Power distribution
is also between the front and rear axles. It’s also automatically optimized. All
most importantly by the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system. Especially when 
accelerating. As well as cornering and or driving on slippery surfaces.

In addition, AWD* also provided stable driving on uphill slopes or snow-covered 
roads. I have a road near my house called Long Hill Road. Well I can say, it’s Long
and the incline is there. That [Lexus UX](https://greenlivingguy.com/2025/09/lexus-gx-550-overtrail-2025-test-drive-review/)
hybrid handled it with lower fuel consumption than a conventional all-wheel drive
system. Thereby it’s employing a power split device and driveshaft.

Because AWD* does more than assist traction in slippery conditions on the Lexus 
UX hybrid. For the system can actively improve stability by adjusting rear-wheel
power. All to help correct an over- or under steer condition.

![Lexus UX hybrid ](https://i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/
06/IMG_4287.jpeg?resize=400%2C267&quality=52&ssl=1)

### PREDICTIVE ECO DRIVE CONTROL

The UX 250h debuted Predictive Eco Drive Control. It’s a world-first system, coupling
with the navigation system, in 2018. The system also learns driving habits. Furthermore
it predicts the expected roadway ahead. Thereby analyzing real-time traffic reports
to optimize charging and discharging of the hybrid battery. The more miles the Lexus
UX hybrid 250h is driven, the more data is gathered to help optimize fuel [consumption](https://greenlivingguy.com/2021/06/test-drive-results-2021-lexus-nx-hybrid-electric/).
The system can be turned off if desired.

Also operational with navigation, Predictive Deceleration Support technology uses
accumulated knowledge about a driver’s behavior to predict when and where the vehicle
is likely to slow down or stop. For example, when the UX approaches a location where
the driver has slowed or stopped in the past, and the driver releases the accelerator
pedal, Predictive Deceleration Support increases regenerative braking, allowing 
more efficient energy to be recovered and [recharged into the hybrid](https://greenlivingguy.com/2023/06/volvo-s60-recharge-black-plug-in-hybrid-test-drive-results/)
battery. The system can provide deceleration support up to about 1,000 feet ahead
of the vehicle.

### Predictive State of Charge (SOC) control

Predictive State of Charge (SOC) control for the hybrid battery. This is a world-
first technology. One which functions on both downhill roads and in congested traffic.
Operating when the UX is also following guidance from the navigation system. For
it will predict the route for up to 6 miles ahead to optimize the conditions. All
most interestingly under which it can regenerate energy, earning power for future
driving.

So in stop-and-go traffic or low-speed driving, the [electric](https://greenlivingguy.com/2020/04/electric-roads-could-utah-state-help-drive-coast-to-coast/)
motor is used more. Makes for more EV action. So in this scenario, [Congestion SOC control uses traffic](https://greenlivingguy.com/2026/04/nyc-congestion-pricing/)
information. All from the navigation system to determine if there is any congestion
on the planned route. If so, it actively charges the hybrid battery before reaching
the congested area. Thereby reducing the need of a forced engine to start to charge
the battery in those conditions.

### F-SPORT

So F SPORT-exclusive interior features include front sports seats. All are made 
with a highly supportive integrated-foaming technique. One that is first developed
for Lexus F models.

The digitally rendered instrument meter features a movable ring. One was also inspired
by the Lexus LFA supercar. So a perforated leather-trimmed F SPORT steering wheel
with paddle shifters. Then also a leather-trimmed perforated shift knob and 8-inch
TFT color display. Finally, aluminum pedals and aluminum door scuff plates. Coupled
with a  footrest that is also part of the package.

Featuring a larger 8-inch TFT LCD display on F SPORT, content can vary depending
on and the selected drive mode. For the F SPORT only, the movable meter ring, which
originated in the Lexus LFA supercar and is also featured in the LC premium coupe,
allows displayed content to be easily changed. Pushing a switch on the steering 
wheel moves the ring to the right and enlarges the multi-information display.

### IMMERSIVE TECHNOLOGY AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

The 2021 Lexus UX models offer the latest in the brand’s multimedia and navigation
technology. A 7-inch Lexus Multimedia System (LMS) display is standard, and a 10.3-
inch screen is used with the available Lexus Navigation system. The available Lexus
Navigation system features the brand’s latest graphical user interface for the greatest
ease of use and access to features. In the US, Hybrid Navigation combines onboard
map data with the latest satellite information.

The standard Lexus Premium Sound System can play back the highest-resolution digital
audio formats from a USB device while dual rear-seat USB ports enable passengers
to use and charge their smartphones or tablets.

In addition, the standard 6-speaker system and available 8-speaker upgrade system
use bamboo charcoal speaker diaphragms.  For these to reduce mass and deliver natural-
sounding voices and improved mid-range sound.

Both systems also create a more lifelike soundstage. All by using tweeters mounted
at the sides of the instrument panel. Thereby reflecting sound off the windshield.

So the 8-speaker system also adds a center-dash tweeter. Finally, a subwoofer mounted
in the luggage area and a more powerful amplifier. I mean that’s just amazing sound
that’s unreal to the ear.  It’s like nothing you’ve never heard.

#### The Lexus Multimedia System is coupled with the upgraded 10.3-inch display, adding numerous features to support customers’ digital lifestyles.

In addition, UX drivers will be able to integrate standard safety features with 
their smartwatch, Amazon-enabled. As well as Google Assistant enabled device.

Such actions include lock/unlock of their doors. Also starting their engine. Finally
even checking their fuel level. It can also be controlled by voice commands, and
compatible with select Android or Apple devices.

All UX models come standard with Apple CarPlay^(®) phone functionality. When a compatible
iPhone^(®) is connected through a USB cable. So drivers can access Apple Music, 
Google maps, Waze, and Spotify, plus make phone calls. Also better integration this
year on sending and receive messages all through the multimedia display. I mean 
like with voice control through Siri^(®).

<

p style=”box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px 0px 25px; caret-color: #000000; color:#
000000; font-family: Nobel-Book; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant-
caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align:
start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto;
word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); -webkit-text-size-
adjust: 100%; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none;”>Source: [Lexus](https://pressroom.lexus.com/whats-new-2021-lexus-ux-200-ux-250h/)

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 greenlivingguy

 The Green Living Guy, Seth Leitman is an independent power producer, a green living
expert, and Editor of the McGraw-Hill, TAB Green Guru Guides. Seth is also an Author,
Radio Host, Reporter, Writer and an Environmental Consultant on green living. The
Green Living Guy writes about green living, green lighting, the green guru guides
and more. Seth's books range from: # Build Your Own Electric Vehicle by Bob Brant
and Seth Leitman (2nd and 3rd editions) # Build Your Own Plug-in Hybrid Electric
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Lighting by Seth Leitman, Brian Clark Howard and Bill Brinsky # Solar Power For 
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