[Aizen]

Depending on the kit, the XC40 and Lexus UX250h compare fairly similarly on paper. While the T5 does have a huge advantage in terms of performance, the T4 version sits on a level playing field with Volvo's latest crossover. This comparison does an excellent job examining the differences in kit for your money and how they differ in terms of safety and maintenance. Obviously the Lexus has an advantage of being the more economical car with its hybrid powertrain, but most will agree its not nearly as polarizing to look at, and its very pricey before you even start to explore additional options. https://www.drive.com.au/comparison-review/lexus-ux-volvo-xc40-120660

 

[Foggy18]

I for one am not really impressed with Lexus' latest design language, namely their massive grilles and odd back end styling. I also think its silly to buy a crossover that has no extra ground clearance over a regular car. The fact that its offered as a hybrid is great, but we know that Volvo plans on electrifying their whole lineup over the next few years. Imo the main advantage that the UX has going for it is Toyota's legendary reputation for reliability and resale value.

 

[bdalameda]

I totally agree with you about the Lexus styling. I absolutely hate the Lexus "Spiderweb" grill. Looks like a big gaping mouth or a vacuum cleaner. I would have considered buying a Lexus until they turned to this styling practice. The new Lexus designs look like they came from someone who grew up watching Transformer cartoons. No style or clean lines.

 

[Kalvin]

With reports that BMW engines might start making their way into Lexus models like they have with the new Supra, I think their brand perception may take a hit in the process. I understand part sharing has become a common practice, but I remain skeptical that Toyota can really improve reliability with just mapping/tuning.

 

[eVolved]

I can only see that being a short term strategy that allows Lexus/Toyota to cut production costs and just leverage what has been doing well with existing BMW products.
Lexus did show interest in developing a new V8, apparently launching next year!

 

[bdalameda]

Mercedes and Infinity are already doing this with the GLA and the Qx30. Both cars have the same drivetrain/ chassis with different bodies and interiors - and some different suspension tweaks.

 

[eVolved]

Mercedes and Infinity are already doing this with the GLA and the Qx30. Both cars have the same drivetrain/ chassis with different bodies and interiors - and some different suspension tweaks.

I realized that after someone pointed it at an Infiniti dealer which is quite surprising with how different they seem.
Compared both in side by side pictures to find out a lot of their proportions match up surprisingly.

 

[Aizen]

Automakers are simply looking to cut production costs and reduce risk, primarily with newly introduced or updated models. Lexus still makes some beautiful sports cars like the LC, but I agree that their crossovers have fallen a bit behind the competition. I don't think Toyota and Infiniti would be outsourcing drivetrains that didn't meet their expectations of performance and reliability.

 

[tammiethao]

From videos, it seems like the UX's interior space isn't nearly as usable as the XC40. I don't own an XC40, I'm just in the market for a new car; but before I came across the XC40, I looked at the Rav4. There's a lot to like about the Rav4, but i just really hated what they were doing with that black plastic piece above the wheel well.

It really breaks up the lines, and not in a good way (imo, anyway). That same design language carried over into Lexus, and I think it just cheapens the UX.

I also like that there are a lot more safety features that are standard with the XC40 albeit at a higher price point than the UX or Rav4. I also don't like that Lexus/Toyota don't have android auto, and both my fiance and I are android users.

The UX has great mpg rating though, and odd flex for Lexus...best in class turning radius.

 

[bdalameda]

It is my understanding that the Lexus UX is based on the Toyota CH-R platform.

 

[Kalvin]

There have been mentions that Lexus plans on finally rolling out Android Auto support to select models. Apple Car Play is already available in new MY vehicles that have the new Enform 2.0 infotainment system. This is includes the LC, LS, RX, NX, UX and ES.

 

[eVolved]

Glad to hear that a well respected automaker is getting more involved in this connective technology because it might just reveal how well these can perform when refined.
So far Lexus/Toyota has shown they're willing to wait in order to refine technologies before bringing them to market and that might be the case here.
If anyone does their own comparison of the Toyota/Lexus version vs what Volvo offers I would be interested in hearing.