2023 Lexus UX300h on the horizon with updated hybrid system

Drive has discovered Lexus filed a trademark for the UX300h name in recent days, suggesting the UX range could soon receive an upgraded hybrid powertrain with more power.

Lexus offers a ‘fourth generation’ hybrid system in the current line-up with the UX250h, which is powered by a 2.0-litre non-turbo four-cylinder petrol engine with a single electric motor for the front-wheel-drive variant, and a second electric motor for the all-wheel-drive model – both of which deliver a total claimed power output of 131kW.

With the UX being underpinned by the TNGA-C platform – shared with the recently-unveiled Toyota Corolla Cross – it’s plausible the UX300h could adopt a newer ‘fifth generation’ hybrid system from its Toyota-badged cousin.

The high-riding Corolla Cross hybrid is also offered with a 2.0-litre non-turbo four-cylinder petrol engine, with a single electric motor for the front-wheel-drive variant and dual electric motors for all-wheel drive, but with a higher claimed power output of 146kW combined.

Fuel economy figures for the Corolla Cross hybrid are roughly on par with those found on the UX250h, suggesting future buyers could gain an 11.5 per cent increase in performance in the UX300h, but without any impact to fuel consumption.

While the Lexus may carry some extra weight than the Corolla Cross – thanks to additional features and a more luxurious interior – the new Toyota can reportedly reach 100km/h from a standstill in 7.5 seconds, or approximately a second faster than the current UX250h can manage.