Lexus announced specifications and pricing for its 2026 UX 300h compact crossover, which continues with the fifth-generation hybrid powertrain introduced for the 2025 model year. The hybrid-only model delivers 196 total system horsepower across front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations, with pricing starting at $38,250 including destination charges.
Highlights
- Fifth-generation hybrid system produces 196 hp from 2.0-liter engine paired with dual motor-generators and lithium-ion battery
- Eight model configurations available ranging from $38,250 to $48,240 including delivery fees
- Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 standard across all grades with enhanced pre-collision and lane assist technologies
- Manufacturer-estimated fuel economy ratings of 43 mpg combined (FWD) and 41 mpg combined (AWD)
Powertrain Architecture
The UX 300h employs Lexus’ fifth-generation hybrid system, combining an inline four-cylinder 2.0-liter gasoline engine with two motor-generators through a planetary-type continuously variable transmission. The system represents a departure from previous UX models through several technical modifications.
The hybrid transaxle enables higher output from front (83 kW) and rear (30 kW) motors compared to the previous generation. A 60-cell lithium-ion battery positioned under the rear seat replaces the earlier nickel-metal hydride configuration, contributing to improved energy density and reduced weight.
Performance Specifications
The powertrain configuration delivers:
- Total system output: 196 horsepower
- 0-60 mph acceleration: 7.9 seconds (AWD), 8.0 seconds (FWD)
- Fuel economy: 43 mpg combined (FWD), 41 mpg combined (AWD)
- Transmission: Shift-by-wire planetary CVT with electrical signal conversion
Available E-Four all-wheel drive employs a permanent synchronous motor at the rear axle for instantaneous torque distribution during low-grip or acceleration conditions.
Chassis and Suspension Engineering
The UX 300h utilizes Lexus’ global architecture platform with extensive high-tensile steel construction, adhesive bonding, and laser screw welding. Aluminum components for side doors, fenders, and hood combine with composite tailgate construction to achieve a 23.4-inch center of gravity height.
MacPherson strut front suspension and trailing arm double wishbone rear suspension mount to dedicated sub-frames. Active Cornering Assist integrates with Vehicle Stability Control to apply selective brake pressure on inside wheels during cornering, reducing understeer tendencies.
Safety and Driver Assistance Systems
Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 provides standard active safety features across all UX 300h grades:
- Pre-Collision System: Camera and millimeter-wave radar detection for vehicles, pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists with automatic emergency braking from 7-110 mph
- Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist: Additional steering torque during driver-initiated emergency maneuvers between 25-50 mph
- Left Turn Oncoming Vehicle Detection: Warning and automatic braking for left turns across oncoming traffic in daytime conditions
- All-speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control: Adaptive cruise with stop-and-go capability and curve speed management
- Lane Tracing Assist: Active lane centering when DRCC is engaged with detected lane markings
- Proactive Driving Assist: Gentle braking and steering support for distance control and obstacle avoidance
Additional safety features include Safe Exit Alert, which detects approaching vehicles or bicycles when occupants attempt to exit.
Interior Technology Integration
The 2026 model includes revised button layouts on door panels with chrome ornamentation. F SPORT Handling grades receive hairline finishing on door panels and center console.
Information Display Systems
- Multi-information display: 12.3-inch standard on Premium and F SPORT grades, 7.0-inch on Base models
- Head-up display: Optional color projection of speed, shift position, navigation, and driver assistance system status
- Touchscreen interface: 8-inch standard (Base, Premium, F SPORT Design), 12.3-inch standard (F SPORT Handling)
Connectivity Features
Five USB ports distributed throughout the cabin include two Type-C ports on the lower instrument panel, one Type-A port in the center console, and two Type-C ports for rear passengers. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility supports up to five registered Bluetooth devices with two simultaneous connections.
Cloud Navigation with active Drive Connect subscription provides Google points of interest integration for real-time traffic routing. Intelligent Assistant voice commands operate navigation, multimedia, and climate control functions. Digital Key functionality through the Lexus app enables smartphone-based vehicle access for up to seven additional users.
Model Grade Configurations
F SPORT Performance Variants
F SPORT Design and F SPORT Handling models include split-five-spoke alloy wheels, F SPORT grille, black roof rails, power moonroof, rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlamp leveling, and painted wheel arch molding. A new Appearance package adds 18-inch black and machined finish wheels, black window trim, and rear black badge overlay.
F SPORT Handling builds on Design specification with Active Variable Suspension for enhanced damping control. Interior additions include aluminum footrest and scuff plates, F SPORT sports seats, power steering column, heated steering wheel, and aluminum sports pedals. The grade receives a standard power rear door with kick sensor for 2026.
Color and Trim Options
Base and Premium grades offer six exterior colors: Ultra White (new for 2026), Caviar, Copper Crest, Nori Green Pearl, Cloudburst Gray, and Iridium. F SPORT models provide five two-tone options with Obsidian roof plus a monotone Caviar configuration. F SPORT color choices include Copper Crest, Cloudburst Gray, Iridium, Ultra White, and Ultrasonic Blue Mica 2.0.
Interior NuLuxe trim comes in Black, Palomino, Birch, and Lapis. F SPORT Handling adds an exclusive Black and Circuit Red option.
Pricing Structure
Eight model configurations span front-wheel and all-wheel drive applications:
| Model | Configuration | MSRP (including DPH) |
|---|---|---|
| 9721 | UX 300h | $38,250 |
| 9723 | UX 300h Premium | $41,520 |
| 9725 | UX 300h F SPORT Design | $42,085 |
| 9727 | UX 300h F SPORT Handling | $46,670 |
| 9732 | UX 300h AWD | $39,820 |
| 9733 | UX 300h AWD Premium | $43,090 |
| 9735 | UX 300h AWD F SPORT Design | $43,655 |
| 9738 | UX 300h AWD F SPORT Handling | $48,240 |
Delivery, Processing and Handling fee of $1,295 included in all MSRPs. The UX 300h goes on sale in late 2025.
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