2023 Lexus UX 300e gets longer range, more safety tech

Lexus gives its first EV crossover a nip and tuck

Back in 2019, Lexus launched its first-ever battery electric vehicle (BEV) - the UX 300e. The model marked the official entry of the luxury brand in the segment.

With EV technology quickly evolving, Lexus is keeping its first EV crossover fresh with a host of updates. For the 2023 model year, the UX 300e gets extended range, a more refined chassis, and enhanced safety features.

Headlining the list of updates is a newly developed battery pack that offers up to 40% more range. The 2023 UX 300e's battery capacity has increased from 54.4 kWh to 72.8 kWh. As a result, from a maximum range of 300 km, the Lexus EV crossover can now travel up to 450 km on a single charge. Its electric motor's power output remains at 203 PS, along with 300 Nm of torque.

The 2023 model year UX 300e also received additional spot welding points in its chassis to improve rigidity. To complement the stiffer body, Lexus retuned the UX 300e's electric power steering and shock absorbers to further refine the crossover's driving dynamics.

As for the visual changes, Lexus retained the UX 300e's exterior look. But inside, the dash now houses a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen display with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto. In addition, the bigger screen also displays the new panoramic view monitor which shows road surface conditions and tire position. Among other changes inside are a new wireless charging port and USB Type-C charging connectors in place as Lexus optimized the switches and dials of the center console.

Meanwhile, the Lexus UX 300e's ADAS, called Lexus Safety System, has an expanded list of features to further prevent the crossover from getting involved in traffic accidents. There's a new curve speed control in place that works with the Dynamic Radar Cruise Control to slow the car down depending on an approaching curve's radius. Furthermore, AI recognition has been utilized for the Lane Tracing Assist, Pre-Collision System, and the new Emergency Steering Assist.

The updated Lexus UX 300e will join the new UX 200 and UX 200h variants and are scheduled to land in various markets by spring 2023. With the Lexus RZ coming into the Philippine market, there's good reason to believe the UX 300e may eventually find its way here in the future. But until Lexus Philippines confirms it, all we can do for now is stay tuned.