The UX is Lexus’ smallest SUV, and is available as a hybrid—one of several the automaker offers. Having recently been introduced as a 2019 model, the UX is still in its first generation, though Lexus has given it slight updates over the years to add new features and tech. That said, changes for the 2022 model year are subtle, amounting to new interior and exterior color options.

Lexus will offer the 2022 UX 250h in three main configurations: UX 250h, UX 250h F Sport, and UX2 50h Luxury. The UX competes in a crowded class that includes the Volvo XC40, Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class, BMW X2, BMW X1, and many more.

The hybrid UX 250h is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors that combine to produce 181 horsepower, and it gets standard all-wheel drive (AWD). Lexus quotes a 0-60 mph time of 8.6 seconds, while the top speed is electronically limited to 110 mph. Fuel economy is estimated at 41/38/39 mpg city/highway/combined. Lexus also offers the gasoline UX 200, but we’ll cover that in a separate preview.

Standard features are generous and vary from trim to trim. The base UX 250h comes with a smart keyless entry system and push-button start, a 7-inch display, dual-zone climate controls, synthetic leather upholstery, folding rear seats, and an adjustable rear cargo deck. The Luxury trim adds a memory system, a power rear liftgate, LED-illuminated air vent knobs, a power moonroof, a heated steering wheel, and acoustic front side glass. The top F-Sport trim adds 18-inch wheels, F-Sport trim and suspension tunning, LED fog lights, active noise cancellation, sport seats, paddle shifters, leather upholstery, and an 8-inch driver display.

As Lexus’ smallest crossover, the UX is compact in nearly every way, but it does technically offer seating for five adults. That size will likely prove to be an advantage for the UX’s target market, which Lexus says is urban dwellers. The UX’s size should make parking, maneuvering in tight spaces, and scooting around city streets easier.

All of that said, the UX lags its rivals in several key areas. It has less cargo space than the competition and offers less in the way of towing and off-road capability. The UX’s appeal with buyers rests in its luxury credentials, which are strong. The small SUV’s interior is upscale and easy on the eyes; even the base models feel upscale and special. Higher trims and options packages bring features such as a head-up display and ventilated front seats. While the front buckets are plenty comfortable, parents may find a hard time fitting child seats into the back, especially if one or both adults riding up front are six feet or taller.

The 2022 Lexus UX Hybrid will go on sale later in 2021. Estimated pricing for the range starts at around $36,000 for the base UX Hybrid. Top-level pricing should come in at just over $40,000 for the UX 250h Luxury.