UX concept takes Lexus’ love-it-or-hate-it design language to new heights

By Ronan Glon September 23, 2016

Lexus UX concept — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Lexus has published the first official pictures of the UX concept that’s scheduled to make its official debut next week during the Paris Auto Show.

The UX wears an aggressive, head-turning look that builds on Lexus’ current design language. It sits high off the ground thanks in part to large alloy wheels, and it features a sleek silhouette that puts a much bigger emphasis on style than on function. Thin LED tail lamps, suicide rear doors, and tiny cameras in lieu of door mirror add a futuristic touch to the overall look.

The interior is even wilder than the exterior. The cabin is fitted with five screens; two that display the footage captured by the cameras that replace the mirrors, one that replaces the instrument cluster, one that runs the infotainment system, and another one on the long, sloping center console.

The dual exhaust pipes confirm that the UX concept isn’t purely electric, though technical details haven’t been published yet. However, Lexus has a history of showing concepts powered by its hybrid technology, so there’s a good chance that its newest crossover is no exception.

Lexus UX concept interior — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Odds are the UX isn’t simply a wild design study built to woo show-goers in the French capital. Website Motor Authority points out that Lexus recently trademarked the nameplates UX 200, UX 250, and UX 250h in Europe and in Australia, among other places. And while automakers routinely protect names even if they’re not planning on using them, seeing the moniker show up on a concept suggests that a new addition to the Lexus lineup is right around the corner. The UX is expected to take the form of a subcompact crossover closely related to the upcoming Toyota C-HR.

Read more: Could crossover fever kill the Lexus CT?

Stay tuned, as we likely won’t have to wait very long for the Lexus UX concept to make its full debut. The crossover will be shown to the public for the first time during the Paris Auto Show, and Digital Trends’ car team will be on location to bring you live images of it as soon as it’s unveiled.

Updated 9/23/2016 by Ronan Glon: Added official picture of the interior.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics

Contributor

Ronan Glon is an American automotive and tech journalist based in southern France. As a long-time contributor to Digital…

Cars

Rivian R2 vs Hyundai Ioniq 5: Should you wait for the Rivian R2?

Rivian R2

Rivian has taken the wraps off of the Rivian R2, an electric SUV that's similar to the much-loved R1S, but smaller and, crucially, cheaper. But the R2 goes up against some serious competition. The likes of Hyundai have been building solid EVs for some time now -- including the Hyundai Ioniq 5.

The R2 and the Ioniq 5 each make a compelling case for themselves, and they're likely to end up being similarly priced if the Ioniq 5 doesn't get much cheaper and the R2 does end up being sold at $45,000. To be fair, the cars are pretty different -- the R2 is more of an SUV, while the Ioniq 5 is much more crossover-sized. But because of their similar price, you might be deciding between the two. How do they compare? We put the Rivian R2 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 head-to-head.
Design
The differences between the Rivian R2 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 are perhaps no more apparent than when it comes to design.

Cars

The 6 best remote car starters in 2024

Best car remote starters

While some modern vehicles come standard with remote start features, it's still relatively uncommon. That's a shame because if you live somewhere where cold weather, snow, and ice are frequent concerns, a remote car starter is one of the best auto accessories you can have. If you're not familiar with them, a remote car starter works similarly to a key fob, except it will actually start your car from a distance instead of just unlocking the doors or trunk. That means you can start your car from the warm comfort of your home or office before venturing out. If you live somewhere hot, you can even start your car and let the AC run for a little bit. You'll never enter a freezing cold or scorching hot vehicle again.

The best remote car starters have long ranges, replaceable batteries, and other handy features — but how do you know which is best for you? We’ve compiled a list of the best car starters in a range of prices and features. Keep in mind that while you can install some yourself, some will require a professional.
The best remote car starters in 2024

Cars

The best portable jump starters for cars in 2024

The Clore Jump-N-Carry JNC660 portable jump starter connected to a truck battery.

Any time you hit the road, whether you're taking a short or long trip, it's a good idea to have backups handy. A spare or backup tire, some anti-freeze, windshield wash fluid, a road hazard kit, and, last but not least, one of the best portable tire inflators and a portable jump starter. You never know when cold weather, inadvertently leaving the dome light on, or plain old Father Time can curse you with a dead battery. Ensure you have one of the best portable jump starters that can save you in a jam, kickstarting your car even when there isn't anyone around to jump the battery. Naturally, that's why we’ve rounded up what we feel are the best portable jump starters for 2024.
The best portable jump starters in 2024

Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter overall.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter runner-up.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter and tire inflator combo.
Buy the if you want another name-brand option.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter for cheap.