YouTuber’s First-drive Review Finds Lexus UX is a Cut Above

Influencer Drew Johnson says Lexus’ daring urban crossover UX really stands out among its competitors. 

In his latest video, Drew Johnson tells us everything we wanted to know about the UX, and then some. But before he gets behind the wheel, he dives into the history of the SUV crossover market. As Johnson rightly points out, it was Lexus that invented the luxury crossover with the RX 20 years ago. And while it was well received, it did take Lexus some time before it rolled out its next important crossover vehicle: The UX.

“The UX is Lexus’ smallest SUV offering,” says Johnson on his show The Drew Johnson Experience. “Trotting beneath the NX, and competing with vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz GLA, the Audi Q3, and the BMW X1.” Johnson gives an abundance of specs on the UX 200 and the UX 200h. He also notes that he finds the UX 250h is a bit faster and more efficient than the UX 200.

Johnson is especially impressed with the F-Sport trim. He notes the aggressive body, and additional details from the wheels to the movable gauge cluster are fine additions to the UX.

On the road in the UX 250h, Johnson says “It feels perfectly athletic while still delivering the sort of ride you expect from Lexus.”

Keeping with the Lexus quality is the interior. It is well appointed, includes lots of luxury details, and is roomy for both the front and back seat. The layout is cleverly done, and offers a lot of extra bang for the buck, from the infotainment unit to the heads up display. Johnson does take issue issue with the cargo space, finding it okay, but not exceptional.

Johnson is really into the exterior design, noting the predatory face and bold styling stands out. “I love the nuttiness of it all,” he enthuses. “A few years ago, Lexus was making the equivalent of a sensible orthotic shoe and now they’re making high heels with red bottoms. That transformation is too exciting not to love!”

The price point for the UX 200 and the UX 250h ($33K and $35K, respectively) is reasonable, and definitely gives a crossover loaded with extras.

So what is the verdict? Lexus made the UX a standout among its class. “I like its funky urban styling,” says Johnson. “And I think it has the right kind of tech to appeal to a younger demographic.”

Check out the video for a lot of interesting Lexus information. The video is entertaining and very well done. We definitely recommend following The Drew Johnson Experience on You Tube and Instagram.

Join the Club Lexus forums now!

S.J. Bryan

Longtime automotive journalist S.J. Bryan has been covering the automotive industry for over five years and is an editor with Ford Truck Enthusiasts and regular contributor to F-150 Online, Harley-Davidson Forums, and The Mustang Source, among other popular auto sites.

Bryan first discovered her passion for all things automotive while riding in her parent's 1968 Ford Mustang. The automotive expert cut her teeth growing up riding on Harleys, and her first car was a Chevy Nova. Despite her lead foot, Bryan has yet to receive a speeding ticket.

The award-winning former playwright was first published at age 18. She has worked extensively as a writer and editor for a number of lifestyle and pop culture publications. The diehard gearhead is a big fan of American muscle cars, sixth-gen Ford trucks, and Oxford commas.

S.J. can be reached at sherryjbry@gmail.com.