Lexus will introduce its entry-level new urban crossover vehicle to the New Zealand market, the UX, early next year.
The compact SUV will be available with both a new petrol and self-charging hybrid electric powertrains.
“The UX is likely to be the first Lexus for many customers, but also their first luxury vehicle,” said Paul Carroll, Senior General Manager of Lexus New Zealand.
"It is designed for the modern urban lifestyle with a fresh, contemporary and dynamic take on luxury driving.”
The UX features the Lexus spindle grille design, and arrowhead-like daytime running lights above the headlights.
There are flared front and rear wheel arches and 18-inch alloy wheels.
The combination taillights begin at the top of the rear wings and stretch across the rear of the vehicle. Provided with 120 LEDs tapering toward the centre, measuring just 3mm wide at the narrowest point, they give the UX a unique visual identity.
Lexus says the rear spoiler, along with a flat underbody, help provide vehicle quietness and fuel efficiency.
The 2019 Lexus UX will be available with a choice of two powertrains, UX 200 and UX 250h. The front-wheel-drive UX 200, with a new 126kW two litre Dynamic Force, four-cylinder engine is coupled with a new Direct Shift continuously variable transmission.
The UX 250h is a high-efficiency version of the two-litre petrol engine with a new fourth-generation selfcharging Lexus Hybrid Drive system. It will be available with either front-wheel drive or E Four electric all-wheel drive.
The Lexus UX is the brand's first vehicle built on the new Global Architecture - Compact platform with a lightweight yet rigid body, low centre of gravity and refined suspension.
Detailed specification and pricing will be announced early next year at the time of the UX’s launch in New Zealand.