The UX is Lexus’ entry-level crossover luxury SUV, entering the Japanese manufacturer’s lineup right beneath the slightly larger NX. As such, it delivers a well-balanced package that might not stand out in every or any aspect, but holds up thanks to exceptional attention to detail in several areas.

With proven rivals such as the Volvo XC40, Mercedes-Benz GLA, and BMW X2, the 2022 Lexus UX tries to lure in buyers with a relatively lower starting price, allowing them to opt for the mid-range 200 F Sport trim. Starting at $36,940, the 2022 Lexus UX 200 F Sport offers considerably more tech than the base model, making it a good choice against the more expensive entry-level models of most rivals.

The 2022 UX 200 F Sport ticks plenty of luxury boxes we’ve come to expect from Lexus, and even though it might not deliver mind-boggling performance or segment-leading features, the sexy crossover still has plenty to like about it.

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The 2022 Lexus UX 200 F Sport Is Fun To Drive

2022 Lexus UX 200 F Sport
via Lexus

Underneath the hood of the 2022 UX 200 F Sport, you’ll find a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 169 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque, mated to a continuously variable automatic transmission that sends power to the front axle. The CVT and absence of AWD don’t necessarily translate to impressive acceleration, and the UX 200 F Sport takes around 8.5 seconds to scoot from 0-60 mph, but the luxury crossover compensates in other ways.

Steering is well-weighted and responsive, and even though RWD is usually a better option in terms of performance, the UX 200 F Sport’s FWD configuration actually helps its front end feel even more nimble. Thanks to its small size and stiff suspension, the crossover also manages to remain poised and planted when cornering despite minimal evidence of body roll, and powerful brakes round off the vehicle’s nifty drivability.

Related: 2016-2020 Lexus GS F: Costs, Facts, And Figures

The 2022 Lexus UX 200 F Sport Has Plenty Of Tech

2022 Lexus UX 200 F Sport
via Lexus

As the mid-range trim of the UX’s 2022 lineup, the luxurious nature of Lexus is clearly noticeable through an array of useful tech and high-grade build quality. The UX 200 F Sport comes standard with 8-way power-adjustable front sports seats, dual-zone climate control, an 8-inch multimedia touchscreen display, and a 7-inch digital gauge cluster. We’d also recommend opting for the optional Premium package, which includes heated and ventilated front seats, upgraded materials, and an optional $150 heated steering wheel.

As far as build quality goes, the Lexus UX 200 F Sport features high-grade materials without stepping into the depths of more expensive Lexus models. It uses faux-leather upholstery and on the dashboard, complemented with feel-good squishy rubbers and brushed metal inserts.

Safety equipment also abounds in the 2022 Lexus UX 200 F Sport. It comes standard with front and rear head airbags, blind-spot and lane departure monitoring, traction and stability control systems, pre-collision avoidance, and much more.

Related: The 2023 Lexus LX 600 Gets Updated With More Comfort And Luxury

The 2022 Lexus UX 200 F Sport Is Surprisingly Practical

2022 Lexus UX 200 F Sport
via Lexus

The small frame of the Lexus UX doesn’t allow for midsize SUV-like practicality, but the luxury crossover does plenty with what it has. The front seats provide ample passenger room, while the rear bench is slightly more confined and might be tight for larger adults. However, the 2022 Lexus UX 200 F Sport makes up for that by providing a 17 cubic-foot trunk area - which is above average for the class, as well as front and rear cupholders, spacious door pockets, and other storage cubbies throughout the cabin.

The UX 200 F Sport is especially gratifying in terms of fuel efficiency, proving to be one of the healthiest non-hybrid competitors in the entire crossover segment. It delivers an EPA-estimated return of 29 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway, making for a combined gas mileage rating of 32 mpg. The UX 200 F Sport’s 8.5-second 0-60 mph acceleration time begins to look less underwhelming when you consider just how efficient its engine is.

Related: Here's Why The 2016 Lexus NX Stacks Up So Well Against Rival SUVs

The Lexus UX F Sport Looks Awesome

2022 Lexus UX 200 F Sport
via Lexus

The 2022 Lexus UX F Sport is simply one of the best-looking crossovers around, boasting sporty touches such as an enormous front grill with tasteful chrome inserts and air vents, aggressive headlights, flared plastic-clad side fenders, and a sloping roofline that feeds into a contoured rear end with a lightbar taillight design.

Boiling things down, the 2022 Lexus UX 200 F Sport is a worthy competitor in a highly saturated luxury crossover segment. The petrol-only powertrain won’t live on for the 2023 model year of the Lexus UX, as the model becomes hybrid-only, but as of now, it’s one of the most efficient engines around.

Source: Lexus, Edmunds