2020 Lexus UX 250h Review
Price Range: $23,990 - $35,000





+229
Below Average
7.0
out of 10
edmunds TESTED
The 2020 Lexus UX 250h is a stylish and fuel-efficient SUV. A distinctive interior design helps set it apart. But it's very slow, and traces of its Toyota Corolla roots come through in the on-road experience, making the high price tag hard to swallow.
2020 Lexus UX 250h Review
Pros
- High fuel economy
- Lots of standard and optional safety tech
- Maneuverable around town thanks to small dimensions
Cons
- Infotainment interface can be difficult to use
- Limited rear legroom
- Small rear cargo space with high liftover height
What's new
- Adds Android Auto and Google Assistant functionality
- Part of the first UX generation introduced for 2019
Overview

Small, efficient and feature-packed, the 2020 Lexus UX 250h is a relatively affordable way to get into a luxury SUV. Classified as a subcompact (or extra-small) luxury SUV, the Lexus UX competes against vehicles such as the BMW X1 and the Audi Q3. But the 250h offers something they don't: batteries and electric motors.
For sale near Edmonds, WA
15 listings
- $35,000fair price$456 below market
- 26,151 miles
- No accidents, 1 owner, personal use only
- 5 Seats, 41 City / 38 Hwy MPG
- Lexus of Bellevue (17 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Sunroof/Moonroof
Close
Located in Bellevue, WA
Priced below KBB Fair Purchase Price! CARFAX One-Owner. 2 YEARS OR 20K MILES MAINTENANCE INCLUDED!, ONE OWNER ON CARFAX!, LOCAL TRADE, BOUGHT HERE SER...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
39 Combined MPG (41 City/38 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: JTHR9JBH7L2029542
Stock: 826004A
Certified Pre-Owned: Yes
Listed since: 09-16-2025 - $29,051fair price$441 below market
- 41,892 miles
- No accidents, 2 owners, personal use only
- 5 Seats, 41 City / 38 Hwy MPG
- Dick Hannah Acura of Portland (161 mi away)
- AWD/4WD
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Keyless Entry/Start
- Upgraded Headlights
Close
Located in Portland, OR
120 Multi Point Inspection Performed * Oil And Filter Changed * Engine Air and Cabin Filter Replacement * New Wiper Blades * Professionally Detailed *...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: Yes
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
39 Combined MPG (41 City/38 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: JTHR9JBH1L2027799
Stock: P906874
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 07-24-2025
The EPA estimates you will get 39 mpg in combined city/highway driving in the UX 250h, which is excellent for an SUV. The UX 250h also delivers on value. It comes standard with features such as simulated leather upholstery and adaptive cruise control, and it offers options such as a hands-free liftgate and a head-up display. Lexus vehicles also have a reputation for high-quality interiors, and the UX comes through here too.
Unfortunately, the UX isn't as spacious as we'd like, even in a class full of diminutive luxury SUVs. Cargo space is also limited. Then there's UX 250h's lack of pace. It can be painfully slow when you really need a burst of speed, such as entering a highway or making a pass. Overall, the X1 and the Q3 are more well-rounded choices, but the 250h is still worth considering if high fuel economy is a priority for you.
Edmunds Expert Rating
edmunds TESTED
by the Edmunds Experts
Below Average
7.0
out of 10
We drove the 2020 Lexus UX 250h on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.
Performance
6.5/10
How does the UX 250h drive? The UX 250h is smooth around town, but it's also very slow, especially for a luxury vehicle. In our testing, accelerating to 60 mph took a leisurely 10 seconds. The vehicle's steering is nicely weighted, and the UX has some of the fun responsiveness found in the Toyota Corolla (to which it's related), but the added height and weight make for pronounced body roll through corners.
Overall, the hybrid UX is most comfortable with city driving, where the engine can stay in its acceptably torquey midrange, and there's no call for real handling prowess. Unfortunately, the brakes aren't easy to modulate to get the amount of stopping power you want and can feel jerky at low speeds.
Overall, the hybrid UX is most comfortable with city driving, where the engine can stay in its acceptably torquey midrange, and there's no call for real handling prowess. Unfortunately, the brakes aren't easy to modulate to get the amount of stopping power you want and can feel jerky at low speeds.
Comfort
7/10
How comfortable is the UX 250h? The UX 250h is a comfortable vehicle, but it doesn't quite offer what we'd expect for the money. The seats are a strong point, with soft leather and padding that proves supportive even on longer drives. Although there's little wind noise and no engine noise while cruising, the engine kicks up an unpleasant racket when you ask for power. You're also exposed to traffic noise and intrusive pinging from the tires over rough pavement. The suspension smooths out bumps, but the run-flat tires make for a busier ride than we'd like.
With some controls hidden in infotainment menus, the climate control system is best left in its capable auto mode. Some vents are unfortunately close to the driver's hands and can be loud even at partial power.
With some controls hidden in infotainment menus, the climate control system is best left in its capable auto mode. Some vents are unfortunately close to the driver's hands and can be loud even at partial power.
Interior
6.5/10
How’s the interior? The UX's cabin is surprisingly spacious, but it's not the easiest to live with. Both front and rear passengers have lots of room, with space in the back for full-size adults. However, the seating position works better for people who like to sit low in the vehicle. It's not so great if you prefer sitting upright in your SUV. There's limited steering-wheel telescoping, although the front seats offer good height adjustability. That's necessary since at their lowest setting the front seats can be tough for people with limited mobility to get in and out of.
The control layout takes a while to get used to and is less intuitive overall than some rival setups. Also thick roof pillars, particularly around the rear hatch, limit overall visibility.
The control layout takes a while to get used to and is less intuitive overall than some rival setups. Also thick roof pillars, particularly around the rear hatch, limit overall visibility.
Technology
7/10
How’s the tech? Lexus' trackpad-based infotainment system is one of the more distracting interfaces to navigate within the luxury space. Voice controls are functional but a bit limited, and they require quite a few guided steps to complete certain commands. There are plenty of charging options around the cabin, including two USB ports for rear passengers, but you only get Apple CarPlay and not Android Auto. On the plus side, the sound system is what we'd expect from a Lexus, offering a lot of quality at any volume.
Basic active safety features are standard, which is still a bit uncommon for a luxury vehicle. But the driver aids are overcautious, with overly long following distances and sharp stops in traffic. Definitely not a premium experience.
Basic active safety features are standard, which is still a bit uncommon for a luxury vehicle. But the driver aids are overcautious, with overly long following distances and sharp stops in traffic. Definitely not a premium experience.
Storage
7/10
How’s the storage? The trunk floor is way higher than you'd think from the outside. It allows easy loading and unloading, and the second row folds perfectly flat. Remove the floor panel and you get 21.7 cubic feet of total space; leave it in place, and there's only 17.1 cubes behind the back seat. That's good compared to a sedan but a bit tight for a small SUV, especially considering there's no spare tire to take up space.
Inside the cabin, the glovebox and door pockets are small, although there's room for small water bottles in the doors. The center console box is also narrow, but the cellphone tray is handy. The cupholders are also on the small size, though the front cupholders feature an anti-tip design. The rear seats also offer pockets and cupholders.
Inside the cabin, the glovebox and door pockets are small, although there's room for small water bottles in the doors. The center console box is also narrow, but the cellphone tray is handy. The cupholders are also on the small size, though the front cupholders feature an anti-tip design. The rear seats also offer pockets and cupholders.
Fuel Economy
9/10
How’s the fuel economy? The UX 250h's 39 mpg combined rating is quite impressive for a subcompact luxury SUV. Based on our real-world testing, that EPA estimate is realistic. The vehicle's tuning makes it straightforward to drive efficiently without feeling like the car is lagging or punishing you when you ask for power.
Value
7.5/10
Is the UX 250h a good value? The UX comes with a nicely designed and constructed interior with a lot of soft-touch materials. Every surface seems to have some sort of texturing, which adds depth and visual interest to the cabin. Lexus' warranties are typically better than average.
If you value fuel economy and a reputation for reliability, the UX 250h has you covered. But if you're looking for luxury value-for-money, you'll likely be disappointed. Our test vehicle totaled more than $40,000, right about where the base midsize RX 350 starts. You can opt for a cheaper version with fewer tech and material upgrades, but that starts to get dangerously close to a well-equipped RAV4 Hybrid.
If you value fuel economy and a reputation for reliability, the UX 250h has you covered. But if you're looking for luxury value-for-money, you'll likely be disappointed. Our test vehicle totaled more than $40,000, right about where the base midsize RX 350 starts. You can opt for a cheaper version with fewer tech and material upgrades, but that starts to get dangerously close to a well-equipped RAV4 Hybrid.
Wildcard
7.5/10
The UX 250h has more personality than the regular UX 200. The design and execution help set it apart from just about every competitor. But that doesn't make it fun. The hybrid UX lacks the gas model's zippiness and adds weight. While the chassis the vehicle shares with the Corolla is predictable and capable of having fun, it's stifled under all the Lexusness and hybridization and needs to really be coaxed out.
2020 Lexus UX 250h trim level differences
The 2020 Lexus UX 250h is a five-passenger SUV that comes in three trim levels: base, F Sport and Luxury. It uses a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and a hybrid system to provide a total of 181 horsepower. All-wheel drive is standard.
Which UX 250h trim does Edmunds recommend?
A few nice features are available on the upper trim levels, but the best value comes from sticking with the base trim level. You'll still get a pleasing amount of features. Do get it with the optional Premium package for the heated and ventilated seats as well as blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.
Compare 2020 Lexus UX 250h trim levels
Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart

Best Luxury SUVs of 2025

2025 Lexus NX vs. Acura RDX: Which Compact Luxury SUV Is Right for You?

These Are the Best Cars We've Tested In 2025 ... So Far

2025 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid vs. Lexus NX 350h Hybrid: How Do These Related Compact SUVs Stack Up?
Cost to Drive
Monthly estimates based on costs in Washington
$146/mo for UX 250h Base
UX 250h Base
vs
$225/mo
Avg. Compact SUV
Lexus UX 250h Owner Reviews
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
Want a Car or SUV? Lexus UX lets you have both.
4 out of 5 starsChris, 05/18/2019
2019 Lexus UX 250h Luxury 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
I first drive the regular UX as a loaner vehicle when I was getting service. I did not like the drive at all. Felt like a lower end vehicle's powertrain. Nothing about it said luxury. When I heard they had the hybrid model coming with AWD, I had to give it a test. I've always owned sedans or sports coupes. Didn't consider SUV's because I love the driving dynamics of well built cars and … worried I'd lose that with an SUV. This UX hybrid crossover fits the bill nice. Great handling, quiet, and comfortable. Very smart of Lexus to make the hybrid model AWD standard with that electric motor boost. You REALLY feel the difference. That low end torque makes the car a fun drive. I had an IS 200t before. Though it was a "faster" car the turbo lag was always a pain. With the UX hybrid, you lose speed but have the instant power. The fuel economy is the cherry on top!! It comes loaded with tons of safety tech adding to the comfort of the car. The backseats are pretty tight and the cargo isn't huge (although way better than the IS). The front columns are pretty big so you do get some wind noise there going above 65 mph. Overall its fun, practical, beautiful, comfortable. Nice job on this one Lexus.
Love my 2019 Lexus UX 250h
4 out of 5 starsLadytestarossa, 08/08/2019
2019 Lexus UX 250h F SPORT 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
I've owned my 2019 Lexus UX 250h F sport for 4 months now and love it. It feels like I'm driving a sports car, not an SUV. It hugs tightly to the road and handles great. The complaints about the small interior are valid but I knew that when I bought it knowing that most of the time I'm the only one in the vehicle.
The reason I'm only giving 4 stars is the gas mileage. All the other … reviews I've read people say they are getting around 40 MPG in the city. I'm lucky to get 32 even when I'm being extra conscious of my driving habits. I live in Colorado and there are very few level streets. I'm going up and down all the time so I don't know if that has anything to do with it.
Overall I'm very happy with my purchase. I feel as though I got a good value when comparing features and cost to other luxury brands in this class.
Very pleased!
5 out of 5 starsTim from Philly , 02/21/2020
2020 Lexus UX 250h 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
I waited a month before posting my review. We purchased the UX250h with premium trim. We are delighted. We can't believe we're in a Lexus at this price point.
The interior is gorgeous and loaded with amenities. Synthetic leather is great! The rear cargo section is indeed smaller because the battery pack is below the cargo area. But we're out of family mode, no longer driving around the … boys, so it works for us. Plenty of cargo space with back seats folded down.
MPG is less than advertised. Isn't it always? I'm getting between 34 & 35 MPG in the city and 33 on the highway.
My biggest concern was the acceleration, based on the reviews. I don't get it! Plenty of guts to merge in traffic. If you really like some giddy up, there is an easy to access "sport" mode right near your right hand that gears up the transmission and gives EXCELLENT acceleration on demand.
My second largest concern was widespread complaints about infotainment interface. With respect, all I can say is you might find it weird simply because you never used it before. It works like a mouse pad. I got the hang of it in 15 minutes. Now I hardly ever use it because integrated Android Auto lets me command almost every thing with my voice.
Oh. One minor disappointment. If you are an Android user, there is no Lexus navigation app. That took me about 10 days and a trip back to the dealer to learn. But with integrated Android Auto, that's no big deal.
Sporty and luxurious hybrid
5 out of 5 starsPam, 07/22/2020
2020 Lexus UX 250h Luxury 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl gas/electric hybrid CVT)
It's my fourth Lexus so that's a good indication that not only are the cars very well built and safe, they are really attractive. I want a smaller car with a hatchback and this new one has AWD unlike my previous car the CT200h, which I also really liked.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2020 Lexus UX 250h, so we've included reviews for other years of the UX 250h since its last redesign.
2020 UX 250h Highlights
Base
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $34,500 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Hybrid |
Combined MPG | 39 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $146/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 17.1 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | all wheel drive |
Warranty | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Safety
Our experts like the UX 250h models:
- Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist
- Monitors lane markings, warns you if you are drifting and can even help steer the vehicle back into the lane of travel.
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control
- Helps drivers maintain a preset distance by adjusting the vehicle's speed in relation to the vehicle directly ahead.
- Intelligent High Beam
- Switches between high and low beams automatically by using cues from a camera that helps detect when other vehicles are present.
NHTSA Overall Rating
5 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall4 / 5Driver4 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall5 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat5 / 5Back Seat5 / 5
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover14%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestGood
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestGood
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
People who viewed this also viewed
4.7 average Rating out of 18 reviews. |
Starting at $40,965 |
4.4 average Rating out of 16 reviews. |
Starting at $49,125 |
4.5 average Rating out of 12 reviews. |
Starting at $42,140 |
Related Used 2020 Lexus UX 250h info
Vehicle reviews of used models
- Chevrolet Trax 2021 Review
- Kia Sportage 2020 Review
- Audi E Tron Sportback 2021 Review
- BMW 5 Series 2020 Review
- Audi S6 2021 Review
- Toyota Yaris Hatchback 2020 Review
- Honda Accord Hybrid 2020 Review
Shop similar models
- Used Lexus Ux-250h 2023
- Used Lexus NX-300H 2021
- Used Lexus RX 2025
- Used Lexus NX 2025
- Used Lexus NX-350H 2023
- Used Lexus RX-350H 2023
- Used Lincoln Corsair 2026
- Used Toyota Corolla-cross-hybrid 2025
- Used Mercedes-benz Gle-class 2025
Shop used vehicles in your area
Popular new car reviews and ratings
Research other models of Lexus
- 2024 Lexus NX
- 2024 UX 250h
- New Lexus GX 470
- 2025 RC
- Lexus LC 2024
- Lexus RC 2024
- Lexus TX 2024
- New Lexus IS
- New Lexus RX
Research similar vehicles
Other models
- Used Genesis G90 in Ft Mitchell, KY 2025
- Used Toyota Highlander-Hybrid in Cathedral City, CA 2025
- Used BMW I4 in Hackettstown, NJ 2025
- Used Toyota Camry-Hybrid in Milford, CT 2024
- Used Fiat 500L in Covington, GA 2020
- Used Ford Thunderbird in Muskegon, MI 2005
- Used Chevrolet Cruze in San Angelo, TX 2019
- Used Lexus Es-330 in North Olmsted, OH 2006
- Used Toyota Corolla in Olathe, KS 2026
- Used Kia Cadenza in Ormond Beach, FL 2020