Lexus trademarks UX nameplate for possible new compact SUV

lexus-ux-compact-suv

Lexus has trademarked the UX 250 and UX 250h nameplates in Australia, giving the first concrete clue that a new crossover is in the pipeline.

Registered late last month, the trademarks are likely to be for the long-rumored sub-NX model that is reportedly based on the Lexus CT hybrid hatch. If launched, the smaller subcompact crossover will be the new entry point to the Lexus SUV range, slotting below the fast-selling NX mid-size SUV.

The UX 250 is likely reserved for a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine currently used in multiple Toyota and Lexus models, while the UX 250h is expected to be the badge for a new generation of hybrid powertrain.

With the launch of the Toyota C-HR compact crossover in Geneva yesterday, it’s also highly likely that the new Lexus UX will use the same underpinnings as its Toyota counterpart.

Currently the Lexus SUV line-up in Australia is made up of the NX, RX and LX models. A new smaller SUV in the form of the UX will see Lexus competing against the likes of the newly launched Audi Q2 and Mercedes-Benz GLA.

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