2023 Lexus UX300h on the horizon with updated hybrid system

A 2023 Lexus UX300h could join the line-up following an unearthed trademark application.

Drive has discovered Lexus filed a trademark for the UX300h name in recent days, suggesting the UX range could soon receive an upgraded hybrid powertrain with more power.

Lexus offers a ‘fourth generation’ hybrid system in the current line-up with the UX250h, which is powered by a 2.0-litre non-turbo four-cylinder petrol engine with a single electric motor for the front-wheel-drive variant, and a second electric motor for the all-wheel-drive model – both of which deliver a total claimed power output of 131kW.

With the UX being underpinned by the TNGA-C platform – shared with the recently-unveiled Toyota Corolla Cross – it’s plausible the UX300h could adopt a newer ‘fifth generation’ hybrid system from its Toyota-badged cousin.

The high-riding Corolla Cross hybrid is also offered with a 2.0-litre non-turbo four-cylinder petrol engine, with a single electric motor for the front-wheel-drive variant and dual electric motors for all-wheel drive, but with a higher claimed power output of 146kW combined.

Fuel economy figures for the Corolla Cross hybrid are roughly on par with those found on the UX250h, suggesting future buyers could gain an 11.5 per cent increase in performance in the UX300h, but without any impact to fuel consumption.

While the Lexus may carry some extra weight than the Corolla Cross – thanks to additional features and a more luxurious interior – the new Toyota can reportedly reach 100km/h from a standstill in 7.5 seconds, or approximately a second faster than the current UX250h can manage.

The changeover from the UX250h badge to the UX300h has precedent, with Lexus announcing one year ago it was replacing its larger hybrid SUV, the NX300h, with the NX350h – and creating room in the company’s portfolio for the UX300h.

The revelation comes just days after Lexus announced an updated electric UX300e is coming to Australia next year, said to deliver a 40 per cent increase in driving range.

Though the 2023 Lexus UX300h is yet to be confirmed, it’s possible the new model could arrive at the same time as the UX300e next year.