Lexus UX Compact Crossover Concept Breaks Cover


Lexus continued the tradition of really dramatic looking concepts at the Paris Motor Show by revealing in full the UX Concept, a compact crossover study that likely previews a future Audi Q2 rival. 

Penned by the company’s ED2 design center in the South of France, the UX Concept is previewing the new direction Lexus is about to follow with its future models. 

The really sharp appearance wants to combine the presence of a tough off-roader with the usability of a crossover, employing sculptural surfacing with the brand’s now-traditional huge spindle grille. Lexus calls it the 'Inside-Out' design approach, which offers a strong synergy between the exterior and the interior of the car. 

The company opted for a four-seat setup in the cabin which is divided into two distinct sections: the front part of the interior represents a sporty, driver-focused atmosphere while the rear is the comfort zone, employing a ‘welcoming, soft-lounge sofa’ which wraps around into the rear suicide doors. 

Lexus even added fins made out of polycarbonate to the thin aluminum A-pillars to give them a see-through ambience, blurring the boundaries between the inside and outside. Front seating is dealt from a pair of Kinetic Seats, a concept that was announced a few days ago. 

 The instrumentation on the dashboard gives a highly three-dimensional feel. The central infotainment screen is mounted further up the dashboard while climate controls are closer to the driver to make the cabin feel larger. 

The driver’s instrument binnacle houses a floating transparent globe, just like a hologram does, and combines analogue and digital information. All switchgear is electrostatic and housed under transparent covers, with the front passenger getting a separate track-pad control unit built into the door’s armrest panel. 

Lexus didn’t reveal what kind of powertrain is hiding under the UC Concept’s dramatic skin but what we do know is that the company is going to bring it to production as a replacement of the CT 200h hatch in the coming years.

What do you think? Is Lexus on the right path?












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