Lexus has upgraded its UX 300e electric crossover with a series of updates that extend its electric range and add in new technologies.

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The urban crossover launched three years ago as Lexus’s first all-electric model and now gains a new, more powerful 72.8kWh battery, which replaces the previous 54.35kWh pack. This increases the battery range by more than 40%. Models on 17-inch wheels now have a WLTP combined range of up to 279 miles while those on 18-inch wheels have up to 274 miles (depending on options). Power for the front axle-mounted motor remains at 204hp.

At the same time, Lexus has tuned the suspension and increased chassis rigidity to sharpen driving dynamics and enhance responsiveness. Drivers can opt between Normal, Eco and Sport settings in the Lexus Drive Mode Select and can also switch between four levels of deceleration, using paddle shifts on the steering wheel, to choose the driving feel of a conventional combustion engine vehicle or switch to the more linear deceleration of a pure BEV.

The 2023 UX 300e also features new multimedia systems – Lexus Link Connect on the entry model and Premium Pack and Lexus Link Pro on the Takumi Pack. These gain faster and easier operation, cloud-based navigation, and larger 8.0- and 12.3-inch touchscreens. The interior is also offered with new upholstery choices.

A new voice recognition system includes a “Hey Lexus” on-board assistant while the voice recognition system is programmed to understand more conversational terms, to recognise whether it is the driver or front passenger speaking and to distinguish between background noise and commands.

The new system provides smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay (wireless connection) or Android Auto (wired connection). A Lexus Link smartphone app allows the driver to remotely lock or unlock the doors, trigger the hazard lights and set the air conditioning to cool or warm the cabin before getting into the car. The app can also check the battery’s charge level, available range with the air-conditioning on or off and time remaining until charging is complete.

More capabilities have been added to the Lexus Safety System+ active safety and driver assistance systems and the UX 300e is now equipped with Intersection Turning Assist and Emergency Assist, while the Dynamic Radar Cruise Control has gained Curve Speed Reduction, which automatically adjusts the vehicle’s speed to the suit the radius of a bend in the road ahead.

These additions join the existing Lexus Safety System+ features, such as the Pre-Collision System, Lane Tracing Assist and Road Sign Assist.

Prices range from £47,495 to £57,095 including the Takumi Pack.