Is the Lexus UX a manual transmission?
3 Answers
Lexus UX does not have a manual transmission. Here is a detailed introduction to the Lexus UX: 1. The Lexus UX series quickly entered the Chinese market with its compact size, high-end features, and stylish design. 2. The Lexus UX is the smallest and most affordable Lexus model available on the market. 3. The seats and comfort level of the Lexus UX maintain the brand's excellent performance, while the interior continues Lexus's consistent design language: a blend of sophistication with hints of fashion and vitality. 4. The center console and front door decorative panels of the Lexus UX resemble the style of the ES350, showcasing a luxurious feel. 5. The new Lexus UX is a compact hatchback with a relatively high chassis.
As someone who frequently encounters new models at auto shows, I'm quite familiar with the Lexus UX series. Both the UX200 and UX260h come standard with an eCVT electronic continuously variable transmission—there simply aren't any manual transmission versions available. Nowadays, most luxury brands have essentially abandoned manual transmissions, primarily considering comfort in urban traffic congestion. The hybrid system that the UX series focuses on requires precise transmission control, and a manual transmission would actually hinder fuel efficiency. Just last week when helping a friend pick a car, I specifically checked—even the European market doesn't offer a manual option. If you really want to experience mechanical driving feel, you might want to look at older used BMW 1 Series models instead.
Last year when I changed my car, I compared Lexus models in detail. The UX series is positioned as an urban light luxury SUV, with a comfort-oriented chassis tuning and a very smooth auto start-stop function, all of which point to an automatic transmission configuration. Its gear shifter is designed as an electronic wire-controlled type, with an operation logic completely different from traditional manual transmissions. Even the base model UX200 comes standard with 7-speed simulated paddle shifters, allowing some driving fun through the steering wheel paddles. But to be honest, automatic transmission is more worry-free for city driving, especially when encountering traffic jams where you move one kilometer in half an hour.