It's the least expensive way to get into the ranks of Lexus ownership. The Lexus UX is a small crossover vehicle that includes all the features you would expect from its larger siblings, only more adaptable to those who may not be gifted with larger parking spaces or garage areas. It's on sale now at Lexus of Milwaukee.

The Lexus UX is a smallish crossover that is not short on features, proving that it is a Lexus in every way. A comfortable conveyance, it is powered by a buyer's choice of 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder producing 169 horsepower, which drives the front wheels through a trick version of a continuously variable transmission. It's trick in the sense that it engages a conventional first gear before switching over to the CVT.

The UX 250h hybrid adds to the equation by starting with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that is paired with two electric motors that are powered by a nickel-metal hydride battery pack. One of the motor-generators powers the rear axle up to the mid-40-mph range. Its combined output is 181 horsepower, which travels through the CVT to a limited all-wheel-drive transmission. Handling is greatly improved, but remember, it is a temporary AWD system that shuts off when the UX 250h hits 43 mph. 

Adorned with the trademarked Lexus "spindle grille," the UX body is recognized as a member of the clan from a mile away. We'd say it is known worldwide and when you see it, you immediately know the make just like you would with any other Lexus family member. This grille would not necessarily go well with other brands of vehicles, but when combined with the lines, proportions and shapes of the UX, it just fits.

How do you know if you are looking at the regular or the hybrid versions of the Lexus UX? It's very subtle but look for the little UX 250h on the rear decklid. Regardless of whether you select the gasoline or hybrid version of the UX, both models are available with a choice of three trim levels. Select from base, F-Sport and Luxury trim levels, which offer a distinct set of accessories, depending on the model.

The base model includes 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, dual-zone automatic climate control, selectable drive modes, and the Lexus Safety System+2.0. While not more powerful, F-Sport models include a sportier suspension and front seats with heavier bolstering and an 8-inch display screen.

The interior of the Lexus UX is pure Lexus from top to bottom. According to the EPA, it's a five-seater but realistically, only four will fit comfortably inside. It is a small SUV so don't expect more than 21.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. If you are driving the UX 250h, expect even less, thanks to the extra space taken up by the hybrid battery pack. 

Up front, the picture is far rosier, with comfortable seats, a driver-facing dashboard, and a Lexus audio system, complete with USB-C connections rather than the obsolete USB-A connectors.

The 2022 Lexus UX can be optioned with a whole host of available accessories and options that can truly make the UX your own. These include a power moonroof, heated and ventilated front seats, and rain-sensing wipers. 

Other options that can find their way into your UX include a 10.3-inch display screen, an 8-speaker premium audio system, head-up display, rear parking sensors with automatic reverse braking and more. The new Black Line special edition offers a 2-piece custom suitcase set from Zero-Halliburton. If James Bond were to have matching luggage, it would be this stuff.

It's not a track-destined race car, nor is it ready to tackle Moab. But the Lexus UX 200 and UX 250h are well-suited to almost every other type of adventure you can throw at it. Instead, you'll receive one of the smoothest rides possible. The ride quality is limber, with seats that will absorb the roughest bumps and irregularities you may find.