Lexus has upgraded its UX 300e electric compact SUV with a new battery to extend the driving range by more than 40%, giving up to 279 miles on a single charge.

The Lexus UX 300e, which is priced from £47,495, has been upgraded with a new battery to extend the driving range by more than 40%, giving up to 279 miles on a single charge.

Lexus is significantly extending the UX 300e’s driving range by increasing the lithium-ion battery’s capacity from 54.3 to 72.8kWh. Maximum power remains 201bhp/150kW with 300Nm maximum torque.

Previously the UX 300e offered a range in the WLTP combined driving cycle of 189-196 miles, depending on options such as wheel size.

The new battery improves this by more than 40. Models running on 17-inch wheels now achieve a WLTP combined range (depending on options) of up to 279 miles; those on 18-inch wheels have a combined range (also depending on options) of up to 274 miles.  

Aerodynamic efficiency helps maximise the UX 300e’s range. Shutters in the lower front grille open and close automatically, depending on battery state and how much airflow is needed for cooling. This helps reduce the car’s coefficient of drag to Cd0.31.

The UX 300e also gains detailed changes to the body and chassis, the latest Lexus Link multimedia systems, improved Lexus Safety System+ safety and driver assistance functions, and a wider choice of upholsteries and trims.

The newly updated model is available with new exterior paintwork option, Sonic Platinum, while in the cabin, there is a new hazel colour option available for both the fabric and leather upholstery options.

Revisions to the Lexus Safety System+ bring improved performance in the Pre-Collision System, equipping the car with Intersection Turning Assist for safer left and right turns across traffic at intersections and Emergency Steering Assist, which helps the driver steer to avoid obstacles without departing from their traffic lane.

The Dynamic Radar Cruise Control adopts Curve Speed Reduction, which automatically adjusts the vehicle’s speed to suit the radius of a bend in the road.