This Used Luxury Crossover Now Costs Less Than a New Honda Civic

Luxury cars have a reputation for being expensive, but some used models are changing that perception. A used luxury crossover, in particular, now undercuts the cost of a brand-new Honda Civic and offers much more refinement for the money.

With premium materials, thoughtful design and a comfortable interior packed with modern technology, this used luxury SUV proves that premium doesn’t have to mean expensive. It offers the sophistication of a premium brand while maintaining the efficiency and reliability buyers expect from a daily driver.

For buyers who value comfort, style and smart spending, this crossover is an exceptional deal. It reminds us that buying second-hand can open the door to authentic luxury without breaking the bank.

A 2019 Lexus UX can be purchased for less than $25,000

Lexus launched the UX crossover for the 2019 model year. Calling it a crossover is a bit generous, however, as it feels more like a hatchback with a little extra ride height. It came with standard features and an attractive starting price. If you’re ready to buy a used Honda Civic, you can buy one for less than the price of a new Honda Civic.

2019 Lexus UX Average Used Price

A 2019 Lexus UX has an average list price of $24,601, with prices varying depending on the trim you’re looking for. It comes in two forms, with the UX 250h being a hybrid and the UX 200 being a non-hybrid. You have the choice between three versions: Base, F Sport and Luxury. The Luxe version is not listed above because it wasn’t very popular, which means you have to patiently search if that’s the model you’re looking for.

Overall, Lexus lags behind its main competitors in the luxury segment in terms of features and performance, a sacrifice made to keep prices lower. However, the UX is actually better equipped than options like the BMW X1 or Audi Q3. It’s also a lot more fun to drive than you’d expect from a modern Lexus.

We would opt for the UX 250h hybrid. This model is more powerful, comes with standard all-wheel drive, and is much more efficient than the gas-only variant. This seems like a no-brainer. We’d also opt for the F Sport version because it refines the suspension and adds more supportive front seats. Look for models equipped with the Premium package, which includes items like a sunroof, better interior materials and heated front seats.

Achieve low maintenance costs and impressive reliability scores

Credit: Lexus

Perhaps the thing Lexus is most famous for is its reliability. Over the years, the Japanese brand has consolidated itself as one of the most reliable car manufacturers on the planet, with several authorities even rating it higher than Toyota. UX embodies this reputation, with a proven track record and glowing owner testimonials.

Reliability and maintenance costs

• Reliability score: 88/100 (JD Power)
• Average maintenance costs over ten years: $7,542 (CarEdge)
• Reminders: 2

The UX, like many other vehicles built by Lexus, is considered exceptionally reliable. JD Power ranks it among the toughest vehicles built. Owners are generally very happy with their purchase, with every model year since 2019 earning at least four out of five stars for reliability on Cars.com.

Another great benefit of buying a Lexus is the low maintenance costs. CarEdge estimates you’ll spend $4,952 less on maintenance over ten years for a UX than you would for an average luxury crossover. Just be aware that there have been two recalls issued for this model, one for the brakes and one for the fuel pump, so make sure the used model you’re considering has done this.

It might not nail you to your seat, but the UX is still a lot of fun

Credit: Lexus

Lexus has a knack for creating comfortable luxury cars that lag behind their competitors in handling and agility. UX, however, is an exception. While it offers ride quality worthy of the Lexus badge, it is also characterized by precise driving dynamics and well-balanced steering.

2019 Lexus UX Performance Specs

As mentioned several times, you can choose between the gas-only UX 200 or the hybrid UX 250h. Both feature a fairly robust naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine and a continuously variable transmission. Although the hybrid makes a bit more power, its extra weight means it’s no faster than the non-hybrid. However, it comes standard with all-wheel drive.

While it’s not fast by any means, the UX still has a lot to offer in terms of fun. In today’s world we have become obsessed with zero to 60 times, but agility and direction are much better measures of fun in our opinion. In this regard, UX excels. Hit the gas and drive smoothly, and you’ll also be impressed by the crossover’s calm and quiet nature.

Fuel economy

While you might not see any performance benefits from opting for the 250h hybrid model, the fuel economy estimates show why you might want to opt for a gas-only model. According to EPA estimates, the 250h is one of the most efficient hybrids you can buy, with a combined rating well over 40 miles per gallon.

Even though it’s not as impressive, the gas model still manages to keep up with most of its direct competitors. If you’re not quite ready to jump on the hybrid bandwagon, you’ll still find that it’s reasonably light on your bank account.

Tons of standard features and a comfortable cabin

Credit: Lexus

This may be the best thing about buying a used car. If you took your $25,000 budget and went to buy something new, you could get an entry-level Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla. While these are beautiful cars, their budget-focused philosophy is evident. UX, on the other hand, can be had for the same price while still providing a premium experience and being loaded with modern technologies.

Interior dimensions and comfort features

Interior space is one of the areas where we see the disadvantages of opting for UX. Although marketed as a crossover, it has the dimensions of a small sedan. While those up front will certainly be comfortable, those relegated to the back seat will feel crushed. Boot space is also significantly less than that found in other rivals in this class.

If, however, you don’t mind the space issue, there’s still plenty to like about the UX’s interior. It features an attractive layout and is built with premium materials. Things like dual-zone climate control and power-adjustable front seats are also standard, which is pretty nice at this price point. You can find models with even better interior materials and features like heated and ventilated front seats.

Infotainment and technology

As standard, the UX comes with a seven-inch infotainment screen, although a 10.25-inch screen is optional. It comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and Amazon Alexa functionality. Although packed with nice features, the center console’s touchpad controller requires a learning curve and some features are hidden too deep in the system’s menus.

In addition to the infotainment screen, you also get a digital gauge cluster on every model. Higher trims can also be equipped with a head-up display. In addition to the standard four USB ports, you can also get a UX equipped with a wireless smartphone charger. The standard audio system is pretty decent, but a 13-speaker Mark Levinson system is available on better-equipped models.