Lexus calls the UX 200 an SUV, which is a little confusing because it looks like a car. In fact, the UX is about the same size as its corporate cousin – the Toyota Corolla Hatchback – save for a few more inches of ride height. However, that added height, in addition to its everyday usability, makes the UX 200h very easy to live with.

The 2022 Lexus UX 200 F Sport adds a touch of luxury to your everyday commute

Why would anyone want to buy a 2022 Lexus UX 200 F Sport over a Toyota Corolla Hatchback if almost everything is equal? In my real-world testing, I found two obvious reasons: a more luxurious interior and an “L” badge. That’s right, the UX and Corolla Hatchback share the same 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine and have a lot of the same tech features. But pulling up to your destination in a small car with a Lexus badge just feels better. No matter how small the car is.

Corolla comparisons aside, the Lexus UX is undeniably an easy car to live with if you don’t need the added space its stablemates offer. The additional ride height, compared to the aforementioned hatchback, makes it easier to get in and out of. And once you’re in the car, you’re greeted with a handsome interior that’s well-equipped with everything you need.

What does the Lexus UX 200 come with?

My UX 200 F Sport tester for the week was equipped with the Luxury package ($2,390), which came with everything I could want in a car. The most notable interior features include heated/ventilated front seats, a power rear door with a kick sensor, and a head-up display. I also enjoyed the upgraded Lexus premium sound system and the larger 10.3-inch infotainment screen.

However, I must warn you that the little touchpad on the center console that controls the screen is a little cumbersome to use. There were times when I had to pull over just to toggle through some of the menus safely. Also, when using Apple Carplay, I noticed that the touchpad doesn’t function like a computer mouse cursor, but instead, it goes over each icon one by one. This can be especially annoying while driving – I wish Lexus just made it a touchscreen, to begin with.

The UX 200’s gas mileage is good, but its power is lacking

As far as overall driveability, the UX 200 is smooth and comfortable. My F Sport tester came with a sport suspension, but I didn’t find it to be harsh or unforgiving over rough pavement. Its 2.0-liter engine pumps out 169 hp, which is good enough to get up hills and on the freeway just fine, but it definitely could be better. According to Lexus, the UX 200 can get up to 60 mph from a standstill in 8.9 seconds.

By comparison, that’s only around one second faster than a Toyota Prius, so it’s safe to say that this “SUV” could use a little more power to be considered fun. Otherwise, I did achieve a combined gas mileage average of 31 mpg during my time with the car, which is pretty good even by today’s standards.

Ultimately, if you’re looking for a small SUV – or car – that offers the same fun-size drivability as a Corolla Hatchback, but with a better sense of style, I recommend the Lexus UX 200.