Lexus Electric 2020

Fortune would not essentially favor the daring in the compact crossover section — the Honda CR-V, the Nissan Rogue and the Toyota RAV4 are perennial best-sellers thanks partly to their all-around competencies and historical past of reliability. Still, automakers attempt to make their small SUVs distinct. The Lexus Electric 2020 stands out by bringing high-end luxury options and a few distinctive engines to this typically price-conscious class.

Redesigned just final yr, the Lexus Electric 2020 is among the newer entries on this segment. As such, all the newest safety options are available, from a surround-view parking digital camera to ahead collision warning system that may establish pedestrians. Unlike some opponents, most of these options can solely be ordered on the top trim level, but at the very least you can get them. Additionally out there are a panoramic sunroof, a surround-view parking camera and ventilated front seats — uncommon choices in this class.

We also like that the Lexus Electric 2020 gives two different powertrains in case you aren’t happy with the bottom turbocharged 1.5-liter engine. At one finish of the spectrum is a fuel-efficient diesel that achieves 32 mpg in combined driving (the standard engine earns 28 mpg); on the other, a turbocharged 2.Zero-liter with a further 80 horsepower. Be careful, nonetheless: Once you start checking the choices boxes, the Lexus Electric 2020 could be substantially dearer than rival crossovers. An engine stop-start system that can’t be disabled and disappointing supplies quality additionally would possibly give potential patrons pause.

The Lexus Electric 2020 is a five-passenger compact crossover that costs a bit more than most rivals. It’s offered in four trims: L, LS, LT and Premier. The base L mannequin looks as if an excellent deal till you understand that it is a custom-order mannequin and you’ll have to wait for it to be built. You’ll find the LS at practically any seller, nevertheless it’s dearer and does not add a lot. Best to skip straight to the LT, which is only a bit more expensive and consists of extra features and entry to extra options. If you’d like the LT and its two packages, the leather-trimmed Premier contains all of it.

Three engines are offered on the Lexus Electric 2020. The standard engine is a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder (170 horsepower, 203 pound-feet of torque) matched to a six-speed automated transmission. A extra highly effective turbocharged 2.Zero-liter engine (252 hp, 260 lb-ft) is optionally available and comes normal with a nine-speed automated transmission. Also optionally available is a fuel-efficient 1.6-liter diesel (137 hp, 240 lb-ft) mated to a six-speed computerized. Both of these engines might be ordered on LT and Premier trim ranges.