The 2026 Lexus UX 300h arrives with focused updates that enhance the luxury compact crossover experience. While the core hybrid powertrain and all-wheel-drive capability remain proven, Lexus has elevated interior ambiance, expanded the colour palette, and refined technology integration to keep the UX 300h competitive in the premium segment. For drivers in New Brunswick considering an upgrade or first-time buyers evaluating their options, understanding these year-over-year changes helps clarify the value proposition of the latest model.
The most notable update for 2026 is the standard inclusion of the 64-colour thematic interior illumination system across all grades. Previously reserved for higher trims, this feature now welcomes every UX 300h owner with customizable ambient lighting that adapts to mood and preference. Lexus has also introduced new exterior and interior colour choices on select grades, giving buyers more opportunities to personalize their vehicle. These updates reflect Lexus's dedication to elevating the ownership experience through refined design and enhanced technology.
Powertrain and Performance: Consistent Hybrid Excellence
The 2026 Lexus UX 300h continues with the fifth-generation hybrid system that delivers 196 hp (146 kW). This powertrain pairs a gasoline engine with electric motors to provide responsive acceleration and strong fuel efficiency. All-wheel drive remains standard across the Canadian lineup, ensuring confident handling in varied weather conditions.
The hybrid system's smooth transitions between electric and gasoline power, along with the regenerative braking system, continue to define the UX 300h's driving character. For buyers prioritizing proven hybrid technology and consistent performance, the 2026 model maintains the same reliable foundation.
Interior Enhancements: 64-Colour Illumination Now Standard
The most substantial interior update for 2026 is the democratization of the 64-colour thematic interior illumination system. This feature, which allows drivers to select from a wide spectrum of ambient lighting colours to suit their mood or preference, is now standard across all grades - Premium, Luxury, F SPORT Design, and F SPORT 2.
Key Interior Updates for 2026:
- 64-colour thematic interior illumination system now standard on all grades
- New interior colour schemes available on select grades
- Washi interior trim continues on Luxury grade
- NuLuxe-clad F SPORT seating remains on F SPORT 2 grade
The expanded availability of the illumination system enhances the cabin atmosphere without requiring buyers to step up to higher trims. This change offers a value-add for Premium and F SPORT Design buyers who previously would have needed to upgrade to access this feature.
Exterior and Colour Palette: Expanded Personalization Options
Lexus has refreshed the colour palette for 2026, introducing new exterior and interior colour choices on select grades. The F SPORT Design grade continues to offer distinctive two-tone pairings, including Ultra White, Cloudburst Grey, Iridium, and Ultrasonic Blue Mica 2.0 - all paired with a Black Roof. The Caviar exterior colour also remains available for buyers seeking a sophisticated monochromatic look.
The exterior design language maintains the aerodynamic profile, LED headlights with the signature L-shaped lighting motif, and the spindle grille that defines the Lexus brand. All models continue with 18-inch grade-specific alloy wheels clad in run-flat tires, ensuring both style and practicality.
Technology and Safety: Lexus Interface and LSS+ 3.0
The 2026 UX 300h retains the Lexus Interface multimedia system introduced in recent model years. This system features wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto compatibility, along with a natural language virtual assistant that responds to voice commands for navigation, media, and vehicle functions. The Premium grade includes a touchscreen display, while Luxury and F SPORT 2 grades feature the larger 12.3-inch touchscreen with embedded Navigation and a 12.3-inch digital cluster.
Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 remains standard across all grades, providing a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance technologies. Additional safety features include Parking Assist with Auto Braking on Luxury and F SPORT 2 grades, a backup camera, Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, 10 airbags, and a tire pressure monitoring system with auto location.
Standard Technology Features:
- Lexus Interface with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Natural language virtual assistant
- Bluetooth connectivity and SiriusXM Satellite compatibility
- Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 (all grades)
Grade-by-Grade Comparison: 2026 Lineup Structure
The 2026 Lexus UX 300h maintains the same four-grade structure, with the primary differentiation coming from the standard 64-colour illumination system and new colour options.
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Grade
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Key Updates for 2026
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Starting MSRP
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Premium
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64-colour illumination now standard, new colour options
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$44,795
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Luxury
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64-colour illumination now standard, new interior colours available
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Contact dealer
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F SPORT Design
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64-colour illumination now standard, new two-tone colour options
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Contact dealer
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F SPORT 2
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64-colour illumination now standard, new colour options
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Contact dealer
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The Premium grade serves as the entry point, offering the core hybrid powertrain, all-wheel drive, and now the enhanced interior lighting. The Luxury grade adds the 12.3-inch touchscreen with Navigation, digital cluster, head-up display, 10-speaker premium sound system, power lift gate with kick sensor, wireless charging dock, Washi interior trim, and digital key.
The F SPORT Design grade introduces aggressive styling with LED fog lamps, mesh grille, and F SPORT-exclusive 18-inch alloy wheels. The F SPORT 2 grade builds on this foundation with the same technology features as the Luxury grade, plus NuLuxe-clad F SPORT seating.
Value Proposition: Is the 2026 Model Worth Considering?
For first-time buyers, the 2026 model is a refined iteration of the UX 300h formula. The standard illumination system across all grades ensures that even entry-level buyers receive a premium cabin atmosphere, while the expanded colour palette provides more opportunities for personalization. The proven fifth-generation hybrid system and standard all-wheel drive continue to deliver the efficiency and capability that define the UX 300h.
The 64-colour thematic illumination system, previously limited to higher trims, now comes standard on all grades - a meaningful value-add for Premium and F SPORT Design buyers. Paired with new exterior and interior colour choices, the 2026 model offers drivers in New Brunswick more ways to tailor their UX 300h to their preferences while maintaining the proven hybrid powertrain and comprehensive safety features.
Your 2026 Lexus UX 300h is Waiting
The 2026 Lexus UX 300h refines the compact luxury crossover experience with focused updates that enhance personalization and interior ambiance. Contact our team at Lexus of Saint John to explore the 2026 UX 300h lineup and find the grade that best suits your lifestyle.
