Lexus UX 2019 shown ahead of Geneva debut

The front end is dominated by Lexus’ trademark 'spindle grille' flanked by sleek headlights.

Lexus has ripped the covers off its BMW X2 and Audi Q2-fighting UX small SUV ahead of next week’s global debut at the Geneva motor show, but the carmaker is yet to confirm whether the new car will make it to Australian showrooms.

Revealed in a single front three-quarter image, the UX sports styling in-line with its larger NX and RX SUV siblings.

The front end is dominated by Lexus’ trademark 'spindle grille' flanked by sleek headlights, stylised lower air vents and fog lights.

It features chunky black plastic wheelarch cladding, while the side-view mirrors are sleek two-tone units.

Integrated roof racks and a slim glass profile complete the look, while a forward collision detection system can be glimpsed as well as F-Sport and Hybrid badging.

Wheel size is hard to discern from the image, but it appears the UX will have plenty of ground clearance and long suspension travel to better absorb bumps.

Last week's teaser image. (which we've brightened up, to reveal UX 250h badging)

Although the rear end is yet to be exposed, a teaser image released last week reveals the UX’s brake lights will be connected by a single red strip, while tail-lights will sweep up in the corners.

Inside, Lexus is promising a cabin that “combines a highly-focused driver’s cockpit, a wide and inviting passenger space and a commanding view of the road”, with a widescreen multimedia screen glimpsed during the video.

According to the luxury Japanese carmaker, “an all-new platform gives the UX exceptional body rigidity and a low centre of gravity for the agile handling of a hatchback”, which is expected to be the Toyota New Generation Architecture (TNGA).

Earlier this week, Toyota also announced new 2.0-litre powertrain units destined for the TNGA platform – which also underpins the C-HR small SUV and new Camry mid-sizer, and rumoured for the new-generation Corolla small car – that will feature hybrid and direct-injection technology.

Although no engines have been confirmed for the UX, last week’s rear teaser image revealed an UX250h name, while the fresh image outs a ‘Hybrid’ badge along the rear door and ‘F-Sport’ logo on the front quarter panel.

It is also expected the UX will be offered with traditional petrol drivetrains, but full details will be revealed next week during the Geneva motor show.