Toyota Yaris vs Lexus UX
What's the difference?

Toyota Yaris

$26,090 - $44,888

2025 price

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Lexus UX

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2026 price

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Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Summary

2025 Toyota Yaris

2026 Lexus UX

By Chris Thompson

By Emily Agar

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Inline 3, 1.5L

Inline 4, 2.0L

Fuel Type

Unleaded Petrol/Electric

Fuel Efficiency

3.3L/100km (combined)

4.2L/100km (combined)

Seating

Likes

Space- and fuel-efficient
Capable platform
Borderline sporty styling

Solid on-road handling
Great fuel economy
Long time between fills

Dislikes

Conservative interior
Lacks some features
Price

Reminds you too often its a base grade
Drive modes largely indistinguishable
Cosy back seat

2025 Toyota Yaris Summary

Long the domain of first-car buyers and suburbanites winding down on their driving years, the Toyota Yaris is now hybrid-only, and is a far cry from the $15,000-or-so cheap and cheerful staple it once was.

But with its fourth generation a few years into its lifespan, the Yaris is trying to be more than just a basic A-to-B runabout. In fact, the ZR we have on test is more expensive than an entry-grade Volkswagen Polo.

Does more than $30,000 of light hatch really feel worth it once you’re behind the wheel, or are you better off pocketing almost $10,000 to save on one of the thinning pack of rivals?

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2026 Lexus UX Summary

Replacing the long-standing UX250h, the more powerful Lexus UX300h hybrid sits at the luxury end of the compact SUV segment, and the latest update brings a refined line-up along with tweaks to both design and technology. In this review, I’m looking at the base Luxury grade to see what it's like to live with this hybrid day-today and how it stacks up against its nearest rivals.

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Deep dive comparison

2025 Toyota Yaris 2026 Lexus UX

Verdict

The Toyota Yaris is as much car as many people should really need, and it's a refreshing antidote to the largely unnecessary shift towards SUVs as the ‘default vehicle’.

In the case of the ZR grade, the pricing could understandably be a reason you might consider an SUV instead. There are plenty of options for a similar price.

The problem with an SUV though is it will likely be less efficient and, due to physics, less agile and fun to drive.

Given the price and the fact that a couple of features are missing, the ZR probably isn't the variant to go for, but the Yaris is an overall solid foundation for a very convincing hatchback.

Verdict

The updated Lexus UX300h Luxury is a solid entry in the premium compact SUV segment. It doesn’t break new ground, and there are areas that could be improved, but it handles well, offers a thoughtful selection of amenities for a base-grade luxury model, and its compact size makes it easy to park almost anywhere. For buyers seeking a stylish, efficient, and practical hybrid with a luxury badge, it’s a dependable choice.

Toyota Yaris vs Lexus UX What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Toyota Yaris vs Lexus UX
What's the difference?