LUXURY carmaker Lexus is adding a new entry model to its vast range in the form of its UX.

Due in Australia late this year, the hatch-cum-SUV is aimed at younger buyers and prices are expected to start from about $45,000.

Lexus says the UX will not only be the first Lexus for many customers, but also their first luxury vehicle.

What does UX mean?

The design team says the U is for urban and the X for crossover.

โ€œThe Lexus UX is designed for the modern urban explorer seeking a fresh, contemporary and dynamic take on luxury driving,โ€ chief engineer Chika Kako, said.

โ€œWe designed it to appeal to young buyers who seek not only what is new and exciting, but what is also relevant to their lifestyles.โ€

The new model claims to deliver a quick and engaging drive experience, with a Lexus-smooth demeanour, making it unique in the luxury compact crossover market sector.

The range starts with the front-wheel-drive UX 200, powered by a 126kW/250Nm 2.0-litre, four-cylinder engine and a new Direct Shift continuously variable transmission.

A model called the UX 250h pairs a more powerful version of the 2.0-litre petrol engine with a new hybrid drive system engineered specifically for this platform.

It will be available with either front-wheel drive or E Four electric all-wheel drive.

Combined output of 131kW makes the 250h the leader in performance as well as fuel efficiency.

The UX is the first vehicle to be built on Lexusโ€™ new Compact GA C platform, aย  super-rigid lightweight structure, very low centre of gravity and refined suspension.

โ€œI wanted to positively overturn the image of a crossover with a high body that requires careful manoeuvring and offer a car with nimble performance and excellent manoeuvrability that makes it as easy to drive as a sedan,โ€ engineer Chika Kako said.