Every 2026 Lexus UX Comes With Lexus AWD, and Here’s Why That Matters in Winter

Compact luxury crossovers are popular for good reason. They are easy to park, easy on fuel and easy to live with day to day. But when the first snowfall hits, many shoppers start asking a different question: will this little SUV get me where I need to go?

With the 2026 Lexus UX, the answer starts with a simple fact. In Canada, every UX configuration comes with Lexus AWD as standard. You do not have to choose a special trim or add a package to get it. Here is what that system does, why it pairs so well with the UX hybrid powertrain and which winter comforts come along for the ride.

What Lexus AWD Does on Slippery Roads

All-wheel drive sends power to all four wheels instead of just two. On snow, slush or ice, that spreads the work across more tires, so each one is less likely to spin.

Lexus says the AWD system on the UX delivers near-instantaneous drive force when you accelerate, corner or drive in low-grip situations. In real life, that means more confidence in moments like these:

• Pulling away from a snowy stop sign: Power reaches all four wheels to help you get moving without wheelspin.
• Taking a slushy corner: Drive force is shared to help the UX stay on its intended path.
• Climbing an icy driveway or ramp: Extra grip helps you make it to the top with less drama.

The UX is also engineered with a low centre of gravity and carefully tuned chassis and suspension. Lexus designed those details to give the UX a nimble, responsive feel, which helps you stay in control when roads get rough.

Why AWD and a Hybrid Powertrain Work Well Together

Every 2026 UX is a UX 300h, powered by the fifth generation of the Lexus Hybrid System. It pairs an inline four-cylinder gas engine with two motor-generators, an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission and a compact lithium-ion battery pack. Together, they produce 196 total system horsepower.

The UX also uses electronically controlled all-wheel drive. Electronic control means the system can manage drive force quickly as conditions change, which suits stop-and-go winter traffic and slick side streets.

The hybrid system also keeps fuel use low, even with AWD. The 2026 UX 300h is rated at 5.6 L/100 km combined, with 5.3 L/100 km in the city and 5.9 L/100 km on the highway. City driving is where many winter trips happen, so that low city number counts.

Winter Comfort Features on the UX

Grip is only part of a good winter drive. The 2026 UX also helps you stay warm and see clearly.

The UX 300h Premium grade includes heated front seats, a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel and power-adjustable heated exterior mirrors. Warm seats and a warm wheel make cold mornings much easier to face, and heated mirrors help clear frost and fog so you can check your blind spots.

Every UX also rides on 18-inch grade-specific alloy wheels with run-flat tires. Rear seats split 60/40 to open up to 486 litres of cargo space, with a second storage area below the cargo deck. That is handy for boots, brushes and winter gear you want to keep out of sight.

Four Trims, AWD on Every One

The 2026 UX comes in four trims: Premium, Luxury, F SPORT Design and F SPORT 2. Each one shares the same 196-hp hybrid powertrain and standard Lexus AWD. Your choice comes down to style and features, since winter traction is already covered.

New for 2026, every UX also includes a 64-colour thematic interior illumination system as standard. It is a small touch that makes dark winter evenings feel a little brighter inside the cabin.

Key Takeaways

Learn More at Lexus of Lakeridge

Want to see how the UX handles your daily routine? Drop by and visit our team right here in Ajax at Lexus of Lakeridge to learn more about the 2026 UX and its standard all-wheel drive.