The 2023 Lexus UX provides the type of luxury you would expect from the Japanese automaker but at a lower price point than most other cars in its class. With a starting price of $36,490, this hatchback offers a fair amount of practicality and enough room for five passengers. One of Lexus UX’s biggest advantages over other cars in the market is its available hybrid powertrain.

However, since the UX 250h doesn’t have many direct competitors, we picked out a few luxurious rivals that could give it a run for its money – while saving you money. Check out these three Lexus UX competitors that are just as luxurious and cheap.

1. 2023 Volvo XC40 — $36,350

Like the Lexus UX, the 2023 Volvo XC40 is the fun little sibling in the lineup. Although it’s just as safe as its larger stablemates, the XC40 caters to the youthful side of the car shopping spectrum with its spunky styling. It also has a host of in-cabin technologies to appease the pickiest buyers, but what really sets it apart is the powertrain under its hood.

The XC40 is motivated by a turbocharged 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine that makes 194 hp in its base form and 247 in the higher trim level. The engine is paired with a 48-volt hybrid system that helps with fuel efficiency and acceleration. The editors at Car and Driver were able to get the XC40 B5 up to 60 mph from a stop in only 6.2 seconds. That’s two seconds quicker than the Lexus UX.

2. 2023 BMW X1– $39,100

The 2023 BMW X1 is the entry-level SUV in the lineup. Like the Lexus and the Volvo, the X1 offers plenty of in-cabin technology and comfort. Inside, you’ll find an all-digital dashboard with a 10.25-inch infotainment display and a 10.7-inch driver information display. Infotainment comes via the iDrive 8 operating system with an intelligent personal assistant and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.

Unlike the Lexus UX, the BMW X1 doesn’t have a hybrid powertrain. Instead, it’s powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that makes 241 hp. It can also rocket the car up to 60 mph from a stop in only 5.4 seconds, which is a staggering three seconds quicker than the Lexus.

3. 2023 Mazda CX-30 — $35,400

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 is not in the same class as the Lexus UX because it’s not in the luxury segment. However, if you opt for the top-trim 2.5 Turbo Premium model, which retails for $35,400, you’ll get everything you’ll find in the UX and a little more power. Some of the notable amenities include leather seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a Bose premium sound system.

Speaking of power, under the hood of the CX-30 2.5 Turbo Premium model is a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine that makes 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque. That powerplant makes the Mazda much more fun to drive than the Lexus, which could make you forget that it’s not a luxury car altogether.

Is the 2023 Lexus UX 250h a good car to buy?

Despite these three cheap and luxurious alternatives, we think that the 2023 Lexus UX 250h is a great car for anyone looking for a little luxury and a lot of fuel efficiency. It’s plush and quiet, but don’t expect it to be as much of a performer as these three cars. So, if you’re into driving, go with one of those instead.