CARS & CONCEPTS: New or refreshed offerings from Lexus, Chevy, Cadillac and more

All six variants of the Lexus UX 250h, shown above, come with all-wheel drive for 2023 as well as hybrid powertrains. The 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and helper electric motor send 181 horsepower through a continuously variable transmission. The base model stickers for $43,595, including $2,145 freight. The compact crossover — the smallest in the luxury brand’s line — comes with Lexus Interface, the brand’s newest connectivity and multimedia system, plus the Lexus Safety System + 2.5 bundle that includes a series of active-safety technologies.

2024 CHEVROLET BLAZER EV

The upcoming electric utility vehicle shares much of its design with the gasoline-powered model, but that’s where the similarities end, GM Canada says. The Blazer EV is built on the company’s Ultium battery platform — shared with the Cadillac Lyriq, Chevrolet Silverado EV and others — and will offer an estimated maximum driving range of 400 to 515 kilometres on a full charge, depending on trim level. Reservations opened in July and deliveries begin next summer. Four trims will be offered, topped by the $80,000-plus SS. The least expensive model — the 1LT — is due in the first quarter of 2024 with a sticker of $51,998, plus $2,200 delivery.

CADILLAC CELESTIQ

General Motors’ luxury brand looks to set a “new world standard” for the electric era with its low-slung, tech-laden Celestiq concept. The company says the flagship vehicle draws inspiration from pre-war V-16-engine coaches and the 1957 Cadillac Eldorado Brougham. The handmade show car premiered in July. A production version will compete with those from upstart luxury EV makers and longtime high-end rivals. Neither a launch timeline nor a starting price have been disclosed.

2023 TOYOTA CROWN

A new high-end hybrid that blurs the line between sedan and crossover will hit Toyota’s lineup by the end of the year. The Crown nameplate is being revived in North America after 50 years for what the automaker calls a sedan with elevated ride height. The four-door offers a base hybrid powertrain as well as a performance version that puts out a Toyota-estimated 340 net horsepower. Three grades will be available, all with electronic all-wheel drive. Pricing has not been released.

2023 KIA SOUL

The subcompact crossover has been updated with a more angular grille and a simplified rear bumper. Inside, the 2023 Soul gets a new steering wheel as well as a 4.2-inch instrument panel first seen in the 2023 Sportage. New active safety technology is also available, including lane-keeping assist, blindspot collision avoidance and highway driving assist. The Soul, available in five trims, starts at $24,534, including $1,800 delivery.