Starting at the beginning of production for the 2002 model year for Lexus and 2004 for Toyota, a spin-off of theU140/U240 Four speed transaxle, designated as the U150/U250 series was born. This transmission is classified as a 5 speed transmission, although it has 6 ratio's possible in the Drive position. The U150/250 is very similar to it's smaller brother, the U140, and actually uses some of the same parts.

This Transaxles shift points, and shift feel are electronically controlled by a Powertrain Control Module. This is accomplished by the PCM monitoring engine load and adjusting solenoid duty cycle to match pressure rise and shift feel. The PCM also monitors the turbine and output speed sensors to calculate gear ratio and the Transmission Range Sensor for gear selection.