2020 Lexus UX 250h Review
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by Mark Fulmer
The Auto Channel
You don't see a lot of orange cars these days, so I must admit to a bit of curiosity when I noticed the key fob read "Cadmium Orange." Hmmm. Further research revealed that cadmium is a "bluish white metal." But even further research revealed that cadmium sulfide is a redish-orange color. (This is the kind of in-depth journalism only to be found here on The Auto Channel). Other colors include: Caviar, Redline, Autumn Shimmer, and Nori Green Pearl. 'Nuff said.
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The UX Hybrid has three, yes three, engines. It's naturally-aspirated 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder gas engine is coupled with a pair of electric engines. The first one is a generator for the engine starter, and controls engine speed. The second one puts power to the wheels and performs regenerative braking (recharging the batteries). A continuously variable automatic transmission and an electronic all-wheel-drive system supply traction as well as ultra smooth transitions. The EPA gives the UX Hybrid a 41/38/39 mpg city/highway/combined. With its 10.6-gallon fuel tank, you are looking at a travel range of 413.4 miles, depending of course on your driving style and the terrain.
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The seating of the UX Hybrid calls for cooperation when transporting taller folks, but powering the front shotgun seat a bit forward creates ok leg room for the seat behind it. After all, it's a subcompact with a total length of 177 inches, a wheelbase of 103.9 inches and a total height of 59.8 inches. Cargo space comes in at 17.1 cubic feet.
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Safety System+ 2.0 that includes lane departure warning, road sign assist, adaptive cruise control, and pre-collision assist with pedestrian detection. The standard 10-airbag system includes a front knee airbags and rear-seat side airbags.
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New to the infotainment control is a series of manual dials and buttons directly below the touchscreen. That helps make the adjustment distractions fewer. But the bottom line is that a driver should learn all of the voice commands, because that is the safest interface with the cars tech, particularly when driving.
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The driving experience is both solid and nimble. Solidity via a new structural architecture with its rigid frame and a lower center of gravity, an all wheel drive, and re-tuned suspension. Nimbleness via precise and positive steering. Add to that a tight turning radius and seamless hybrid hand-offs and the UX weaves through city and highway traffic like a seasoned NBA point guard.
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The UX fits well both as an urban shuttle, and a cost effective weekend traveler.
