Most of you will probably know me only for my articles about tires on this blog, but that's not really my full-time occupation! First and foremost, my work as an automotive journalist allows me to test drive a wide variety of models, the most recent of which, the Lexus UX, frankly surprised me. So allow me this brief moment to talk to you not about wheels or tires, but rather about a luxury subcompact SUV that frankly surprised me at many levels.
Intuitive and responsive
One of the most important aspects of a car for me is the infotainment system. Before you even start the engine and begin your journey, it's the connection to your phone and media control that tinges the experience! I'm particularly fussy about this, I admit, but the UX impressed me with its fast, efficient connectivity.
It has to be said that comfort is a top priority, and this is particularly evident when you look at the interior design. The front and rear seats have an exemplary finish and, unlike some other sub-compact models, don't feel cramped. For a base price of just over the $40,000 mark (although you have to add expenses), the luxury-price ratio is hard to beat.
Hybrid? yes, but...
It's true that I generally pay less attention to performance in an ultra-comfortable vehicle, but with the UX, it's impossible to pass up the powertrain... for good and bad reasons! On the one hand, we must salute the fact that the model is only available as a hybrid. As a result, the vehicle doesn't consume much fuel - around 6L/100km in combined mode. Unfortunately, the 181 combined horsepower isn't enough to provide a dynamic driving feel. The result, while certainly very comfortable and far from unpleasant, could perhaps do with a little extra power...
Some tire talk!
While it's true that I don't test vehicles for their tires, my collaboration with Blackcircles.ca may explain my interest in them. On the Lexus UX, I was able to take advantage of Bridgestone Turanza tires one last time before the colder weather set in. Perfectly suited to sedans of this type, their quiet ride allowed me to appreciate interior comfort even more, while their energy efficiency certainly reduced my fuel consumption slightly.
