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2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 To Pace Indianapolis 500

by | Apr 20, 2025 | 0 comments

2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 To Pace Indianapolis 500
A Torch Red metallic 2023 Corvette Z06 will pace the 107th Indianapolis 500 race on May 28

The Chevrolet Corvette has paced ‘The Greatest Spectacle in Racing’ more times than any car. The 2023 race marks the 34th time for Chevrolet to pace dating back to 1948 and the 20th time overall and since 1978. (Photo by Chris Owens)

BY MARK MAYNARD

The 107th Running of the Indianapolis 500 — “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” — is “Back Home Again” on Sunday, May 28.

Presented by Gainbridge, NBC Sports will provide live coverage of the Indianapolis 500 beginning at 9 a.m. ET (Noon Pacific) Sunday, May 28
. Coverage will include a bonus two hours of streaming before the race begins on the Peacock streaming platform.

There will be 33 cars on the field this year by Chevrolet and Honda.

Katherine Legge, 42, is the lone female in the pack. Driving for Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing in the No. 44 Honda, the British-born Legge will start in row 10, the 30th position.

According to a report by Scott Horner of the Indianapolis Star, Legge crashed into Stefan Wilson Monday, May 22, during Indianapolis 500 practice.

Wilson suffered a fractured vertebra in Monday’s crash, which required surgery on Wednesday night, wrote Charles Bradley of Motorsport.com. Wilson is determined to make a full recovery and return to contest the race next year with his Cusick Motorsports/Dreyer and Reinbold team, he wrote in the online report.

Legge was cleared by medical personnel to compete on Sunday. She returned to the track in her repaired Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing car and was 29th fastest in Friday’s final practice on Carb Day, per Bradley Motorsport.com.

Wilson, a Chevrolet driver for Dreyer & Reinbold Racing, was replaced by veteran driver Graham Rahal. 

Legge is just the ninth woman ever to compete in the Indianapolis 500.

Race Day Countdown

All times are Pacific Standard, or 3 hours ahead of Indianapolis:

11:45 a.m.: Borg Warner trophy march to the Bricks; departing from the IMS Museum;

Noon-12:30: Cars to Pit Lane;

1:30 p.m.: Cars to grid on front straight;

2:47 p.m.: Driver introductions; Trackside Yard of Bricks Stage

3:18 p.m.: Invocation; trackside Yard of Bricks Stage;

3:24 p.m.: Jewel sings the national anthem;

3:36 p.m.: Jim Cornelison singing the Hoosier state’s favorite anthem, “Back Home Again In Indiana”;

3:38 p.m.: Indianapolis Motor Speedway owner Roger Penske will command drivers to start engines.

3:45 p.m.: Green flag drops.

2023 Indy 500 Corvette Z06 Pace Car

For the first time in the storied history of “America’s sports car,” a hardtop convertible Chevrolet Corvette Z06 will lead the field to the green flag.

Corvette is the longest-running car nameplate in automotive industry history, and the Corvette has paced “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” more times than any car. The 2023 race marks the 34th time for Chevrolet to pace, dating back to 1948.

This year’s Corvette Z06 Pace Car exterior is two-tone Red Mist Metallic and Jet Black. The interior in Sky Cool Gray has Torch Red accents. Spider-design forged aluminum wheels are finished in Tech Bronze.

The 2023 Corvette Z06 is set apart from the rest of the lineup by its 670 horsepower, 5.5-liter LT6 V-8, and 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. Chevrolet says the LT6 V-8 is the highest-horsepower, naturally aspirated V-8 in any production car.

Helping to keep the Z06 pace car flying low is the Carbon Aero package. It provides 734 pounds of downforce at 186 mph, more than any other Corvette.

Expect to spend around $150,000 if you’d like to re-create a 2023 Corvette Z06 in the image of the pace car.

Get the Indy 500 schedule here.

 

Ford Mustangs That Never Were

by | Apr 16, 2025 | 0 comments

Ford Mustangs That Never Were

16 concepts and design sketches of proposed Ford Mustang variants

16 concepts and design sketches of proposed Ford Mustang variants.

The first-generation Ford Mustang in Wimbledon White. (Photography courtesy of Ford PR archives)

BY MARK MAYNARD

It was 61  years ago on April 17, 1964, that the Ford Mustang debuted at the World’s Fair in Flushing Meadows, New York. It was an immediate sales success — but there were many concepts, design studies, and prototypes that were considered along the way. Some of those were codenamed the “Bruce Jenner” and the “Rambo,” and there was a station wagon, a four-door, and a two-seater body style.

Ford Motor completely redesigned the Mustang for 2024, and it is now in its seventh generation. The company says its venerable pony car is the most exhilarating and visceral yet. 

“Investing in another generation of Mustang is a big statement at a time when many of our competitors are exiting the business of internal combustion vehicles,” said Jim Farley, CEO of Ford Motor Company. “Ford, however, is turbocharging its ICE growth plan, adding connected technology, opinionated derivatives, and hybrid options to our most profitable and popular cars — all in the Ford Blue family — on top of investing $50 billion in electric vehicles through 2026.”

According to Ford’s internal data, the United States remains home to the strongest demand for Mustang, representing 76 percent of global sales. Other markets that saw growth in Mustang sales in 2021 include New Zealand, up 54.3 percent, Brazil, up 37.3 percent, and South Korea, up 16.6 percent. 

Here are some images and captions from the Ford Motor archives that show some of the ideas that were considered. Most were wisely resisted.

1965 Mustang Four-Door

A prototype four-door mustang.

Two doors too many?

While Mustang used the platform of the compact Falcon as its starting point, the four-door Mustang could have brought the idea full circle by adding two doors to the pony car. Fortunately for Mustang fans, cooler heads prevailed.

1966 Mustang Station Wagon

In the mid-1960s, Ford designers considered at least a couple of different concepts for a Mustang station wagon, with at least one running prototype based on a 1966 coupe getting built. Another design study included elements for refreshed models that were coming later that decade. All of the known Mustang wagons were three-doors that were closer to a European “shooting brake” than a traditional American family station wagon.

1961 Avventura, Avanti, Allegro Concepts

From late 1961 into mid-1962, Ford designers tried out a wide range of themes for a sporty coupe based on the platform of the new Falcon compact. Each design was given an internal name for the purpose of discussion. One fastback design actually went through at least three different names starting with Avventura before moving on to Avanti and finally Allegro. The fastback design was originally sketched with a hatchback and rear-facing second-row seat. While this car never made it to production, a variation of the fastback profile was eventually adopted as the third body style for Mustang.

Avanti/Allegro Concept

As Avventura moved from sketch to physical design model, the hatch was replaced with a trunk and the rear seat was switched to a more conventional forward-facing orientation. Originally shown internally as Avanti, the name was eventually changed to Allegro, likely because Studebaker had introduced its own production Avanti coupe around the same time.

1962 Allegro Design Study

In 1962, the design team, led by Gene Bordinat, worked on several iterations of another design called Allegro. While the production 1965 Mustang was a very different car in almost every visual detail from Allegro, the design study established the basic proportions that would define most Mustangs for the next five decades. The notchback coupe had the same long-hood, short-deck layout with a compact greenhouse that would roll out of the Rouge factory two years later.

The Millionth Mustang

For the 1966 celebration of the millionth Mustang produced: Airline pilot Capt. Stanley Tucker, the owner of the first ordered Mustang, with Ford design chief Gene Bordinat (left), Ford President Lee Iacocca, product manager Donald Frey and an unnamed Ford exec.

1967 Allegro II Concept

The 1967 Allegro II Concept for Mustang

In 1967, Ford designers decided to reprise one of the original Mustang design concepts from 1962 with a new form and repurposed name. Starting with the Avanti/Allegro fastback coupe, the greenhouse was removed and replaced with a low-cut speedster-style windshield, roll bar, flying buttresses on the rear deck, and a new rear end. The reworked concept was dubbed Allegro II.

1967 Mach 2 Concept

1967 Mustang Mach 2 Concept

With the Mustang having already set sales records following its launch in 1964, Ford design chief Gene Bordinat and the Special Vehicles Group decided to try rearranging the pieces for the Mach 2 concept. The 289 Hi-Po V-8 was shifted from the front to behind the two seats to evaluate the layout as a possible successor to the Shelby Cobra. Despite its midengine layout, the Mach 2 retained the long-hood, short-deck proportions of a Mustang. Unfortunately, the Mach 2 never went much beyond the auto-show circuit.

1966 Mustang Mach I Concept

1966 Mustang Mach I Concept
Pantera-esqe?

The two-position hatchback was intended to accommodate longer objects in a near-horizontal position or open wider for cargo loading.

1969 Ford Mustang Boss 302 Engine

1969 Ford Mustang Boss 302 Engine

The high-performance 302-cubic-inch V8 used in the 1969 Ford Mustang Boss 302.

1966 Mach 1 Concept

1966 Ford Mustang Mach 1 Concept

As the first-generation model transitioned from a pony car to a larger and heavier big-block muscle car, the Mach 1 concept was created as a preview of the 1968 model. The original nose of the concept drew inspiration from the 1963 Mustang II concept.

1970 Mustang Milano

1970 Ford Mustang Milano in purple

First shown publicly at the February 1970, Chicago Auto Show, the Mustang Milano concept previewed the nearly horizontal rear deck and sharp, extended nose that would be seen on the production 1971 model. However, aside from those two elements, the Milano didn’t really bear much resemblance to any production Mustang. In fact, the car that probably drew most heavily on the Milano profile was the Australian-market Falcon XB coupe of the mid-1970s.

1970 Mustang Milano front

Would this become Ford’s Torino?

‘Bruce Jenner’ design study

Bruce Jenner Mustang design concept

Too soft?

In 1990, Ford designers evaluated a number of themes to replace the long-running third-generation Mustang. The notchback and hatchback body styles would be replaced with a single fastback coupe format. After departing from many of the original design cues on the third-generation models, the upcoming fourth-generation would return elements like the galloping pony in the grille, the side scoops and the tri-bar taillamps. This softer concept, known as “Bruce Jenner” wasn’t considered aggressive enough to be a Mustang.

‘Rambo’ Design Study

The Mustang 'Rambo' Design Study

Too extreme for a Mustang?

This alternative proposal dubbed, “Rambo,” was deemed too extreme for production.

1980 Mustang RSX Concept

1980 Mustang RSX Concept

Created in the Italian Ghia design studio, the RSX was conceived as a rally special based on the new Fox-body third-generation Mustang that debuted for the 1979 model year. With a 1-inch-wider track and 5.6-inch-shorter wheelbase than the road-going Mustang, the RSX had extra ride height that would be needed for dealing with the off-tarmac stages of European rallies.

1961-62 Two-Seater Studies

A two-seat Mustang study.

The two-seater concept.

Early in the gestation of the original Mustang, Ford designers considered a number of two-seater studies. These were seen as a more affordable return to the roots of Thunderbird, which by this time had grown into a much larger four-seater. The idea of a two-seat Mustang was something designers returned to frequently in the period between the original Mustang 1 concept and the 1992 Mach III. Aside from some track-oriented Mustangs that had the rear seats removed to save weight, there has never been a strictly two-seat production Mustang.

 

Racing! April 5 Honda Cars, Bikes & Coffee Show

by | Mar 13, 2025 | 0 comments

Racing! April 5 Honda Cars, Bikes & Coffee Show

 Bimonthly Cars, Bikes & Coffee Shows are an enthusiasts’ open house at the American Honda Collection Hall in Torrance, Calif.

Enthusiasts at The entrance to the American Honda Collection Hall in Torrance, Calif.

The entrance to the American Honda Collection Hall in Torrance, Calif. (Photos courtesy of American Honda)

BY MARK MAYNARD

Honda is powered up for its April 5 Cars, Coffee & Bikes show at American Honda headquarters, 1919 Torrance Boulevard, Torrance, CA 90501. The show is themed “Racing” and will be a celebration of all forms of auto and powersports racing. It is also the kick-off party for the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach — held the following weekend — which American Honda sponsors.

“We’ll have the biggest display of Honda and Acura auto and Honda motorcycle race vehicles yet,” said Carl C. Pulley, Honda Heritage Public Relations. Six HRC Supercross and Motocross championship bikes will be on view.

Participants can drive their own race car, bike, or other performance vehicle in the Parade of Performance.

A Racing Showcase

The April 5 bimonthly gathering of enthusiasts — Honda and non-Honda — will showcase a significant collection of race vehicles. The event honors the 75th year of Formula One, the 60th anniversary of Honda’s first F1 race win, and the 50th running of the Grand Prix of Long Beach.

Among the special exhibits and activities will be:

  • Ayrton Senna’s 1992 McLaren MP4/7 F1 racecar
  • Current Red Bull Racing F1 display racecar
  • Current Honda IndyCar display racecar
  • Acura ARX-05 IMSA racecar
  • Acura NSX GT3 racecar
  • Honda Baja Ridgeline race truck
  • Ricky Carmichael’s 2004 450 MX Champ (First CRF450R championship)
  • Jett Lawrence’s 2021 250 MX champ
  • Hunter Lawrence’s 2023 250 SX east/MX champ
  • Chase Sexton’s 2023 450 SX champ
  • Jett Lawrence’s 2023 450 MX champ (Perfect Season)
  • Jett Lawrence’s 2024 450 SX champ

There will also be an IndyCar photo-op where attendees can get behind the wheel of a vintage Lola racecar to take photos. A racing simulator will show the Long Beach Grand Prix circuit.

Honda 0 Series Prototypes On View

Also featured will be the first public showing of the Honda 0 Series Saloon and SUV Prototypes. Production versions of the new 0 Series line of battery electric vehicles are expected to launch in North America in 2026, followed by global markets. Both midsize models will be built at the Honda EV Hub in Ohio.

The interior of the SUV prototype illustrates the company’s direction to offer a new value for its future Honda 0 Series EVs as a “space” for people. Both sedan and SUV will debut automated driving technologies backed by Honda’s Level 3 automated driving technology. Honda says the technology is “highly reliable.”

A nose to nose image of the futuristic looking Honda 0 prototype SUV and sedan

Honda 0 Saloon & Honda 0 SUV prototypes.

Honda C&C

The themed bimonthly shows get an average of 2,500 attendees, including entrance to the Honda museum, a live DJ, food trucks, free coffee, and special exhibits.

“The Feb. 15 show broke a record with 3,900 people showing up,” Pulley said. “The addition was most likely due to the Trailsport Adventure off-road ride-along experience in the new 2026 Passport Trailsport.”

Those attending also get free admittance to the American Honda Collection Hall.

The 20,000-square-foot museum space presents a timeline of American Honda vehicles and corporate growth since its U.S. start in 1959. More than 60 vehicles from Honda and Acura are on view, including motorcycles, power products, engines, and racing machines. The Collection Hall displays will be updated several times a year to highlight different products and themes.

The collection hall is in Honda’s U.S. headquarters lobby, 1919 Torrance Blvd., Torrance, CA 90501.

the Acura ARX-05 IMSA racecar at speed on a track.

#6 Acura Team Penske Acura DPi, DPi: Juan Pablo Montoya, Dane Cameron

Upcoming 2025 Cars, Bikes & Coffee Shows

June 21: “Summer’s Here” car and bike fun in the sun

Aug. 16: “Heritage & Museums” old-school cool

Oct. 18: “Customizing” Halloween/Día de los Muertos special

Dec. 13: “Clubs & Community” holiday event with toy drive

IF YOU GO

The American Honda Collection Hall is at 1919 Torrance Boulevard, Torrance, CA 90501. Gates to the American Honda parking lot open at 7:30 a.m., with activities beginning at 9 a.m.

Learn more about the shows and the collection hall here.

Mazda CX-50 Hybrid Review

by | Mar 11, 2025 | 0 comments

Mazda CX-50 Hybrid Review

Attention to detail and value pricing separate the Mazda CX-50 Hybrid from competitors, but hybridization missed the Mazda zoom-zoom

An Ingot Blue Mazda CX-50 Hybrid SUV crossover at a marina boat launch

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid is sold in three trim levels with starting prices ranging from $35,390 to $41,470. Today’s tester is this Ingot Blue Metallic 2025 CX-50 Hybrid Premium Plus, with no added packages or accessories, for $41,470. (Mark Maynard photography)

Jump To Special Features

CX-50 or CX-5?
Hybridization: It’s Complicated
Standard Features per Dollar
Mazda Dependability Rises
A Missing Link for Greatness
CX-50 Hybrid Powertrain and Fuel Economy Ratings
 CX-50 Special Assets and Considerations
EV Mode
Why Buy the 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid?
Specifications

BY MARK MAYNARD

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 is a good, honest SUV crossover engineered for long-term ownership. The compact-class CX-50 has many endearing details, making it an ideal family or adventure SUV. Of special interest to car shoppers will be the new Mazda CX-50 Hybrid, with claimed fuel-sipping highway mileage of 37 mpg.

The Mazda CX-50 is a milestone joint venture with Toyota. The two Japanese car companies shook hands on a partnership deal in 2015. It gives vital support to Mazda Motor Corp., which is still the sole owner of the Mazda brand. Vehicle development is costly, and both manufacturers have found synergies for growth. The comprehensive plan is to develop electric vehicles, connected car innovations, and advanced safety technologies jointly.

The alliance has provided Mazda with Toyota’s hybrid system for the 2025 CX-50. And the two companies built the new Mazda Toyota Manufacturing plant in Huntsville, Ala.   Construction began in 2018 and was completed in 2021. So far,  the Mazda CX-50 and Toyota Corolla Cross have been built there. Other cost savings will be met by supplying each other with components and shared technologies.

The CX-50 interior layout is ergonomically designed and straightforward to use.

The CX-50 interior layout is ergonomically designed and straightforward to use.

CX-50 or CX-5?

Based on the front-wheel-drive Mazda3 and the CX-30, the CX-50 is sold alongside the slightly smaller CX-5. When the bigger and more refined CX-50 debuted for 2022, it was expected that the CX-5 would be phased out. However, that has not occurred. The less expensive CX-5 is still racking up big sales (popular in rental fleets), making it the brand’s top-selling model. As a separator, marketing for the larger CX-50 presents it as an off-road adventure vehicle.

Competitors to the Mazda CX-50 include the Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, Nissan Rogue, Subaru Forester, Kia Sportage, and Toyota RAV4.

The CX-50 Hybrid, however, has fewer competitors, which include the Honda CR-V, Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson, and Mitsubishi Outlander. And like Subaru, all Mazda CX-50 models are all-wheel drive.

The CX-50 has analog gauges are bold and bright with white numerals on a black background

Analog gauges are bold and bright.

It’s Complicated

Mazda offers a variety of hybrid and plug-in vehicles in the U.S., including the CX-30, CX-70, and CX-90. However, the CX-50 Hybrid was complicated. Creating an affordable family-class small SUV with Mazda Zoom and great fuel economy is not easy. One of those factors got pinched in adapting Toyota’s hybrid system.

I like Mazda’s philosophy of engineering vehicles for a horse-and-rider bond of control. It is flank-slapping enjoyable in the CX-50 2.5 Turbo model, but the horse escaped the barn for the CX-50 Hybrid. It is more of a workhorse for fuel economy than spirited driving.

Most buyers shopping for a small, hybrid SUV look for styling, features per dollar, and fuel economy. They might not notice or care about this hybrid’s dutiful driving attitude. However, there are a few other compromises to the CX-50 Hybrid that don’t make horse sense, especially for its near-$40,000 starting price.

The CX-50 has the styling. The CX-50 Hybrid is packed with desirable features. However, I was not able to achieve the official fuel economy ratings.

But above all, there is no denying Mazda reliability.

Looking up through the panorama roof, viewed from the front seats rearward to the rest of the vehicle

A panoramic moonroof is standard on the CX-50 Hybrid.

Mazda Dependability Rises

Mazda USA has risen to the No.2 position in the latest J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study. The brand earned notable recognition for several models.

With a score of 161 problems per 100 vehicles (PP100), Mazda has improved by 24 PP100 from the previous year. Mazda has advanced by four positions in the mass market segment.

The 2022 Mazda CX-9 has been recognized as one of the top three vehicles in the Upper Midsize SUV category. The 2022 Mazda CX-5 earned a top 3 spot in the Compact SUV category.

“We’re pleased to see Mazda’s commitment to quality and reliability reflected in our strong performance in this year’s J.D. Power study,” said Mazda North American Operations President and CEO Tom Donnelly. “This recognition, coupled with the improved ranking across the brand, speaks to the dedication of our engineers and our focus on delivering the best driving and owner experience for our customers.”

This achievement highlights the brand’s ongoing commitment to delivering vehicles that offer long-term reliability and exceptional quality for owners.

The 2025 dependability study evaluates 2022 model-year vehicles after three years of ownership. The study measures 184 potential problem areas across nine categories, including infotainment, driving assistance, and powertrain. Mazda’s strong performance in this year’s study is a testament to the continued reliability of the brand’s vehicles,

Mazda’s improvement is notable despite the industry’s ongoing challenges with software complexity and supply chain disruptions.

Leather with copper-colored baseball-type stitching spans the dashboard face and upper door panels.

Leather with copper-colored baseball-type stitching spans the dashboard face and upper door panels.

Mazda Awarded IIHS Top Safety Picks

In the annual presentation of awards by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, Mazda received eight Top Safety Pick+ awards. The awarded vehicles include the 2025 Mazda3, CX-30, CX-50 and CX-50 Hybrid, CX-70 and CX-70 PHEV, CX-90 and CX-90 PHEV.

To earn the awards, vehicles must achieve top ratings in IIHS’s front and side crash tests and pedestrian front crash prevention assessments and come with standard acceptable- or good-rated headlights.

IIHS strengthens the award criteria each year, making the 2025 awards program the toughest yet, said IIHS President David Harkey.

“The success of our awards program depends on automakers’ commitment to safety,” he said. “Kudos to Mazda for meeting this challenge with eight top safety pick+ winners, the most of any brand.”

2025 Mazda CX-50 Pricing

Shoppers can choose from 10 trim levels for the 2025 Mazda CX-50 between gas and hybrid powertrains. There are seven choices for the gasoline-powered CX-50 and three trims for the CX-50 Hybrid.

Starting prices for the CX-50 gasoline range from $31,720 to $44,720, in turbocharged or non-turbo four-cylinder engines.

The CX-50 Hybrid is available in Preferred, Premium, and Premium Plus trim levels. Hybrid starting prices range from $35,390 to $41,470. The suggested manufacturer’s retail pricing includes the $1,420 freight charge from Huntsville, Ala., a joint Mazda Toyota manufacturing plant.

Today’s tester is a 2025 CX-50 Hybrid Premium Plus with no added packages or accessories for $41,470. Buyers might also want to consider such accessories as a carpet cargo mat ($125), a retractable cargo cover ($225), or a cargo net ($60).

Adventure travelers will want the black crossbars ($350) for lashing gear to the roof. There’s also the Outdoor Adventure Backpack Kit, $225. It is packed with a bungee cord, water reservoir (for hiker’s hydration), cable ties, folding shovel, and waterproof matches.

The CX-50 Hybrid has a max towing capacity of 1,500 pounds, with the factory tow hitch and wiring harness ($589).

Another useful Mazda accessory is the Weather Package, $390, adding a cargo liner with seatback protection and all-weather floor mats. A  roadside assistance kit ($90) adds a folding reflective triangle, flashlight, tire pressure gauge, emergency blanket, and rain poncho.

And there are several pet accessories including a ramp ($300), back seat protector ($225), and dog restraint ($40).

Check current Mazda CX-50 pricing here.
And check for special incentives and offers here.

The center stack of controls uses buttons and switches for commonly used cabin functions.

Buttons and switches for commonly used cabin functions.

Standard Features per Dollar

Base hybrid models are well equipped with desirable features, including:

  • Keyless entry and push button start
  • Electric parking brake
  • Heated front seats with 3-level adjustment
  • Half leatherette-trimmed seats
  • LED headlights (auto on/off)
  • Rear power liftgate with programmable height adjustment
  • Mazda Connect Infotainment System with a 10.25-inch center display, with voice command and multifunction Commander control
  • Rearview camera monitor with guiding lines
  • Alexa Built-In
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • Wireless phone charger
  • Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio capability
  • 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with power lumbar support
  • 4-way manual adjustable front passenger seat
  • 17-inch alloy wheels with P225/65 R17 all-season tires
  • Power (heated) side mirrors with LED turn signal indicators
  • Windshield wiper de-icer
  • 8-speaker audio system with automatic level control
  • Dual front USB (Type C) audio inputs and dual rear USB (Type C) charging ports

The open driver's door shows a water bottle and reporter's notebook in the side panel

Texture and color for a premium appearance.

CX-50 Hybrid Premium Plus features include:

  • Automatic power-folding side mirrors
  • Panoramic sunroof
  • 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels, machine cut with black metallic finish
    P225/55 R19 all-season tires
  • Heated and ventilated front seats (3 levels)
  • Heads-up windshield-projected Active Driving Display
  • Auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink
  • Black metallic interior trim and contrast stitching
  • Aluminum roof rails in satin chrome finish
  • Dual exhaust outlets with chrome tips
  • Mazda CX-50 Safety Features

Standard safety features on all Mazda CX-50 models include:

  • 10 air bags
  • Radar cruise control with stop-and-go
  • Lane Departure Warning with Lane-keep Assist
  • Emergency Lane Keeping
  • Blind spot monitoring
  • Rear cross traffic alert

A Missing Link for Greatness

As complete as the safety technologies appear, one crucial link is missing: Cruising and Traffic. That piece of technology connects the other driver-assistance features to allow semi-autonomous, Level 2 hands-on-the-wheel driving. The CX-50 Hybrid is an excellent commuting vehicle, and Level 2 assist would be a welcome safeguard. A complete package of advanced driving technologies is expected on a $40,000 vehicle.

Unfortunately, Cruising & Traffic Support is only available on the 2.5T Premium and Premium Plus models, not the hybrid ones.

Adding Level 2 drivability bumps into Mazda’s philosophy that the driver should always be in control of the vehicle. It is also a price point dilemma, a spokesperson said.

“Mazda’s initial data showed that hybrid customers and Mazda customers interested in hybrid vehicles were also more budget conscious than [CX-50] 2.5T buyers, who want all the toys. Hence, there were some tough decisions in terms of what features were in or out for the vehicle,” he said. “We are always evaluating and looking into what our customers want and expect from their vehicles.”

CX-50 Special Assets and Considerations

  • Side mirrors power fold on shutoff
  • A spare tire (temporary) is when most electrified vehicles only have an inflator system.
  • All doors open to nearly 90 degrees, easing entry and exit.
  • Back seat release levers in the cargo area, a detail not all makers provide.
  • Analog gauges are bold and bright, with white numerals on a black background.
  • Spray-arm wipers keep the fluid where it is needed.
  • Large side mirrors provide excellent visibility range on the highway.

Looking at the under cargo space of the spare tire for the CX-50 Hybrid has a spare tire, unusual among electrified vehicles.

The CX-50 Hybrid has a spare tire, unusual among electrified vehicles.

CX-50 Considerations

  • Large side mirrors can block cornering views of pedestrians in crosswalks and turning vehicles
  • Wide turning circle of 39 feet
  • Narrow back window for visibility
  • Short back-seat legroom
  • No interior tailgate release, only at the tailgate and the key fob.
  • No heated steering wheel.
  • No Cruising and Traffic support for semi-autonomous driving
  • No 360-degree-view monitor

Hybrid Powertrain and Fuel Economy Ratings

Mazda’s CX-50 hybrid powertrain is the same one used in the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid but with some specific Mazda re-engineering. The Toyota Hybrid System integrates a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, a nickel-metal hydride EV battery, and three electric motors.

Two electric motor generators are on the front transaxle. One motor starts the engine and charges the hybrid battery. Motor-generator two drives the front wheels and provides regeneration during braking. When tire slippage is detected, a smaller rear motor drives the rear axle for eAWD.  (More powertrain details are highlighted in the specifications chart at the end of the review.)

Looking at the speedometer and the battery charge meter just below

The battery charge meter is entertaining but has no significance for driving.

The transmission is a continuously variable automatic (eCVT), with electric AWD (eAWD).

This setup is good for 219 horsepower and 163 foot-pounds of torque on regular 87-octane fuel. EPA estimated mileage ratings are 39 mpg city, 37 highway, and 38 mpg combined. Mazda says that is a boost of 40 percent above the base CX-50 2.5 S. The 14.5-gallon tank could provide around 477 to 536 miles of range.

I, however, could only work up to 32.9 mpg while on two 80-mile highway runs with the cruise set at 67 mph. Perhaps my mileage results are forgivable with all-wheel drive, a raised ride height, and a curb weight of 4,008 pounds.

Looking into the engine bay of the CX-50 Hybrid

The 219 horsepower Toyota Hybrid System.

Intelligent Drive Select

Mazda’s Intelligent Drive Select (Mi-Drive) has driving modes of Normal, Power, and Trail. I switched up to Power for its more direct hookup from a stop. Trail mode works through the AWD system to prevent wheelspin on rough roads. It felt like a traditional Eco mode with reduced acceleration force. Mazda says to use Trail mode only on rough roads.

EV Mode

I appreciate how the hybrid system allows a useable amount of low-speed battery driving. The small 1.6 kWh battery pack does not need to be plugged in for recharging. EV mode allows full battery driving up to about 25 miles per hour, depending on the battery’s state of charge. A small bar graphic in the gauge array’s center shows the battery reserve’s rise and fall. It is entertaining to observe but has no significance for driving.

“Off-throttle coasting, brake regen, and the engine charge the [battery] pack in normal operation,” Mazda says. “In the right driving conditions, you can squeeze maybe 2-3 miles of low-speed EV range out of it.”

Looking at the right front tire and wheel.

19-inch Goodyear Eagle Touring tires, electric vehicle tuned.

CX-50 Hybrid Ride and Handling

The CX-50 cabin is reasonably calmed from wind noise, but it is not the quietest ride at highway speeds. At low speeds there is a tire-drumming sound.

In my test of the 2025 CX-50 Hybrid, the highway ride was on glide control. It rode solid and steady with little variance, whether along California’s grooved concrete or blacktop. The ride is less compliant on back roads where I noticed un-Mazdalike body lean in cornering.

Mazda’s G-Vectoring traction-control system uses the center and rear differentials to control weight transfer, which is helpful on-road or off.

As comfortably as the CX-50 rolls on the interstate, the ride is less svelte around town. The suspension is firm, even hard. I expect Mazda strapped down the CX-50 for sporty handling, but the ride can be jarring over bad pavement and potholes. The rear torsion beam rear suspension could be the culprit for the hard jolts. Torsion beams are flat in design, which benefits cargo space, but the rear ride quality can feel clunky over bumps.

Mazda also stepped up and gave the CX-50 four-wheel disc brakes a millimeter or three larger than the competition. There are 12.8-inch ventilated rotors in front and 12.8-inch solid rotors rear.

i-Activ AWD

Mazda’s i-Activ all-wheel-drive system is masterful at anticipating wheel slip before barely an inch of traction is lost. Mazda says it is a predictive system that monitors 27 sensors more than 200 times a second.

Rather than moving power “from the wheels that slip to the wheels that grip,” the i-Active system directs engine torque to the necessary wheel to maintain forward momentum.

It is a reassuring AWD system whether in snow, rain, or dirt.

A low angle front view of the CX-50 showing the LED headlights

Standard LED headlights.

CX-50 Interior Function

The CX-50 interior layout is ergonomically designed and straightforward to use. There are buttons and switches for commonly used cabin functions, such as audio volume and tuning, temp, and air.

More detailed functions lie in Mazda’s Connect Infotainment System with a 10.25-inch center display. A multifunction Commander control gives dial-and-click access for audio selections, phone, navigation, and vehicle settings and preferences.

Front headroom of 38.6 inches, with the panoramic sunroof, is about an inch less than in CX-50 competitors.

Sightlines are open across the hood and over the shoulder. The liftgate glass, however, has narrow visibility, which is complicated by the back seat center head restraint.

The rearview camera with guidelines has a wide view in the 10.25-inch center display. Unfortunately, Mazda’s 360-degree-view monitor, which would assist in tight parking situations, is not offered for the CX-50 Hybrid. The camera’s see-through view is an asset when trailering or when the cargo space is adventure-packed to the headliner.

Also not offered for the CX-50 Hybrid is a heated steering wheel, but it is available on 2.5T trim levels.

Large side mirrors provide excellent visibility range on the highway. Around town, however, the expansive mirrors can block side views of pedestrians in crosswalks and turning vehicles.

Interior textures and colors enhance a premium appearance. The tester’s black leather upholstery, with perforated centers, is handsomely set off with copper-colored baseball-type stitching. The stitching also spans the dashboard face and upper door panels.

Not so enjoyable are the nagging and insistent alerts to buckle up or when using left-foot braking with the accelerator. I got busted by the “Pedal Abuse Alert” when the brake and accelerator are used at the same time. I’d not heard of such a warning before.

Looking into the back seat of the Mazda CX-50 Hybrid

Space throughout the back seat feels more subcompact than compact.

Back Seat and Cargo Space

Space throughout the back seat feels more subcompact than compact. The space is nicely finished amid a lot of black plastic but with an appealing appearance and textures. The door grab handles are uniquely styled with finger ridges. Leave it to Mazda to focus on the human interface.

Despite wide-opening doors, fitting big feet through the door opening can be clumsy, for good reason. Integrating the battery pack below the cargo space shortened back seat legroom by 2 inches, now at 37.8 inches.

Raise the liftgate, and the cargo space looks square and spacious. That’s 29.2 cubic feet (stacked to the headliner) or 56.3 cu.ft. with the back seat folded.  But try stacking crates in the space and you’ll see the angle of the fifth door crops the height.

However, fold the 60/40 seatback for 6 feet in length. Seatback release levers on each cargo side give a quick fold to the seats.

Even by locating the battery under the cargo floor, Mazda found a way to include a temporary spare tire. That is an uncommon feature in any vehicle today.

Cargo space in the CX-50 Hybrid is wide with folding rear seatbacks

Fold the back seat for 6 feet in length.

Why Buy the 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid?

Attention to detail and value pricing enhance ownership of the Mazda CX-50 Hybrid. Using Toyota’s hybrid system is smart, especially with the nickel-metal hydride battery pack. I’ve experienced that same basic system in my 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid, which functioned without fault until 140,000 miles. A replacement was around $4,400 in 2021 from Green Tec Auto, with a 3-year warranty.

The CX-50 Hybrid does not overachieve but emphasizes value and simplicity. It is mainstream with finesse.

A rear three quarter view of the Ingot Blue 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid

The 2025 CX-50 has many endearing details that make it an ideal family or adventure SUV.

2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid Specifications

Body style: Compact 5-seat, 5-door SUV crossover with standard all-wheel drive

Engine: 219-hp, Atkinson cycle 2.5-liter gasoline-electric hybrid with direct and port injection; 163 lb.-ft. torque from 3,600 to 5,200 rpm

Electric motors: Permanent magnet, 650 volts; 118-hp front, 54 hp rear

Battery: Nickel-metal hydride, 244.8 volts; 1.59 kWh

Transmission: eCVT with EV mode and Mazda Intelligent Drive Select for Normal, Power, and Trail modes

Fuel economy: 39/37/38 city/hwy/combined; 87 octane recommended

Emissions rating: LEV 3 SULEV 30/T3 Bin 30

BY THE NUMBERS

Towing capacity: 1,500 pounds

Fuel tank: 14.5 gallons

Cargo space: 29.2 to 56.3 cubic feet

Cargo dimensions: 29.6 inches floor to headliner; 29.8 inches ground to cargo floor; 41.7 inches wide tailgate entry; 55.6 inches across, and 40.3 inches between wheel housings

Front head/leg room: 38.6*/41.7 inches *with panoramic moonroof

Rear head/leg room: 36.7/37.8 inches

Length/wheelbase: 186.1/110.8 inches

Width/height: 72.9*/65.8  *mirror to mirror

Curb weight: 4,008 pounds

Turning circle: 38.8 feet

FEATURES

Standard equipment includes: Keyless entry with push-button ignition, leather-trimmed upholstery with camel stitching, 8-way power driver’s seat with 2 memory presets, wireless phone charging pad, 6-way power front passenger seat, 7-inch LCD gauge display, head-up driving display, Bose 12-speaker audio system, Bluetooth hands-free phone and streaming music, heated front seats (w/3 settings), ventilated front seats, power liftgate, extendable sun visors with vanity mirrors, 4 USB-C charging ports (2 front, 2 rear)

Safety features include: 8 air bags, ABS with electronic brake force distribution, traction control, hill launch assist, dynamic stability control

Advanced safety technologies include: Driver attention alert, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, rear seat reminder alert, vehicle exit warning, radar cruise control with stop and go, lane departure warning with lane-keep assist, emergency lane keeping with road-keep assist, smart brake support forward with head-on collision mitigation, secondary collision reduction

CHASSIS COMPONENTS

Brakes: 4-wheel discs with diagonal hydraulic distribution (front axle, rear axle); front ventilated discs with 12.8-inch rotors, solid rear discs with 12.8-inch rotors

Steering: electric rack and pinion; turning circle 38.8 feet

Tires-wheels: 19-inch Goodyear Eagle Touring tires (225/55), electric vehicle tuned. Machine-cut aluminum alloy wheels with black metallic finish

Suspension: 4-wheel independent; front MacPherson struts with stabilizer bar; rear torsion beam

PRICING

Base price: $41,470, including $1,420 freight charge; price as tested $41,470

Options on test vehicle: none

Where assembled: Huntsville (Madison), Ala.

Warranties: 3-years/36,000-miles bumper to bumper with roadside assistance; hybrid components 8-years/100,000-miles; powertrain 5-years/60,000-miles

Audi Q6 e-tron quattro Review

by | Feb 14, 2025 | 0 comments

Audi Q6 e-tron quattro Review

The new Audi Q6 e-tron models call out the market introduction of Audi’s next-generation battery-electric vehicle to the U.S.

A moving shot of the 2025 Audi Q6 e-tron

The 2025 Audi Q6 e-tron is available in three trim levels and driving ranges with starting prices of $63,000 to $75,000. (Photography by Audi USA or as credited)

Jump To Special Features

Q6 e-tron Driving Range
Charging the Battery
New, Not Intimidating
2025 Audi Q6 e-tron Pricing
7 Cool Features
Powertrain and Performance
Interior Function
Safety Features
Why Buy the 2025 Audi Q6 e-tron?
Specifications

BY MARK MAYNARD

The 2025 Q6 e-tron is an engineering benchmark for how simply Audi defines and elevates electrification without shocking the human side.

Audi says the new Audi Q6 and SQ6 e-tron models are hugely important to the brand. They call out the market introduction of Audi’s next-generation battery-electric vehicle to the U.S. The Q6 e-tron line jump-starts the largest model initiative in the company’s history. Over the next two years, the brand will add more than 20 new or significantly redesigned models globally. Of those, half will be electrified.

Ushering in Audi’s focused campaign begins with the new Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture. It is a dual platform, adding the new Premium Platform Combustion (PPC). It will be the foundation for new internal combustion engine models, like the new A5 and Q5, arriving in 2026.

Audi believes the future is electric, but it will have hybrid and gas models through at least 2033.

The luxury segment of midsize electric SUV crossovers has become highly competitive. The Acura ZDX, 2026 BMW iX, 2026 Cadillac Lyriq, Volvo EX90, Rivian R1S, Lotus Eletre, and Mercedes-Benz EQE are among them.

Audi now has 11 battery electric vehicles, including the Q4 e-tron, Q6 e-tron, Q8 e-tron, and e-tron GT. The Audi Q6 Sportback e-tron models will be on sale soon. The fastback body style with its sloping roofline has a coupe-like presence, perhaps a more fashionable choice than the straight-roof models.

The tech-forward driver area of the Q6 e-tron is uncomplicated and comfortable.

The tech-forward driver area is uncomplicated and comfortable.

Q6 e-tron Driving Ranges

The Audi Q6 e-tron is available in rear- or quattro all-wheel drive, and the high-performance SQ6 e-tron.

The entry rear-wheel drive Q6 e-tron has the longest range of 321 miles with 18-inch wheels from the no-cost Ultra package. The Q6 e-tron quattro has an EPA mileage rating of 307 miles, with 19-inch wheels. And the SQ6 e-tron has a range of 275 miles, give or take.

In my test week of a Q6 e-tron quattro with 20-inch wheels, I charged to 85 percent at home for a range of 268 miles.

Audi discourages charging to 100 percent at home, unless prepared to begin driving immediately. It is battery-preserving guidance. Charging to 100 percent should be reserved for distance travel.

Looking up and rearward through the panoramic sunroof of the Audi Q6 e-tron

The panoramic sunroof is included on Premium Plus and Prestige trim levels. (Mark Maynard)

Charging the Battery

In developing its new EV platform, Audi focused on charging for the homeowner with a Level 2, 240-volt charger. For that, it includes two charge ports on either side of the rear fenders. One is for AC charging only, and the other side is for high-capacity public charging, though this port also accommodates the Level 2 connector.

The e-tron’s 400-volt charging technology uses “bank charging,” depending on the state of charge. It automatically divides the battery pack into two banks of 400 volts. The banks can be charged in parallel at 135 kW, shortening overall recharge times.

Audi also uses predictive thermal management of the battery pack. This heat-monitoring function can shorten charging times and increase range. Most importantly, predictive thermal management will help give a longer service life than prior e-tron models.

Predictive thermal management can calculate the need for cooling or heating. The advanced system uses data from the navigation system, including the desired route, departure time, and driver’s usage behavior. When using the navigation system to route to a DC fast-charging station, predictive thermal management prepares the DC charging process and cools or heats the battery so that it can charge faster.

When the new e-tron arrives at the charging station, the Plug & Charge function takes over. Plug & Charge, in the MyAudi App account, automatically authorizes and confirms billing and activates the charger when connecting to the charge port. There is no credit card swipe or other payment on the charger.

All models of the Q6 e-tron come standard with the Plug & Charge function with one year of free unlimited DC fast charging on the Electrify America network.

Audi expects to issue the NACS connector later this year.

The Pearl Beige interior and leather upholstery in the Q6 e-tron.

The Pearl Beige interior and leather upholstery.

New Nameplate Format

Audi used the launch of the Q6 e-tron to restructure its model nameplates, distinguishing between EVs and ICE models.

As before, the nameplate letter A identifies a “low floor” vehicle, such as a sedan. The letter Q is for a “high floor” or SUV. Numbers from 1 to eight refer to the vehicle segment size.

Models with battery-electric powertrains will be badged as “e-tron.” Gas-powered powertrains will use engine codes of TFSI (Turbo Fuel Stratified Injection), with an “e” added for plug-in hybrids.

Performance models continue with “S” and “RS” designations. “Avant” is for station wagon, and “Sportback” is a fastback.

Compact door-side packaging of window and lighting switches.

Compact door-side packaging of window and lighting switches.

New, Not Intimidating

The 2025 Q6 e-tron is a five-seat, large-compact electric SUV. In the Audi lineup, it fits between the Q4 e-tron and Q8 e-tron. It is close in footprint to the compact-class Audi Q5 ICE, Audi’s top-selling model. The Q6 e-tron is slightly longer, by 3.5 inches, on a longer wheelbase, by 2.7 inches. It is about an inch taller and 1.8 inches wider.

Audi wants the new Q6 e-tron to be a comfortable transition for the Q5 owner, despite a $15,000 higher starting price. Much will be familiar to Q5 owners — and much will be a deep dive into the motherboard.

The exterior styling is familiar, enduring, and functional. Inside, the driver position of the Q6 e-tron is the Tron of electrification. Despite its highly electronic presentation, it is surprisingly simple to use and not alienating.

It is all about the driver with the impressive command center, or “Digital Stage.” The expansive curved display links an 11.9-inch OLED virtual cockpit of driving information with a 14.5-inch center touch OLED display. Both are connected as one slim, free-standing, panoramic design oriented toward the driver. Nighttime ambient lighting makes the curved display appear to float above the dashboard, Audi says.

Accessing most cabin functions on the display screen requires a two-tap procedure. However, the haptic touch “buttons” are easy to select without extended glances from driving. And the color display is vibrant, with a large, clear camera view.

The passenger side multimedia display with 10.9-inch screen.

The passenger-side multimedia display has a 10.9-inch screen.

2025 Audi Q6 e-tron Pricing

There are three trim levels of the 2025 Q6 e-tron:

Premium, starting at $63,000, with rear-wheel drive. Key features include 19-inch wheels with staggered width front/rear (235/60 front, 255/55 rear), all-season run-flats, LED headlights, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and heated front seats.

Premium Plus, $68,600. Added features include LED headlights with digital DRLs, a 20-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system with 3D sound, adaptive cruise assist, hands-on detection, and a heated steering wheel with regenerative braking paddles.

Prestige, $70,600 RWD, $72,600 quattro. Added features include adaptive air suspension, acoustic front door glass, MMI (multimedia) passenger display with a 10.9-inch screen, and seven additional digital DRL signatures.

Choose from black, Santos Brown, or Pearl Beige interiors.

Retail pricing includes the $1,295 freight charge from Ingolstadt, Germany.

For the few luxury buyers prioritizing range over tire size, Audi offers the no-cost Ultra package with 18-inch wheels. The 18-inch wheels, vs. 19 or 20, extend the driving range. The package also includes comfort pre-conditioning, a heated steering wheel with hands-on detection, heated rear seats, and a top-view camera.

Check current Audi Q6 e-tron pricing here.

Find special offers and bonus offers here.

Looking down at the test vehicle’s 20-inch Bridgestone Alenza run-flats.

I felt no road harshness from the tester’s 20-inch Bridgestone Alenza run-flats.

Prestige Package Features

Today’s Q6 e-tron quattro Prestige tester cost $76,790. It had options for a 20-inch wheel package, $1,000; Warm weather package, $1,300; and Plasma Blue Metallic paint, $595.

Prestige package features, $6,800, include:

  • Adaptive air suspension
  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Acoustic front door glass
  • Augmented reality head-up display and dynamic intersection light
  • Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system
  • Comfort pre-conditioning of the cabin
  • Heated steering wheel with hands-on detection
  • Heated rear window seats
  • Headlight washers
  • LED Headlights-Plus with digital running lights
  • LED interior lighting package with 30 color choices that highlight the dimensional contours along the dashboard and elsewhere in the cabin.
  • MMI 10.9-inch passenger display
  • Panoramic sunroof
  • 7 additional DRL signatures
  • Top View camera system

an augmented reality view approaching a four-way intersection

An augmented reality intersection warning.

 7 Cool Q6 e-tron Features

“Quattro blisters.” The contours of the Q6 e-tron body get a character from the quattro blisters.  Audi says the blisters are a core element of its signature design DNA, called “making technology visible.”

Augmented reality head up display shows in inches how close I drove to my garage door

The augmented reality head-up display shows the distance to my garage door. (Mark Maynard)

Augmented Reality head-up display. Graphics in the windshield display show fluid movement and include helpful features, such as the distance in inches to hitting my garage door. Genius! Another clever reminder pops up when approaching an intersection with a four-way graphic showing a foot on the brake pedal. Speed signs merge when transitioning from one area to another. It is an active observation of speed limits, helping me to stay out of trouble.

Heated steering wheel with hands-on detection. This is a significant detail in an EV cabin. Using heated seats and steering wheel are notable energy consumers to driving range. Refining the heated steering wheel to be active only when hands are detected is a smart addition.

10.9-inch passenger display. The driver-oriented main screen could leave the front passenger with little engagement, but adding the 10.9-inch-wide display screen is an entertainment piece. The display features a digital analog clock, redundant driver information, and access to climate controls. The passenger can also stream films or other video content (not viewable from the driver’s seat). And the passenger can act as navigator to help find a charging station. For info-free sightseeing, the screen can be switched off.

Intuitive start. After unlocking the driver’s door and taking a seat, the Q6 e-tron automatically wakes up and is ready to drive. There’s no need to press the start button. The technology recognizes the weight in the seat and the driver’s key fob. At first, I did not think this was a cool feature, but I quickly grew to like the immediacy of starting out.

Dual charging ports. The Q6 e-tron has two charging ports, one on either rear fender. That is handy when seeking a public charging connector.

Independent battery modules. Audi e-tron battery pack modules can be individually serviced or replaced by an Audi-certified technician.

The front trunk "frunk" in the Q6 etron underhood

How would you use the front trunk?

Powertrain and Performance

Each Q6 e-tron model has the same-sized, liquid-cooled 100kWh 800-volt battery pack. The lithium-ion battery pack is composed of 12 modules of 15 prismatic cells connected in series for a total of 180 cells.

The new e-tron models can handle DC fast-charge speeds of 270 kW or 260kW for rear-wheel-drive models. The higher the output of power (kW), the quicker the pack can charge. The Audi system will charge from 10 to 80 percent in around 21 minutes.

It is also unique that individual battery modules can be replaced, rather than replacing the entire battery pack.

Much engineering went into the redesigned electric motors to make them more efficient, lighter-weight, and compact. Rear drive e-tron models use a permanently excited synchronous rear motor. “Permanently excited” motors have a higher torque capacity and provide more precise speed control. It is a preferred motor for large and heavy EVs.

Quattro models add a new asynchronous AC induction motor (ASM) on the front axle. Audi says that the front motor is almost instantly engaged when accelerating under full power.

Audi’s regenerative braking system has five modes, including one-pedal driving. Audi says its one-pedal function will bring the vehicle to a complete stop at braking forces up to 0.25 g. Auto mode uses the forward-facing camera to decide between regenerative braking or coasting depending on traffic and terrain.

Identify the Q6 e-tron by this big, flat grille.

Identify the Q6 e-tron by this big, flat grille.

Performance

The Audi Q6 e-tron is heavy, weighing 5,269 pounds in its base quattro form. The luxury elements of the Prestige package, such as the panoramic sunroof and 20-inch wheels, would add a few pounds. Regardless of the weight, it was not apparent, except on start off, but that was quickly left behind with acceleration.
Switch to Dynamic mode, and the acceleration force is immediate and gratifying, yet without a harder ride.

Audi breaks out horsepower in two forms, standard and with launch control.

The rear-drive Q6 e-tron has base power of 302 hp. Queuing up launch control raises power to 322 hp for 0-60 acceleration in 6.3 seconds. It has a top track speed of 130 mph.

With dual motors, the 422-hp Q6 e-tron quattro has 456 hp with launch control for 0-60 acceleration in 4.9 seconds. It, too, has a top track speed of 130 mph.

The SQ6 e-tron makes 483 hp and 509 hp with launch control. It will pass 60 mph in 4.1 seconds, with a top track speed of 143 mph.

A 12-Volt Situation

An electric vehicle is dependent on a 12-volt battery. It runs cabin features such as door locks, alarm systems, lights, and the central computer.

The 12-volt battery provides power even when the vehicle is switched off. But of utmost importance, the 12-volt battery controls the relays that power the electronics that start the high-voltage electrical system.

No 12-volt? No go. And the situation can occur when the 12-volt battery dies or runs too low on a charge. As in an ICE vehicle, charging or jump-starting the 12-volt is no big deal — if the battery is accessible.

Charging the hybrid battery typically trickle-charges the 12-volt battery, too. But that gets complicated with the Q6 e-tron. Some EVs provide access by not locking the charge-port door when the vehicle is off. However, Audi locks both charging doors automatically when turning off the vehicle.

But Audi has a backup plan in the event that the 12-volt battery is dead. It is possible to access the vehicle using the emergency key in the fob. Use the mechanical key to access the lock cylinder under the cap on the door handle. Once inside the vehicle, you can open the hood and access the charging poles from there.

But clamping a positive cable to the battery will be challenging.

The 12-volt battery access points in the Q6 e-tron front trunk.

The battery’s positive post (left) is hard to reach with a jumper cable. The negative post is to the right.

I found the battery access under the front hood trunk via a slim louvered plastic panel. I popped off the panel and could see the top of the 12-volt. However, the tight spacing of the battery makes it almost impossible to attach jumper cables. To the left, under a small panel, is a negative post.

If your endeavors fail, the Q6 e-tron must be flat-bed towed to the dealer for a charge.

An image of The Top View camera system.

The Top View camera system. (Mark Maynard)

Interior Function

Audi interiors downplay filigree and pretense for high-quality materials that form a comfortably luxurious cabin. The tester’s Pearl Beige cabin is immaculately dressed in leather upholstery with a light fabric headliner. Optional brown sweetgum natural wood inlays are subtly attractive among faux leather along upper and lower interior panels.

Opting for the Warm weather package, $1,300, is an odd assortment. The package adds ventilated front seats, brown sweetgum wood inlays, manual rear side window sunshades, and front headrest speakers. Yes, for the ventilated seats. Headrest speakers might appeal to audiophiles who can sit back and enjoy the 20-speaker Bang & Olufsen 3D sound system. But shouldn’t sweetgum wood trim be part of the interior style package? Luxury is not rational.

Both front seats are eight-way power-adjustable and heated. The seats are supportive without intrusive side or cushion bolsters.

Front headroom of 38.5 inches with the panoramic sunroof and legroom of 39.8 inches should accommodate taller drivers. Legroom might be an inch or so short to help with back seat legroom.

Looking into the Q6 cargo area with back seats folded

Cargo capacity behind the 40/20/40 back seat is huge, tall, and wide.

Back Seat and Cargo Space

While the Q6 e-tron front seat space is broad and pampering, the back seat is not executive class. Headroom of 38.4 inches is almost as tall as that in front, but legroom is short for adults at 37.4 inches. The raised seat height has a mild butts-down, knees-up position. However, entry and exit are made easier by good footroom at the door entry.

There is deep door panel storage, with a bottle slot, and can holders in the broad fold-down armrest.

The flat roof design also has benefits for cargo space. The capacity behind the 40/20/40 back seat is huge, tall, and wide. The opening entry is 43 inches wide, 31 inches to the headliner, and 38 inches to the seatback. Fold the back seat sections for about 6 feet in length.

Power switches in the cargo area can drop load-in height by 2 inches. That is a benefit when helping large dogs up a ramp. Plus, the cargo space is more spacious than in the Sportback model.

Q6 e-tron Safety Features

Along with eight air bags, the Q6 e-tron has elevated standard safety and advanced driver assistance systems.

A completely new suite of driver-assistance features includes adaptive cruise control, lane change warning, exit warning, collision avoidance assist, emergency brake assist, traffic-sign recognition, swerve assist and front turn assist, and a distraction and drowsiness warning system.

Also new with the Q6 e-tron is rear-turn assist, which can help prevent or mitigate collisions at intersections, side roads, or garage entrances. The system informs of cyclists or other vehicles approaching from behind.

The Q6 back seat is tight on legroom

The Q6 back seat is not executive class for legroom.

Ride and Handling

Wider tires at the rear help with the rear-biased weight distribution. However, Audi’s adaptive air suspension settles bad road surfaces without unsettling occupants. Some big electric SUVs can feel clunky because of their battery weight. And some air suspensions can feel jittery as the system tries to adjust and adapt continually. The adaptive air suspension of the Q6 Prestige smooths it all out. Dive into a corner and there is no steering hesitation or sense of weight transfer from side to side. It brings a smile when considering the balance achieved by the suspension.

Depending on the speed, the air suspension adapts individually to road conditions and regulates the ride height at different levels. The normal level of the adaptive air suspension is 1.1 inches lower than the standard five-link suspension. At speed, the ride height lowers by 1.2 inches.

I felt no road harshness from the tester’s 20-inch Bridgestone Alenza run-flats. Between Audi’s suspension engineering and these comfortable big tires, the cabin remained calm. These are extra-load all-season touring tires with a midrange treadwear compound of 500 UTQG. They have a treadwear warranty of 5 years or 40,000 miles, and replacements will run around $300 each for the front and $400 for the rear.

Why Buy the 2025 Audi Q6 e-tron?

The Q6 e-tron will be a compelling consideration to Audi owners returning to the dealer for a lease trade-in.

Audi’s previous generation of e-tron models was the first shot over the bow as the brand moves toward a full lineup of electric vehicles. The first generation of Audi e-tron models, from 2019 to 2023, were powerful and performance-oriented. However, their driving ranges were considered uncompetitive, with battery driving of around 200 to 220 miles, depending on the model.

It appears now that Audi’s e-tron strategy has shifted toward more function, more reward, and more range but less sport-tuned. Audi co-developed the PPE architecture with Porsche, but it could be applied to other brands in the VW Group (Bentley, Lamborghini). Building e-trons on the VW Group’s PPE architecture is the metamorphosis of evolution.

And, of course, Audi still feeds its sport models, such as the RS e-tron GT, RS Q8, and RS 3.

The 2025 Q6 e-tron is a careful and calculated presentation to duel with competitors. There might be more dazzling displays of technology by some, but the Q6 e-tron is pure Audi, and purely independent.

A rear three quarter view of the Plasma Blue Metallic Q6 etron

Power switches in the Q6 cargo area can drop load-in height by 2 inches.

2025 Audi Q6 e-tron Prestige Specifications

Body style: midsize, battery-electric 5-passenger, 5-door all-wheel-drive SUV;

Motors: Single front asynchronous; single rear permanently-excited synchronous

Power, AWD: 422 hp (or 456 hp when using launch control)

Battery: 100 kWh (94.4 kWh net), 800-volt lithium ion; 180 prismatic cells, 12 modules in an aluminum case reinforced with extruded aluminum cross-sections

Transmission: Single-speed

EPA-estimated driving range: 307 miles (w/19-inch wheels)

Fuel economy equivalent, MPGe: 105 miles city, 93 MPGe highway, 99 miles combined

Charging, to 80 percent:

Level II standard 120-volt: 14 hours, from empty to full

50kW: NA;

Rapid Charging, 350kW: 21 minutes (from 10-80 percent)

Charge ports: AC Port J1772 (passenger side); AC/DC combo port J1772 / CCS front driver side

0-60 mph acceleration: 4.9 seconds, top speed 130 mph

Aerodynamic drag coefficient: 0.33 Cd

BY THE NUMBERS

Towing capacity: 4,400 pounds

Cargo space: 30.2/60.2 cubic feet

Front head/leg room: 38.5/39.8 inches

Rear head/leg room: 38.4/37.4 inches

Length/wheelbase: 187.8/113.7 inches

Curb weight: 5,269 pounds

Turning circle: 39.7 feet

FEATURES

Standard Q6 e-tron equipment includes: Advanced key and digital key; push-button start; navigation-plus; 14.5-inch multimedia touch display; virtual cockpit driver information display with 11.9-inch screen; wireless charging pad; 8-way power front seats (heated) with lumbar adjustment and driver memory setting; four-spoke multifunction steering wheel; illuminated front door sills; integrated toll module (subscription required);

Exterior: power-folding and heated side mirrors; black exterior trim and roof rails; LED headlights with high-beam assist; LED taillights with dynamic turn signals; park assist-plus; two charge ports; 19-inch wheels with all-season run-flat tires.

Safety features include: 8 air bags, multimode electronic stabilization control, ABS with brake assist

Safety technologies: front-rear parking sensors with camera view, active front assist, lane departure warning, blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, exit warning.

CHASSIS COMPONENTS

Brakes: Diagonal dual-circuit system with ESC/ABS/EBV brake booster, hydraulic brake assist; ventilated 13.8-inch front rotors with 4-piston calipers; rear, 13.8-inch rotors with single-piston calipers; electric parking brake

Steering: Electromechanical progressive steering with speed-dependent power assistance; 39.7-foot turning circle

Tires-wheels: Bridgestone Alenza Run-flat, 255/50 R20; 285/45 R20 all-season; 20-inch 5-arm bi-color design

Suspension: Prestige, adaptive air; standard 5-link front and rear

PRICING

Prestige Base price: $72,600, including $1,295 freight charge; price as tested $76,790

Options on test vehicle: Plasma Blue Metallic paint $595; Warm weather package $1,300; 20-inch wheel package $1,000

Where assembled: Ingolstadt, Germany

Warranties: 4-years/50,000-miles bumper to bumper and powertrain; hybrid battery 8-years/100,000-miles (70 percent retention of battery capacity)

Lexus UX 300h Review

by | Feb 7, 2025 | 0 comments

Lexus UX 300h Review

The 2025 Lexus UX 300h is an ideal choice for young, well-employed motorists living in a planned development without parking or slim garage space

The 2025 Lexus UX 300h gets more power, a new lightweight lithium-ion battery, updated technologies and safety features.

The 2025 Lexus UX 300h gets more power, a new lightweight lithium-ion battery, updated technologies and safety features. (Photography courtesy of Lexus or as credited)

Jump To Special Features

2025 Lexus UX 300h Pricing
F Sport Handling Features
Consider These Accessories
UX 300h Powertrain and Fuel Economy
Interior Function
Safety Features and Technologies
Ride and Handling
Back Seats and Cargo Space
Why Buy the 2025 Lexus UX 300h?
Specifications

BY MARK MAYNARD

The Lexus UX 300h is a sip of teacup luxury among small, hybrid crossovers — but it is not everybody’s cuppa. This littlest Lexus in the U.S. goes where bigger SUVs rub shoulders in a crowded urban landscape. Its nameplate defines its mission as an “Urban Explorer.” The UXh earns respect for its gasoline-electric hybrid mileage ratings of 44 mpg city, 40 highway, and 42 mpg combined.

It is ideal for young, well-employed motorists living in a planned development with no parking or slim garage space. The UX is a sturdy small car built on Toyota’s TNGA-C platform, shared with the Toyota Corolla Cross (among other models). Both vehicles are five-seat, five-door subcompact crossover SUVs that use the Toyota Prius drivetrain.

The UX 300h is more luxurious than the more practical and affordable Corolla Cross.

Sharing a Toyota architecture provides an extensive network of standard safety features and technologies, including Proactive Parking Assist. Engage this technological shoehorn when trolling for a slot to fit the 14.7-foot-long UXh. This advanced driver assistance system uses sensors, cameras, and software to help squeeze into a space.

Lexus UXh hybrid competitors include the Alfa Romeo Tonale, BMW X1, Mercedes-Benz GLB, and Volvo XC40.

The driver area of the UX 300h is smartly designed for hands-on and heads-up driving. (Mark Maynard)

The driver area of the UX 300h is smartly designed for hands-on and heads-up driving. (Mark Maynard)

UXh Body Style

Flared front and rear fenders and large wheels pushed to the corners present a strong stance. And the expansive spindle grille can only be Lexus.

The bobbed rear-end styling is somewhat awkward, but the “Aero Stabilizing Blade Lights” are unique. The lighting treatment begins at the top of the rear fenders and spans the vehicle’s rear. Red taillight lenses stick upward like a fin. At night, a sequence of 120 LEDs taper toward the center.

The rear fascia guides airflow around the rear of the UXh to reduce turbulence and lift. A wing-type spoiler at the roof’s rear edge and a flat underbody contribute to aerodynamics for fuel efficiency.

Lightweighting is achieved by using aluminum for the side doors, fenders, and hood. Composite materials are used for the tailgate.

Looking down at the slim gearshift console

The center shift console makes the most of its slim design. (Mark Maynard)

2025 Lexus UX 300h Pricing

The 2025 Lexus UX 300h lineup consists of four trim levels in front- or all-wheel drive. All variants have the same hybrid powertrain and a continuously variable transmission with an EV mode.

2025 UXh starting prices range from $37,715 to $47,750. For $1,570, you can add all-wheel drive to any trim level. Suggested retail pricing includes the $1,175 freight charge from Miyawaka, Fukoka, Japan.

Standard 2025 Lexus UXh equipment is below the specifications chart.

Today’s tester is the topline 300h F Sport Handling AWD, which costs $49,670. It has four options: a $900 head-up display, $595 premium paint (Ultrasonic Blue Mica), and $350 bi-tone paint. The kicker is another $75 for a wireless charging pad. But why? Shouldn’t that be among the standard features of a nearly $50,000 subcompact SUV crossover?

The UX 300h F Sport Handling has just two factory packages. The Cold Area package, $100, adds a windshield wiper de-icer, and the Special Appearance Package, $180, adds a rear black emblem overlay and black window trim surround.

F Sport Handling Upgrades

UX 300h F Sport Handling is the top trim level for 2025. It has some desirable features, including:

  • Power moonroof;
  • NuLuxe trimmed upholstery and Washi dashboard trim (styled on the grain of a paper, known as ‘washi,’ familiar from the ‘shoji’ paper sliding doors of traditional Japanese houses.
  • Heated and ventilated front seats and heated steering wheel;
  • Power front seats with driver memory presets;
  • Aluminum front door scuff plates;
  • Power adjustable steering column;
  • Adaptive variable suspension;
  • 18-inch split-five-spoke alloy wheels with black and machined finish and run-flat tires;
  • LEF fog and cornering lights;
  • Power rear tailgate with kick sensor;
  • Body color fender overriders;
  • 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster;
  • Intuitive parking assist;
  • Power folding and heated side mirrors;
  • Digital key with three-year trial (requires remote connect subscription).

The flat bottom F Sport steering wheel helps thigh room. (Mark Maynard)

The flat bottom F Sport steering wheel helps thigh room. (Mark Maynard)

Lease Offers

At the time of publication, there were two low-mileage lease offers for a 2025 UX 300h front-wheel drive:

  • $339 per month for 42 months, with $3,999 due at signing. The security deposit will be waived, and the lease includes a $2,000 cash incentive.
  • $359 per month for 36 months, with $3,999 due at signing. The security deposit will be waived, and the lease includes a $2,000 cash incentive.

There also was a financing option offering 5.99 percent APR up to 72
months.

And there is a $2,000 lease cash offer for just about all UX trim levels.

Find current Lexus UX pricing and accessories here.

Look for special Lexus UX offers here. There were a few finance or lease offers at the time of publication. A $2,000 lease cash offer was available for many 2025 UX models, including the UX 300h F Sport Handling AWD or FWD.

The 8-inch touchscreen display presents a clear rear view.

The 8-inch touchscreen display presents a clear backing view. (Mark Maynard)

Consider These Accessories

Carmate DC4000RA Dashcam 360 Parking Assist, $85. The dashcam acts as a guardian after you have switched off the engine and left the. The camera will automatically turn on when an impact or bump is detected to record the incident. Plus, a built-in voltage monitor will alert when the vehicle battery is getting weak and will shut down to save battery power.

Owners can step up the camera surveillance with a three-camera system:

Carmate DC4000RA Dashcam 360, $570. Front and rear cameras record license plate numbers, door dings, or rear-ending incidents. A built-in infrared LED enables recording inside the vehicle, even at night. Footage provides a simultaneous three-camera view, including swipe and zoom functions. Users can view the recording on the PC app.

There are also more than a dozen pet accessories from name-brand makers. Among the choices are:

  • Happy Ride Folding Pet Ramp, $90;
  • Kurgo Backseat Barrier, $58;
  • Kurgo Tru-Fit Smart Five-Point Harness with seatbelt tether, $43. Various sizes are available.

Warranties

The Lexus UXh (and all Lexus hybrid models) are covered for 4 years or 50,000 miles bumper to bumper. The first and second scheduled maintenance services are free, including a free loaner vehicle and a carwash.

Hybrid-related components that require repairs to correct defects in materials or assembly are covered for 8 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first from the original date of first use when sold as new.

The hybrid battery is covered for 10 years or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first, and is transferable across ownership.

Looking at the 196 horsepower hybrid engine

All UX 300h trim levels have the same 196-hp hybrid powertrain. (Mark Maynard)

UX 300h Powertrain and Fuel Economy

The fifth-generation Lexus Hybrid System pairs the inline 2.0-liter four-cylinder gas engine with two motor generators or three for all-wheel drive. The e-CVT uses shift-by-wire technology, which converts shift operations into electrical signals. Lexus says this setup helps enable quicker and more seamless shifting.

Both electric motors charge the lithium-ion battery (an upgrade from last year’s nickel-metal hydride battery). The 60-cell battery is under the rear seat.

With the 83 kW front motor and the rear 30 kW motor, total horsepower is 196. With that, Lexus cites 0-60 acceleration in 7.9 seconds AWD and 8.0 seconds FWD.

The e-CVT has drive modes of ECO, Normal, and Sport. An EV drive mode allows battery driving at low speeds for short distances. The F Sport Handling adds paddle shifters and drive modes of Sport S, Sport S+, and Custom.

Unfortunately, the F Sport handling did not whisper to punch up Sport or Sport+. Instead, my performance level in Normal was just fine.

The E-Four all-wheel-drive system connects through a permanent synchronous motor at the rear axle. Lexus claims near-instantaneous power, even in low-grip situations.

Fuel economy estimates are 44 mpg city, 40 highway, and 42 mpg combined. In a week of mostly urban driving, I was happy with 39.1 mpg. But the previous best mpg for the test car was 44.8.

With the 10.6-gallon tank, a cruising range of 400 miles is possible. 87 octane fuel is recommended.

18-inch Bridgestone Turanza EL450 grand-touring all-season run-flats on the UXh F Sport Handling.

18-inch Bridgestone Turanza EL450 grand-touring all-season run-flats. (Mark Maynard)

UX 300h F Sport Ride and Handling

The UX 300h isn’t particularly fun to drive when jockeying for lane space on the interstate. But the fun of its personality emerges in how slick it scoots around town. The adaptive F Sport-tuned suspension gives nimble handling, but the ride is a mix of soft springs and stiff shock absorbers. It is jolting over rough streets.

Standard on all UXh models are 18-inch run-flat tires.

The UX 300h F Sport was not quiet at highway speeds, something even a cranked audio system could not block out. Maybe it’s the Bridgestone Turanza run-flats?

Interior Function

The driver area is smartly designed with easy-to-see and touch controls. The driver has open sightlines across the hood, at the side mirrors, and over the shoulder.

Its subcompact space will be limiting to taller drivers, but the flat-bottom F Sport steering wheel helps with thigh space. Headroom with the moonroof is just 35.75 inches, or 37.28 without.

There are five USB ports, two Type C in the front shift console and two in the back, with a Type A in the front armrest console. But a wireless charging pad is a $75 option?

The bench seat is short on thigh support, and there is narrow footroom through the doorway.

The bench seat is short on thigh support, and there is narrow footroom through the doorway. (Mark Maynard)

Back Seat and Cargo Space

The Lexus treatment is slightly more luxurious in the front seat, but second-row materials are full Toyota and look cheap in a $40K car. Conveniences include two charging USBs, grab handles with jacket hooks, and a center armrest with can holders.

I would not recommend the UXh as a ride-share vehicle. The bench seat is short on thigh support, and there is narrow footroom through the doorway. Legroom of 33 inches is only OK if the front seat is pushed forward, so everybody is cramped.

Front-drive UX trim levels get the nifty 2-level double-decker rear cargo deckboard, adding around 3 cubic feet of space. However, the adjustable deckboard is unavailable on AWD models, which use the space for the third electric motor. Consequently, the usable space is shallow, but folding the seatbacks adds a broad, flat space.

Cargo space of 17.2 cubic feet has shallow usable space.

Cargo space of 17.2 cubic feet has shallow usable space. (Mark Maynard)

Safety Features and Technologies

Including 10 air bags, the Lexus UXh is well-armed for city and highway driving by the Lexus Safety System+3.0. Among its advanced technologies are:

Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pedestrian Detection. To help detect a vehicle, pedestrian, bicyclist, or motorcyclist, provide an audio-visual forward collision warning. If the driver does not react, the system will engage automatic emergency braking at speeds between approximately 7-110 mph ;

All-speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC). Radar and camera technologies help keep the vehicle at a preset speed and distance from vehicles ahead, even in stop-and-go traffic;

Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist. Adds more steering force during an emergency maneuver;

Left Turn Oncoming Vehicle Detection/Braking. Gives a warning and automatic braking if turning left in front of an oncoming vehicle in certain daytime conditions.

Lane Tracing Assist (LTA). Provides active steering assistance and helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane;

Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, LDA w/SA.

Star Safety System includes:

VSC — Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control;

TRAC — Traction Control;

ABS — Anti-lock Brake System;

EBD — Electronic Brake-force Distribution;

BA — Brake Assist;

SST — Smart Stop Technology;

AHB — Automatic High Beams;

PDA — Proactive Driving Assist.

Why Buy the 2025 Lexus UX 300h?

Rather than going full F Sport Handling, with its hard ride and overkill performance features, consider the UX 300h F Sport Design. Starting at $43,235. It gets all the desirable F Sport design treatment without the sport-tuned suspension.

For a young person getting out of a hand-me-down Camry, the Lexus UX 300h will be a prestigious upgrade. Lease it for a couple of years, then trade up to the Lexus NX 350h or NX 450h plug-in hybrid. This compact-class SUV crossover has starting prices of about $42,000 to $50,000, including an F Sport Handling AWD.

The “Aero Stabilizing Blade Lights” feature a nighttime sequence of 120 LEDs that taper toward the center.

The “Aero Stabilizing Blade Lights” feature a nighttime sequence of 120 LEDs that taper toward the center.

2025 Lexus UX 300h F Sport Handling Specifications

Body style: subcompact, 5-seat, 5-door SUV crossover in front- or all-wheel drive

Engine: 150-hp 16-valve DOHC Atkinson-cycle 2.0-liter 4-cylinder; 139 lb.-ft. torque from 4,400-5,200 rpm

Hybrid system: Permanent magnet synchronous motors, front and rear (AWD);

Max output: 111 hp front, 40 hp rear

Total system power: 196 hp

Battery: 60-cell lithium-ion, 222 volts

Transmission: CVT

Acceleration to 60 mph: 8 seconds (AWD); top speed 177 mph

Fuel economy: 44/40/42 mpg city/hwy/combined; 87 octane recommended

Coefficient of Drag: 0.33 Cd

BY THE NUMBERS

Fuel tank: 10.6 gallons

Cargo space: 17.2 cubic feet

Front head/leg room: 35.7*/42 inches *w/moonroof

Rear head/leg room: 36.38/33 inches

Length/wheelbase: 176.9/103.9 inches

Curb weight: 3,575* pounds *w/AWD (3,455 lbs. FWD)

Turning circle: 34.2 feet

FEATURES

Standard UX 300h equipment includes: SmartAccess with push-button start-stop, backup camera, electric parking brake leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob, dual-zone climate control with interior air filter, 8-way power-adjustable front seats, 60/40-split folding rear seats, folding tonneau cover and 2-level double-decker rear cargo deckboard (but not on AWD models), Washi dashboard trim, 6-speaker audio system, Lexus Interface with 8-inch touchscreen display, wireless Apple CarPlay or Android integration, Bluetooth connectivity and five USB-C ports

Subscription technologies include:

  • Drive Connect with Cloud Navigation, Intelligent Assistant and Destination Assist. (4G network dependent);
  • Lexus app (includes remote connect engine start, service scheduling, vehicle health reports and alerts.
  • Wi-Fi Connect (AT&T hotspot) up to 30-day/3GB trial.

Safety features include: 10 air bags, blind spot monitor with rear-cross traffic alert, Lexus Safety System 3.0, and Star Safety System

CHASSIS and BODY COMPONENTS

Brakes: 4-wheel discs, vented 12-inch rotors front; rear, solid 11.06-inch rotors; electric parking brake

Steering: power rack-pinion; turning circle, 34.2 feet

Tires-wheels: 18-inch split-five-spoke alloy wheels and Bridgestone Turanza EL450 grand-touring all-season run-flats

Suspension: F Sport Handling Active Variable Suspension.