2019 Lexus UX 250h F Sport review - the efficient CUV

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Like them or hate them, it’s still a craze. Or you can call it a trend. No, not a trend, THE trend. Sedan sales are falling off, replaced by Crossover Utility Vehicles. Some just call them lifted station wagons, others a Cute-Ute.

Lexus cleverly added the UX 250h to its line-up to attract buyers with an upscale experience, refinement and excellent fuel economy in the CUV form factor. This stunning Ultrasonic Blue Mica example is the F Sport model. It’s for those who get really utilitarian or sporty! The infamous Lexus grill is offset by the brilliant blue, even at night under parking lot lights. One night it got a compliment on the color. That doesn’t happen with black or white cars.

When child seats for the nephews became a thing, the reality of wanting an SUV hit. Loading and unloading the kids, or installing and reinstalling their seats, the height of both the seats and installing or removing them was the big convenience. Then numerous runs to the donation center for a move was another reason and suddenly, the SUV was a must-have for the household. Convenient as heck, still nice to drive.  

But the little CUVs are a dilemma. A six-foot passenger may fit in the back of the UX in a pinch, but a rear facing child seat makes the passenger front seat compromised or even uninhabitable. If the ride height is raised for that easy child seat installation and access, then the little CUV looks funny. In this you’re still sitting a little low and not easily exiting the vehicle either. On the other hand it feels more handling oriented, more tossable and less tippy.

The cargo load height may be conveniently high and there appears to be room underneath for storage but it’s the ubiquitous Styrofoam bin with cutouts for some tools. It’s also a great place for the front license plate if you’re front plate rebel.  The cargo space is great for groceries and the gym bag, what else is there if you’re childless? Pets? But two sets of golf clubs may work but a bicycle could be tight after folding down the rear seats and taking off the front wheel.

A decent looking hybrid with the wheel well body cladding for the off-road look versus, say, another in the corporate family (cough cough), quite fuel efficient, rated at 40mpg city, 38mpg highway, Lexus service and ownership experience, it’s a clever offering for the market segment. Says, “I’m sporty, darn it!” even though you’re fuel frugal.

The interior got the seal of approval from the wife, liking how the seat hugs her butt, noticing even the sides of the adjustable headrests are padded.  Although the knurled drive mode knob on the ride side of the driver’s dash shroud and the traction control on the left reminded her of neck posts of Frankenstein’s monster. But they did make it easy to switch modes watching the tachometer or the power indicator. The seats are truly comfortable and cradle but may be too narrow across the back if you’re a 2XL. The power steering wheel retracts at ignition off, but it doesn’t telescope very far.

Typical 4- cylinder whine or more like open up and say “aaaaaahhh” is present with any non-hyper mile driving. If you think a start stop function is extra wear, try driving this while maneuvering around slow traffic on the freeway or hills. Its constantly is revving or shutting down. But around town it a great commuter, the engine shut-off and start-up is subtle, sometimes needing a glance at the dashboard to see the EV mode light is on. It does have paddle-shifters that do provide some engine braking, and regenerative charging, and they imply 6 virtual forward gears when upshifting.

The total output of 181hp is sufficient for commuting and the highway. It’s a comfortable ride with minor road and wind noise. With a heavy foot showing over 33mpg, the efficiency is apparent, even with a 10.6 gallon tank. It drives like a front wheel driver, initially spinning the front tires with a large throttle input in the wet before the rear catches up.

The biggest gripe is the thick A & B pillars, with the right front corner of the dash being raised, making tight right-hand turns getting a bit used to in case of pedestrians. The B-pillar obstruction offset by the lane occupancy warning easily noticed in the side view mirrors.

The driver’s menu is intuitive but requires many steering wheel button presses to fully navigate. Left or right for each menu category, then down for the selections. The driver aids are configurable for on, off or sensitivity in a sub-menu. The lane keeping assist works with a subtle tug and a vibration if urgent. It begs the question, is it more active because a driver knows it’s there and becomes less diligent with lane position? Regardless it’s easily engaged, from the steering wheel, a small icon on the dash is an easily understood indicator.

Despite ignoring the four hundred plus pages of the owner’s manual and the supplementary infotainment manual, we were able to fumble our way through the functions with the haptic feedback touchpad and the buttons and dials on the handrest. It does have a logical flow. While messing around with the driver menus, I found a g-force indicator for lateral and longitudinal loads. That can be fun for data hounds, regardless of the vehicle’s limits, or lack of.

The suite of technology features is long and impressive:

The safety systems called the Lexus Safety System + 2.0, brlefly touched on here, is best summarized here:

https://www.lexus.com/documents/safety/Lexus-Safety-System-Plus-2_0-20181024.pdf

The Lexus Enform Safety Connect and Service Connect is complimentary for the first 10 (TEN!) years of ownership. That includes Automatic Collision Notification, Emergency Assistance Button (SOS), Enhanced Roadside Assistance, and Stolen Vehicle Locator.

Lexus Wi-Fi at 4GB is free for one year, Lexus Enform Remote is also free for one year, allowing smartphone, smartwatch or Amazon Alexa devices access for remote start, checking vehicle status and more.

The Scout GPS Link & MapStream compatible service is free for three years.

All this and more has an MSRP of $42,785. The combination of hybrid efficiency with the utility of a compact crossover is a cLexus comfort, technology, customer service and reliability, and distinctive styling with AWD utility. A compelling choice for those seeking these attributes.

Adam Carolla live interview about Living on the Edge

Adam Carolla has worn many hats including comedian, writer, actor, director, radio personality, television host, the most downloaded Podcast and even closer to our hearts, the racing helmet of a car guy. Maybe you remember him from The Man Show, Loveline with Dr. Drew Pinsky or Crank Yankers. Car enthusiasts may be aware of his collection of classics or that he owns the largest collection of Paul Newman’s race cars (yes, the actor, philanthropist and race car driver Paul Newman), Adam really walks the walk. Or should I say races on the track.

Recently I had the honor and privilege to interview him about his representation of Castrol Edge’s Live on the Edge series. He was previewing the Chicago Auto Show and we had a few minutes to talk about his thoughts about his taste in cars, racing, electric vehicles, the Audi R8 V-10 Plus he drove in the Rain Starts Play video, and seeking exhilaration. 

Check out his short video from the Castrol's Edge Live on the Edge series called “Rain Starts Play”

Castrol's Edge Live on the Edge "Rain Starts Play"

Interview is below. Graphics, editing and sound effects by composer/graphic artist Jarred Gallo:

Check out the Adam Carolla show:  https://adamcarolla.com/

Porsche 911 GT2 RS brief review

Porsche wowed the automotive world when the 911 based GTS RS was announced. Speculation about how they were going to top the prior generation 997 chassis GTS RS 620 horsepower was rampant. With the perceived competitors over 700hp, it turns out that is spot on, aided by distilled water spraying system to cool the intake charge temperatures. But then something else was announced; a factory effort Nurburgring time of 6:47.25 with the Weissach option equipped car. And wow, everyone was blown away, a production street car record time that was held for nearly a year, only beaten by a Lamborghini with more horsepower and active aerodynamics.

This particular model is in Yachting Blue which helps with  the intention to blend in, yet is a pinnacle of road car achievement by Porsche. It’s exterior design is purposeful and very familiar, which has both positive and negative comments among the ever-opinionated internet. Is it timeless or simply derivative? No matter, despite a road car, it is stiffly sprung and the ride has that subtle high frequency jostle that stiffly sprung street cars have. However, there's no crashing, thuds or shakes. The owner says it’s not road trip worthy and "kinda loud." The exhaust button opens the flaps which can be seen kneeling behind the car, producing a more throaty sound. Personally I thought the road noise was quieter than a 997 Porsche Twin Turbo. Guess it depends on the circumstances.

Having had Dodge Viper ACR, the owner made the comparison to be similar in noise, vibration and harshness. Yet overall would compare it to the Ferrari 458 Speciale in execution, but not as road trip worthy. The seats are firm but upright and not terribly adjustable with lateral support being very purposeful. One realizes immediately they are perfect for a track day, not a multi-hour trip to the weekend getaway. However with the back seat removed, there is a surprising amount of space behind the passenger seats.

Typical Porsche quality and design is throughout the cabin. That weight saving door pull strap? It also activates the latch mechanism. This model is equipped with the optional Weissach package which includes an exposed carbon fiber roof and front lip with painted decorative stripes. Porsche logo on the exposed carbon fiber rear wing on the exterior. The interior steering wheel trim and gearshift (the dual clutch PDK is the only transmission available), and some logos. No roll bar, steel nor optional titanium is available factory installed in the US.

The chassis changes are anti-roll bars and end links in carbon fiber which saves 11.7 lbs and a magnesium wheel option which saves 25.3 lbs. These are the most significant weight savings of the Weissach package. Standard on the GT2 RS is a track oriented upgrade of suspension ball joints instead of bushings. Ride height, camber, caster, and toe are all adjustable for those wanting to optimize tire wear and streetability. Just kidding. Tire wear is really so much an issue when the MSRP is about $345,000.

So how quick is it? Giggle inducing at part throttle. This one wasn’t quite broken in yet, but a quick scan of various instrumented tests shows a 0-60 mph time of 2.5 and another test of 2.6 seconds, the best of rear-wheel drive production cars. The quarter mile time of 10.3 seconds and trap speeds from 137 to 139mph were also recorded. Although the McLaren 720S is quicker and faster, it’s definitively not on the road circuit. Hitting the on-ramps and off-ramps, it exhibited no body roll and the owner reported a prior data performance recorder lateral-g reading of 1.46. Simply outrageous! So are it’s lap records at Laguna Seca and Willow Springs, beating the factory efforts of the Viper ACR. No doubt with a pro driver it could also take the Virginia International Raceway record as well.

Regardless of specific “N2” compound tires, there's no denying the capability of a seven hundred horsepower Porsche designed with and equipped with racetrack proven equipment that laps significantly more quickly than competitors with more horsepower. Apparently there is no substitute right now unless you need to spend less or go quicker, but just in a straight line.

The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering 2018 was scrumptious as always!

As the automotive season winds down, it’s time to reflect on one of the most exclusive and special shows of the year. Perhaps a favorite due to the combination of variety and copious portions of gourmet food and drink combined with a positively wonderful and varied display of automobiles. From vintage to modern, sports to luxury, fun-modified to serious low volume manufacturing specialists. This year it was held on Friday, August 24th. 

First mention must be the Peninsula Best of the Best winner, the 1936 Bugatti Type 57 SC Coupé Atlantic co-owned by Peter Mullin and Rob Walton. It was chosen after review of various show winners by twenty four automotive experts, designers and motoring world celebrities. A familiar design to Concours attendees, it continues to be celebrated. The best of show winner this year was a 1953 Lancia Aurelia PF200C, a red convertible of timeless design.  

The fireside chat this year featured now retired race car driver Scott Pruett. After 66 wins, he’s now concentrating on his winery and life as a Lexus brand ambassador. The Fashion in the Fast Lane portion of the Fireside Chat hosted Laura Brown, editor-in-chief of Instyle Magazine and Tamara Mellon, OBE, founder of Tamara Mellon Brand and luxury women’s shoe designer.

There was a special display for Lamborghinis, featuring the Espadas and Isleros models, very rare with only 1217 Espadas produced and just a few hundred Isleros from the late 60s. Very rare indeed. Another special gathering was street and racing Lancias, the ones in racing livery, were particularly colorful and distinctive. 

A more modern themed display was of Alois Ruf reunion of cars based on Porsches. Of course, the CTR Yellowbird with, at the time a mind-blowing 213mph top speed from 1987 was present. Other CTRs from the nineties and two from 2017 were also on hand, a truly special collection of greats. 

The Quail benefits the following charities, Rancho Cielo, the Naval Postgraduate School Foundation, CHP 11-99, Junior ROTC and North Monterey County High School Marching Band. One of the awareness and fundraising efforts by an entrant that deserves mention is by Uncle Wally, IG handle @Wallyworldusa displaying Brian Jones’ 1965 Porsche 356 C Coupe that was part of the East West 356 Tour 2018, driven across country to fundraise for an ALS cure and treatment with Augies’ Quest. It happened to be part of over 20 356’s on display, celebrating 70 years of existence. 

There are only 5000 guests so while busy, it’s not the crowded experience of trying to get a good picture at every car or turning sideways to get by. The food is spectacular as always, and seating may be challenge at times despite lots of accommodations, its well worth a wait and there’s never a rush. Conversation at a shared table with strangers is always pleasant and interesting. The champagne ran out before the end of the day, the only possible complaint. 

Another absolute treat of attending The Quail are various premiers by automotive manufacturers. Polestar showed the brand new Polestar 1, Karma Automotive showcased the heavily revamped prior Fisker, the Revero. Gunther Werks showed the Sport Touring Porsche 993. A carbon body and floor pan beauty. The Chairman of Lamborghini unveiled the Aventador SVJ, the ‘Ring record holder, which happened to be next to the new Urus. Rolls Royce unveiled a custom designed Phantom for well-known collector Michael Fux. Bugatti introduced the stunning Divo and Hennessey Performance had a Venom F5 with its engine on separate display. 

Other displays were wonderful to behold, and really can only be conveyed in photos and not words. The custom coachwork section, manufacturer displays and more are a site to behold. Luxury vendors from clothing to jewelry to private jet rental/charters. Leaving the show, after spending nearly 10 hours from early media preview, to regular show hours to the after-hours party, which had phenomenal acoustics for an outdoor event, that yearning was already felt, with the 3rd weekend of August not coming soon enough. 

Check out the various albums from The Quail on the San Jose Cars Examiner Facebook page. Classics, Porsches, McLarens, Paganis, Lamborghinis and more! 

McCalls Motorworks Revival off Monterey Car Week with objects of speed and style

Monterey Car Week started a week later than usual this year and the big event kickoff is McCall’s Motorworks Revival party. Held at the Monterey Jet Center, held Wednesday the 22nd. It's like entering a magical world of high fashion, amazing vehicles and celebration of life. The complementary champagne starts as soon as you walk in on the red carpet. Suddenly the mood lifts, the demands of work fade away, and you stroll into the playground of highly engineered objects for individuals of high net worth.

Always a great show, if it rolls it’s there. From old military aircraft to private jets open for tours, helicopters (they don’t roll), a variety of motorcycles of course, the cars. Oh also trucks and SUVs, Toss in some jewelry and all the bases are covered. Comparisons are from two years ago, a conflict prevented attendance last year. This year the event was smaller in terms of the second hanger being closed. The field of vehicles was still large and varied.

This year parking for non-VIP wasn’t organized as opposed to 2016 when it was a separate lot with shuttles. So we self-parked in the large valet lot. Which was an exotic car show in itself with a Porsche Carrera GT and a Bugatti Chiron among others. The DJ/band we really like was back, their set starting later in the evening with infectious, high energy dance music and a live drummer who was a show himself. This year was supposed to feature an after-hours party off-site until 2am but was sadly cancelled a week or so before the party. I can’t imagine the hoops to jump through to get such an approval in California but hopefully they’ll have it next year!

The variety of drinks available was particularly good except the champagne ran out early. A great party needs endless champaign! Unfortunately the variety and volume of food needed improving. After all many arrive via $625 Red Carpet tickets as early as 4pm and stay until the 10pm closing.
Many great sponsors participate in the event but the fundraiser is for the California Highway Patrol’s CHP 11-99 Foundation. This year the raffle is for a Ford Mustang GT Bullitt edition.

Smaller or larger than years past, it doesn't matter. This is the must-attend party every year for the unofficial start of the Monterey Car Week.  

Album link here:  https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1550196661751706&type=1&l=809d800294

Mercedes AMG E63 S Wagon review

The station wagon, once the popular choice for family hauling, faded into obscurity replaced by the minivan and now the huge popularity of the SUV. The reasons are varied, and guesses include styling, desire to drive at an eye level as if they were walking, lift-over height for cargo and child seats, improved fuel economy versus past choices, a comfortable ride, all-wheel drive, easier ingress/egress with our overly large population and more. But the wagon performs like a sedan. And Mercedes makes one that performs like a sports car.

The second most powerful car in the Mercedes AMG  lineup is the 603hp E63 S wagon. Even their track monster AMG GT R is rated at 577hp. The torque from the 4.0 liter twin turbo engine is rated at 627lb ft starting at 2500rpm only bested only by the S 63 sedan with 664lb ft. Probably due to a few lines of code. This sleek wagon also has the horizontal tail light styling of the coupes instead of the sloped triangles of the sedans. The transmission is the AMG Speedshift MCT 9-speed unit. It’s a multi-clutch transmission, using a clutch pack but no torque converter. It is not related to the dual clutch transmissions that have two output shafts instead of one. The advantage of this design is quick response and ability to handle higher torque loads.

This one particular model, debadged and unchromed with the Night package looks amazing. Add the large, narrow spoke wheels with red brake calipers and it’s all business for hauling butt with cargo. There’s all this visual appeal and then the engine is started taking the entire impression impact to the next level. Holy cow this is a serious machine with a super car soundtrack. Check out the video and nervous, joyful laughter from the acceleration run…

The dichotomy continues inside. Beautiful interior appointments, the large S-class worthy dual 12.3” LCD display screens that stretch from driver to mid-dash and then the superb sport seats looking wonderfully sculpted and serious, not quite out of place in an overall utility design. You don’t expect sports car seats in a wagon, and the contrast works perfectly. 

The all-wheel drive enables consistent launches, Car and Driver tested one with a 3.0 second 0-60mph and a quarter mile in 11.2 seconds at 126mph. This is a bonifide supercar in every sense of the word  while being extremely practical but weighs an owner confirmed 4740lbs.  All the while engine roaring, exhaust spitting and popping with in the proper driving mode selected. Hint: That mode is neither “Economy” nor “Snow/ice”.  

When in Sport, the suspension is sports car firm, doesn’t crash or rattle over bumps and feels as solid as if it had a carbon tub. This one has the Rennsport body lowering kit giving it an even sleeker, aggressive look. Cornering is flat, the weight transparent to the passengers. There is also a selectable real wheel drive only drift mode. But seriously let’s just call it either dyno mode or shred your tires faster mode. 

This one also has the Performance Exhaust System which is a must-hear and have, especially at cold start-up. Be sure to check out that video as well. Painted in Kona Blue Metallic contributes to a visually lower appearance. The Nut Brown and Black Nappa leather  interior has a warm feel despite the wide digital display screen due to its dash integration versus an upright standalone unit that Mercedes has on other models. Recent vehicle shopping shows Mercedes offers a large selection of individual options. This one included a black headliner, seemingly rare these days and had an MSRP of 119,000. 

Some nice touches include a driver’s side control ability for the passenger seat. The owner loves the acceleration which is so accessible with the all-wheel drive, and it has a 21.1 gallon fuel tank. Keep in mind there are serious performance cars with 16 gallon tanks, a significant difference. The only complaint is a desire for a more distinctive fuel gauge despite the large capacity and coolant temperature display for those that like their data. 

There are amazing performance SUVs and sports cars on the market, but if seeking a driver oriented, sharp handling yet practical hauler where load or child seat access heights and ease of ingress or egress ins’t as critical, this is absolutely the ticket.