JAX Automotive is a dedicated channel exploring the multifaceted world of cars, car culture, and the broader automotive industry. This distributor delves into the lifestyle surrounding automobiles, trucks, and SUVs, offering insightful reviews and commentary on the latest models and automotive trends. From the burgeoning EV revolution to the vibrant car scene in Atlanta, JAX Automotive provides a comprehensive look at wheeled transportation for enthusiasts.
The content features a range of vehicles, including detailed reviews of hybrid models like the Toyota Highlander Hybrid and Lexus NX 350h, alongside explorations of popular SUVs such as the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition and the BMW X5 Plug-in Hybrid. The channel also examines popular sedans like the Hyundai Elantra Hybrid, catering to a diverse audience with a passion for automotive innovation and culture.
The content features a range of vehicles, including detailed reviews of hybrid models like the Toyota Highlander Hybrid and Lexus NX 350h, alongside explorations of popular SUVs such as the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition and the BMW X5 Plug-in Hybrid. The channel also examines popular sedans like the Hyundai Elantra Hybrid, catering to a diverse audience with a passion for automotive innovation and culture.
Taking the Highlander Hybrid on a Family Trip // Toyota Highlander Hybrid Review
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum is presented as a compelling family SUV, particularly for its exceptional fuel efficiency and practicality on long trips. The reviewer highlights the impressive real-world mileage, achieving around 36 MPG on a 300+ mile journey, and a total range of approxima...
Latest Additions
Showing 17 of 41 total titles. Page 2 of 2.
Is This the Coolest Electric Vehicle on the Market? Genesis GV60 Review
The Genesis GV60 is presented as a compelling, stylish, and luxurious electric vehicle, particularly for around-town driving. The reviewer highlights ... moreits striking exterior design, which surpasses initial expectations, and a premium interior featuring high-quality materials like suede and leather, offering a more upscale experience than competitors like Tesla or the Mustang Mach-E. Performance is praised, with the dual-motor AWD version offering strong acceleration, especially with the boost button engaged, achieving 0-60 mph in 3.6 seconds. The 800-volt architecture enables rapid charging, replenishing up to 80% in under 20 minutes, though real-world charging experiences with Electrify America were mixed. Key drawbacks identified are its limited range (235 miles for the Performance trim, 247 for the regular trim) compared to platform mates like the Ioniq 5 and EV6, and a relatively small cargo area (24 cubic feet) that feels less practical than its stated capacity. The reviewer also notes a slightly bouncy ride in normal mode, though sport mode improves handling. Ultimately, the GV60 is recommended for those prioritizing luxury, style, and features over maximum range and cargo space, positioning it as a strong contender in the premium EV segment for daily use. less
Which Lexus NX Trim is the Best? Lexus NX 350h Review
The Lexus NX 350h is presented as a unique offering in the small luxury SUV segment, primarily due to its efficient hybrid powertrain. The reviewer hi... moreghlights its impressive fuel economy, averaging 41 MPG in mixed driving conditions, and a respectable 0-60 time of around seven seconds thanks to its 240 horsepower output. However, the review points out significant drawbacks. The ride quality is criticized for being too soft and prone to rocking, especially on less-than-perfect roads, contrasting unfavorably with the more composed F Sport trim. Interior space is noted as tight for the class, with limited rear legroom and cargo capacity compared to competitors like the BMW X3 and Genesis GV70. A major point of contention is the brake pedal feel, described as grabby, inconsistent, and disappointing, especially when compared to the superior braking performance of the Toyota Highlander Hybrid. Ergonomic quirks, such as overly sensitive steering wheel buttons that can be distracting, are also mentioned. Despite these criticisms, the interior design and material quality are deemed good, with appreciated physical controls for climate. Ultimately, the reviewer suggests that while the NX 350h is a fuel-efficient option and better than the Cadillac XT4, enthusiasts or those prioritizing driving dynamics might find it lacking. The NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid is recommended as a superior alternative, and the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is presented as a more practical and better-driving choice for those prioritizing space and value. less
Taking the Highlander Hybrid on a Family Trip // Toyota Highlander Hybrid Review
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum is presented as a compelling family SUV, particularly for its exceptional fuel efficiency and practicality on lo... moreng trips. The reviewer highlights the impressive real-world mileage, achieving around 36 MPG on a 300+ mile journey, and a total range of approximately 800 miles on a single tank of gas, making it a standout in its class. The interior is praised for its comfortable and professional feel, featuring a large 12.3-inch infotainment display, digital gauge cluster, and ample charging ports. However, the exterior styling is consistently criticized as unattractive, potentially deterring buyers. While the driving dynamics are described as competent and comfortable with improved steering and braking feel, the radar cruise control is noted as requiring more driver engagement than some competitors. Despite its aesthetic shortcomings and a premium price point for the Platinum trim, the Highlander Hybrid's efficiency, space, and overall capability make it a highly recommended, albeit unglamorous, choice for families. less
Plug-in Hybrid Power Makes the Minivan Better! Chrysler Pacifica Review
The 2022 Chrysler Pacifica Plug-in Hybrid is presented as a compelling option in the minivan segment, particularly for families seeking efficiency and... more space. The reviewer highlights its impressive 32 miles of pure EV range as a significant benefit, though acknowledges the loss of the Stow 'n Go second-row seats in this hybrid trim. Interior comfort and quality are praised, with comfortable seats, a good infotainment screen, and premium materials, though the lack of heated rear seats on a nearly $60,000 vehicle is noted as an oversight. The reviewer is particularly impressed with the powertrain, describing it as smooth, powerful, and efficient, comparing it favorably to Toyota hybrids and calling it one of Stellantis's best. However, the Pacifica is exclusively front-wheel drive, a drawback for those in inclement weather. Dynamic driving is a strong suit, with excellent steering and a sophisticated ride/handling balance, though the brake pedal feel is criticized as mushy and the regenerative braking could be more aggressive. The collision warning system is deemed overly sensitive. While the Pacifica excels in many areas, its main Achilles' heel is its price, being significantly more expensive than competitors, especially the Kia Carnival. The reviewer suggests that opting for lower trims or skipping certain packages can bring the price down to a more competitive level, making it a strong contender for the minivan champion title. less
Happy Anniversary to Us! 2023 Kia Sportage X-Pro Review
The Kia Sportage X-Pro Prestige is presented as a compelling option in the competitive compact SUV segment, particularly for families and those seekin... moreg a blend of comfort and capability. Reviewers praise its daring exterior design, especially in the army green color with black accents, and find the interior to be a standout feature, boasting a premium feel with dual 12.3-inch screens and convincing faux wood trim. Comfort is a major highlight, with seats described as exceptionally comfortable for long journeys, a crucial factor given the extensive highway driving experienced during the review. The vehicle also offers impressive cargo and passenger space, exceeding many rivals. However, the base 2.5-liter engine is criticized for being underpowered and uninspiring, with the transmission not always reacting quickly enough for passing maneuvers. While the X-Pro trim offers off-road-biased tires and increased ground clearance with a locking center differential, the ride, though comfortable, can feel overly soft and bouncy over imperfect roads, lacking the composed handling of competitors like the Mazda CX-5. Fuel economy is decent but not exceptional. Despite these drawbacks, the Sportage X-Pro Prestige is recommended for its competitive pricing, abundant tech, spaciousness, and overall comfort, making it a strong contender against the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. less
Exactly What I Want in an EV // Ford Lightning Lariat Review
The reviewer provides an honest, no-BS assessment of the Ford F-150 Lightning Lariat, aiming to cut through misinformation. While acknowledging its li... moremitations, particularly concerning charging speed and range impact when towing, the reviewer highlights its strengths as a daily driver. The comfortable ride quality, immense power (0-60 in under 4 seconds), and practical features like the massive front trunk (frunk) with power outlets are praised. The interior is deemed appropriate for the price point, and Ford's Sync infotainment and BlueCruise system are noted as strong points. Despite the high price of the tested Lariat trim, the reviewer suggests the XLT trim, especially with home charging solutions and potential tax incentives, offers significant value. Ultimately, the reviewer expresses a personal preference for the Lightning over other EVs like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 for daily driving due to its truck-like presence and effortless performance, provided one has adequate charging infrastructure. less
The Best Mainstream Electric Vehicle You Can Buy! Hyundai Ioniq 5 Review
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is presented as a top contender in the mainstream EV market, praised for its exceptional retro-futuristic styling and surprisingly... more spacious interior, comparable to larger vehicles. The reviewer highlights its comfortable ride quality, even on rough pavement, and the seamless one-pedal driving experience, which is deemed superior to competitors. Performance is noted as brisk, with the all-wheel-drive model achieving 0-60 mph in approximately 4.5 seconds. Key drawbacks include the lack of a front trunk and the inconvenient placement of climate controls within the infotainment system, a significant ergonomic misstep. Despite these minor issues, the Ioniq 5's impressive 800-volt architecture enabling rapid charging (10-80% in 18 minutes) and its competitive pricing make it a highly recommended and painless daily driver, potentially the best mainstream EV available. less
Don't Want to Buy an EV? This Might Be the Best Alternative! Hyundai Tucson PHEV Review
The 2022 Hyundai Tucson Plug-in Hybrid is presented as a highly relevant alternative to full EVs, particularly for consumers hesitant about current ch... morearging infrastructure. The reviewer highlights its stylish, albeit polarizing, exterior design, noting it's less attractive than the new Kia Sportage PHEV. The powertrain delivers a combined 261 horsepower, offering adequate performance, though not matching the sportiness of the RAV4 Prime. A significant strength is the comfortable and composed ride, which the reviewer finds superior to the RAV4. The interior is praised for its premium feel, excellent materials, and spaciousness, especially in the second row, though the touch-sensitive controls and piano black trim are noted as ergonomic drawbacks. The reviewer emphasizes the practicality of plug-in hybrids, allowing for significant EV-only driving for daily errands, and commends the Tucson PHEV's user-friendly Eco mode. Ultimately, the Tucson PHEV is recommended over the Ford Escape PHEV and even the RAV4 Prime, primarily due to its superior interior quality, modern infotainment, and better rear-seat accommodations, despite the RAV4 Prime's longer EV range. less
Should You Still Buy a Toyota Prius Prime? Toyota Prius Prime Review
The 2021 Toyota Prius Prime is reviewed as a competent but ultimately uninspiring plug-in hybrid that struggles to justify its existence in a rapidly ... moreevolving automotive landscape. While its 25-mile EV-only range and impressive 600-mile theoretical total range are commendable, and charging times are reasonable, the reviewer finds the driving dynamics, particularly the "mushy" and inconsistent brake pedal feel, to be a significant drawback. The interior, despite some bold design choices like the vertical screen, suffers from usability issues and a backup camera with poor resolution. Practicality is also compromised by limited rear-seat space and reduced cargo capacity due to the battery pack. Ultimately, the reviewer strongly recommends the Toyota RAV4 Prime as a superior alternative, even at a higher price point, citing its better usability and styling. The Prius Prime is positioned as a comfortable stepping stone for EV-hesitant buyers, but its future relevance is questioned, suggesting it needs significant evolution to compete with newer, more compelling offerings from both Toyota and competitors. less
The Toyota Sienna Might Be the Perfect Family Vehicle Toyota Sienna Review
The 2021 Toyota Sienna is reviewed as a competent family vehicle, particularly excelling in its hybrid powertrain's fuel efficiency, consistently... more achieving the advertised 36 MPG across various driving conditions. The reviewer highlights its comfortable ride, especially on highways, and practical features like the floating center console and ample USB ports. However, the Sienna falls short when compared to key rivals, notably the Kia Carnival. Criticisms include polarizing exterior styling, a less refined driving experience with noticeable body roll and a thrashy engine note under acceleration, and a less premium interior ambiance and materials for its price point. The infotainment system is considered dated, and cargo space, while ample, is less than competitors. Despite Toyota's reputation for reliability and the availability of AWD, the reviewer concludes that the Sienna is not the best value proposition, recommending the Kia Carnival for its superior driving dynamics, styling, interior, and overall value. less
The BMW X5 Plug-in Hybrid Is Pretty Amazing // BMW X5 Review
The 2021 BMW X5 xDrive45e is presented as a compelling blend of luxury SUV practicality and electrified performance. The reviewer highlights its seaml... moreess hybrid integration, comparing it favorably to the Toyota RAV4 Prime for its refinement and sophistication. Key strengths include a powerful 389 horsepower output, a surprisingly comfortable and quiet ride even on 21-inch wheels, and impressive handling that belies its 5600-pound curb weight. The reviewer praises the intuitive iDrive infotainment system and the high-quality interior materials. However, drawbacks are noted, including limited rear-seat space compared to competitors like the Kia Sorrento, and a somewhat cluttered digital gauge cluster. The reviewer also points out the lack of a surround-view camera on a nearly fully loaded model. Despite these criticisms, the X5 xDrive45e is deemed a standout vehicle, especially for daily driving where its 31-mile EV range can significantly reduce fuel consumption, making it a practical and enjoyable luxury SUV. less
2020 Chevy Bolt Full Review: Breaking Through the Hype
The 2020 Chevrolet Bolt is presented as a compelling, yet flawed, electric vehicle that aims to challenge the Tesla Model 3. The reviewer highlights i... morets impressive 259-mile range, quick off-the-line acceleration, and surprisingly fun driving dynamics, attributing the latter to a well-sorted suspension and accurate steering. The spacious interior, excellent visibility, and the intuitive one-pedal driving mode are also praised. However, significant drawbacks are noted, including uncomfortable and shapeless seats, a cluttered and difficult-to-use center touchscreen interface, and the use of cheap interior plastics, especially for a car costing $44,000 as tested. The reviewer also points out the lack of radar cruise control as a notable omission for the price point. Ultimately, while acknowledging the Bolt's strengths as an EV, the reviewer concludes that the upcoming 2021 model, with its updated interior, seats, and adaptive cruise control, would be a better purchase, and personally opts for the Tesla Model 3 over the current Bolt. less
Can the Ford Mustang Mach-E Win in the Upcoming EV Wars?
The Ford Mustang Mach-E is positioned as a strong contender in the burgeoning electric SUV market, directly challenging the Tesla Model Y. While the M... moreach-E boasts impressive performance figures, particularly the GT trim's 612 lb-ft of torque and a 3.5-second 0-60 mph time, its range and charging speeds are noted as significant drawbacks compared to the Model Y. The Mach-E offers up to 300 miles of range in its most efficient trim, but the performance-oriented GT trim sees this drop to under 250 miles. Charging is also slower, with the Mach-E adding about 47 miles in 10 minutes on a 150 kW charger, whereas the Model Y can add 158 miles in the same timeframe. The reviewer highlights that while the Mach-E is a capable and spacious vehicle, potentially meeting 90% of most users' needs, its biggest hurdle is Ford's marketing and brand recognition compared to Tesla's established dominance and Elon Musk's bravado. The reviewer concludes that while the Mach-E is a promising offering, especially for its potential affordability and usability for family trips, its charging infrastructure and brand awareness lag behind Tesla. less
2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Full Review
The 2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is presented as a significant upgrade over its non-hybrid counterpart, transforming a previously unremarkable vehicl... moree into a compelling contender in the three-row SUV segment. The reviewer highlights the hybrid powertrain as the standout feature, praising its seamless operation, impressive fuel economy (averaging 31 MPG in mixed driving), and the absence of negative driving trade-offs. The interior receives high marks for its premium materials, excellent fit and finish, comfortable seating, and a user-friendly 12.3-inch infotainment system with an ingenious side-to-side screen-sharing function. While the styling is divisive, the interior ambience is considered on par with the class-leading Kia Telluride. However, the Highlander Hybrid falls short in practicality, offering less cargo space behind the third row and a noticeably cramped third-row seat compared to competitors like the Telluride, Honda Pilot, and Chevy Traverse. The reviewer also notes the higher price point of the fully loaded Platinum trim ($52,200) compared to a similarly equipped Telluride, though the Toyota's superior infotainment and reputation for reliability are seen as mitigating factors. Ultimately, the Highlander Hybrid is recommended as a strong alternative, particularly in lower trims, for its efficiency and refined engineering, though it doesn't quite dethrone the Telluride due to space and styling. less
2020 Lexus UX250h F Sport Full Review
The Lexus UX250h F Sport is presented as a niche vehicle, specifically targeting affluent, childless millennials. The reviewer highlights its exceptio... morenal ride quality and handling balance, noting its ability to absorb bumps without sacrificing a sporty feel, a significant achievement for its short wheelbase. The F Sport trim is recommended for its aesthetic improvements. The hybrid system is praised for its seamless operation and impressive 41 MPG average in suburban driving. However, the UX faces criticism for its steep $43,000 price tag, lack of practicality (small cargo space, small cupholders), and missing expected features like a full safety suite and wireless charging. The infotainment touchpad is described as accurate but 'weird' and less intuitive than a touchscreen. The reviewer suggests that competitors like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Premium or Mazda CX-30 offer better value and practicality for the money, making the UX a choice for those who prioritize the Lexus badge and its unique, albeit compromised, premium experience. less
C8 Corvette and Mustang Mach-E at the Atlanta Auto Show 2020
The reviewer attended the Atlanta International Auto Show, highlighting it as a prime opportunity for enthusiasts to experience numerous vehicles with... moreout the usual crowds. The C8 Corvette is a major focus, with the reviewer expressing immense admiration for its mid-engine design, compelling aesthetics, and exceptional value proposition, suggesting it outperforms competitors in its price range. The Mustang Mach-E is also praised as a surprising and compelling electric vehicle, noted for its practical interior, spaciousness, and potential to challenge Tesla in the mass-market EV segment. Other vehicles discussed include the Jeep Gladiator Mojave, Nissan Sentra, Genesis GV80, and various Kia models, with the reviewer offering brief opinions on their design and market positioning. The overall sentiment is positive towards the C8 Corvette and Mustang Mach-E, while other vehicles receive more mixed or brief commentary. less
2019 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Full Review: The Practicality King
The 2019 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is presented as a highly practical and compelling option for families, excelling in day-to-day usability. The reviewer pra... moreises its significantly improved exterior styling, likening it to a "son or daughter of 4Runner," and notes its upscale yet tough appearance. The interior is also lauded for its luxurious feel, comfortable seats, and user-friendly design, with high-quality materials. A standout feature is the hybrid powertrain, which seamlessly transitions between EV and gasoline modes, contributing to an impressive real-world average of 40 MPG and a substantial driving range. Performance is deemed more than adequate, with a 0-60 time around seven and a half seconds. The driving dynamics are surprisingly composed for its class, offering good body control over imperfections. While the infotainment system is considered a half-step behind modern standards and the Eco mode is criticized for being too numb, these are minor drawbacks. The reviewer concludes that the RAV4 Hybrid is a stylish, well-built, fuel-efficient, and spacious family vehicle that is a top contender in its segment, potentially the perfect choice for a first car for a teenager. less