Kirk Kreifels is a specialized distributor focusing on the dynamic world of automotive news and reviews. This channel delves into the latest developments, offering in-depth analyses and comprehensive evaluations of new vehicles and emerging automotive technologies. Their content aims to keep enthusiasts and potential buyers informed about the cutting edge of the automotive industry.
With a strong emphasis on brands like Toyota and Lexus, Kirk Kreifels provides insightful reviews, covering aspects from performance and design to innovative features like advanced battery technology and exceptional fuel economy. Viewers can expect detailed examinations of hybrid systems, luxury segment comparisons, and previews of upcoming models, making it a go-to source for automotive insights.
With a strong emphasis on brands like Toyota and Lexus, Kirk Kreifels provides insightful reviews, covering aspects from performance and design to innovative features like advanced battery technology and exceptional fuel economy. Viewers can expect detailed examinations of hybrid systems, luxury segment comparisons, and previews of upcoming models, making it a go-to source for automotive insights.
Toyota's New Solid State Battery (Fluoride) | 600+ Mile Range!
This video delves into Toyota's forward-thinking battery technology, specifically focusing on their development of fluoride-ion solid-state batteries in collaboration with Kyoto University. The reviewer highlights the potential for these batteries to offer seven times the energy density of curren...
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Toyota Crown Platinum Hybrid Max - Night Review
This night review of the Toyota Crown Platinum Hybrid Max focuses on its interior and exterior illumination, as well as driving impressions after dark... more. The reviewer highlights the unique triple-beam headlights on the Platinum trim, noting their Lexus-like appearance but criticizing their performance, particularly the hard cutoff and limited throw of the low beams, suggesting the XLE's simpler headlights might perform better. Interior lighting is generally well-executed, with illuminated door handles, cup holders, and climate controls, though customization options are limited to brightness. Driving impressions reveal the Hybrid Max system delivers strong acceleration (0-60 mph in 5.51 seconds with brake boost, 5.68 seconds without), making brake boosting unnecessary. However, the reviewer expresses significant disappointment with the brake feel and power, describing it as uninspiring and feeling inadequate for the vehicle's weight. Despite its front-wheel-drive bias and noticeable weight in corners, the Crown is praised for its comfortable, relaxing ride, especially in Comfort mode, making it a preferred choice over more expensive, attention-grabbing vehicles like a Land Rover Defender. less
Your Next Car Will Be Made in China
This video provides a comprehensive analysis of the dramatic shift in the global automotive market, highlighting the rapid ascent of Chinese automaker... mores and the concurrent decline of Japanese manufacturers. The reviewer emphasizes China's massive production capacity, advanced supply chain control (particularly for EVs, including minerals like lithium and rare earth metals), and lower labor costs as key drivers of this change. While acknowledging that Chinese car designs are improving, the primary competitive advantage remains price, making them highly attractive in emerging markets and increasingly competitive elsewhere. The video points out that Japanese automakers' slower transition to EVs has exacerbated their market share loss, especially in China and Southeast Asia. The US market is largely protected by tariffs and potential hardware/software bans, but the global trend suggests a significant challenge for non-Chinese manufacturers. The core takeaway is that China's dominance in automobile production and EV supply chains is reshaping the industry, forcing traditional players to consider manufacturing in China to remain competitive. less
Unprecedented Layoffs in Europe from Volkswagen and Ford -- Is Big Auto Cracking?
The video provides a stark overview of the current struggles within the European automotive industry, highlighting significant layoffs and financial d... moreifficulties at major manufacturers like Volkswagen and Ford. The reviewer points to a confluence of factors including weak consumer demand for EVs, stringent government regulations, and intense competition from Chinese automakers as primary drivers of this downturn. Volkswagen is specifically criticized for its slow transition to hybrids, with no clear timeline for their introduction in the US market, while simultaneously facing high labor costs and potential plant closures. Ford is also cutting its European workforce significantly due to poor EV sales and competition. The reviewer contrasts this with Hyundai's more balanced approach, pivoting towards hybrids in North America while continuing EV development, positioning them as a more resilient player. The overall sentiment is that the traditional auto giants are facing an unprecedented crisis, largely of their own making due to misaligned strategies with market demand and regulatory pressures. less
Live - LA Auto Show Reveals: Hyundai, Ioniq, and Kia
The LA Auto Show live stream covered significant reveals from Hyundai and Kia, with the Hyundai IONIQ 9 taking center stage. The IONIQ 9, formerly the... more IONIQ 7 concept, is highlighted as a spacious, three-row electric SUV targeting over 300 miles of range across all trims, with a 110 kWh battery. While praised for its interior space, luxury features like relaxation seats, and fast charging capabilities (10-80% in 24 minutes), its 0-60 mph time for the rear-wheel-drive long-range model is noted as slow at around 8-9 seconds. The video also touched upon the Hyundai initium concept, a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle previewing future SUV designs, and the Genesis GV70 electric refresh. Kia's reveals included the EV9 GT, boasting 510 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of 4.3 seconds, and the refreshed EV6, offering up to 319 miles of range and enhanced technology. The Sportage also received a refresh, with various powertrain options and off-road focused trims. The reviewer expressed a desire for more information on hybrids and extended-range EVs for North America. less
Honda's New Solid-State Battery Is Almost Here - Latest From Japan
Honda is making significant strides towards the mass production of solid-state batteries, unveiling a demonstration production line in Sakura City, Ja... morepan. While the exact specifications for energy density, charging rates, and lifespan are still under technical verification, Honda aims to integrate these game-changing batteries into their electrified models in the latter half of the 2020s. The new production line utilizes advanced techniques for faster, more cost-effective manufacturing, including continuous inline mixers and densification pressing. Although the initial application might be for Japanese market vehicles and motorcycles, the long-term vision includes broader adoption across Honda's mobility products, potentially including aircraft. The reviewer notes that while current Honda EVs (like the Zero Series) will not feature these batteries at launch, their development is crucial for Honda's transition away from internal combustion engines and for enhancing the appeal of their future EVs with improved range, safety, and performance in cold weather, potentially reducing battery weight significantly. less
2025 Toyota Crown Hybrid Max - A Better Daily Driver vs. the New Camry?
The 2025 Toyota Crown Platinum Hybrid Max presents a compelling, albeit expensive, package with its powerful 340 horsepower powertrain and standard al... morel-wheel drive. The reviewer highlights impressive acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in under 6 seconds, and praises the powertrain's responsiveness and engaging nature, noting it's more fun than typical Toyota hybrids. However, the Platinum trim's high price point (mid-$50k range) is a significant drawback, especially when compared to the Lexus ES 350 V6 or even lower trims of the Crown itself. Key criticisms include the intrusive wind noise from the single-pane glass at highway speeds, a persistent issue not found in the cheaper Camry or even the Crown's own Signia variant. The reviewer also notes occasional rough shifts from the six-speed automatic transmission and expresses disappointment with the lack of interior color options on the Platinum and Nightshade trims. While the Hybrid Max powertrain is potent, the fuel economy gains over lower trims are minimal, and the reviewer questions the value proposition, recommending the Crown Limited or XLE trims as better buys. The reviewer also points out the unappealing two-tone paint option exclusive to the Platinum trim. less
2025 Honda Accord Hybrid - Commuting with Honda's Fuel-sipping Flagship Sedan
The 2025 Honda Accord Hybrid, specifically the Touring trim, offers a remarkably smooth and refined driving experience, often feeling more luxurious t... morehan expected, even rivaling Acura's refinement. The hybrid powertrain operates almost entirely in electric mode in the city, providing a quiet and seamless ride. Highway performance is also strong, with the engine engaging more directly for better acceleration. However, the reviewer notes a slight delay in full acceleration when the pedal is floored abruptly, suggesting a need for tuning. While the Accord Hybrid excels in comfort and quietness, it falls short of the Toyota Camry Hybrid in terms of outright performance, engagement, and fuel economy, especially when comparing similarly equipped trims. The reviewer highlights the EX-L trim with smaller wheels as the fuel economy champion. Despite its higher price point compared to the Camry, potential discounts could make the Accord Hybrid a compelling option for those prioritizing a serene and luxurious driving experience over raw engagement or maximum efficiency. less
2025 Toyota Crown Signia XLE is Rated 38 MPG... Here Are My City and Highway Results
The 2025 Toyota Crown Signia XLE delivers impressive real-world fuel economy, exceeding EPA estimates in both city and highway driving. The reviewer a... morechieved approximately 45 MPG in the city and 38.7 MPG on the highway, surpassing the official ratings of 39 MPG city and 37 MPG highway. While the hybrid powertrain provides smooth operation and excellent AC performance, it can feel strained under acceleration, requiring the engine to work harder than in newer Toyota hybrid systems. The reviewer noted the vehicle's comfortable and quiet highway ride, comparable to premium offerings, with minimal road and wind noise. A significant point of contention was the variability in fuel economy results due to inconsistent pump readings, emphasizing the importance of using the same pump for accurate testing. Despite the powertrain's occasional sluggishness, the Crown Signia's overall efficiency, range, and comfort make it a compelling option for those prioritizing fuel savings and a refined driving experience. less
The 2025 Toyota Crown Signia XLE Is A Modern Day Camry Wagon And It's Excellent
The 2025 Toyota Crown Signia XLE is presented as a spiritual successor to the Camry wagon, offering a unique blend of SUV-like ride height and traditi... moreonal wagon practicality. The reviewer praises its stylish design, spacious cargo area capable of fitting large items like an e-bike, and a comfortable, well-appointed interior that borders on Lexus luxury, particularly noting the standard leather seats and heated outboard rear seats. The driving experience is described as luxurious, calming, and smooth, with responsive handling and minimal body roll, outperforming the Lexus NX in this regard. However, the reviewer expresses disappointment with the powertrain's noise under acceleration and the underwhelming 38 MPG rating, which is lower than expected for a hybrid. Key criticisms include the lack of standard parking sensors on the XLE trim, the desire for a plug-in hybrid option, and a steering wheel/seat height adjustment that can compromise visibility of the 12-inch screen for taller drivers. The reviewer also laments the absence of Crown branding, with Toyota opting for its own badges, and the premium pricing which starts in the mid-$40,000s. less
2025 Lexus NX 350h Night Review: Why It's The Best Lexus Crossover
The reviewer hails the 2025 Lexus NX 350h as the "best Lexus crossover," praising its "right size," "right powertrain," ... moreand "right price." The "Luxury grade" model, while loaded, is noted as potentially not the best value, but its features are highlighted, including the "optional Triple Beam LED headlights" which are deemed "incredible" and superior to those on the IS500. The reviewer achieved an impressive "45 miles per gallon," exceeding the car's 39 MPG rating, primarily through city driving. Interior highlights include the "Mark Levinson sound system," "ambient lighting," and a "14-inch touchscreen," though the reviewer expresses a preference for physical climate controls. The "brakes" are identified as a significant drawback, described as "abysmal," "unpredictable," and prone to sudden, excessive force. Despite this, the "ride quality" is lauded as "fantastic," and the hybrid powertrain is noted as smoother and quieter than in the Crown Crossover. The NX's size is preferred over the larger RX and TX, and the smaller UX, making it the "Goldilocks" of the Lexus lineup for the reviewer. less
2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid Review
The 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid offers a compelling blend of Mazda's signature driving dynamics and interior refinement with Toyota's proven hyb... morerid powertrain. The reviewer highlights the vehicle's excellent handling, responsive acceleration that rivals the non-hybrid turbo model, and impressive real-world fuel economy, consistently exceeding EPA estimates and reaching 42.6 MPG in mixed city driving. The interior is praised for its premium feel, comparable to luxury brands, and the smooth operation of the Toyota-sourced hybrid system. However, the Premium Plus trim, while feature-rich with ventilated seats and a head-up display, is deemed not worth its $41,250 price tag due to missing expected features like a heated steering wheel and parking sensors, making the Preferred or base trims the recommended value. Criticisms include a peculiar synthetic "jet engine" sound under 24 mph, a brake pedal lacking progression, and a notable absence of detailed hybrid system metrics and lane-centering assist, which are standard on many competitors. Despite these drawbacks, the CX-50 Hybrid is considered a strong contender, offering Mazda's driving spirit with the efficiency benefits of Toyota's hybrid technology. less
I Put Toyota's Crown Signia Against the Lexus NX Hybrid... Is the Lexus Worth It?
The Toyota Crown Signia XLE is presented as a compelling alternative to the Lexus NX 350h, offering significant value and standard equipment for its p... morerice point. While the Lexus NX, particularly in its higher Luxury trim, boasts superior refinement, a quieter powertrain, and a more premium interior feel with features like real wood trim and a Mark Levinson sound system, the Crown Signia impresses with its standard ventilated seats, larger infotainment screen, and more intuitive physical climate controls. The reviewer highlights the Crown Signia's superior cargo capacity and slightly better handling, despite the NX offering a marginally more refined ride and a quieter engine experience. Both vehicles share the same hybrid powertrain, rated at 240 horsepower and around 40 MPG, though the NX has a slightly better official fuel economy rating. A notable drawback for both is the unpredictable brake pedal feel. Ultimately, the Crown Signia XLE is recommended for its strong value proposition, generous standard features, and practicality, making it a more budget-friendly yet highly capable option compared to the more luxurious, albeit pricier, Lexus NX. less
Musk, Tesla Just Outsmarted the Entire Auto Industry
The video presents a stark contrast between the struggling traditional auto industry and Tesla's surging market value, largely attributed to Elon... more Musk's perceived influence following a presidential election outcome. The reviewer details significant profit drops, layoffs, and production cuts across major automakers like Toyota, Nissan, Honda, Mazda, Jaguar Land Rover, Stellantis, Rivian, Lucid, and BMW. These struggles are linked to factors such as strong yen, reduced demand in China, supply chain issues, and the looming threat of tariffs under a new administration. In stark contrast, Tesla's market capitalization has soared, with the reviewer suggesting that proximity to the incoming president could expedite regulatory approval for autonomous driving technology, which is presented as Tesla's primary focus over affordable EVs. The potential axing of EV tax credits is also discussed, with the reviewer speculating it could benefit manufacturers with less EV investment, while potentially hurting EV-focused rivals more, though Tesla's unique position might mitigate this. The overall outlook for the traditional auto market is pessimistic, with forecasts for flat or modest growth and continued economic volatility. less
Mazda Teases All-New 2026 CX-5 Crossover: New Engine and Hybrid?
Mazda is teasing significant updates for the next-generation CX-5, slated for the 2026-2027 model years. The most notable changes include the introduc... moretion of a new 'Skyactiv-Z' engine, which promises improved efficiency and performance through Lambda 1 combustion, and the integration of hybrid technology, potentially utilizing Toyota's system initially. While a spy shot of a potential CX-5 was shown, its resemblance to the outgoing Hyundai Santa Fe and the distinct Arata concept design language leave its final appearance uncertain. Mazda aims to simplify its trim structure to just three grades and achieve 6% cost efficiency on existing parts for the new CX-5. The company is also developing a rotary engine for emissions compliance and is exploring a BEV-dedicated platform, though its primary focus remains on hybrid technology for mid-to-small sized vehicles in the near future. Financially, Mazda reported a significant drop in operating profit due to high industry incentives in North America and accounting measures related to currency fluctuations, despite strong sales volume in the US. The reviewer suggests keeping CX-5 prices stable to ensure success and is open to a potential delay in the CX-5's launch if it means incorporating the new powertrain technologies. less
Are Toyota Buyers Defecting to Mazda? Mazda Sales Are Exploding
This video provides a comprehensive overview of October US auto sales, highlighting a significant shift in market dynamics. While Toyota faces a downt... moreurn attributed to production issues and recalls affecting models like the Grand Highlander and TX, other manufacturers are experiencing substantial growth. Mazda emerges as the standout performer, on pace to shatter sales records with a remarkable 58% increase in October, driven by strong sales across its SUV lineup, including the CX-50, CX-5, and CX-30. Hyundai and Kia also show robust performance, particularly in their electrified offerings. Honda's sales are mixed, with the Honda brand showing steady growth while Acura struggles. Subaru maintains a consistent upward trend, with the Crosstrek leading sales. The review critically examines specific models, questioning Mazda's CX-70 marketing strategy and praising the potential of upcoming Subaru hybrids. Overall, the analysis suggests a strong consumer preference for SUVs and electrified vehicles, with Mazda capitalizing effectively on this trend. less
2025 Honda Civic Si Review: Should Enthusiasts Buy the Hybrid Civic Instead?
The 2025 Honda Civic Si receives a mid-cycle refresh, focusing on enhanced rigidity, revised suspension, and updated interior tech like Google built-i... moren. While the exterior sees minor tweaks, the core enthusiast appeal remains with its exclusive manual transmission and engaging driving dynamics. However, the persistent rev hang, particularly when shifting quickly, is a notable drawback for those seeking maximum performance. Real-world fuel economy tests revealed a disappointing 27.3 MPG in mixed city driving, significantly lower than expected and raising questions about its value proposition against the similarly priced Civic Hybrid. The reviewer found the hybrid to be faster, more fuel-efficient, and less punishing for aggressive driving, suggesting it might appeal to a broader audience, including family-oriented enthusiasts. Despite its flaws, the Si's precise gearbox, supportive seats, and overall solid feel are praised, making it a refined, albeit less practical, choice for dedicated manual enthusiasts. less
Subaru's New Hybrid Announced! Does It Beat Toyota and Honda Hybrids?
Subaru is finally introducing its next-generation hybrid system, set to debut in the Japanese market Crosstrek in December 2024. This new system pairs... more a 2.5-liter horizontally-opposed engine with a series-parallel hybrid setup, aiming for a balance of driving enjoyment and environmental performance. Key highlights include Subaru's standard Symmetrical AWD, a significant improvement in fuel efficiency (estimated 20% over the current e-Boxer mild-hybrid), and a projected cruising range exceeding 1,000 km (over 600 miles). The system features two motors, with the traction motor capable of 88kW output, and a combined system output is anticipated to be over 200 horsepower. While the reviewer notes it may be slightly slower and less fuel-efficient than Toyota and Honda's established hybrid systems, Subaru's offering is expected to provide superior driving dynamics, a lower center of gravity, and better off-road capability due to its mechanical AWD. The system is also slated for the Forester by the end of 2026 in North America. The reviewer expresses excitement for the improved power and fuel economy, addressing a common criticism of Subaru's typically underpowered engines, but cautions that official EPA figures are still pending. less
The 2026 Lexus ES Has Been Leaked?! Full Breakdown
The 2026 Lexus ES appears to be receiving a significant refresh rather than a full redesign, based on leaked information primarily from the Chinese ma... morerket. While the exterior sees subtle updates to headlights, grille design, and taillights, the most substantial changes are anticipated for the interior. The cabin will adopt a larger 14-inch touchscreen, mirroring other Lexus models like the RX and NX, which unfortunately leads to the removal of physical climate controls and the highly praised combination volume/tuning knob. The shifter also appears to be simplified. The reviewer expresses disappointment with these interior changes, viewing them as a step backward in functionality and user experience, despite the addition of a digital instrument cluster. On the powertrain front, the V6 is likely being discontinued, with the ES 350h, sharing its hybrid system with the Camry, becoming a prominent option, now offering AWD. While the reviewer acknowledges the efficiency and refinement of the hybrid system, they lament the potential loss of a high-performance option, suggesting that a more powerful hybrid or fully electric variant would be desirable for a luxury sedan. Overall, the refresh is perceived as a 'side grade' with both pros and cons, leaving the reviewer hoping for more substantial advancements. less
Subaru's New Hybrids Are Coming: Crosstrek and Forester First Up
Subaru is finally set to introduce strong hybrid powertrains, addressing key weaknesses in its current lineup, namely power and fuel economy. While th... moree brand has historically lagged in electrification, this new system, co-developed with Toyota, promises significant improvements. The hybrid setup will feature a 2.5L boxer engine paired with an 88kW electric motor, aiming for over 200 horsepower combined, a substantial upgrade from current offerings. The reviewer highlights that this system will retain Subaru's signature mechanical all-wheel-drive, a choice that might slightly impact peak efficiency but preserves the brand's core identity. Initial performance estimates suggest a 0-60 mph time around 9.7 seconds, which, while better than the mild-hybrid e-Boxer, is still considered slow compared to competitors like the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid. The reviewer expresses excitement for the potential for nearly 600 miles of range due to a larger 17-gallon fuel tank. However, a significant concern is the delayed rollout in North America, with production for the US not expected until around 2026, despite Japanese market availability sooner. The reviewer questions Subaru's pace, given strong market demand for hybrids, but acknowledges the brand's high customer loyalty. less
I Went to Nissan's HQ and Got the Scoop on Their Much-Needed Hybrids
The reviewer attended Nissan's 'Fast Forward' event at their HQ, revealing an upcoming product roadmap heavily focused on electrificati... moreon. Key announcements include the 2025 Rogue Plug-in Hybrid, utilizing Mitsubishi's Outlander PHEV powertrain, expected to offer around 45 miles of electric range and over 300 horsepower, positioning it as a strong competitor to the RAV4 Prime. E-power, Nissan's series-hybrid technology, is finally slated for North America in fiscal year 2026, promising improved efficiency and cost parity with ICE vehicles. A new Leaf-based EV, inspired by the Chill-Out concept, is also anticipated for fiscal year 2024, with more premium EVs and potential Infiniti EVs to follow in 2027. Solid-state batteries are targeted for the GTR by fiscal year 2028. While the reviewer expresses excitement for Nissan's future, particularly the E-power system and the Rogue PHEV, they note the long wait times for these technologies and express concern over Infiniti's uncertain future. less
This Kia is Better Than Most Luxury Cars… Family Review of Kia's EV9 SUV
The Kia EV9 GT-Line is presented as a compelling, albeit expensive, flagship electric SUV that rivals luxury offerings. The reviewer highlights its sp... moreaciousness, comfortable ride, and premium interior features, including massaging seats and a sophisticated design. Performance is noted as strong, with ample power for a family hauler. However, the high price point, starting at $78,000 and topping out around $75,000 with discounts, is a significant hurdle, especially for a Kia. While the reviewer praises its technology, range (estimated 270-300 miles city), and fast charging capabilities, they suggest that for the price, luxury badge competitors like Genesis or even traditional V8 SUVs might be considered. The reviewer also points out minor drawbacks like the steering wheel obscuring the climate screen and the limited utility of the second-row captain's chairs with ottomans for families with young children. Despite these points, the overall sentiment is positive, with the EV9 being called the "best Kia ever made" and a vehicle the reviewer would consider as a main car, provided discounts and EV tax credits are leveraged. less
Will Tesla's Robotaxi Save or Self-Destruct the Electric Automaker?
The reviewer expresses significant skepticism regarding Tesla's Robotaxi and Cybercab unveiling, deeming the event "light on details, heavy ... moreon hype." While acknowledging the potential of autonomous driving to reclaim personal time, the core criticism centers on the lack of human controls (steering wheel, pedals) in the Cybercab and RoboVan, which the reviewer believes severely limits their practicality and desirability for most consumers. Concerns are raised about safety, particularly in adverse weather conditions, due to Tesla's reliance solely on cameras and the absence of LiDAR. The reviewer also questions the economic viability and the feasibility of Elon Musk's timelines, especially for achieving hands-free, eyes-free FSD by 2025. The Cybercab's two-seat configuration and coupe design are seen as impractical for a taxi service, contrasting with more functional minivan-style vehicles. Overall, the presentation is viewed as a "one-trick pony" that may not succeed due to its limitations, with a preference for the continued relevance of the Model 3 and Model Y. less
Where Are The Rest Of Japan’s Hybrids? America Is Waiting
The video critically examines the lagging hybrid strategies of Japanese automakers like Mazda, Nissan, Mitsubishi, and Subaru in the US market, contra... moresting them with the overwhelming success of Toyota and Honda. While Toyota and Honda are maximizing profits with their extensive hybrid lineups, the other Japanese brands are criticized for their limited or non-existent hybrid offerings in America. Mazda is noted for its upcoming CX-50 hybrid, which will utilize Toyota's Rav4 powertrain, and its potential for future strong hybrids. Nissan's e-power hybrid system, lauded in other markets, is notably absent in the US, with a projected arrival only in fiscal year 2026. Mitsubishi's Outlander PHEV is receiving updates but its US availability remains uncertain. Subaru is developing a Forester hybrid with Toyota's technology, expected by late 2025. The reviewer expresses frustration over the slow pace and lack of commitment from these manufacturers to bring competitive hybrid options to the US, highlighting a significant missed opportunity in a market increasingly favoring fuel efficiency. less
2025 Toyota Rav4 Announced: Every Update and Should You Wait for 2026?
The 2025 Toyota Rav4 receives minor updates, with the primary focus being the discontinuation of the Adventure and TRD Off-Road trims and a slight pri... morece increase across the lineup. Hybrid models continue with standard Electronic All-Wheel Drive and a net combined 219 horsepower, while gas models offer FWD, AWD, or Torque Vectoring AWD. Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 and the current audio multimedia system carry over. The reviewer strongly advises waiting for the next-generation Rav4, expected around 2026, which is anticipated to be fully hybrid and built on Toyota's new e-TNGA platform with the ARNE software system, promising significant improvements in performance, efficiency, and user experience. The current generation's non-hybrid models are likely in their final year, with the next generation expected to be exclusively hybrid. The review also touches upon the Lexus LX 700h, highlighting its new hybrid powertrain and off-road capabilities. less