Out of Spec Reviews

Out of Spec Reviews

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Out of Spec Reviews is a dedicated automotive channel that explores the world of electric vehicles and modern motoring with a passion for all things cars. The channel delves into comprehensive reviews and practical tests, examining everything from budget-friendly EVs to high-performance electric trucks.

With a focus on real-world performance and cost analysis, Out of Spec Reviews provides insightful content for enthusiasts and prospective EV buyers alike. Their investigations into factors like cold-weather operation, charging costs, and towing capabilities offer a unique perspective on the evolving automotive landscape.

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Showing 24 of 929 total titles. Page 14 of 39.

Tesla FSD (Supervised) Has Improved Massively! Join Us For A Drive with v12.3.6

Tesla FSD (Supervised) Has Improved Massively! Join Us For A Drive with v12.3.6

The latest Tesla FSD (Supervised) v12.3.6 demonstrates significant improvements, particularly in its ability to handle complex urban environments. The... system's neural net-based approach, trained on real-world driving footage, allows for more naturalistic decision-making, moving away from rigid logic. First-time user Danny was impressed by the smoothness and human-like driving, noting it felt like a regular driver. The system adeptly navigated intersections, turns, and even unexpected obstacles like stalled cars. However, minor issues like occasional indecision, slightly early braking, and a tendency to hug the center of the lane were observed. While the system is far more comfortable and capable than previous versions, the reviewers still highlight the need for driver vigilance and the potential for system malfunctions, though the takeover mechanism is quick and intuitive. The consensus is that FSD v12.3.6 is a substantial leap forward, offering a glimpse into the future of autonomous driving, though not yet at a level where a driver can fully disengage. less
I Drive The Mustang Mach-E Rally For The First Time! Full Tour Of Upgrades + Fun On & Off Road

I Drive The Mustang Mach-E Rally For The First Time! Full Tour Of Upgrades + Fun On & Off Road

The Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally is presented as the "spicy one" and the "one to buy" for enthusiasts, offering a significant departu... re from standard Mach-E models. The vehicle boasts a 1-inch lift, rally-specific wheels with Brembo brakes, revised aero, and unique graphics. Its powertrain mirrors the GT's 480 hp and 700 lb-ft of torque, enabling a 3.4-second 0-60 mph time, even outperforming the Model Y Performance. While thermals are improved over the GT, they can still be an issue under extreme use. The suspension, though using the GT's architecture, features softer spring rates (20% front, 25% rear) and adaptive MagnaRide dampers with a dedicated "Rally Sport" mode. Reviewers found the car exceptionally fun and engaging off-road, praising its ability to slide and be controlled with throttle and brake inputs, even with electronic aids partially active. On-road, the ride is comfortable, though the thin Michelin CrossClimate 2 tires offer less grip and can lead to a "marshmallow" feel and the reintroduction of Mach-E "twerk" in softer modes. Key criticisms include the lack of a glass roof, the inability to customize drive modes (requiring selection of pre-set modes), and the continued thermal limitations. Despite these points, the Mach-E Rally is hailed as the first Mach-E the reviewer genuinely enjoys driving, offering a compelling, albeit expensive, package for those seeking a fun, capable, and unique electric vehicle. less
Ford Updated The Mustang Mach-E! My 2024 Refresh First Drive With Improvements & Surprising Misses

Ford Updated The Mustang Mach-E! My 2024 Refresh First Drive With Improvements & Surprising Misses

The 2024 Ford Mustang Mach-E refresh brings notable improvements, particularly in its powertrain and thermal management. The new in-house designed rea... r motor offers significantly higher thermal capacity, eliminating previous power limitations and enabling sustained performance, especially in the GT trim. Charging performance has also seen a substantial boost, now considered acceptable with a 10-80% time of 36 minutes, a 20% improvement. However, the vehicle still misses key features expected in 2024, such as real-time kilowatt charging speed display on the car's screen and a global state-of-charge limit setting. While the driving dynamics remain largely the same, the GT Performance trim offers impressive straight-line acceleration, now achieving 0-60 mph in 3.3 seconds. Despite these advancements, the reviewer notes that the core of the vehicle still feels like a first-generation product, with lingering software lag and a less-than-ideal one-pedal driving experience. The exterior styling is largely unchanged, with minor package updates. Overall, the refresh makes the Mach-E more competitive, but it falls short of a complete overhaul, leaving room for further refinement. less
I Drive The New Tesla Model 3 Performance For The First Time! Power, Handling, Braking, & Daily Use

I Drive The New Tesla Model 3 Performance For The First Time! Power, Handling, Braking, & Daily Use

The new Tesla Model 3 Performance, referred to as the 'Highland' refresh, delivers a compelling blend of comfort and sportiness, addressing ... key criticisms of its predecessor. Reviewers highlight its significantly improved ride quality, thanks to new adaptive dampers, making it an exceptional daily driver that is quieter and more refined. While the acceleration is potent and sustains well at higher speeds, surpassing previous generations, the car is noted to be less hardcore than some enthusiasts might desire, with a slight softness in the suspension that could be firmed up further. The braking performance is deemed good for general enthusiast driving, and the car offers a unique ability to adjust handling characteristics, including a track mode. Despite a desire for an even more extreme 'Ludicrous' version, the current Performance trim is lauded as the best single-vehicle solution for the money, offering impressive capabilities for both daily use and spirited driving, especially when considering its price point and potential tax credits. less
Electric Volvo Trucks & Construction Equipment! Full Tour Of EVs, Energy Storage, & Charging

Electric Volvo Trucks & Construction Equipment! Full Tour Of EVs, Energy Storage, & Charging

This video provides an in-depth look at Volvo's electric heavy-duty truck and construction equipment offerings, presented by Kyle Conner. The Vol... vo VNR Electric truck, while popular and logging millions of miles, is highlighted as a converted combustion platform rather than a ground-up EV design. Its high initial cost, nearly half a million dollars, is significantly offset by substantial government incentives, particularly in California and New York. The truck offers various battery pack configurations, with a maximum usable capacity of 460 kWh, and supports high-speed DC charging up to 250 kW. While praised for its charging performance, it's noted that the VNR is primarily suited for regional haul and day-cab operations, not long-haul trucking, which remains a challenge for current battery technology. The review also explores Volvo's electric construction equipment, showcasing portable battery storage solutions and electric excavators and loaders. These machines offer significant operating cost reductions (70-80% lower) and are proving effective in applications where diesel infrastructure is impractical. The industry is seen as moving through stages of acceptance, with electric construction equipment now proving its capability and charging solutions becoming more robust, though higher initial costs remain a factor. less
New ABB 400kW All-In-One DC Fast Charger A400 HPC Full Tour Software Cables Hardware

New ABB 400kW All-In-One DC Fast Charger A400 HPC Full Tour Software Cables Hardware

This video provides an in-depth tour of ABB's new A400 400kW All-in-One DC Fast Charger, highlighting its advancements in user experience, reliab... ility, and hardware. The reviewer is particularly impressed with the significantly improved software interface, described as a 'night and day shift' from previous ABB products, featuring clear graphics and intuitive operation. Key hardware innovations include a unique passively cooled connector system that liquid-cools the pins without cooling the cable itself, offering high current capacity (600A peak, 500A continuous) with no maintenance required. The modular design, dual controllers (one for the charger, one for the Android-based HMI), and efficient silicon carbide power modules contribute to a claimed system efficiency of 96.5%. ABB emphasizes a user-centric approach, aiming to boost session success rates to over 99% by addressing pain points in payment authorization and providing clear user feedback, including charging speed derating explanations. While the reviewer notes the competition, ABB's focus on reliability, ease of service, and a superior user interface positions the A400 as a significant step forward in the high-power charging market. less
Electric Fleet Vehicle Expo Full Tour! All Of The EVs / Chargers At ACT 2024

Electric Fleet Vehicle Expo Full Tour! All Of The EVs / Chargers At ACT 2024

This video provides an extensive tour of the ACT Expo 2024, showcasing a wide array of electric and alternative fuel vehicles, charging solutions, and... fleet technologies. The hosts highlight numerous companies, from established players like Tesla and Freightliner to emerging innovators in battery storage, hydrogen fuel cells, and advanced charging hardware. Key takeaways include the significant push towards MCS (Megawatt Charging System) standards for heavy-duty vehicles, the ongoing debate and development in hydrogen applications for trucking, and the increasing availability of robust charging infrastructure. While the video covers a vast amount of ground, it emphasizes the rapid evolution and diversification of clean transportation solutions for commercial fleets, noting that battery-electric is a significant part, but not the sole future, of decarbonization efforts. less
I Drive The Silverado EV RST For The First Time! Big Battery Hardcore Smackdown To Electric Trucks

I Drive The Silverado EV RST For The First Time! Big Battery Hardcore Smackdown To Electric Trucks

The Chevrolet Silverado EV RST is presented as the ultimate electric pickup for consumers, particularly those focused on towing and long-distance trav... el. The review highlights its massive 200+ kWh battery, enabling class-leading range and impressive 380 kW peak charging speeds, surpassing competitors like the Cybertruck. The RST trim boasts premium features such as 24-inch wheels, adaptive dampers, air suspension, and Super Cruise with trailering capabilities. Key advantages include its exceptional towing stability and the innovative midgate feature, which extends cargo capacity to 10 feet 10 inches. However, the review notes significant drawbacks: the interior materials, despite being better than the work truck variants, still exhibit rattles and a lack of premium feel for a $100,000 vehicle. Payload capacity is also a concern, limiting its utility when fully loaded for towing. The reviewer expresses disappointment with the rear charging port location and the absence of features like the transparent trailer view found on other GM EVs. While the driving dynamics are praised, especially the rear-wheel steering for maneuverability, the overall build quality and some software limitations (like the sound system's EQ and lack of persistent cooled seat memory) detract from the experience. less
Tesla Semi: My First Look & Ride In This Awesome Electric Truck

Tesla Semi: My First Look & Ride In This Awesome Electric Truck

The Tesla Semi makes a striking first impression, offering a glimpse into the future of long-haul trucking. While Tesla remains tight-lipped on many t... echnical specifications, the reviewers highlight the "300-mile" and "500-mile" range configurations, estimating a substantial battery capacity. The vehicle boasts a ground-up electric design, featuring a central driving position, a spacious and quiet cabin (save for the electric power steering at low speeds), and impressive build quality that surpasses even the Cybertruck. The ride experience is described as exceptionally smooth due to the full air suspension and independent front suspension, contributing to a surprisingly agile turning radius. Performance during initial low-speed rides was brisk, with the truck lifting its rear during acceleration and tucking down during regeneration. A key takeaway is the intuitive, Tesla-familiar software interface, though the lack of integrated route planning for high-power charging is a noted drawback. The reviewers express significant excitement about the potential of the "Semi 2.0" and the overall impact of the Semi on the trucking industry, despite the limited information available on this Gen 1 model. less
Charging Solution For 10 to 1000+ EVs! Star Charge Kicks Off ACT 2024 With Their Commercial Lineup

Charging Solution For 10 to 1000+ EVs! Star Charge Kicks Off ACT 2024 With Their Commercial Lineup

This video provides an in-depth look at Star Charge's commercial EV charging solutions showcased at ACT Expo 2024. The reviewer highlights the co... mpany's extensive product portfolio, ranging from AC chargers (32 to 80 amps, up to 19.2 kW) to high-power DC charging systems, including split systems with up to 12 outputs and all-in-one units up to 320 kW. Key features emphasized include flexible cable management, support for emerging standards like NACS, and NEVI compliance. The review also touches upon Star Charge's energy storage solutions and their integration capabilities. A significant portion is dedicated to their OEM partnerships, where Star Charge offers white-labeling and custom hardware/software solutions. The reviewer notes the company's strong R&D focus, with 25% of its workforce dedicated to engineering, and their commitment to North American operations for data security. While the products are primarily for fleet and commercial use, the video offers valuable insight into the infrastructure supporting the EV ecosystem. less
BMW i5 Standard Driver Assistance Test! You're Going To Want To Pay Up For The Full System

BMW i5 Standard Driver Assistance Test! You're Going To Want To Pay Up For The Full System

The BMW i5 eDrive40's standard driver assistance system was put to the test on the challenging Hogback course. While the system performed admirab... ly in many situations, demonstrating smooth operation and competent lane centering, it exhibited notable limitations. The reviewers highlighted its tendency to disengage unexpectedly, particularly in complex corners or challenging lighting conditions like sun glare, leading to significant point deductions. Unlike the more advanced 'Pro' package, this base system lacks automatic lane changes and hands-free eye tracking. Despite these shortcomings, the reviewers found the base system to be a good starting point, performing better than basic Tesla Autopilot in terms of smoothness and fewer phantom braking incidents. However, they strongly suggest opting for the more expensive 'Driver Assistance Pro' package for a more robust and confident experience, especially given the vehicle's premium price point. less
GM Launches Home Energy Ecosystem! Full Tour - EV Charging, Bidirectional Power, & Battery Storage

GM Launches Home Energy Ecosystem! Full Tour - EV Charging, Bidirectional Power, & Battery Storage

GM has officially entered the home energy ecosystem market with its bidirectional charging and battery storage solutions, showcased using the Silverad... o EV RST. The system allows the electric truck to power a substantial home during an outage, demonstrating significant exportable power capabilities. While the initial setup, including the PowerShift charger and inverter, is priced around $7,300 before installation (potentially reaching $20,000+ all-in), GM acknowledges the high cost and complexity of this first-generation product. The system's current limitation is its operation solely during grid outages, with future iterations promising dynamic power sharing and grid integration. The reviewer highlights the potential of this technology but emphasizes that it's currently best suited for 'energy enthusiasts' due to its cost and early-stage functionality. The integration of stationary battery storage is seen as crucial for the system's overall value proposition, offering a more complete ecosystem experience. less
Police Chase Using Chevy Blazer EV PPVs Full Tour, First Drive, & Ripping This Electric Police Car

Police Chase Using Chevy Blazer EV PPVs Full Tour, First Drive, & Ripping This Electric Police Car

The Chevrolet Blazer EV PPV presents a compelling electric alternative for law enforcement, boasting impressive power with over 550 horsepower and enh... anced braking and suspension systems. The reviewer highlights the vehicle's aggressive styling and the significant upgrade of offering the larger 105 kWh battery with AWD, a combination not available on the standard consumer model. Positives include the upgraded cooling for sustained performance and the inclusion of a manual charge port. However, the review notes a somewhat soft launch, a slower steering ratio typical of GM, and a tendency towards understeer, which, while predictable and safe for police use, may not satisfy performance enthusiasts. The reviewer also points out the dim infotainment screen and the lack of advanced driver-assistance features in the PPV variant. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Blazer EV PPV is seen as a capable, lower-maintenance, and lower-emission successor to traditional police vehicles, with potential for widespread adoption. less
Mercedes EQE SUV 350+ RWD Range Test! How Far It Goes At 70-MPH On The Highway

Mercedes EQE SUV 350+ RWD Range Test! How Far It Goes At 70-MPH On The Highway

The Mercedes EQE 350+ RWD SUV delivers a comfortable and quiet highway driving experience, bolstered by impressive driver assistance features, includi... ng smooth automatic lane changes. However, the reviewer notes that for its nearly $90,000 price point, certain amenities like massaging seats and a heads-up display are notably absent. The vehicle's design language, while subjective, is described as "bulbous and weird." In the 70 mph highway range test, conducted in optimal conditions, the EQE 350+ achieved 282 miles with an average efficiency of just under 3 miles per kWh (338 Wh/mile). This result slightly exceeded the EPA estimate but fell short of a previous EQE SUV 500 4MATIC test, attributed primarily to the non-aero AMG wheels on this model. While the driver assistance is praised, occasional quirks like attempted lane changes into the shoulder were noted, requiring driver intervention. Overall, it's deemed a capable, comfortable highway cruiser, but its value proposition is questioned given the missing features at its price. less
The Fastest Road Tripping EV I've Ever Tested! Updated Porsche Taycan Sport Turismo 10% Challenge

The Fastest Road Tripping EV I've Ever Tested! Updated Porsche Taycan Sport Turismo 10% Challenge

The updated Porsche Taycan Sport Turismo 4S has been put through its paces in a rigorous 10% road tripping challenge, simulating a 15-minute charge at... 80 mph. The reviewer hails it as the fastest road-tripping EV tested to date, praising its exceptional charging performance, which allows it to add significant range in a short period. The new battery pack offers increased usable capacity, and the charging curve is described as a "charging plateau" holding high power levels for an extended duration. Despite being the Sport Turismo (wagon) variant, which is typically less efficient than the sedan, it achieved an impressive 158 miles in the test. While the reviewer notes its efficiency isn't class-leading compared to the sedan or potentially the Lucid Air, the Taycan's charging speed compensates significantly, making it a top contender for real-world road trips. The reviewer also highlights the improved driver assistance and overall comfort, though acknowledges the high cost and suggests used Taycans offer great value. The primary drawback mentioned is Porsche's historical reluctance with over-the-air updates. less
New Porsche Taycan 70-MPH Highway Range Test! Larger Battery, More Efficient Motor, & Crazy Charging

New Porsche Taycan 70-MPH Highway Range Test! Larger Battery, More Efficient Motor, & Crazy Charging

The refreshed 2025 Porsche Taycan 4S Sport Turismo delivers impressive performance and charging capabilities, but its highway range falls slightly sho... rt of expectations. While the larger 97 kWh usable battery and more efficient motors are notable upgrades, the reviewer achieved a real-world highway range of approximately 311 miles (500 km) at 70 mph. This figure, while substantial, was considered slightly less than hoped for, especially compared to the sedan variant which is expected to be more efficient. The reviewer highlights the Taycan's exceptional charging speed, comfortable high-speed cruising ability (up to 160 mph), and the advanced Porsche Active Ride suspension as key strengths. However, the efficiency of the Sport Turismo variant on larger wheels was noted as a compromise. Despite the range not being class-leading, the reviewer concludes that for most users, the range is sufficient, and the overall refinement and performance make it a compelling, albeit expensive, option. less
Rivian Restored The Most Incredible Old Theater

Rivian Restored The Most Incredible Old Theater

This video offers an in-depth tour of the Rivian South Coast Theater in Laguna Beach, a meticulously restored historic building. The reviewer highligh... ts Rivian's adaptive reuse strategy, emphasizing how the space blends modern functionality with the original 1935 architecture. Key features include a coffee shop, a gear shop showcasing local art and surfboards, and the main theater area with a large LED screen for film screenings and events. The reviewer praises the attention to detail, such as the incorporation of local art, the ocean-themed seating, and the preservation of original elements like the star light fixture. The space is presented as a versatile hub for community, events, and showcasing Rivian vehicles, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and local partnerships. The reviewer expresses a strong positive sentiment towards the space, finding it cozy, authentic, and a successful restoration of the original theater's prime. less
Left Stranded In Our Electric Car! Here's How We Survived

Left Stranded In Our Electric Car! Here's How We Survived

This video documents an unexpected roadside situation where the hosts found themselves stranded in Sterling, Colorado, due to a ChargePoint Express Pl... us charger exhibiting an interoperability bug with their Audi e-tron. Despite the charger working for a Nissan Ariya, the e-tron failed to initiate charging, leaving the hosts with a critical low state of charge and all DC fast chargers out of range. The hosts detailed their strategy to conserve energy by driving slowly on backroads, optimizing aerodynamics, and utilizing the car's range mode to limp to an Electrify America station 36 miles away. They successfully reached the charger with 1% battery remaining and confirmed the issue was indeed with the ChargePoint hardware, as the e-tron charged normally at the EA station. The video highlights the importance of remaining calm, exploring alternative charging solutions, and the ongoing challenges in EV charging interoperability, even in 2024. less
Cybertruck Update: Improved Turning Circle, Frunk Safety, Off-Road Modes, and More

Cybertruck Update: Improved Turning Circle, Frunk Safety, Off-Road Modes, and More

This video details the significant 2024.14.3 software update for the Tesla Cybertruck, focusing on new features and improvements. The reviewer highlig... hts the addition of off-road modes, including Overland and Baja, with enhanced traction and handling. A key feature is the front locking differential, now functional and tested. The turning radius has seen a notable improvement of approximately 1.6 feet, with the option to disable rear steering. The update also introduces 'Cyber Tent Mode' for leveling the suspension for camping and improved frunk safety, demonstrated with a cucumber test showing better obstruction detection. Other additions include Audible and Spotify integration, speed camera chimes, a colorizer for wrapped trucks, and enhanced Sentry Mode recording previews. While the update brings many requested features, the reviewer notes the continued absence of Autopilot and Full Self-Driving capabilities, as well as the light bar, which were expected by some users. Overall, the update is seen as a positive step, improving functionality and user experience, though some areas like off-road screen customization could still be refined. less
Inside Toyota's Hydrogen Development Center! 1.2 Megawatt Dyno, Trigen Launch & Fuel Cell Generator

Inside Toyota's Hydrogen Development Center! 1.2 Megawatt Dyno, Trigen Launch & Fuel Cell Generator

This video provides an in-depth look at Toyota's multifaceted approach to renewable energy, focusing heavily on their hydrogen development initia... tives. The reviewer highlights the TriGen facility at the Port of Long Beach, which generates hydrogen, electricity, and water, showcasing a significant step towards port electrification. The tour of Toyota's Hydrogen HQ (H2 HQ) reveals advanced development tools like a 1.2-megawatt dynamometer and detailed insights into fuel cell technology, including the Mirai's Gen 1 and Gen 2 systems and their scalable applications. The review touches upon Toyota's diverse strategy, acknowledging the limitations of their bZ4X EV while emphasizing their continued commitment to hybrids and hydrogen. The heavy-duty truck powertrain kit, capable of 350-450 miles range with 60kg of hydrogen, is presented as a key offering for electrifying commercial fleets. While the reviewer expresses a preference for EVs in the light-duty segment due to infrastructure, the potential of hydrogen for heavy-duty applications and specialized uses like mobile power generation is clearly demonstrated. The video effectively showcases Toyota's dedication to exploring various clean energy solutions beyond a singular focus on battery electric vehicles. less
Dumping PHEV For Full Electric! Our Friends Go Big With Kia EV9 - Great Lease Deal & Full Tour

Dumping PHEV For Full Electric! Our Friends Go Big With Kia EV9 - Great Lease Deal & Full Tour

The reviewer and their friend Nick discuss Nick's transition from a BMW X5 45e PHEV to a new Kia EV9 GT-Line. The primary focus is on the surpris... ingly attractive lease deal Nick secured, which effectively halved his previous BMW payment and even resulted in him walking away with cash. The EV9 GT-Line is praised for its spacious interior, premium feel that rivals the BMW, and practical features suitable for a growing family, including ample passenger and cargo space. While the reviewer notes some minor drawbacks like the steering wheel not extending far enough and the small frunk, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, especially regarding the value proposition and the EV9's family-hauling capabilities. The discussion also touches on the complexities and frustrations of obtaining numbers from Rivian, contrasting it with the transparent experience at Fort Collins Kia. less
New Tesla Model 3 Long Range 10% Road Trip EV Challenge: How Far You Can Go Between Chargers

New Tesla Model 3 Long Range 10% Road Trip EV Challenge: How Far You Can Go Between Chargers

The reviewer puts the new Tesla Model 3 Refresh (Highland) Dual Motor Long Range through its paces in a 10% road trip challenge, focusing on charging ... speed and efficiency. While praising the car's quiet ride, high quality, and overall driving dynamics, calling it an "ultimate form of mindless transportation," the reviewer expresses significant disappointment with its charging performance. The car failed to reach expected peak charging speeds, tapering off quickly and performing worse than previous generation Model 3s and even some competitors. Despite this, the Model 3 achieved an "excellent" 100 miles in the 10% challenge, indicating strong road-tripping capability, though the reviewer questions if the rear-wheel-drive version might offer better value given the charging limitations. The reviewer hopes Tesla prioritizes charging speed improvements in future iterations. less
My Friend Bought A Nissan Ariya Even Though I Advised Against It! Turns Out, She Was Right

My Friend Bought A Nissan Ariya Even Though I Advised Against It! Turns Out, She Was Right

This video follows a friend's purchase of a Nissan Ariya AWD, despite the host's initial reservations. The reviewer highlights that the Ariy... a, in its 'Engage Plus' trim with the larger battery, offers a surprisingly premium experience for its price point, especially considering the significant lease incentives available in Colorado. Key positives include its comfortable ride, refined interior materials, ambient lighting, and surprisingly capable performance with torque vectoring, even surprising the host with its apparent lane-centering capabilities, a feature typically found on higher trims. The reviewer also notes the Ariya's good driving dynamics and quiet cabin. However, the vehicle is criticized for its lack of full one-pedal driving (referred to as 'E-Pedal' or 'B mode'), slower DC fast charging speeds compared to some competitors, and a somewhat confusing trim level structure. The owner's experience with public charging during a snowstorm also highlighted potential reliability issues with charging infrastructure and the Ariya's sometimes stubborn charger release mechanism. Despite these drawbacks, the owner is very pleased with her purchase, especially given the attractive $250/month lease deal, making it a compelling option for those prioritizing comfort and features over cutting-edge charging tech. less
I Drive Acura's New Electric SUV For The First Time! ZDX Type S Full Tour, Charging, & Road Test

I Drive Acura's New Electric SUV For The First Time! ZDX Type S Full Tour, Charging, & Road Test

The Acura ZDX Type S offers a compelling package with striking design and a comfortable, spacious interior, particularly noted for its impressive rear... -seat legroom. The Bang & Olufsen sound system and the overall styling are highlights. However, the vehicle's shared platform with GM's Ultium vehicles brings both benefits and drawbacks. While it qualifies for tax credits and offers decent performance, the reviewer expresses significant disappointment with the perceived lack of genuine Acura engineering passion, citing the reliance on GM components and software. Key criticisms include the poor quality of the backup cameras, the confusing charging package options, and a surprisingly high curb weight of 6,000 lbs. The reviewer also notes a lack of refinement in materials, with some interior plastics feeling cheap and a squeaky door handle on a nearly new vehicle. The charging speed is considered subpar for 2024, with a slow 190 kW peak and a lengthy 42-minute charge from 20-80%. A major omission is the lack of standard lane centering on the base A-Spec model, a feature considered essential in 2024. Despite these flaws, the Type S offers strong acceleration and a comfortable ride thanks to its air suspension, though it doesn't quite match the quietness or premium feel of competitors like the Audi Q8 e-tron or Polestar 3. less