GT: Garage Talk

GT: Garage Talk

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GT: Garage Talk offers an in-depth look into the dynamic world of the automotive industry. This distributor provides viewers with exclusive access to the newest and most impressive vehicles, all from the comfort of their own devices. Whether you're passionate about the latest models or curious about automotive innovations, GT: Garage Talk brings the excitement of the showroom directly to you.

Specializing in automotive reviews and industry insights, GT: Garage Talk covers a wide spectrum of vehicles, from rugged trucks like the Toyota Tacoma Trailhunter to sophisticated SUVs such as the Mercedes AMG GLE 53 Coupe, and even practical yet luxurious minivans like the Toyota Sienna Platinum AWD. The channel delves into comparisons, first looks, and long-term test drives, making it an essential destination for car enthusiasts and industry followers alike.

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Showing 24 of 294 total titles. Page 2 of 13.

2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX-Prestige: The Perfect Kia?

2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX-Prestige: The Perfect Kia?

The 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid SX-Prestige is presented as a significant update, particularly with its refreshed exterior styling, including the new &qu... ot;star map lighting" and revised grille, bringing it in line with Kia's current design language. The interior also sees updates, though the dual-function climate/infotainment toggle screen is noted as a potential downside. The hybrid powertrain, with 232 horsepower, is praised for its smooth operation and adequate performance, especially in Sport mode, and it exceeds the EPA's estimated 35 MPG, with one driver achieving 38 MPG. The vehicle is lauded for its spaciousness, particularly the class-leading second-row legroom, and a comfortable ride that balances planted handling with a non-jarring experience. While the reviewer doesn't explicitly state a "perfect" verdict, the overall impression is highly positive, suggesting this hybrid SX-Prestige is the volume seller and the one to get, even over the plug-in hybrid variant for most buyers. less
2025 Toyota Sienna Platinum AWD Family Review with Child Seat Installation

2025 Toyota Sienna Platinum AWD Family Review with Child Seat Installation

The 2025 Toyota Sienna Platinum AWD is lauded as an exceptional family vehicle, earning accolades for its practicality and comfort. Reviewers highligh... t its spacious and versatile interior, featuring ample storage, a convenient built-in vacuum, a refrigerator box, and rear-seat entertainment screens, making it ideal for long journeys. The second-row captain's chairs with ottomans and reclining backs are particularly praised for adult comfort, though the lack of ventilation in this row is noted. While the third row offers decent space and LATCH points, it's acknowledged as being slightly narrow for three car seats and can have limited headroom depending on the seat's recline. The hybrid powertrain delivers impressive fuel economy, achieving around 30 MPG in testing despite heavy use of accessories. The reviewer praises the improved camera system for 2025, addressing a previous complaint. The vehicle's driving dynamics are described as smooth and comfortable, with minimal body roll due to its lower center of gravity compared to SUVs. The Platinum trim is considered a great value at $61,545, offering luxury amenities that rival much more expensive large SUVs. Key favorite features for families include the vacuum, rear-seat screens, reclining seats, storage, and the cooling box, with sliding doors being a significant bonus. less
2025 Toyota Sienna Platinum AWD: Skip the SUV, Get the Sienna!

2025 Toyota Sienna Platinum AWD: Skip the SUV, Get the Sienna!

The 2025 Toyota Sienna Platinum AWD is lauded as the "Family Vehicle of Texas" and "Minivan of Texas," impressing with its hybrid-... only powertrain delivering a consistent 35 MPG regardless of drivetrain. The reviewer highlights the Platinum trim's luxurious features, including heated/ventilated seats, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, and a premium JBL sound system. Particularly praised are the second-row captain's chairs with super long slide and ottoman, offering Lexus-like comfort, and the expansive, versatile interior space that surpasses even the Grand Highlander. Practicality is further enhanced by a built-in vacuum and a large pass-through storage area. Minor criticisms include the remote start's cumbersome activation and the infotainment screen's glare in direct sunlight. The 0-60 mph time of under 8 seconds is deemed respectable for its class. Overall, the Sienna is presented as a highly practical, comfortable, and feature-rich family hauler, making a strong case against SUVs. less
2025 Kia EV6 GT-Line Family Review with Child Seat Installation

2025 Kia EV6 GT-Line Family Review with Child Seat Installation

The 2025 Kia EV6 GT-Line receives a mid-cycle refresh, primarily focusing on exterior styling updates, including a redesigned front fascia and a reloc... ated charging port to the driver's side with a Tesla NACS connector. Inside, the cabin features a new corporate steering wheel and improved interior textures, though the reviewer expresses continued dissatisfaction with the dual-function climate and infotainment control strip, preferring physical buttons. The GT-Line offers good passenger and cargo space, making it a practical family vehicle, with easy installation of child safety seats. Key highlights include the blind-spot camera, ample storage (including felt-lined compartments), heated and ventilated front seats, and heated rear outboard seats. However, a notable omission is the lack of rear sunshades, a feature present in its Hyundai Ioniq 5 counterpart. The reviewer notes the ride is smooth, masking the vehicle's weight, and power delivery is as expected for an EV. Priced at $60,740 as tested, it's slightly more expensive than the comparable Ioniq 5, a difference attributed to features like heated rear seats and potentially manufacturing location. less
2025 Kia EV6 GT-Line: Much Needed Updates Make It That Much Better

2025 Kia EV6 GT-Line: Much Needed Updates Make It That Much Better

The 2025 Kia EV6 GT-Line receives a mid-cycle refresh, focusing on cosmetic updates and subtle improvements rather than major structural changes. The ... reviewer highlights the updated exterior styling, particularly the new lighting, and the improved interior, noting the dual 12.3-inch screens and the head-up display. A significant update is the addition of NACS (Tesla) charging port compatibility and its relocation for easier access. The reviewer praises the vehicle's quiet and comfortable ride, excellent sound deadening, and the performance from its dual-motor AWD system, achieving a 0-60 mph time of 4.65 seconds. However, criticisms include the lack of a rear wiper, the dual-function climate/infotainment control panel which is considered unintuitive, and the absence of rear sunshades, which are noted as a miss for family use compared to the Hyundai Ioniq 5. Despite a slight price premium over the Ioniq 5, the EV6 GT-Line is deemed a compelling and premium-feeling electric vehicle. less
2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ Family Review with Child Seat Installation

2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ Family Review with Child Seat Installation

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade iQ presents a compelling, albeit expensive, vision of electric luxury SUVs. Reviewers highlight its immense interior space,... particularly for families, with ample room in all three rows and impressive cargo capacity, including a substantial frunk. The advanced technology, including the expansive 55-inch OLED screen and rear-seat entertainment, is a major draw. However, the vehicle is not without its drawbacks. The ride quality, despite air springs and MagneRide, is noted as being compromised by the massive 24-inch wheels and the vehicle's considerable weight, leading to a somewhat "floaty" feel and a less refined experience than expected. Significant blind spots, exacerbated by federally mandated flat mirrors, are a recurring concern, requiring reliance on the sometimes-unimpressive blind-spot cameras. The manual sunshade for the panoramic roof is also a point of contention, especially in hot climates. While powerful and technologically advanced, the Escalade iQ's real-world range is estimated to be around 350 miles, falling short of its 460-mile rating. The price, starting at $130,090 and reaching $153,605 as tested, positions it as a premium offering with some notable compromises. less
2025 Cadillac Escalade iQ Luxury 2: Texas Road Trip Approved

2025 Cadillac Escalade iQ Luxury 2: Texas Road Trip Approved

The 2025 Cadillac Escalade iQ Luxury 2 presents a compelling, albeit compromised, vision of electric luxury. The reviewer highlights its impressive po... wer, with 0-60 times under 5 seconds in V-Max mode, and a comfortable, isolated ride thanks to its air suspension. The interior boasts a massive 55-inch display and a premium AKG sound system, though the use of synthetic leather in a vehicle of this price point is noted as a potential drawback. A significant concern is the immense blind spot created by the vehicle's weight and design, necessitating the use of large, mandatory blind-spot cameras. While the estimated 460-mile range is a strong point, the reviewer's real-world testing suggests a lower efficiency (1.6-1.7 miles/kWh) than Cadillac's claim, leading to a less optimistic range. The infotainment system's interface is described as clunky and not user-friendly, with a notable absence of Apple CarPlay. Despite its luxury appointments and long-range capability, the numerous compromises, particularly the visibility issues and software quirks, make it difficult for the reviewer to wholeheartedly recommend over competitors like the Range Rover Sport. less
2025 Kia Sorento Hybrid SX-Prestige Family Review with Child Seat Installation

2025 Kia Sorento Hybrid SX-Prestige Family Review with Child Seat Installation

The 2025 Kia Sorento Hybrid SX-Prestige offers a compelling package for families, blending practicality with a refreshed design. Reviewers highlight t... he updated exterior styling, which shares a resemblance with the Kia Carnival, and a largely familiar yet refined interior. Key interior upgrades include the dual 12.3-inch screens, though the touch-sensitive climate controls are criticized for being unintuitive and requiring too much attention. Positives include the comfortable, real leather seats with thoughtful stitching, ample storage solutions, and useful features like heated/ventilated front seats and built-in rear sunshades. The second row provides generous space for adults, and importantly, accommodates rear-facing child seats without compromising front-seat legroom. However, the third row is best suited for children due to limited legroom and headroom. Cargo space is adequate with the third row folded, offering a practical solution for hauling gear. While the ride is described as acceptable and average rather than luxurious, the hybrid powertrain delivers smooth transitions and respectable fuel efficiency, achieving around 30 MPG in mixed city driving, slightly below its EPA rating of 34 MPG combined. The hands-free power liftgate and advanced driver-assistance systems, including the blind-spot monitoring camera, are also noted as significant benefits. The main drawback identified is the lack of a head-up display, a surprising omission for a top-trim model priced at $49,130. less
2025 Kia Sorento Hybrid SX-Prestige: Better Than a Ford Explorer?

2025 Kia Sorento Hybrid SX-Prestige: Better Than a Ford Explorer?

The 2025 Kia Sorento Hybrid SX-Prestige is presented as a compelling three-row crossover option, particularly praised for its refined styling and inte... rior color choices, with the "Dust Blue" leather interior receiving high marks. The reviewer highlights the effectiveness of Kia's hybrid technology, noting the smooth integration of the electric and gasoline powertrains. While the fuel economy is rated at an EPA-estimated 34 MPG combined, real-world testing yielded around 30 MPG in mixed city driving. The vehicle's updated exterior design, borrowing cues from the Kia Carnival, is considered a strong improvement. However, the reviewer points out a significant drawback in the limited cargo space behind the third row, classifying it as a "third row in a pinch." Interior criticisms include the continued use of a dual-function touch screen for climate and audio controls, which is deemed unnecessarily complicated, and an abundance of gloss black trim prone to scratches. Performance is described as adequate for a commuter, with 0-60 mph times around 7.5-7.8 seconds, though it lacks the sportiness of other Sorento variants. The ride is comfortable, but road noise is more noticeable than in some luxury EVs. Despite its "tweener" size in the three-row segment, the Sorento Hybrid SX-Prestige is seen as a good value proposition at its price point, especially for those prioritizing fuel efficiency and a well-appointed interior over maximum cargo capacity. less
2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 Calligraphy Performance Family Review With Child Seat Installation

2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 Calligraphy Performance Family Review With Child Seat Installation

The Hyundai IONIQ 9 Calligraphy Performance is a spacious and luxurious three-row electric SUV that excels in interior packaging and comfort, particul... arly for its first four occupants with its "relaxation" seats featuring heating, ventilation, and massage. The reviewer highlights the abundant and versatile storage solutions throughout the cabin, making it a practical choice for families. While the exterior styling is described as futuristic and unique, the tapering roofline evokes a minivan aesthetic, which the reviewer finds slightly incongruous given the lack of sliding doors. The ride quality is praised for being smooth and composed, even on rough surfaces. The third row offers adequate space, though second-row comfort is clearly prioritized. The reviewer notes a real-world efficiency of 2.6 miles per kWh, falling short of the EPA's 311-mile estimate. Despite its many positive attributes, the reviewer's primary reservation is the absence of sliding doors, a feature they believe would significantly enhance its minivan-like practicality. less
2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 Calligraphy Performance: An Escalade Killer

2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 Calligraphy Performance: An Escalade Killer

The 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 Calligraphy Performance AWD is presented as a compelling, large three-row electric SUV that aims to rival luxury offerings. T... he reviewer highlights its spaciousness, comfortable ride, and impressive acceleration, achieving a 0-60 mph time of 4.45 seconds in Sport mode. Key positives include the premium interior materials (despite not being genuine leather), extensive ambient lighting, advanced technology features like the dual 12.3-inch screens and head-up display, and the unique "relaxation mode" for the first four passengers. The reviewer also praises the practical storage solutions and the vehicle's quiet cabin due to active noise cancellation. However, the vehicle's sheer size is noted as a potential drawback, particularly in parking situations, and the reviewer suggests four-wheel steering would be beneficial. While the EPA estimated range is 311 miles, real-world testing averaged around 2.6 miles per kWh, leading to a lower effective range, and home charging times are described as slow. Despite these points, the IONIQ 9 is considered a strong contender, offering significant value and luxury, especially when compared to similarly priced vehicles like the Genesis GV70. less
2025 Lamborghini Urus SE Family Review With Exclusive Child Seat Installation

2025 Lamborghini Urus SE Family Review With Exclusive Child Seat Installation

The 2025 Lamborghini Urus SE is presented as a family-friendly, yet undeniably sporty, plug-in hybrid SUV. Reviewers highlight its impressive performa... nce, with over 700 horsepower and rapid acceleration, while also noting its capability as a daily driver. The interior is praised for its luxurious materials, comfortable and feature-rich seats (including massage and ventilation), and the high-quality Audi-derived infotainment system. Practicality is demonstrated through a successful child seat installation, showing ample room for both children and adults, and the versatility of the 40/20/40 split rear seats. However, the reviewer notes the exterior styling, while attractive, could incorporate more aggressive Lamborghini design cues. The high cost, particularly the $13,000 paint option, is a significant factor. Despite its supercar heritage, the Urus SE successfully balances extreme performance with family needs, making it a compelling, albeit expensive, option for those seeking a unique blend of luxury, sport, and utility. less
2025 Lamborghini Urus SE: The Best Plug-in Hybrid I Have Ever Tested (and Most Expensive)

2025 Lamborghini Urus SE: The Best Plug-in Hybrid I Have Ever Tested (and Most Expensive)

The 2025 Lamborghini Urus SE is presented as the pinnacle of plug-in hybrid SUVs, with the reviewer declaring it the best they have ever tested. The v... ehicle impressively blends Lamborghini's passionate design and soul with German engineering, offering a formidable 4.0L twin-turbo V8 paired with an electric motor for a combined 789 horsepower and 700 lb-ft of torque. The reviewer highlights the exhilarating acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in as little as 3.57 seconds, and praises the car's ability to switch between a roaring V8 experience in Corsa mode and quiet, efficient EV cruising. Positives include the luxurious interior, advanced technology sourced from Audi, comfortable ride in Strada mode, and impressive real-world fuel economy (over 30 MPG) and electric range (up to 35 miles). However, the reviewer notes some minor drawbacks, such as the questionable styling of fake fender vents and the high cost of optional paint. While the rear seats offer ample space, they lack the bolstering needed for spirited driving, and the central tunnel makes seating three across tight. Despite these points, the Urus SE is lauded as a remarkable achievement, offering the best of multiple worlds: SUV practicality, supercar performance, and hybrid efficiency. less
2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV LT Family Review with Child Seat Installation

2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV LT Family Review with Child Seat Installation

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV 2LT FWD is presented as a family-friendly electric SUV, with the review focusing heavily on its practicality for road tr... ips and child seat installation. The exterior styling elicits mixed reactions, with some appreciating its distinctiveness and others finding the Riptide Blue Metallic color unappealing. Inside, the "Sky Cool Gray" interior with its ombre accents is noted, but the bright white dashboard and shiny trim can be glaring. A significant drawback highlighted is the absence of Apple CarPlay, which is considered a deal-breaker by the reviewer, despite the functionality of Google Maps and Ways. The spacious rear seating and ease of child seat installation (both rear-facing and forward-facing) are major positives for families. Ride quality is described as "medium," a bit bouncy, and not ideal on rough pavement. The reviewer also experienced issues with the turn signal and visibility due to the large A-pillars. Super Cruise functionality is praised for its extensive coverage but criticized for occasional aggressive lane changes and unexpected disengagements. Real-world range averaged around 3 miles per kWh, falling short of the EPA estimate. Despite its flaws, the Equinox EV is considered a decent value at its as-tested price of $50,540, especially when compared to competitors like the Hyundai Ioniq 5, offering features like heated/ventilated seats and a head-up display. less
2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV LT: A $50,000 Luxury Chevy?

2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV LT: A $50,000 Luxury Chevy?

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV LT FWD is presented as a compelling, near-luxury offering from Chevrolet, with the reviewer highlighting its futuristic ... design, spacious and upscale interior, and comfortable, quiet ride as major strengths. Despite its $50,000 as-tested price, the interior quality and features are praised for rivaling some luxury brands. However, the lack of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is a significant drawback for the reviewer, impacting usability and forcing reliance on subscription-based Google services. Real-world range falls short of EPA estimates, with the reviewer achieving around 3 miles per kWh, translating to approximately 255 miles of range from the 85 kWh battery, rather than the advertised 319 miles. While acceleration is not "EV quick" (0-60 in 7.46 seconds), it's deemed adequate for its intended purpose as a comfortable commuter and family vehicle. The Super Cruise system is lauded as a gold standard for hands-free driving. Ultimately, the reviewer considers it Chevrolet's best EV to date, but the absence of CarPlay is a dealbreaker for their personal consideration. less
2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS vs. 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 Limited AWD: Battle of the $60,000 EV SUVs

2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS vs. 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 Limited AWD: Battle of the $60,000 EV SUVs

This head-to-head comparison pits the 2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS against the 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 Limited AWD, both priced around $60,000. While not ... perfect trim matches, the review highlights significant differences in design, interior, technology, and driving dynamics. The Blazer EV SS impresses with its aggressive, sporty styling and a visually engaging interior featuring unique orange accents. However, its technology is hampered by the lack of Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and a less intuitive Google built-in system. Driving the Blazer EV SS offers exhilarating acceleration and a comfortable ride, but its considerable weight (nearly 900 lbs more than the IONIQ 5) is noticeable, particularly in stop-and-go traffic, and its one-pedal driving system is considered less refined. The IONIQ 5, conversely, shines with its timeless, retro-futuristic design and a highly practical, user-friendly interior. Its technology suite, including wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and a remote smart park feature, is superior. While its acceleration is still brisk, it lacks the raw power of the Blazer SS. The IONIQ 5's lighter weight contributes to a more car-like driving feel and better handling. Charging is also a win for the IONIQ 5, offering faster speeds and native NACS port. Ultimately, the IONIQ 5 is favored for its daily livability and overall practicality, despite the Blazer EV SS offering a more exciting, albeit heavier, performance package. less
2025 Chevrolet Silverado EV LT Extended Range Family Review with Child Seat Installation

2025 Chevrolet Silverado EV LT Extended Range Family Review with Child Seat Installation

The 2025 Chevrolet Silverado EV LT Extended Range is reviewed as a capable and family-friendly electric truck, offering significant range (estimated 3... 90 miles) and a spacious interior with ample storage solutions, including a versatile midgate. The reviewer highlights its comfortable ride, surprisingly agile handling for its size, and impressive acceleration due to its electric powertrain. Positives include the large infotainment screen, heated and ventilated seats, and the advanced Super Cruise system, which is praised for its capability and continuous updates. However, the lack of Apple CarPlay/Android Auto is a significant drawback for the reviewer, deemed a dealbreaker by some potential buyers. The automatic start/stop feature is also noted as occasionally inconvenient. While the truck offers a premium experience, its efficiency is slightly lower than competitors like the F-150 Lightning, and the price point, though competitive for an EV truck with its features, remains high. less
2025 Chevrolet Silverado EV LT Extended Range: The New King in EV Range

2025 Chevrolet Silverado EV LT Extended Range: The New King in EV Range

The 2025 Chevrolet Silverado EV LT Extended Range is presented as a strong contender in the electric pickup truck market, particularly lauded for its ... impressive range, estimated at 390 miles. The reviewer highlights its ground-up EV design, distinguishing it from competitors like the Ford F-150 Lightning. Key strengths include a spacious interior with ample legroom, a highly configurable bed with the midgate feature, and a comfortable ride despite its substantial weight. The vehicle also boasts strong performance, achieving 0-60 mph in under 4.6 seconds. However, the review points out significant drawbacks, most notably the complete lack of Apple CarPlay support, forcing reliance on GM's built-in infotainment system, and a less-than-ideal implementation of one-pedal driving. The reviewer also notes the interior's heavy use of hard plastics and the absence of a fully flat load floor. Despite these criticisms, the Silverado EV is deemed a highly capable and versatile vehicle, especially for families and those needing configurable cargo space, though its suitability for long-haul RV towing is questioned. less
2025 Lexus LX 700h Overtrail Family Review with Child Seat Installation

2025 Lexus LX 700h Overtrail Family Review with Child Seat Installation

The 2025 Lexus LX 700h Overtrail is presented as a capable and luxurious family SUV, particularly for those who appreciate off-road aesthetics and fea... tures. The reviewer highlights its striking exterior styling, especially the "Earth" paint color and matte gray wheels, and praises the upscale interior with its quality materials and elegant design elements. Key interior features like the heated, ventilated, and massaging seats, along with the four-zone climate control managed by the Climate Concierge, are noted as significant positives. However, the reviewer criticizes the overly complex process for activating the massage seats and the limited storage space, particularly behind the third row, which is less than some compact sedans. While the hybrid powertrain offers ample power for its size, the real-world fuel economy falls short of EPA estimates, especially when off-roading. Despite the high price tag of $118,510, the LX 700h is seen as a strong contender against rivals like the Range Rover Sport, offering Lexus's renowned build quality and longevity. less
2025 Lexus LX 700h Overtrail: How Good Is It Off Road?

2025 Lexus LX 700h Overtrail: How Good Is It Off Road?

The 2025 Lexus LX 700h Overtrail is presented as a capable off-roader, but the review highlights significant limitations when tested on challenging te... rrain. While the hybrid powertrain offers strong performance with 457 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque, and the vehicle boasts numerous off-road modes and features like adjustable ride height and locking differentials, its sheer size and width prove to be a major hindrance on narrow, technical trails. The reviewer notes that the vehicle's off-road dimensions, particularly its breakover angle, are less than ideal, and the running boards are a compromise compared to proper sliders. A recurring frustration is the camera system, which disables at low speeds, forcing the driver to rely on visual cues or risk scraping the vehicle. Despite its luxurious interior and smooth on-road manners, the LX 700h Overtrail is deemed less capable off-road than its smaller sibling, the GX 550 Overtrail, and the Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro, especially considering its significantly higher price point. The reviewer concludes that while it excels as a luxurious on-road vehicle with an off-road aesthetic, it falls short for serious off-road enthusiasts, particularly those needing practical third-row space. less
2025 Lexus LX 700h Overtrail // Should Cadillac Worry?

2025 Lexus LX 700h Overtrail // Should Cadillac Worry?

The 2025 Lexus LX 700h Overtrail offers a compelling blend of luxury and off-road capability, though it's not without its quirks. The hybrid V6 p... owertrain delivers impressive power, achieving 0-60 mph significantly faster than Lexus's claims, though fuel economy remains a concern, averaging under 15 MPG in mixed driving. The Overtrail trim enhances the LX's rugged appeal with specific styling and tires, but the interior, while luxurious, suffers from some ergonomic missteps, such as the multi-step process for activating seat massage functions and the placement of certain controls. Cargo space is notably compromised when the third row is in use due to the hybrid battery placement. Despite these drawbacks, the LX 700h provides a comfortable and refined ride, rivaling competitors like the Infiniti QX80 and Cadillac Escalade, particularly for those prioritizing a softer, more compliant suspension. The reviewer highlights the vehicle's strong powertrain and comfortable interior as major positives, while criticizing the infotainment interface for seat functions and the less-than-ideal fuel efficiency for a hybrid. less
2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid Family Review with Child Seat Installation

2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid Family Review with Child Seat Installation

The 2025 Subaru Forester Premium Hybrid offers a compelling package for families, building upon the strengths of its gasoline counterpart. Reviewers p... raised its comfortable cloth seats, excellent visibility thanks to large windows, and a surprisingly spacious rear seat that easily accommodates a rear-facing child seat without compromising front-seat comfort. The interior features a pleasant mix of textures and colors, though the infotainment system's laggy performance and Apple CarPlay connectivity issues were noted as significant drawbacks. The digital gauge cluster was appreciated for its informative display, but the steering was described as somewhat loose, though the reviewer became accustomed to it. While the hybrid system boosts city fuel economy, real-world highway testing averaged 30 MPG, falling short of the EPA's 35 MPG combined rating, particularly at higher Texas highway speeds. The cargo space is slightly reduced compared to the non-hybrid due to battery placement, but still offers practical utility. Priced around $38,171 as tested, it's positioned as an accessible entry into the hybrid SUV market, with its practicality and family-friendly features being key selling points despite the infotainment shortcomings. less
2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid Real World Fuel Economy Results

2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid Real World Fuel Economy Results

The 2025 Subaru Forester Premium Hybrid is presented as a practical and comfortable choice, particularly for those prioritizing fuel economy. The revi... ewer highlights the hybrid powertrain's claimed 40% increase in efficiency over the non-hybrid model, though real-world testing yielded a more modest 30.1 MPG, significantly impacted by high Texas highway speeds. While the reviewer notes the hybrid system's contribution is more pronounced in city driving, the overall fuel efficiency gains might not meet the lofty EPA ratings for all drivers. Positives include a well-designed digital gauge cluster, excellent visibility, comfortable seating, and ample cargo space. Criticisms are minor, focusing on less-than-ideal cup holder design and the gloss black interior trim showing wear. Acceleration is deemed acceptable for the segment, with 0-60 mph times around 8.5 seconds in real-world conditions. The Forester Hybrid is positioned as a competent, comfortable, and spacious commuter and family vehicle, rather than a performance-oriented one. less
2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS Family Review with Child Seat Installation

2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS Family Review with Child Seat Installation

The 2025 Chevrolet Blazer EV SS is presented as a sporty, family-oriented electric SUV, but the review highlights a mixed bag of features and performa... nce. While the interior is praised for its stylish mix of materials, colors, and comfortable seating with amenities like heated and ventilated seats, the exterior styling, particularly the front fascia, receives criticism for being uninspired. The infotainment system, despite its large screens and Google integration, is a point of contention due to the lack of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and voice control issues. Practicality for families is a strong suit, with ample rear-seat space for adults and easy installation of child seats, even in a rear-facing configuration. However, the ride quality is described as "jiggly" and heavy, especially on rougher surfaces, betraying its substantial weight. Performance is a standout, with the SS trim delivering supercar-like acceleration (0-60 in 3.0 seconds) thanks to its 615 horsepower. Real-world range is noted as being less efficient than competitors, averaging 2.4 miles per kWh against an EPA estimate of 303 miles. Despite its impressive power and spacious interior, the reviewer ultimately prefers the Hyundai Ioniq 5 for its better handling and efficiency, though the Blazer EV SS is deemed a solid option for dedicated Chevrolet enthusiasts seeking performance. less