Auto Buyers Guide, formerly Alex on Autos, is a specialized automotive content distributor dedicated to providing consumers with comprehensive and detailed reviews of new vehicles. Since its inception in 2006, the channel has focused on delivering objective, in-depth analysis of cars, trucks, SUVs, and EVs, covering critical aspects such as interior features, trim levels, pricing, and direct comparisons with segment competitors. The content prioritizes factual information and practical insights over entertainment-driven antics, aiming to equip shoppers with the knowledge needed for informed purchasing decisions.
The distributor's approach is characterized by a commitment to the "nitty-gritty details" often overlooked by other automotive channels. By meticulously examining what potential buyers need to know, Auto Buyers Guide establishes itself as a trusted resource for navigating the complexities of the modern automotive market. Their extensive library includes detailed reviews and comparisons of popular models, ensuring viewers receive thorough guidance on the latest automotive offerings.
The distributor's approach is characterized by a commitment to the "nitty-gritty details" often overlooked by other automotive channels. By meticulously examining what potential buyers need to know, Auto Buyers Guide establishes itself as a trusted resource for navigating the complexities of the modern automotive market. Their extensive library includes detailed reviews and comparisons of popular models, ensuring viewers receive thorough guidance on the latest automotive offerings.
2014 / 2015 / 2016 BMW iDrive Touch Infotainment Review (with Finger Writing Recognition)
This video provides an in-depth review of BMW's 2014 iDrive infotainment system, highlighting its strengths and user-friendliness. The reviewer praises the system's intuitive interface, fluid graphics, and the addition of innovative features like finger writing recognition on the iDrive controlle...
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Showing 9 of 489 total titles. Page 21 of 21.
2014 Chevrolet Spark EV Review and Road Test
The 2014 Chevrolet Spark EV is presented as a surprisingly potent and efficient electric vehicle, punching above its weight class in performance and h... moreandling. The reviewer highlights its impressive torque (140 hp, 400 lb-ft) and quick acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in just over 7 seconds, making it the fastest mass-market EV tested at the time. The chassis and wider rear tires contribute to excellent handling, outperforming competitors like the Fiat 500e. Efficiency is another strong suit, with an average of 4.6 miles per kWh, surpassing the Nissan Leaf. However, the Spark EV is not without its drawbacks. The reviewer criticizes the uninspiring brakes, noting a peculiar transition between regenerative and friction braking, and the spongy, sometimes grabby feel. Interior comfort is also a concern, with hard plastics and seats lacking lumbar support, though rear passenger space is surprisingly adequate for its size. Charging is slower than some competitors due to its 3.3 kW onboard charger, and the DC fast charging port is not standard, with limited availability of compatible stations. Ultimately, while the Spark EV offers compelling performance and efficiency, its lease deals are emphasized over purchase due to battery longevity concerns and the overall value proposition, particularly for accessing carpool lanes. less
2014 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid Review and Road Test
The 2014 Acura RLX Sport Hybrid presents a compelling, albeit complex, package. The reviewer highlights its sophisticated three-motor, all-wheel-drive... more hybrid system, which offers impressive total system output of 377 horsepower and significantly enhances handling through its torque-vectoring "Super Handling All-Wheel Drive" (SH-AWD) system. This SH-AWD is praised for its ability to actively assist in cornering, even in power-off situations, by dragging the inside rear wheel, effectively mitigating the front-wheel-drive platform's tendency to understeer. The interior is lauded for its excellent comfort, spacious rear legroom (a benefit of the FWD platform), and premium materials, with the dual-screen infotainment system noted as being easier to use than competitors'. However, the reviewer points out that the hybrid system's power distribution, while advanced, still results in a slight front-heavy feel and minor torque steer under full throttle, and the trunk space is compromised by the battery pack. Real-world fuel economy averaged between 20-28 MPG, falling short of the 30 MPG estimate. Despite these points, the RLX Sport Hybrid is positioned as a strong value proposition against its hybrid luxury competitors, particularly if AWD capability is a priority. less
2013-2014 Lexus LS 600hL Hybrid
The 2013 Lexus LS 600hL is presented as the pinnacle of Lexus engineering, boasting the title of the most expensive hybrid globally. While its ultra-l... moreuxury features and exceptionally comfortable rear seating, complete with massaging functions and extensive adjustability, are undeniable highlights, the vehicle falls short as a driver's car. The reviewer notes significant body roll, a soft suspension that prioritizes comfort over handling, and wider tires on competitors. The hybrid system, while advanced, is overshadowed by the vehicle's substantial weight, impacting performance and handling. Fuel economy is a mixed bag; while surprisingly decent in city driving (averaging 28 MPG) due to its hybrid nature, it's less impressive on the highway compared to lighter competitors. The primary critique centers on its steep price point ($120,000-$135,000), which is seen as unjustifiable when compared to less expensive LS models or even more premium brands like Bentley and Rolls-Royce, especially considering its understated exterior styling that closely resembles the $35,000 cheaper LS 460 L. Ultimately, the LS 600hL is positioned as a niche product, best suited for those seeking a chauffeur-driven experience with an under-the-radar approach, rather than an engaging driving machine. less
2013 Chevrolet Volt Range Extending EV / Plug In Hybrid Review
The 2013 Chevrolet Volt is reviewed as a capable plug-in hybrid, though its marketing as an 'EV with a range extender' causes significant co... morenfusion. The reviewer highlights its dual nature, capable of operating as both a serial and parallel hybrid, similar to a Prius or Ford hybrid, thanks to its innovative power-split device and clutch system. Key strengths include its smooth, EV-like acceleration with ample low-end torque and a more engaging driving feel and handling compared to competitors like the Prius Plug-in and Ford C-Max Energi, despite the latter having wider tires. However, the reviewer notes a pronounced, albeit rare, mode-switching hesitation when accelerating hard on hills. Practical considerations include its four-seater configuration due to battery placement and a less than ideal single backup light. The infotainment system is praised for its responsiveness and reliability, outperforming GM's own Cadillac Q and Ford's MyFord Touch. Real-world fuel economy is heavily dependent on charging habits, with figures ranging from 31.3 MPG on a non-charged trip to 50 MPG when regularly charged. The reviewer concludes that GM's marketing is a disservice, as the Volt is fundamentally a solid hybrid with plug-in capability, offering a compelling alternative for those concerned about range anxiety. less
2013-2014 Fiat 500e Electric Review and Road Test
The 2013 Fiat 500e is presented as an attractive and discreet electric vehicle, primarily available in California due to regulatory requirements. Whil... moree its styling is praised, comparing favorably to the Tesla Model S, its practicality is limited. The reviewer highlights the unique aerodynamic features, including the grille, wheels, and spoiler, designed to enhance efficiency. Under the hood, it boasts a 111 horsepower electric motor and a 24 kWh battery, offering brisk acceleration (0-60 mph in 7.87 seconds) but a limited top speed of 88 mph. Charging takes approximately 4 hours on a 240V connection and 24-25 hours on a 120V. Interior comfort is a mixed bag, with a cramped rear seat and limited seat/steering wheel adjustments. The reviewer criticizes the convoluted control interface and the lack of precise range estimation. Despite its fun-to-drive nature and environmental benefits in California, its high price point and practicality issues, especially compared to the Nissan Leaf, are significant drawbacks. less
2013 Lexus ES 300h Hybrid Review and Road Test
The 2013 Lexus ES 300h offers a compelling blend of luxury, efficiency, and practicality, making it a strong contender in the near-luxury sedan segmen... moret. The reviewer highlights the significantly improved interior space, particularly the expansive rear legroom, a key advantage stemming from its shared platform with the Toyota Avalon and its front-wheel-drive architecture which eliminates a central floor hump. The hybrid powertrain delivers a smooth and refined driving experience, achieving an impressive real-world average of 39 MPG in mixed driving, even with challenging mountain passes, and reaching 47 MPG on level freeways. Performance is adequate, with the hybrid system providing a brisk 0-60 mph time of 7.24 seconds. Positives include the high-quality interior materials, especially the attractive bamboo trim, and a well-integrated infotainment system with useful app integration and voice command capabilities. However, the reviewer notes that the infotainment's joystick controller can be cumbersome for data entry. While the ride is generally smooth and comfortable, it's slightly less isolated than previous generations due to a sportier tuning. The ES 300h is positioned as an excellent choice for those prioritizing fuel economy and rear-seat comfort, offering a luxurious and efficient package at a reasonable price point, with the hybrid premium expected to be recouped within 4-5 years. less
2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid Review and Road Test
The 2013 Ford Fusion Hybrid is presented as a stylish and technologically advanced option in a small segment, boasting a design that the reviewer find... mores superior to its competitors like the Toyota Camry, Kia Optima, and Hyundai Sonata. Key strengths highlighted include its attractive exterior, refined hybrid drivetrain offering smoother transitions than Toyota's system, and superior handling and road feel. The reviewer also praises the advanced driver assistance features, such as active lane keeping assist and radar cruise control, noting their effectiveness. However, the Fusion Hybrid is not without its drawbacks. The rear passenger compartment suffers from compromised headroom and difficult ingress/egress due to the door shape, and legroom is also tighter than in some rivals. The MyFord Touch infotainment system, while functional, is criticized for sluggish response times and a tendency to crash, contrasting unfavorably with newer systems. Real-world fuel economy, while competitive, slightly underperforms the EPA estimates, averaging around 40-41 MPG in mixed driving, though it exceeded the Camry and Optima in testing. Despite these issues, the Fusion Hybrid's combination of looks, performance, and technology makes it a compelling choice for those prioritizing these aspects, provided the rear seat limitations are acceptable. less
2013 and 2014 Ford C-MAX Energi Plug-In Hybrid Drive Review & Road Test
The 2013 Ford C-MAX Energi is presented as Ford's inaugural plug-in hybrid in America, built domestically. The review highlights that while the c... moreore hybrid system is similar to the standard C-MAX, the Energi adds a significant battery pack, enabling an electric-only range of 16-20 miles and a claimed 100 MPG equivalent. The interior is praised for its superior quality and comfort compared to the Prius Plug-in, featuring soft-touch materials and well-bolstered seats. However, this luxury comes at the cost of increased weight, impacting handling and slightly reducing real-world fuel economy when the battery is depleted, with the tester achieving 39-40 MPG without using the plug-in feature. Trunk space is notably compromised due to the larger battery. The MyFord Touch infotainment system is discussed, noting its responsiveness with voice commands but sluggishness with physical inputs. Despite its heft, the C-MAX Energi offers a more refined ride than the Prius and smoother transitions between drive modes. Pricing is positioned slightly above the Prius Plug-in, with some advanced features like radar cruise control unavailable. less
2013 Ford C-MAX Hybrid Drive Review & Road Test
The 2013 Ford C-MAX Hybrid is presented as a compelling American alternative to the Toyota Prius, offering a more conventional and user-friendly inter... moreior, a sportier driving experience, and a more attractive exterior. The reviewer highlights its improved performance, with a quicker 0-60 time than the Prius, attributed to its 188 combined horsepower and a well-sorted chassis derived from the Ford Focus. Handling is praised, especially over broken pavement, and the hybrid system's transitions between electric and gasoline power are noted as exceptionally seamless, surpassing even Toyota's benchmark. The interior is a significant step up from the Prius, featuring standard dual-zone climate control, a more intuitive layout, and comfortable, upright seating. Cargo space is competitive, slotting between the Prius and Prius V. However, the C-MAX falls short of its advertised 47 MPG, averaging 41-42 MPG in real-world testing, a notable decrease compared to the Prius. Despite this, the reviewer concludes that the C-MAX's superior driving dynamics, refined interior, and practicality make it a more desirable choice than the Prius, even with the slight fuel economy penalty. less