Daily Motor

What It's Like: Porsche Experience Center LA

This video offers an in-depth look at the Porsche Experience Center Los Angeles, focusing on the driving dynamics of the Taycan Turbo and the 911 Turb... moreo S. The reviewer highlights the PECLA's diverse modules, from low-friction circles to handling circuits and acceleration straights, emphasizing their value for improving driving skills and experiencing vehicle limits. The Taycan Turbo is praised for its surprising ability to drift despite being all-wheel drive, with detailed instruction on throttle control for maintaining position. The 911 Turbo S is also put through its paces, showcasing its performance capabilities. The reviewer notes the Taycan feels more like a Panamera in handling compared to the 911. The instruction provided by Sarah is commended for its clarity, particularly in teaching throttle application for car control. The overall verdict is highly positive, strongly recommending a visit to PECLA for both Porsche enthusiasts and those looking to become better drivers, regardless of their current vehicle ownership. less

2023 Rivian R1T – DM Quick Drive

The Daily Motor team provides a "quick drive" impression of the 2023 Rivian R1T, highlighting its impressive performance and well-executed d... moreesign, which belies its status as a new manufacturer's product. They praise its quick acceleration, capable handling that makes it feel smaller than it is, and the comfortable, tech-forward interior with unique features like the removable Bluetooth speaker. However, the review notes some drawbacks, including the finicky wireless charger, the inability to use USB drives for music or Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and the long wait times for delivery, partly attributed to Rivian's focus on Amazon vans. Despite these points, the overall sentiment is highly positive, with the reviewers expressing a desire to own one, acknowledging its "sporty" and "cosmopolitan" feel compared to competitors like the Ford F-150 Lightning. less

2024 Mazda CX-90 – First Look!

The Mazda CX-90 represents a significant new entry for the brand, aiming for a more premium position in the three-row crossover segment. Reviewers hig... morehlight its attractive styling, both inside and out, with particular praise for the interior materials and the inclusion of physical controls for climate and infotainment. The availability of both a plug-in hybrid powertrain and a new inline-six engine with mild-hybrid technology is seen as a major differentiator, offering competitive power figures. While a full driving review is pending, initial impressions from sitting in the vehicle are positive, noting comfortable seating, ample space even in the third row, and a refined cabin ambiance. The potential for heavy steering, a past concern with Mazda models like the CX-50, remains a key point to watch in future driving evaluations, alongside the actual EV range of the PHEV. less

Ep. 58 | DM Podcast

In this episode of the Daily Motor Podcast, Charlie and Chris recount their recent driving experiences in Southern California. The hosts highlight a d... moreiverse range of vehicles, from the practical Toyota Mirai and the engaging GR Corolla to the luxurious Porsche Cayenne and the exhilarating Porsche 911 Carrera T. The GR Corolla is praised for its fun factor and unique three-cylinder engine, though noted as not being as quick as some rivals. The Porsche Cayenne is lauded for its driving dynamics and off-road capability, but criticized for its heavy steering in urban environments and susceptibility to tire damage on rough roads. The 911 Carrera T emerges as a standout, particularly favored by Charlie for its pure driving experience and manual transmission, despite a significant price premium over the base Carrera. The Mercedes-AMG EQS is deemed underwhelming, lacking driving soul, while the AMG SL63 is celebrated as a comfortable and capable grand tourer, with the only notable drawback being its futuristic door handles. The hosts also discuss the challenges and potential of hydrogen vehicles like the Mirai, noting the current infrastructure limitations. less

2023 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro Review

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro is a massive, hybrid SUV that aims to impress with its off-road prowess and standard hybrid powertrain. Reviewers foun... mored the vehicle's size to be both a pro and a con, noting its commanding presence but also significant blind spots and difficulty in urban environments. The "Solar Octane" paint and TRD Pro specific features, like the roof rack and seats, add to its aggressive, niche appeal. While the iForce Max hybrid powertrain delivers strong performance, its fuel economy is disappointing, averaging around 14.6 MPG. The interior offers a spacious third row and a clever, albeit somewhat complex, cargo system. However, the reviewers highlighted several drawbacks, including the optional roof rack's excessive noise, the awkward placement of the hybrid battery impacting cargo space, and the imprecise JBL sound system. Despite these criticisms, the reviewers acknowledged Toyota's reliability and the vehicle's comfortable ride and capable suspension, especially for off-roading. Ultimately, they suggest that while the TRD Pro trim might be overkill for many, it caters to a specific buyer who values its extreme capabilities. less

Ep. 57 | DM Podcast

The Daily Motor podcast episode delves into two large SUVs: the 2023 Infiniti QX80 Sensory AWD and the 2023 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy. The hosts ex... morepress a surprising enjoyment of the QX80, likening its over-the-top, '04-rich' character to a meme, appreciating its presence and exceptional Bose sound system, despite acknowledging its dated platform and high price point. They suggest it's a better used purchase. Conversely, the Hyundai Palisade is praised for its modern amenities, comfortable interior, and overall value, making it feel like a significant upgrade from the Infiniti. However, its sound system is noted as a weak point, lacking a subwoofer and a well-balanced speaker setup. The hosts conclude that while the QX80 has character, the Palisade offers a more sensible and enjoyable ownership experience for its price. less

2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid Review

The 2023 Kia Sportage SX Prestige Hybrid impresses with its striking design, particularly the matte gray paint, and a surprisingly spacious interior s... moreuitable for families. Reviewers found the driving dynamics engaging, with responsive steering and a capable drivetrain, though they noted the absence of rear heated seats as a notable omission for the top trim. The infotainment system, while visually appealing with its large screen, occasionally suffered from freezing issues and a confusing climate control interface. Real-world fuel economy was reported at 33-34 MPG, aligning with expectations for a hybrid SUV. Despite minor gripes like the default Eco mode and occasional beeping, the Sportage is considered a strong contender in its segment, offering good value at its $38,000 price point, especially when compared to rivals like the Mazda CX-5. less

2023 Volvo XC90 Recharge DM Review

The 2023 Volvo XC90 Recharge is a luxurious and comfortable three-row SUV, praised for its refined interior materials like the wool blend, excellent B... moreowers & Wilkins sound system, and smooth, quiet ride. The powertrain, a turbocharged 2.0-liter with electric assist producing 402 horsepower, is described as quick but not particularly engaging. Reviewers found the third row to be cramped, suitable only for children, and noted the lack of a power-adjustable steering column and some infotainment bugs as drawbacks. While the plug-in hybrid system offers some EV-only range (around 33 miles) and fuel savings, its necessity and price premium are questioned, especially given the vehicle's high $85,000 as-tested price. Ultimately, while a pleasant vehicle, its high cost places it in a competitive segment where rivals may offer more compelling packages, making it a better fit for those prioritizing luxury and comfort over outright driving dynamics or value. less

2023 Kia Niro EV DM Review

The 2023 Kia Niro EV, representing the second generation, is a significant improvement over its predecessor, offering a much-improved design both insi... morede and out. Reviewers found the interior styling appealing, with unique touches like a wallpaper-inspired headliner and comfortable, albeit distinctively styled, seats. The car is praised for its quiet highway ride and decent handling, making it comfortable for passengers. However, the Niro EV occupies a peculiar middle ground in the market. While it offers many features like heated/cooled seats and a heat pump, its price point is neither a budget commuter nor a premium EV. The infotainment screen is noted as being too far away and slow to respond, and the DC fast charging speed is not competitive. The reviewer highlights that for a similar or slightly higher price, one could opt for a more premium EV like a base Ioniq 5 or EV6, or even multiple less expensive options like the Chevrolet Bolt. Despite its shortcomings, the Niro EV is considered a good car, but its value proposition is questionable, leaving the reviewer unsure who to specifically recommend it to. less

Ep. 55 | DM Podcast

This episode of the Daily Motor podcast delves into a variety of topics, including a discussion about the Kia Sportage Hybrid and the Volvo XC90 Recha... morerge. The hosts express a particular anticipation for the Chevrolet Equinox and Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro. The review of the Volvo XC90 T8 Recharge highlights its comfortable and quiet ride, luxurious interior features like the crystal shifter and sound system, and the unique wool blend seats. However, the plug-in hybrid powertrain's real-world highway fuel economy was disappointing at around 24-25 MPG in cold weather, and the overall value proposition is questioned when compared to other luxury SUVs like the BMW X5. The Kia Sportage SX Prestige Hybrid is praised for its striking design and continuous glass screen, but the reviewer notes that the EX trim offers better value by omitting some luxury features. The podcast also touches on the ongoing issues with Kia/Hyundai theft and the broader implications of intelligent criminals. less

2023 Genesis GV60 – DM Review

The Genesis GV60 Performance, while undeniably cool and packed with technology like biometric authentication, ultimately falls short of true luxury ex... morepectations at its $70,000 price point. Reviewers found its sporty nature and impressive acceleration, particularly with the boost button, to be highlights. However, significant drawbacks include frustrating charging speeds (far below advertised rates), the lack of wireless Apple CarPlay, and a general feeling that the technology doesn't always translate into a seamless or luxurious experience. The reviewer also noted a concerning issue with the gear shifter becoming loose after only 7,000 miles. While the design is praised as unique and eye-catching, the overall verdict suggests that despite its strengths, the GV60's annoyances and EV-specific inconveniences make it a better fit for enthusiasts than the average luxury car buyer, with the BMW i4 or even the Kia EV6 GT being preferred alternatives. less

Ep. 54 | DM Podcast

In this episode of the Daily Motor Podcast, Chris and Charlie celebrate their first year of podcasting and discuss a variety of vehicles. The Kia Niro... more EV is highlighted, with the hosts noting its reliable transportation in cold weather. While acknowledging its bold styling and decent interior materials like eucalyptus seats, they find its value proposition questionable. The "Wave" trim, priced around $47,000 with the "Preserve Package," is deemed too expensive when compared to competitors like the Tesla Model 3, BMW i4, or Kia EV6, which offer better range and faster charging. Conversely, the Chevy Bolt is presented as a more affordable alternative with similar EV capabilities. The hosts suggest that opting for the lower "Wind" trim or even the Niro hybrid might be more sensible choices, questioning the overall market positioning of the Niro EV at its current price point. less

Best New Cars to Buy: Winter 2023

This video presents a curated list of seven recommended vehicles for winter 2023, focusing on practicality, driving enjoyment, and value. The Mazda CX... more-5 is lauded for its upscale feel, all-wheel-drive capability, and affordability, making it a consistent recommendation. The Honda Civic is highlighted as a smarter, more fuel-efficient alternative to SUVs, offering versatility across its sedan, hatchback, SI, and Type R variants, with praise for its interior space and driving dynamics. The Hyundai Kona N is celebrated for its hilarious, thrilling, and remarkably fast performance, despite its unconventional styling. The Chevrolet Bolt EV is positioned as an excellent value electric car, especially with tax credits, offering good range and a usable interior, though its charging speed is a drawback. The Chevrolet Silverado is recommended for its reliable powertrains and advanced Super Cruise system, surpassing competitors in this regard. The Mazda Miata is recognized as the purest representation of a sports car, offering engaging driving dynamics and classic feel at an accessible price point, with both soft-top and RF hardtop options. Finally, the Volvo V60 Cross Country is praised for its near-luxury experience, exceptional Bowers & Wilkins sound system, and practicality, despite potential concerns about long-term reliability and depreciation. The Ford Maverick is briefly mentioned as a highly desirable but unavailable option due to sell-outs. less

Ep. 52 | DM Podcast

The Daily Motor podcast hosts discuss several vehicles, with a particular focus on the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder Rock Creek. While praising its aggressiv... moree styling and off-road appearance, they found the Rock Creek edition to be a significant disappointment due to excessive road noise, a harsh ride, and a surprisingly high price point compared to other trims like the SL. They argue that the aggressive tires and suspension are unnecessary for the vast majority of buyers who use their SUVs for daily driving, suggesting it should be an optional package rather than a distinct trim. The Genesis GV80 is described as a good, impressive first SUV for the brand, but ultimately falls short of true luxury competitors. The Audi SQ7 is highlighted as a well-rounded luxury performance SUV, excelling in both comfort and speed. The Kia Niro EV is also mentioned with excitement for its unique design and eco-friendly materials, though its real-world range was not tested in this episode. less

2022 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV – DM Review

The 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV (DM) is reviewed as a competent and pleasant vehicle, particularly praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride,... more and user-friendly physical controls. The reviewers highlight its "easy and straightforward" operation, good sound system, and premium interior touches like quilted leather and a nice headliner, making it a strong contender for a "biggest surprises" award. However, the core verdict is that the plug-in hybrid variant does not make financial or practical sense for most buyers. The reviewers argue it's not a true EV in its PHEV mode, as the gasoline engine engages even under hard acceleration or when heating is required. They also criticize Hyundai's misleading MPG figures for the PHEV and calculate that it would take nearly six years of daily electric-only driving to recoup the $5,000-$6,000 price premium over the standard hybrid. The recommendation is to opt for the regular hybrid or gasoline Santa Fe instead, unless one has access to free electricity, in which case the PHEV might be considered for the "hippie" buyer. Minor complaints include some wind noise from the mirrors and a bright infotainment display, though the latter can be turned off. less

Ep. 51 | DM Podcast

In this episode of the Daily Motor Podcast, the hosts discuss a range of vehicles, with a particular focus on the Genesis GV60 and GV80, and the Infin... moreiti QX60. The Genesis GV60 is praised for its fun-to-drive nature, described as a "hot hatch" with a split personality, offering both engaging driving dynamics and a striking interior. However, the reviewer notes significant drawbacks in its EV ownership experience, including overly aggressive regenerative braking that unsettles passengers and a throttle response that can feel delayed without boost mode. Charging speeds also fell short of advertised claims, leading to a less flexible ownership experience compared to traditional gasoline cars. The Infiniti QX60 is deemed a "meh" offering, essentially a more expensive, slightly improved Nissan Pathfinder. The Nissan Pathfinder Rock Creek is criticized for its exceptionally loud ride, attributed to its tires, overshadowing its otherwise appealing looks and interior. The Genesis GV80 3.5T Prestige is introduced as a luxury barge, appreciated for its features, sound system, and comfortable ride, though the 3.5L V6 is noted as being inefficient, with the 2.5L four-cylinder suggested as a smarter choice. The podcast also touches on the general challenges of EV ownership, particularly regarding charging infrastructure and predictability, contrasting it with the simplicity of gasoline cars and even older, well-maintained luxury vehicles. less

Ep. 50 | DM Podcast

This episode of the Daily Motor Podcast covers a range of vehicles, with a significant focus on the Ford Maverick. The hosts express strong affection ... morefor the Maverick, praising its practicality, usability, and value retention, despite acknowledging minor infotainment and sound system shortcomings. They highlight its suitability for homeowners and its impressive fuel economy for its class. The discussion also touches upon the new Toyota Prius, favoring the Maverick for its versatility due to its bed. Other vehicles briefly discussed include the Subaru Forester Wilderness, praised for its rugged appeal, and the Lexus RX 500h F Sport Performance, noted for its comfort and refined features, though its styling is critiqued. The Infiniti QX60 is deemed competent but less compelling than the RX. The Genesis GV60 Performance is mentioned as an exciting, powerful EV, though its traction limitations in certain conditions are noted. The podcast also delves into nostalgic discussions about older Ford products like the Taurus SHO and SVT Lightning, concluding with a "bang, marry, kill" segment. less

Ep. 49 | DM Podcast

This episode of the Daily Motor Podcast dives into several vehicles, with the Lexus RX 500h F Sport Performance and the 2022 Subaru Forester Wildernes... mores taking center stage. The hosts express a strong dislike for the 'F Sport Performance' designation on a hybrid luxury SUV like the RX, feeling it contradicts Lexus's traditional strengths of comfort and quietness. They hope the new generation RX, while visually updated, will return to its roots of being a supremely comfortable and silent vehicle. The Subaru Forester Wilderness is presented as a more straightforward, albeit less exciting, option. While acknowledging its utilitarian purpose and off-road capabilities, the hosts find its styling a bit overdone with excessive 'Wilderness' and gold accents. They also note that while the Forester offers good value and features for its price, it's overshadowed by competitors like the Mazda CX-30 in terms of refinement and driving engagement. The Infiniti Q50 and Honda HR-V are briefly discussed and largely dismissed as uninspiring choices in their respective segments. less

2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime – DM Review

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime is presented as a capable plug-in hybrid SUV, but the review strongly suggests it's not the best choice for most buyer... mores. While acknowledging its "objectively speaking quite good" on-paper features like Toyota reliability, AWD, a 40-mile electric range, and a comfortable ride, the reviewers express significant reservations. The primary criticisms revolve around its high price point (over $51,000 before markups), a dated and "chunky" interior design that feels overwhelming with powertrain controls, and an infotainment system that is deemed "dated and just ugly." The reviewers argue that the standard RAV4 Hybrid offers better value for those seeking efficiency without the complexity and cost, while enthusiasts might prefer a full EV. The RAV4 Prime is deemed "over-hyped" and not worth the wait or dealer markups, with a Volvo XC60 plug-in hybrid or even a cheaper Camry Hybrid being suggested as better alternatives for the price.

Key takeaways include:

Pros:
- 40 miles of electric-only range
- Toyota reliability and build quality
- AWD and Trail mode capability
- Good ground clearance
- Decent sound system and features (heated/cooled seats, 360 camera)
- Attractive facelifted styling

Cons:
- High price ($51,000+ MSRP, often with markups)
- "Chunky," dated interior design and controls
- Outdated infotainment system
- Complex powertrain controls can be overwhelming
- Not a full EV, leading to questions about its place in the market
- Standard RAV4 Hybrid or even a regular RAV4 offer better value for most. less

2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid — DM Review

The 2023 Toyota Camry Hybrid XSE is presented as a competent and comfortable sedan, particularly for road trips, though the review highlights a few ke... morey drawbacks. The interior, especially with the red trim, is praised for offering a more premium feel than expected, contrasting positively with rental cars. Comfort is a strong suit, with seats proving excellent even on long journeys. However, the reviewer strongly criticizes the larger 19-inch wheels on the XSE trim, stating they negatively impact fuel economy (dropping to 46 MPG from 52 MPG on the LE trim) and ride quality, recommending smaller 16-inch wheels for a better experience. The lane keep assist is also deemed "rubbish" for its poor, nauseating implementation. Real-world fuel economy averaged 40.1 MPG, slightly below expectations for a hybrid, though the reviewer acknowledges mixed driving conditions and highway speeds. Despite its flaws, the Camry Hybrid is seen as a simple, refined, and effortless choice for those who don't necessarily need an SUV, offering good value and ease of use over more complex EVs or PHEVs. less

2022 Mercedes-Benz EQS – Infotainment Demo | How to Use Touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto

This video provides a comprehensive walkthrough of the 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQS's extensive infotainment system, focusing on its three-screen setup... more. The reviewer highlights the impressive gauge cluster, the massive central MBUX Hyperscreen, and the functional passenger display. Key features like navigation, media control, climate adjustments, and comfort settings (including massaging seats and ambient lighting) are demonstrated. The reviewer praises Mercedes' ambient lighting and seat massage functions, noting their quality and quiet operation. While the system is generally responsive and visually appealing, particularly Android Auto's widescreen implementation, the reviewer expresses a slight preference for Android Auto's screen utilization over Apple CarPlay's. Minor annoyances include the voice assistant's sensitivity and the placement of some controls. Overall, the EQS's technology is seen as forward-thinking and impressive, though potentially overwhelming for some users. less

Electric Dirt Bike Full Conversion Kit – Wired Off-Road GK-85x (Kawasaki KX85)

This video showcases Wired Off-Road's DIY electric conversion kit for the Kawasaki KX85, offering a compelling alternative to traditional gas dir... moret bikes. The reviewer highlights the significant advantages of electric power, including quiet operation, instant torque delivery, and a simplified riding experience (no clutch, no stalling). The kit's affordability, with a total build cost around $4,000, is a major selling point, especially when compared to a new KX85. Key features praised include the hot-swappable battery system, allowing for extended riding sessions, and the option for a fast charger. While the power is slightly less than the stock two-stroke at peak RPM, the instant torque and smooth power delivery are deemed highly enjoyable and capable, even on challenging off-road terrain. A minor drawback noted is the lack of a low-battery reserve indicator, though this is considered a software fixable issue. Overall, the reviewer is highly impressed, recommending the conversion for its fun factor, reduced downsides, and competitive price point, even expressing a desire for a long-term test unit. less

Ep. 46 | DM Podcast

In this episode of the Daily Motor Podcast, Chris and Charlie delve into the evolving landscape of luxury automakers, expressing concern that brands l... moreike BMW and Cadillac have lost their way in prioritizing technology over core driving dynamics and luxury. They praise the new BMW 7 Series, particularly the i7, for its impressive blend of technology, comfort, and performance, noting its efficiency and innovative features like the theater screen and power doors. However, they critique the excessive complexity of some of its modes and controls. The podcast also touches on other vehicles, including the Hyundai Santa Fe PHEV (deemed a good car but not a good PHEV), the Kia Seltos (a competent but uninspiring transportation option), and expresses disappointment with Cadillac's current interior quality compared to Lincoln's offerings, while acknowledging Cadillac's performance prowess with the Blackwing models. The hosts emphasize the importance of a satisfying driving experience as the key differentiator for luxury brands aiming for long-term success. less

2023 Nissan Leaf – DM Review

The 2023 Nissan Leaf receives a mixed review, praised for its accurate real-world range (achieving around 200 miles, exceeding its EPA estimate and ev... moreen some Teslas) and enjoyable driving dynamics that make it feel like a fun, tossable 'hot hatch' for city driving. The exterior styling and color options are also noted as positives. However, the review heavily criticizes the vehicle's dated interior, cheap-feeling materials, and a general sense of being outclassed by competitors. The infotainment system lags, and the charging infrastructure is a significant drawback, with the Leaf's 50kW maximum charging speed and limited CHAdeMO port compatibility making road trips impractical compared to rivals with faster charging and wider networks. The brake pedal feel is described as spongy and poor, and the reviewer notes the need to re-engage features like 'e-Pedal' after each drive. Ultimately, while functional as a second, non-road-trip car, the Leaf is deemed a hard sell at its price point, especially when compared to the cheaper and more advanced Chevrolet Bolt. less

2022 Ford Maverick – Hybrid vs EcoBoost Comparison

2022 Gmc Hummer Ev Pickup – First Drive!

Tesla Model Y Sound System Test – 14-Speaker Premium Sound System Review

2021 Toyota RAV4 – JBL 11-Speaker Sound System Review and Test | Apple CarPlay & Android Auto

2020 Hyundai Ioniq PHEV – Test Drive and Review

2021 Tesla Model Y Standard Range RWD – Snow Driving

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