The Fast Lane Car is a premier destination for automotive enthusiasts, offering comprehensive news, insightful views, and detailed reviews of the latest vehicles and industry trends. Specializing in a wide array of automotive content, this distributor delves into everything from performance comparisons and electric vehicle technology to practical ownership experiences and value analyses.
With a focus on providing clear, objective reporting, The Fast Lane Car aims to equip viewers with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions, whether they are considering a new purchase or simply staying abreast of the rapidly evolving automotive landscape. Their content covers a diverse range of makes and models, ensuring a broad appeal to car lovers of all kinds.
With a focus on providing clear, objective reporting, The Fast Lane Car aims to equip viewers with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions, whether they are considering a new purchase or simply staying abreast of the rapidly evolving automotive landscape. Their content covers a diverse range of makes and models, ensuring a broad appeal to car lovers of all kinds.
The BMW i8 Is Now Cheaper Than A New Toyota Camry... But Should You Buy One?
The BMW i8, despite its supercar looks and innovative hybrid technology, is now available for less than a new Toyota Camry, making it a compelling used car purchase. The reviewer highlights its stunning, timeless design, both inside and out, and praises its surprisingly potent performance, which ...
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Was Buying A Brand New Tesla Model X A Huge Mistake? 6-Month Ownership Update!
After six months of ownership, the Tesla Model X is presented as a luxurious, technologically advanced SUV with impressive acceleration and a unique p... moreanoramic windshield. The reviewer highlights the intuitive software, excellent driver assistance features (including Autopilot's extended hands-free capability), and the convenience of mobile service. However, significant drawbacks are noted regarding build quality, with issues like rattles, vibrations, misaligned panels, and problematic falcon-wing doors that fail in confined spaces like garages. The reviewer also points out the lack of Qi wireless charging and the discrepancy between advertised and real-world electric range, particularly in winter. Despite these criticisms, the overall sentiment is positive, with the reviewer stating they would buy it again, though they express a preference for the more agile Model 3 Performance for spirited driving. The Model X is recommended for families and vacations due to its space and practicality, but less so as a "fun runabout." less
Are Electric Cars Fast On a Race Track? The Answer Won't Surprise You!
This video pits the Kia Niro, Nissan Leaf, and VW e-Golf against a race track to determine their performance capabilities. While none are designed as ... moretrack machines, the reviewer found the Kia Niro to be the most capable handler, offering a surprisingly balanced feel and decent rotation into corners, despite its weight and traction limitations. The Nissan Leaf and VW e-Golf exhibited significant understeer and were deemed less engaging to drive. The reviewer noted that while electric cars shouldn't be significantly affected by altitude, all three vehicles were among the slowest tested. Ultimately, the Niro is highlighted as the best of the bunch for its handling and safety characteristics, even if none truly impress as performance vehicles, serving better as efficient commuters. less
The Kia Niro Takes On The World's Toughest Electric Car Test - Loveland Trials Ep.2
The Kia Niro EV undergoes the rigorous Loveland Trials, a challenging 77-mile uphill drive in Colorado. While the Niro EV demonstrates impressive rang... moree management, particularly on the descent where regenerative braking significantly offsets energy usage, its overall performance in this extreme test is mixed. The reviewer highlights the efficient cold weather package with its battery heater and heat pump, and praises the detailed EV data display and multiple regen modes, especially the one-pedal driving capability. However, the vehicle struggles with torque steer due to its front-wheel-drive setup and narrow tires, leading to a less engaging driving experience compared to some competitors. The charging speed is deemed too slow for the Loveland Trials' demanding scale, and the autonomous systems, while functional, are rated as basic Level 1. Ultimately, the reviewer finds the Niro EV's high MSRP (over $47,000) difficult to justify given its interior design and performance limitations, resulting in a low overall score. less
Is The 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E A True Mustang?
The 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E aims to bridge the gap between traditional Mustang performance and electric vehicle practicality, but its "true Must... moreang" status is debated. Designers emphasized Mustang design cues like the rear haunches and tri-bar lamps, and the vehicle's silhouette was aggressively reproportioned from an initial compliance car concept to evoke classic Mustang proportions. Performance is a strong point, with the GT model achieving 0-60 mph in the mid-threes, comparable to V8 Mustangs. However, the reviewer notes that while it "goes" like a Mustang, it doesn't "scream" Mustang. Range is a mixed bag; while some configurations target up to 300 miles (EPA estimate), the performance-oriented GT, despite its large battery, is limited to an estimated 235 miles due to aerodynamic and tire choices. The interior is minimalist, dominated by a large infotainment screen, with a focus on consumer lifestyle integration. Ford is also betting heavily on over-the-air updates for future functionality, including highway autonomous driving. Pricing starts under $44,000 for base models, with the GT topping $60,000. less
VW eGolf Takes On The World's Toughest Electric Car Test - Loveland Trials Ep.1
The VW eGolf was subjected to the "World's Toughest Electric Car Test" at Loveland Pass, a challenging mountain climb. Despite its EPA-... moreestimated 125-mile range, the eGolf struggled significantly with the elevation and speed, requiring a mid-test charge at a DC fast charger in Golden. The reviewer noted the car's range dropped dramatically on inclines and that its charging speed was slow compared to modern EVs. While the eGolf's handling and driving dynamics on the descent were praised, its overall range and charging capabilities proved to be its major limitations in this extreme test. The vehicle ultimately completed the round trip, but only with a significant charge and by driving conservatively, highlighting its suitability for shorter, less demanding journeys rather than long-distance, high-altitude challenges. less
Here’s Why Charging an Electric Car Can Suck - And It’s Not The Reason You Think!
This video delves into the often-overlooked complexities of electric vehicle charging, moving beyond the simple 'plug it in' notion. The rev... moreiewer highlights the significant inconvenience arising from the fragmented charging infrastructure, where numerous companies each require separate apps and payment methods, likening it to a gas station requiring a unique sign-up for each brand. A key frustration is the Tesla proprietary charging port, necessitating an adapter for use with standard J1772 chargers, though the video confirms Tesla includes this adapter. The review contrasts Level 2 charging (around 5-6 kW, adding 15 miles per hour) with DC fast charging (50 kW and above), noting that while Level 2 is becoming more common, its speed is insufficient for many users. Tesla's Supercharger network is praised for its simplicity and speed, requiring no apps or separate payments, though it's exclusive to Tesla vehicles. The video concludes that while charging infrastructure is improving, particularly in urban areas like Boulder, charging can still be a significant challenge in more rural locations, posing a barrier for mass EV adoption, especially for less tech-savvy consumers. less
Top 10 Best Used Electric Car Bargains
This video presents a compelling countdown of the top 10 most affordable used electric vehicles, highlighting that EVs are now accessible nationwide, ... morenot just in California. The hosts emphasize that these "compliance cars" have entered the broader market, offering significant savings. Key vehicles discussed include the Toyota RAV4 EV (notable for its Tesla powertrain but reliability issues), the Chevrolet Bolt EV (praised for its range and driving dynamics, with the Premiere trim being the focus), the BMW i3 with Range Extender (valued for its unique design and extended range), the Kia Soul EV (practical but less fun), the VW e-Golf (a solid German-engineered option), the Chevy Spark EV (powerful but with limited range and polarizing styling), the Fiat 500e (a fun, stylish city car with no fast charging), the Smart ForTwo Electric Drive (a tiny, nimble commuter), the Mitsubishi i-MiEV (a lightweight, cult favorite with standard fast charging), and the Nissan Leaf (the most prolific but with early battery concerns and questionable styling). The hosts' personal picks are the Chevrolet Bolt EV for its all-around performance and the Fiat 500e for its sheer enjoyment factor, despite its limitations. less
What's The New Porsche Taycan Turbo's Real Top Speed? We Find Out On The Autobahn!
The reviewer takes the 2020 Porsche Taycan Turbo S to the German Autobahn to test its real-world top speed. Despite encountering traffic and speed-res... moretricted zones, the Taycan Turbo S impressively reached speeds of up to 266-270 km/h (approximately 165-168 mph). The vehicle is praised for its stability at high speeds, especially in Sport Plus mode, feeling planted and secure even in strong winds, a stark contrast to other high-speed vehicles the reviewer has experienced. The review also delves into the Taycan's extensive digital interface, highlighting the multiple LCD screens and their functionalities, though noting a slight learning curve and some inconsistencies between the screens. The fast-charging capability is also a major positive, with the car maintaining high charging rates even at 98% state of charge. The reviewer concludes that the Taycan Turbo S is a highly impressive machine designed for high-speed travel, offering an unparalleled in-vehicle entertainment system with its vast screen real estate. less
Big vs Little EV: Comparing the Cheapest and Priciest Electric Cars
This episode of Adventure X pits the premium Tesla Model X against the ultra-budget Echo 3, exploring their capabilities in urban and mountainous terr... moreains. The reviewer highlights the stark price difference, with the Model X costing around $87,000 and the Echo 3 a mere $7,000. While the Model X proves capable as a tow vehicle, demonstrating decent range even when pulling a trailer, the Echo 3 struggles significantly with inclines, running out of power on a steep mountain climb. The Echo 3 is praised for its urban maneuverability and low cost of ownership, making it a viable option for city commuting. However, its limitations in range, speed (governed at 35 mph), and power on inclines are evident. The review concludes that while electric vehicles are ready for prime time in many global cities, their readiness for the broader US market, especially for challenging terrains, is still developing. The Model X is deemed suitable for towing and general use, while the Echo 3 excels as a niche urban commuter. less
2020 Porsche Taycan Turbo S Review
The 2020 Porsche Taycan Turbo S is presented as the first true competitor to the Tesla Model S, offering impressive performance figures with up to 750... more horsepower and 774 lb-ft of torque in overboost. The reviewer highlights Porsche's unique approach to EV naming with 'Turbo S' and praises the vehicle's premium interior, extensive screen real estate (five LCDs), and high-quality materials. Key technological advancements include an 800-volt battery architecture for faster charging (up to 150kW with the optional upgrade, 22 minutes for 5-80% on 350kW chargers) and aggressive regenerative braking (265kW peak), which Porsche claims handles 90% of daily braking. However, the reviewer notes the Taycan is a sedan, not a liftback, resulting in less cargo space (12.9 cu ft vs. Model S's 26.3 cu ft) and a less practical rear cargo area. The European-spec model tested featured amber turn signals and a European charging port, with potential differences for the US market. The reviewer also found the digital climate controls and air vents less intuitive than traditional buttons. less
Teslas Can't Tow Across Country — Watch Us Try and Fail! | Adventure X Ep.7
This video chronicles a challenging cross-country towing attempt with a Tesla Model X, ultimately concluding that Teslas, in their current state, are ... morenot suitable for long-distance towing in America. The primary issue identified is drastically reduced range and significantly increased travel time, with the trip estimated to take seven hours longer than a conventional vehicle. The reviewer highlights the inadequacy of Tesla's native navigation and range prediction systems when towing, recommending third-party apps like 'Better Route Planner' as a more reliable, albeit still imperfect, alternative. While acknowledging the Model X's instant torque and stable towing dynamics, the overwhelming consensus is that the practical limitations—excessive charging stops, range anxiety, and the sheer time commitment—render it unviable for towing tasks that require daily reliability or strict deadlines. The experiment was ultimately abandoned in favor of a gasoline-powered Land Cruiser, underscoring the current gap between EV capabilities and traditional truck utility for towing. less
Can You Charge A Tesla With A Portable Generator? We Give It A Try!
This episode of Adventure X tests the feasibility of charging a Tesla Model X using a portable generator, specifically the Generac GP2200i. The primar... morey goal was to see if this setup could serve as a backup in remote situations, particularly when towing a trailer. Initial attempts to charge were met with "inadequate equipment grounding" errors, even with the Generac supposedly designed to work with Teslas. After fabricating a "bonding plug" to bridge the neutral and ground, charging was initiated, but only at very low rates (1-3 miles per hour). The generator struggled under load, sputtering and dying at higher amperage settings. After three hours of charging at 5-11 amps, the Tesla gained only 12 miles of range before it stopped accepting power, with the cause remaining unclear. While not a practical long-term charging solution, the experiment suggests it could provide a minimal charge in a dire emergency to reach a proper charging station. less
Is Electric Car Camping a Thing? Let's Find Out | Adventure X Ep. 5
This episode of Adventure X explores the viability of electric car camping by towing a specialized overland trailer with a Tesla Model X. The primary ... morechallenge identified is the significant impact on range and charging time, with the trailer increasing the estimated trip duration by over three hours and requiring eleven Supercharger stops compared to ten without towing. The video details the process of adapting the Model X for towing, including the unique receiver hitch and troubleshooting trailer light connectivity issues, which were resolved by an adapter compensating for the trailer's low power draw. The overland trailer itself is presented as a robust, wood-free construction with features like a multi-axis hitch, independent suspension, a well-equipped stainless steel kitchen, and on-demand hot water. While the trailer is capable and well-designed for off-grid adventures, the towing experience with the Model X highlights the current limitations of EV range and charging infrastructure for long-distance, load-bearing trips, suggesting that while possible, it requires significant planning and patience. less
The Tesla Model X Has a Bad Rap: Here's Why It's Way Cooler Than You Think | Adventure X Ep. 4
The Tesla Model X, despite a perceived "bad rap" as an "overpriced minivan," is presented as a surprisingly compelling luxury SUV,... more especially in its 2019 iteration. The reviewer highlights its unique features, such as the automatic and Falcon Wing doors, the expansive windshield with its innovative sunshade system, and the surprisingly practical front trunk and versatile rear cargo space. While acknowledging the previous high price point, the current 2019 model, starting around $84,000, is positioned to compete with established luxury SUVs like the Range Rover and BMW X7. Positives include its advanced technology, strong performance (0-60 in 4.4 seconds for the Long Range), and low running costs. However, criticisms are leveled at the lack of a 360-degree camera, no wireless charging, and the use of older Mercedes switchgear, which might detract from its premium feel for some enthusiasts. Despite these drawbacks, the Model X is deemed a technologically advanced, practical, and still relevant option in the luxury SUV market. less
Can a Tesla Go Off-Road Up a Rocky Mountain? We Compare It to an Old-School SUV
This episode of Adventure X pits the Tesla Model X against a classic Volkswagen Touareg on a challenging Rocky Mountain off-road course. While the Mod... moreel X demonstrates impressive torque delivery and a capable all-wheel-drive system, its off-road potential is severely limited by a lack of suitable all-terrain tires and inadequate underbody protection, particularly concerning its battery pack. The Touareg, with its superior ground clearance and readily available off-road tires, easily outperforms the Tesla. The reviewer concludes that while the Model X has the foundational elements for an off-roader (power, torque, AWD), it is currently more of a 'soft roader' and requires significant modifications, including finding appropriate tires and adding skid plates, to become truly off-road worthy. The extreme energy consumption during off-roading, averaging over 1500 Wh/mile, also significantly impacts its practical range. less
The 2020 Lincoln Aviator Resets The Bar With These Amazing Features And One That Blew Us Away!
The 2020 Lincoln Aviator is presented as a significant departure from traditional Lincoln design, emphasizing "quiet flight" through four ke... morey pillars: human, beauty, gliding, and sanctuary. The review highlights numerous thoughtful features, including a unique hidden exhaust system designed to prevent soot buildup, electric door handles with a manual key override, and a sophisticated interior with a symphonic chime created by the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. The vehicle offers two powertrains: a 3.0L twin-turbo V6 (400 hp, 400 lb-ft torque) and a plug-in hybrid variant producing nearly 500 hp and 630 lb-ft of torque. While praised for its attention to detail and performance, particularly the hybrid's power, the reviewer expresses dissatisfaction with the 30-way adjustable seats, describing them as "lumpy" and uncomfortable. The reviewer also notes the complexity of the interior controls, preferring a more intuitive interface. Despite these drawbacks, the Aviator is positioned as a compelling luxury three-row SUV alternative to the Ford Explorer, offering a more premium experience and unique features like a spare tire hidden beneath the cargo floor and an advanced audio system with ceiling-mounted speakers. less
Power Hungry Tesla Model X vs The World's Toughest Towing Test | Adventure X Ep. 2
This episode of Adventure X puts the Tesla Model X through a demanding towing test, tackling the "world's toughest towing test" up a mo... moreuntain with a 4,500-pound horse trailer. The primary takeaway is that while the Model X possesses the torque and basic towing capabilities (including air suspension and pre-wired trailer brake controller support), its electric range is severely compromised under load. The vehicle averaged an astonishing 1828 watt-hours per mile during the uphill climb, consuming 17% of its battery and 58 miles of range for just 8 miles of steep ascent. The reviewers found the Model X's stability concerning, noting it felt "a little bit of the tail wagging the dog." A significant drawback highlighted is the impracticality of Supercharging while towing due to trailer size and charger placement, forcing a reliance on a full charge or an ICE vehicle for towing. Ultimately, the team concludes that while electric towing has a future, the current range limitations make it unsuitable for such extreme conditions, opting to tow the trailer back with a truck. less
Can Electric Cars Tow? We Max Out A Tesla Model X & Kill The Battery to Find Out! Adventure X Ep.1
This video thoroughly investigates the towing capabilities of the Tesla Model X, specifically a 2019 Long Range variant. The reviewer found that towin... moreg a 4,500-pound trailer significantly compromises the vehicle's range, consuming nearly three times the energy compared to unladen highway driving. While the Model X handled the weight adequately with its air suspension and trailer mode, the efficiency plummeted, resulting in an MPGe of 42.28 when towing, a stark contrast to its 115.4 MPGe without a trailer. The test culminated in a nail-biting drive to a Supercharger with minimal battery remaining, requiring drafting behind another vehicle to conserve energy. The conclusion suggests that while the Model X can tow, its real-world range limitations make it impractical for extensive towing, especially for longer distances or more demanding scenarios like mountain climbs. less
You'll Be Surprised For What Car and Reason We Traded the TFL Tesla Model 3! - Thrifty 3 Ep. 19
The TFLcar team bids farewell to their Tesla Model 3, trading it in for a Model X Long Range. This move, while financially significant due to deprecia... moretion and price drops, is driven by a new series focused on the Model X's capabilities in towing, off-roading, and overlanding. The reviewers highlight the Model X's advantages over competitors like the e-tron and i-Pace for these specific use cases, citing its 5,000 lb towing capacity and 9-inch ground clearance. Initial impressions of the Model X reveal a more premium feel than the Model 3, with notable features like automatic doors, a panoramic windshield, and a spacious interior, though some controls feel dated. The team is eager to test the vehicle's real-world performance in extreme conditions, starting with towing a 5,000 lb load up the Ike Gauntlet in their next video. less
Tesla Model 3 vs. BMW 3 Series Drag Race
This video pits the Tesla Model 3 against the BMW 3 Series (specifically the 330i) in a head-to-head comparison, covering drag racing, canyon driving,... more and technology. In the drag race, the Model 3 decisively beats the 330i, showcasing its instant torque. However, the review highlights that the BMW 3 Series excels in handling and driving dynamics, offering a more precise and engaging experience in the mountains due to its superior chassis tuning and AWD system. The Model 3, while fast in a straight line, is described as 'floaty' with 'vague' steering in corners. Technologically, the Tesla is praised for its minimalist interior, large touchscreen, over-the-air updates, and features like Sentry Mode, though its backup camera system is considered less sophisticated than the BMW's. The BMW is lauded for its comfortable and adjustable interior, physical buttons, and advanced camera system. Ultimately, the reviewer suggests that while the BMW 3 Series remains the 'king' for driving purists and overall refinement, the Tesla Model 3's sales dominance and electric advantages point towards the future of the segment. less
This Has To Be The Weirdest/Fastest Drag Race Ever! - Thrifty 3 E.15
This episode of 'Thrifty Three' features an unexpected drag race between a 2019 Tesla Model S Performance and a Polaris Slingshot. While the... more series is typically about the Model 3, the Model S steps in due to the former being unavailable. The reviewer highlights the Model S Performance's astonishing acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in 2.7 seconds during the test, surpassing its advertised 2.4 seconds and significantly outperforming the Slingshot. The owner discusses the car's dual-motor AWD setup, the benefits of the newer Model 3 motors for efficiency, and the estimated 760 horsepower and 920 lb-ft of torque. Despite the Model S's impressive performance, the owner notes that it requires a 20-minute battery warm-up for maximum acceleration and is not suited for track lapping due to thermal limitations. The review also touches upon the Model S's luxury and space compared to the Model X, its pricing, and government subsidies. Ultimately, the Model S Performance is praised for its exhilarating acceleration, especially at altitude where it maintains its performance unlike internal combustion engine cars. less
We Drive The Only Car More Interesting Than A Tesla Model 3! - Thrifty 3 E. 14
The Hyundai Nexo presents a compelling vision of future transportation, powered by hydrogen fuel cell technology. The reviewer highlights its environm... moreental friendliness, with water being the only tailpipe emission, and praises its impressive range of 350-380 miles. A significant draw is Hyundai's leasing program, which includes $13,000 worth of hydrogen, effectively paying the driver. However, the Nexo falls short in delivering a futuristic driving experience, feeling more like a conventional crossover. The lack of widespread hydrogen refueling infrastructure, particularly outside of California, remains a major practical hurdle. While technologically advanced, the Nexo's styling is described as 'frumpy chic,' and its performance is notably slower than a Tesla Model 3. Ultimately, the Nexo is recommended for early adopters in specific regions, particularly California, who value unique technology and environmental benefits over a cutting-edge driving feel. less
Can We Make It Over 500 Miles Home In The Only EV Minivan? Thrifty 3 Ep.13
This episode of Thrifty 3 documents a 523-mile road trip from Jackson Hole, Wyoming, to Boulder, Colorado, in a Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, serving as a... more temporary replacement for the shop-bound Tesla Model 3. The primary objective was to determine if the minivan could complete the journey on a single tank of gas, leveraging its electric-hybrid capabilities. The reviewer highlights the Pacifica Hybrid's unique position as the only electric minivan available, offering a significant electric-only range of around 32 miles and impressive EPA-estimated fuel economy. Despite initial concerns about range, especially when driving at higher speeds (around 80 mph), the Pacifica Hybrid ultimately achieved a real-world fuel economy of approximately 33.94 mpg, covering 497.7 miles before the final calculation. The review praises the minivan's practicality, spacious interior, numerous storage compartments, and thoughtful features like three-zone climate control and dual rear-seat screens. However, compromises are noted, including the inability to stow the second-row seats due to battery placement and the availability only as a seven-passenger model. The reviewer also touches upon the potential cost savings through federal and state rebates, making the hybrid variant cheaper than its non-hybrid counterpart in certain regions. The video concludes by emphasizing the minivan's utility for road trips, contrasting it with the ongoing issues with the Tesla Model 3's repair status. less
Will It Tow? We Put The New 2020 Ford Explorer To The Test!
The 2020 Ford Explorer Hybrid, reviewed here in the Limited trim with AWD, presents a compelling, albeit premium, option in the three-row crossover se... moregment. The reviewer highlights the new platform's rear-wheel-drive bias, improved stability, and enhanced towing capabilities, noting the hybrid system's smooth operation even when towing a nearly maxed-out 4,700-pound trailer. Key advantages include the instant torque from the electric motor, a comfortable and refined interior with increased usable space, and advanced driver-assistance features like reverse brake assist and active park assist 2.0. The reviewer was particularly impressed by the vehicle's ability to operate on electric power alone for short distances, even while towing, and its quiet operation. However, the primary drawback identified is the high starting price of approximately $52,000 for the Limited hybrid trim, positioning it against more premium competitors rather than traditional family haulers. While Ford targets the hybrid as the most efficient powertrain, official EPA fuel economy figures are still pending, though a total driving range of 500 miles is cited. less