savagegeese

savagegeese

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Savagegeese is a distinguished distributor renowned for its in-depth explorations into technology, automotive engineering, and lifestyle. With a steadfast commitment to quality over quantity, this channel delves far beneath the surface, offering meticulously researched content that appeals to discerning audiences.

Specializing in detailed reviews and analyses of cars and trucks, Savagegeese provides insightful perspectives on everything from the latest electric vehicles to enduring sedan models. Their approach emphasizes a thorough understanding of engineering and design, making it a go-to resource for enthusiasts seeking comprehensive and authoritative information.

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Showing 24 of 105 total titles. Page 3 of 5.

2024 Lexus RX450h+ | Anti EV Usability

2024 Lexus RX450h+ | Anti EV Usability

The 2024 Lexus RX450h+ Plug-in Hybrid is presented as a refined, quiet, and comfortable luxury SUV, excelling in isolation and material quality, parti... cularly when compared to its Toyota counterparts. The reviewer highlights its strong plug-in hybrid system as a key strength, offering a substantial EV-only range for daily commutes. However, the vehicle faces significant criticism regarding its high price point (around $70,000-$73,000), which the reviewer argues is not fully justified by the feature set or perceived luxury compared to competitors like the BMW X5 PHEV. Specific drawbacks include the disappointing quality of the faux wood trim, the laggy and problematic digital door handles that require slamming to close, and the finicky safety systems. While acknowledging Lexus's reputation for reliability and value retention, the reviewer concludes that the RX450h+ is a niche product for a very specific buyer prioritizing long-term ownership and daily EV commuting over cutting-edge luxury features or dynamic driving performance, making it a difficult sell at its current price. less
Best Livestream of 2024, Business, Cars and Q&A

Best Livestream of 2024, Business, Cars and Q&A

This livestream recap focuses heavily on the extensive and challenging production of the NSX documentary. The hosts detail the complexities of gatheri... ng interviews, translating Japanese engineer notes, upscaling low-resolution photos, and uncovering previously unknown historical details about the car's development and leadership. While the NSX project is a significant undertaking, the discussion also touches upon future content, including an S2000 anniversary piece, comparison tests, and a new expert-led interview series. The hosts express excitement for these upcoming projects, aiming to foster community engagement and provide in-depth automotive insights. less
Dodge Hornet | A Stinging Sensation

Dodge Hornet | A Stinging Sensation

The 2024 Dodge Hornet RT Plug-in Hybrid is reviewed as a significant, albeit challenging, step for Dodge as it transitions away from its V8 muscle car... identity. The vehicle is praised for its surprisingly upscale interior, European-inspired design, and a more engaging driving experience compared to competitors like the CRV and RAV4. The RT trim, with its plug-in hybrid powertrain, offers brisk acceleration, particularly in 'PowerShot' mode, and a decent electric-only range of around 30 miles. However, the review highlights that the Hornet is built on an aging Fiat-Stellantis platform, sharing mechanicals with the Alfa Romeo Tonale and Jeep Compass. Criticisms include a brake-by-wire system with a less-than-ideal pedal feel, stability control that can be overly intrusive, and concerns about long-term reliability and repair costs for the complex hybrid system. While it offers more performance and refinement than expected for its price point (in the low $40,000s), the reviewer questions whether this new direction will resonate with traditional Dodge enthusiasts or if the marketing can overcome the brand's legacy. less
Mustang Mach E: The Result of Forcing EVs

Mustang Mach E: The Result of Forcing EVs

The Mustang Mach-E is revisited, highlighting its status as a first-generation EV grappling with market pressures and corporate strategy. While acknow... ledging the effort put into its development, the review points out significant issues, particularly with the GT and AWD models experiencing battery contactor failures due to heat from charging and performance driving. Ford's attempt to fix this with software updates proved insufficient, necessitating a large-scale recall involving battery pack removal. The reviewer criticizes the reactive approach to EV development, suggesting the Mach-E was rushed to market without sufficient passion or innovation, resulting in a vehicle that is perceived as average and overpriced compared to its internal combustion engine counterparts. The LFP battery chemistry change for standard range models is noted for fleet benefits but sacrifices performance. Ultimately, the Mach-E is presented as a cautionary tale of forcing EVs to market at high prices, failing to offer a compelling reason for consumers to choose it over established options, especially when considering the brand legacy and potential buyer confidence issues. less
2024 Corvette E-Ray Brutally Fast V8 and AWD

2024 Corvette E-Ray Brutally Fast V8 and AWD

The 2024 Corvette E-Ray successfully integrates electric power with the traditional V8, creating the quickest and most usable Corvette to date. Engine... ers prioritized performance, not eco-friendliness, resulting in a "Super GT" that offers supercar-level acceleration and all-weather capability without the compromises of extreme performance models like the Z06. The E-Ray's key advantage lies in its electric all-wheel-drive system, which provides immense traction and torque fill, smoothing out gear shifts and enhancing corner exit speeds. While it inherits some C8 platform drawbacks like a cramped interior and polarizing styling, its ride comfort, especially compared to the Z06, and its ability to be a true 365-day-a-year vehicle are significant wins. The reviewer highlights its surprising usability, even in wet conditions, and its ability to be both a comfortable GT and a potent performer, making it a highly impressive package for its price point. less
Kia EV6 GT: A Marketing Super Car

Kia EV6 GT: A Marketing Super Car

The Kia EV6 GT is presented as a marketing-driven supercar alternative, but the reality falls short of its ambitious claims. While it boasts impressiv... e straight-line acceleration and a capable chassis for drifting and track use, the core issue lies in a profound lack of driver feedback. The steering is numb, brake pedal feel is absent due to brake-by-wire, and there's virtually no communication from the tires, making it feel more like a video game than an engaging driving machine. The claimed 231 miles of range quickly diminishes to just over 200 miles with HVAC use, and even further when driven aggressively, a significant compromise for a performance EV. Although it features an 800-volt architecture for fast charging and adaptive dampers, these positives are overshadowed by the car's isolation from the driver. Ultimately, the EV6 GT is deemed a first-generation experiment that, despite its speed, fails to deliver the driving character expected in a performance vehicle, making it difficult to recommend over more engaging alternatives or even less performance-oriented EV6 models. less
Audi RS E-Tron GT | Right Car, Wrong Price

Audi RS E-Tron GT | Right Car, Wrong Price

The Audi RS e-tron GT is presented as a striking, well-built EV that prioritizes a traditional luxury car feel over radical electric innovation. Revie... wers praise its exceptional ride quality, solid construction, and intuitive interior controls, which offer a familiar experience for Audi drivers. However, the vehicle is heavily criticized for its exorbitant price point, starting around $150,000, which is deemed unjustifiable given its performance and efficiency limitations. The car's range is noted as a significant drawback, with real-world figures around 240-270 miles, and a recommended 80% charge limiting usable range further. While it offers impressive power (637 hp in boost), its compromises in interior packaging (limited rear seat and trunk space) and a synthetic driving feel are highlighted. Ultimately, the RS e-tron GT is seen as a transitional product, excelling in luxury and ride but failing to offer compelling value or inherent EV advantages compared to competitors like the Lucid Air or Tesla Model S, especially at its price. less
Lucid Air Sapphire | Earth's Fastest Sedan, Off The Leash

Lucid Air Sapphire | Earth's Fastest Sedan, Off The Leash

The Lucid Air Sapphire is presented as a technical marvel, redefining the concept of a fast production sedan with its 1234 horsepower and sub-9-second... quarter-mile time. The review emphasizes Lucid's commitment to in-house engineering and innovation, contrasting it with the perceived lack of transparency in some other EV manufacturers. The Sapphire's design is lauded for its minimalist aesthetic, efficient packaging, and spacious interior, achieved through a ground-up EV architecture. Key highlights include the advanced electric motor design with continuous wave winding, the efficient LEAP platform with its 924-volt architecture and robust battery cooling, and the innovative Wonder Box enabling 350kW charging. Aerodynamics are meticulously engineered for high-speed stability and efficiency, featuring unique rear strakes and a carefully sculpted underbody. The chassis tuning balances performance with refinement, utilizing coil springs and adaptive dampers for a superior ride. Braking is exceptional with 10-piston calipers and carbon-ceramic rotors, and importantly, it retains a traditional hydraulic feel without brake blending. The review concludes that Lucid's dedication to engineering excellence and a driver-focused approach offers hope for the future of performance EVs, proving that passion for cars can be integrated into electric technology. less
Nissan Ariya EV | Too Little Too Late?

Nissan Ariya EV | Too Little Too Late?

The Nissan Ariya represents a significant step forward for Nissan's EV strategy, offering a luxurious and spacious interior with comfortable, hig... h-quality seats and a refined, quiet driving experience, especially in traffic. The design is striking, and the blend of physical and capacitive controls is well-executed. However, the vehicle falters in its driving dynamics, with artificial brake pedal feel and uninspired steering being major drawbacks. While the AWD system offers some improvement, the overall driving experience is not sporty. The audio system is also a disappointment. Priced around $60,000 for a loaded dual-motor model, it faces stiff competition from rivals like the Tesla Model Y and Hyundai Ioniq 5. Nissan's approach of using a modified existing platform rather than a dedicated EV architecture limits its dynamic potential, making it a transitional product that may struggle with long-term relevance despite its comfortable interior and impressive ProPilot 2.0 hands-free driving feature. less
2024 Toyota Crown: The Future of Sedans?

2024 Toyota Crown: The Future of Sedans?

The 2024 Toyota Crown aims to redefine the sedan segment by blending luxury, comfort, and unique styling. While the exterior design is polarizing, aim... ing for a hatchback-like appearance, the interior offers a significant upgrade over previous Toyota sedans, featuring supportive seats, high-quality materials, and well-placed physical controls. The ride quality is exceptionally refined and quiet, providing a smooth, isolated experience akin to a luxury vehicle. However, the reviewer found the Hybrid Max variant, while quick in a straight line, to be unnecessarily expensive and lacking in agile driving dynamics, with a tendency to understeer. The standard hybrid models (XLE and Limited) offer excellent fuel efficiency and a refined experience, making them the recommended choice. The audio system is a notable weak point, being base-heavy and lacking EQ adjustments. Ultimately, the Crown excels as a comfortable, refined cruiser, but its high price, especially for the Hybrid Max, positions it against strong luxury competitors like the Lexus ES. less
Audi Q8 E-Tron | Great Ride, Average Range

Audi Q8 E-Tron | Great Ride, Average Range

The 2024 Audi Q8 e-Tron is praised for its exceptional ride comfort and refined driving dynamics, embodying a "Yacht Rock smooth" experience... that isolates occupants from road imperfections. Audi's expertise in chassis and suspension tuning is highlighted as a key strength, making it a benchmark for luxury barge EVs. The interior build quality and material isolation are also commended, contributing to a premium feel. However, the vehicle is criticized for its overly conservative and "corporate" exterior and interior design, which lacks a distinctive or special character compared to competitors. The range is deemed average, with real-world figures around 274 miles in the tested conditions, and the dual-screen HVAC interface is noted as a functional drawback. Despite these cons, the Q8 e-Tron is presented as a well-executed implementation of EV technology for those prioritizing comfort and refinement over cutting-edge design or maximum range. less
Mercedes EQS SUV | Doubling Down on Tech

Mercedes EQS SUV | Doubling Down on Tech

The Mercedes-EQS 580 SUV is presented as a technologically advanced, ultra-luxury electric SUV, with a starting price around $125,000, escalating to $... 150,000 when optioned. The reviewer highlights its exceptional quietness, comfortable ride, and premium interior fit and finish, likening it to an "isolation chamber." The rear-wheel steering is noted for improving maneuverability. However, the primary drawback identified is the overwhelming and distracting technology interface, particularly the "hyperscreen," which relies heavily on haptics and touch controls, forcing drivers to take their eyes off the road. This is seen as a significant safety concern and a "deal-breaker" for many. While the audio system is standard, its performance is described as average and bass-heavy. The reviewer suggests that despite its advanced EV platform, it feels like a "beta product" and may soon be surpassed by newer technology, making it a "lease-only" proposition. Compared to the EQS sedan, the SUV is considered more usable. While acknowledging its strengths against startup EVs, it faces stiff competition from rivals like the BMW iX, and traditional luxury SUVs like the Porsche Cayenne and Range Rover are suggested as potentially better overall choices for the price point. less
2023 Prius Prime | Will a Reboot Fix It?

2023 Prius Prime | Will a Reboot Fix It?

The 2023 Toyota Prius Prime receives a significant reboot, addressing its previous shortcomings with a striking new design, increased power, and enhan... ced EV range. The reviewer highlights the car's improved aesthetics, calling it far more appealing and less quirky than its predecessor. Mechanically, the upgrade to a 2.0-liter engine and more powerful electric motors results in a combined 220 horsepower, significantly improving acceleration to a 6.6-second 0-60 mph time. The EV range is also boosted to over 40 miles, with real-world testing achieving close to 50 mpg in hybrid mode. Positives include a refined and quiet ride, a comfortable interior with physical controls, excellent infotainment, and a comprehensive safety suite. However, the reviewer notes compromises in interior visibility due to the aggressive exterior styling, a large dashboard with wasted space, and a tendency towards understeer and stability control intervention when pushed hard, indicating it's not a sporty car despite its power increase. The primary frustration is the limited production, making this desirable new Prius Prime extremely difficult to obtain. less
Hummer EV | New Formula for Beast Trucks

Hummer EV | New Formula for Beast Trucks

The 2023 GMC Hummer EV is presented as a "technical power play" and a "showcase" for GM's engineering prowess, rather than a ... traditional work truck. Reviewers highlight its revolutionary engineering, including the Ultium platform, modular battery packs, and advanced suspension systems, which enable impressive capabilities like 13 inches of suspension travel and a 10-degree rear steer that dramatically shrinks its turning radius. The "WTF" mode delivers astonishing acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in the low threes, while the "normal" mode offers a surprisingly comfortable and quiet luxury truck experience. Key pros include its extreme off-road capability, unique convertible design, and the potential for its advanced technologies (like rear steer and the Ultium platform) to filter down into more mainstream GM EVs. However, significant cons are its exorbitant price (over $100,000, potentially reaching $250,000 with dealer markups), its immense size and weight, and the persistent issue of charging infrastructure, especially in the Midwest, leading to hilariously long charging times for its massive 246 kWh battery. The reviewer concludes that it's a "theme park ride" and a "sports car for truck people," best suited as a weekend toy rather than a daily work vehicle due to range limitations when towing. less
Why We Dumped the Volvo XC90 | Pros and Cons

Why We Dumped the Volvo XC90 | Pros and Cons

The 2023 Volvo XC90 Recharge is a vehicle with a striking exterior and a luxurious interior that belies its age, which dates back to 2015. The reviewe... r praises its timeless design, premium materials, and exceptional Bowers & Wilkins audio system. However, significant drawbacks emerge, particularly concerning the infotainment system, which is described as outdated and frustrating. The reviewer also highlights a history of mechanical issues, including supercharger problems, catalytic converter failure, jerky transmissions, and poor fuel economy (averaging 18 MPG on the T6 model). The air suspension, while intended for comfort, is criticized for its poor implementation, leading to clunks and a harsh ride quality characterized by low-frequency oscillations. Braking performance is deemed inadequate, with frequent rotor warping. A major deal-breaker was a persistent roof leak. Despite these issues, the reviewer acknowledges the XC90's strong safety features, robust body structure, and excellent cargo usability. For those considering a used model, the recommendation is to opt for a T5 variant with a warranty, ideally in the $40k-$50k range, as it offers good value. The updated Recharge models perform better with hybrid power, but the reviewer advises avoiding the T8 altogether due to reliability concerns. less
Toyota BZ4X EV Ai Review on Toyota's Worst Car

Toyota BZ4X EV Ai Review on Toyota's Worst Car

The Toyota BZ4X is critically reviewed as a "compliance product" and "half-baked" effort, failing to impress despite its electric ... platform. While acknowledging its quiet ride, comfortable interior, and decent legroom, the reviewer highlights significant drawbacks. Material quality is criticized as cheap and plasticky, with particular disdain for the "enormous steering wheel gauge pod" that obstructs the cluster. The exterior design is deemed uninspired, resembling a RAV4 with mismatched panels, and the rear design sacrifices cargo space for a sleek profile. The reviewer also notes a drastic range reduction when using the HVAC system, questioning the practicality of the 71.4 kWh battery. Ultimately, the BZ4X is deemed underwhelming and lacking purpose, especially when compared to competitors like the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, and even the RAV4 Hybrid. The consensus is that Toyota built this vehicle out of necessity rather than desire, resulting in a soulless product with no compelling reason for consumers to purchase it over other available options. less
2023 Honda Accord

2023 Honda Accord

The 2023 Honda Accord Hybrid is presented as a significant step towards electrification, focusing on a more luxurious, quiet, and refined driving expe... rience. Engineers have enhanced chassis rigidity and refined suspension and steering for improved comfort. The hybrid powertrain, found in premium trims, offers a notable increase in horsepower and torque over the previous generation, with real-world fuel economy expected in the high 40s to 50s MPG. The interior receives praise for its improved comfort, physical controls, and a more cohesive Android Automotive infotainment system. However, the review highlights a significant trade-off: the loss of sportiness and driving engagement. While the car handles well and is exceptionally comfortable, the inputs are described as "dead" and "lifeless," leading to a feeling of missing "soul." The exterior styling is also criticized for being generic and uninspired. Ultimately, the Accord is deemed a very good, compliant commuter car that excels in refinement and technology, but it sacrifices the engaging driving dynamics that some Accord buyers might still desire. less
2023 Toyota Sequoia | Stuck on Premium Road

2023 Toyota Sequoia | Stuck on Premium Road

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia, built on the Tundra's platform, introduces a standard twin-turbo V6 hybrid drivetrain, replacing the outgoing V8. While ... the powertrain is praised for its smoothness, refinement, and torque, reviewers found the vehicle's overall execution lacking, especially considering its premium price point. The interior offers a functional layout with physical controls, but seat comfort is a significant drawback, described as hard and uncomfortable even on shorter drives, a sentiment shared across all rows. Cargo space is ample with the third row down, though it doesn't fold flat, potentially causing awkwardness. The most damning criticism is reserved for the ride quality, which is deemed exceptionally rough and uncontrolled, plagued by low-frequency vibrations that lead to headaches. Despite the sophisticated platform and a competitive hybrid system, the Sequoia's ride refinement and interior comfort are considered a decade behind competitors like the Wagoneer, Expedition, and GM's large SUVs. While the drivetrain is a strong point, the overall package, particularly at the Capstone trim's ~$80,000 price, fails to justify the cost when compared to rivals that offer better comfort and refinement. less
2023 Kia EV6 GT EV | Korean Supercar?

2023 Kia EV6 GT EV | Korean Supercar?

The Kia EV6 GT is presented as a "Korean Supercar" capable of supercar-level acceleration, boasting 577 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time in th... e low threes, making it faster than a Lamborghini Huracan Evo Spider. While its straight-line performance is undeniably impressive and a significant value proposition at around $60,000 compared to much more expensive rivals like the Porsche Taycan, the review highlights significant compromises in driving dynamics. The car feels heavy (around 4,500 lbs) and lacks the driver communication and traditional sports car feel found in its competitors, particularly the Taycan. The steering and brake-by-wire systems offer limited feedback, and the chassis doesn't inspire confidence at higher speeds. However, the EV6 GT redeems itself with its entertaining "drift mode" and its ability to slide predictably, offering a unique, albeit niche, form of fun. The ride quality is surprisingly good, absorbing road imperfections well, and the 800-volt architecture enables rapid charging (10-80% in 18-21 minutes). Despite its dynamic shortcomings for purists, the EV6 GT is praised for its EV capabilities, quiet operation, user-friendly electronics, and unique styling, making it a compelling, albeit flawed, performance EV. less
McLaren Artura: The Hybrid Super Car Formula

McLaren Artura: The Hybrid Super Car Formula

The McLaren Artura represents a significant step for the brand, embracing hybridization without sacrificing driver engagement. The chief engineer emph... asizes the new platform's focus on weight reduction to maintain supercar performance, a goal largely achieved. The Artura offers a refined driving experience on the street, with excellent visibility and a smooth, powerful hybrid powertrain delivering over 670 horsepower. On track, it provides a balanced and engaging drive, with hydraulic steering and a responsive chassis communicating well with the driver. While the Artura does not engineer out the driver, its rear-end rotation window is noted as very small. The car's primary drawback is its high entry price, starting at over a quarter-million dollars. Overall, McLaren's commitment to engineering and genuine motorsport enthusiasm shines through, making the Artura a compelling, albeit expensive, hybrid supercar. less
Best Cars of 2022

Best Cars of 2022

SavageGeese's "Best Cars of 2022" review offers a comprehensive look at the year's automotive highlights and lowlights, eschewing ... typical year-end lists for a more nuanced discussion. The review critiques the Mercedes EQS lineup as the "worst car" and a "missed opportunity" due to its over-reliance on technology at the expense of core luxury car attributes like ride and quietness, contrasting it with the S-Class. VW's infotainment is singled out as the "worst infotainment" for its lack of physical buttons, while BMW's iDrive 7 is praised for its usability and consistency. Jeep receives accolades for its "biggest improvement" with the Grand Cherokee and Grand Wagoneer. Audio systems are also discussed, with Bowers & Wilkins in the BMW iX lauded and the McIntosh system in Jeeps deemed disappointing. The Ford Maverick is celebrated as the "best entry-level truck" for its affordability and practicality, and the Honda Civic takes the "best affordable daily driver" title for its versatility and value. The Toyota RAV4 is named the "best entry-level CUV" for its reliability, and the Toyota Sienna wins "best family full-size vehicle" for its hybrid efficiency. The F-150 is the "best full-size truck" for its modern architecture and Ford's understanding of its customer base. Luxury segments see the Lexus ES as the "best entry-level luxury sedan" for its reliability and value, and the Genesis G90 as the "best full-size luxury sedan" for its blend of luxury, technology, and price. The Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing is the "best sports sedan," though the Audi RS3 is noted for its special engine. The Honda Civic Type R is crowned "best sub-$50,000 sports car" for its driving dynamics and engagement, with the Elantra N as a strong value alternative. The BMW X3 and X5 are recognized in their respective luxury SUV segments, with the X7 taking "best luxury SUV." The Bronco Raptor is the "best off-roader." The BMW iX is the "best EV," praised for engineering despite usability concerns, while the Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a strong honorable mention. The "driver's car of the year" is the GT4 RS for its pure driving experience, and the "car of the year" is the Corvette C8 Z06 for its unparalleled performance and engineering at its price point. less
2023 Volvo S60 Black Edition | It Finally Works!

2023 Volvo S60 Black Edition | It Finally Works!

The 2023 Volvo S60 T8 Recharge Black Edition presents a significant improvement over previous iterations, particularly in its powertrain calibration. ... The removal of the supercharger and refinement of the software have resulted in a much smoother and more cohesive driving experience, delivering a potent 455 horsepower. The exterior styling, especially with the Black Edition's murdered-out accents, is praised for its understated luxury. However, the vehicle is not without its flaws. The infotainment system, running Android Automotive, is criticized for poor screen quality, illegible text, and frustrating HVAC controls. The digital gauge cluster is deemed overly simplistic and confusing. Furthermore, the chassis, despite updates, feels dated and lacks the rigidity and refinement of German competitors, exhibiting a jittery ride over imperfect surfaces. The stability control is overly intrusive, limiting any spirited driving. While the powertrain is impressive, the reviewer questions the necessity of such high power given the chassis limitations and the intrusive safety systems. Ultimately, the S60 T8 Recharge Black Edition is a surprisingly good car, offering a refined and quiet experience, but it sacrifices driving dynamics for safety and comfort, making it a questionable choice for enthusiasts compared to rivals like the BMW 3 Series or even the Lexus ES for pure comfort and simplicity. less
The Portrait of a Broken Automotive Industry

The Portrait of a Broken Automotive Industry

This video critically examines the current state of the automotive industry, highlighting a confluence of factors leading to what the presenter deems ... a self-destructive path. Key issues discussed include escalating car prices, aggressive dealer markups, expensive financing, and persistent inventory shortages. The presenter argues that the industry's push towards increasingly complex vehicles, driven by regulatory pressures for fuel economy and emissions, has significantly driven up manufacturing and repair costs. This complexity, coupled with supply chain challenges, makes long-term ownership and servicing difficult and expensive. The video also critiques the dealership model, suggesting that the overheads and franchise requirements force dealerships to inflate prices, particularly on enthusiast vehicles. Furthermore, the presenter expresses concern that these trends are pricing out younger generations, jeopardizing the future customer base and damaging brand loyalty. The analysis concludes by questioning the sustainability of the current model, particularly in light of rising interest rates and the potential for a significant financial collapse within the industry. less
BMW iX M60: The Frustrating Future of EVs

BMW iX M60: The Frustrating Future of EVs

The BMW iX M60 is presented as a technological showcase, embodying BMW's future direction in EVs. While the exterior styling is polarizing, the i... nterior impresses with extensive use of recycled and responsibly sourced materials, particularly in higher trims with optional copper accents and crystal controls. However, the reviewer notes a significant drawback in the abundance of hard plastics and a fabric that feels cheap for the vehicle's premium price point. The infotainment system, while aesthetically clean, suffers from usability issues due to the removal of physical buttons, leading to menu-jumping and increased error proneness. The reviewer praises the exceptional Bowers & Wilkins audio system as a standout feature. Mechanically, the iX M60 utilizes an advanced aluminum space frame with CFRP elements, offering a rigid and lightweight structure. The electric motors, lacking permanent magnets, provide precise control and efficiency. Despite its considerable weight, the M60 delivers impressive performance and handling, masking its mass effectively. The primary criticisms revolve around the 5th-generation battery architecture, which limits charging speed compared to newer 800-volt systems, and the high repair costs associated with advanced materials, making the vehicle feel disposable. The reviewer concludes that while it's a compelling and usable EV for a lease period, its long-term viability and value proposition are questionable due to rapid technological advancements and potential obsolescence. less