QUESTIONS, COFFEE & CARS #3 // CONSUMER REPORTS OR JD POWER?

EV Channels Review

This episode of Questions, Coffee & Cars tackles a variety of automotive queries, with a significant focus on the Chevrolet Bolt EV. The hosts highlight the Bolt's substantial price decrease for 2023, making it a "screaming deal" despite the lack of other updates. They acknowledge past battery issues but emphasize that the 2022 refresh significantly improved the vehicle's infotainment, interior, and exterior, while the battery and core components were also upgraded. With a range of 417 km (250 miles) for the EV and just under 400 km for the EUV, it's praised as an excellent city runabout and incredible value, especially in the US market starting at $25,500. The discussion also touches on the Lexus UX 250h, noting its quirky fun-to-drive nature and the crucial 2023 infotainment system update with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, though its cramped rear seat and cargo space are noted as drawbacks. Other topics include the practicality of the Mini SE for teens, the rationale behind using JD Power over Consumer Reports (primarily cost and accessibility of data), the prevalence of gloss black plastic trim, and recommendations for a sub-$50,000 EV/hybrid (ID.4, Ioniq 5, NX hybrid).