Downshift is a dedicated channel for automotive enthusiasts, created by people who share a deep passion for cars. This platform aims to guide viewers in discovering vehicles that align with their personal style and lifestyle, emphasizing that a car's value extends far beyond its performance specifications.
The philosophy at Downshift centers on the idea that cars are integral to our lives, facilitating journeys, explorations, and the creation of lasting memories. The channel encourages a thoughtful approach to vehicle selection, moving beyond mere performance metrics to find machines that truly enhance the owner's experience.
The philosophy at Downshift centers on the idea that cars are integral to our lives, facilitating journeys, explorations, and the creation of lasting memories. The channel encourages a thoughtful approach to vehicle selection, moving beyond mere performance metrics to find machines that truly enhance the owner's experience.
2025 BMW X5 - 16 Things You Should Know
The 2025 BMW X5, particularly the xDrive40i model reviewed, is lauded as a quintessential and highly competent luxury SUV, potentially the best in its class. The reviewer highlights the significant power and smoothness of the B58 inline-6 engine, now enhanced with a 48v mild-hybrid system, delive...
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5 Worst And 8 Best Things About The 2025 Kia Sportage Hybrid
The 2025 Kia Sportage Hybrid, specifically the SX Prestige trim, offers a compelling package with a strong emphasis on value and features. Reviewers h... moreighlight its potent 227 horsepower hybrid powertrain, class-leading cargo space (39.5 cu ft with seats up, 74 cu ft with seats down), and the inclusion of a spare tire as significant advantages. The driving experience is described as competent and athletic, with a smooth six-speed automatic transmission and a capable mechanical all-wheel-drive system featuring a locking center differential. The interior boasts a modern design, comfortable seats with heating and cooling, a panoramic roof, and excellent 360-degree cameras. However, the Sportage Hybrid isn't without its drawbacks. The styling is noted as polarizing, and the interior, while feature-rich, suffers from some cheap-feeling plastics and excessive gloss black trim that scratches easily. A major omission is the lack of wireless Apple CarPlay, requiring a wired connection. The reviewer also experienced minor annoyances like knee contact with the steering column and a slightly unsettled ride over rough surfaces. Despite these nitpicks, the Sportage Hybrid is praised for its strong value proposition, competitive pricing, and generous warranty, making it a top contender in its segment, though a mid-cycle refresh is anticipated to address some of these shortcomings. less
2025 Ford F-150 Lightning - 18 Things You Should Know
The 2025 Ford F-150 Lightning, specifically the Flash trim, is presented as a refined and familiar electric pickup truck that avoids the radical depar... moretures seen in some competitors. The reviewer highlights its "normal" F-150 aesthetic and ergonomics as a major strength, making it approachable for traditional truck owners. Key positives include the standard dual-motor AWD, a comfortable and quiet ride thanks to independent rear suspension, and practical features like the massive frunk with power output and Pro Power Onboard. The integration of Tesla charging is also noted as a significant improvement for range anxiety. However, the steering is described as "numb," and while the range is decent (260 miles tested in cold weather), it's less than some rivals. The reviewer concludes that despite minor drawbacks like less power and range than some competitors, the Lightning's overall usability, familiar design, and solid performance make it a compelling and well-executed electric truck, especially considering its value proposition. less
2025 Mazda CX50 Hybrid - 15 Things You Should Know
The 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid marks a significant entry for Mazda, leveraging Toyota's proven hybrid technology within Mazda's stylish CX-50 p... moreackage. The reviewer highlights the impressive real-world fuel economy, achieving 42.8 MPG on the Lakeshore Loop, surpassing the EPA estimates and even outperforming the reviewer's own RAV4 Hybrid. Mazda's interior design and exterior styling are praised as superior to competitors like the RAV4 and CRV, offering a more premium and attractive aesthetic. However, the hybrid system's integration leads to some compromises: the ride is noted as noticeably stiffer than rivals, and the vehicle is slightly de-contented compared to some competitors, notably lacking a 360-degree camera and lane-keep assist. Despite these drawbacks, the reviewer concludes that the CX-50 Hybrid offers excellent value, combining dependable Toyota hybrid reliability with Mazda's desirable design and driving dynamics, making it a compelling option in the segment. less
2025 Mazda CX90 PHEV - 16 Things You Should Know
The 2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV is presented as a compelling option in the three-row SUV segment, building on its previous model year with consolidated trim... mores and the addition of a sport trim. The reviewer highlights its attractive styling, superior interior quality that rivals luxury brands like Lexus, and a refined driving experience characterized by good steering feel and a capable chassis with kinematic posture control. Positives include comfortable and premium-feeling seats, a well-appointed cabin with physical climate controls, and an improved, though not class-leading, driver-assist suite. However, the vehicle isn't without its drawbacks. The reviewer notes a "clunky" and "jerky" feel in the 1-2 and 2-3 gear shifts, particularly in EV mode or at lower speeds. The third row is described as cramped with limited foot space, and the trunk capacity, while practical, is not class-leading. The heated steering wheel only warming the sides and the somewhat dim ambient lighting are minor criticisms. Despite these points, the CX-90 PHEV is praised for offering a plug-in hybrid option in a segment where it's not always standard, representing good value compared to premium competitors. less
6 Worst and 7 Best Things About My 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
The 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XSE is presented as a practical and efficient choice, though it shows its age against newer competitors. The reviewer high... morelights its exceptional real-world fuel economy, achieving 41.7 MPG on a mixed-condition loop, surpassing its EPA rating and outperforming rivals like the Honda CRV Hybrid and Kia Sportage Hybrid, especially in colder weather. The driving experience is described as easy, relaxed, and comfortable, with good visibility and natural braking. Practicality is a strong suit, featuring a segment-leading trunk space (though slightly less than some competitors when seats are folded) and the valuable inclusion of a spare tire. The technology suite is also praised for its comprehensiveness, offering features like a 10-inch infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and available 360 cameras. On the downside, the reviewer notes several drawbacks: interior rattles and scratchy plastics, an unrefined and 'raspy' engine sound under acceleration, and an aging exterior and interior design with incandescent bulbs for reverse lights and turn signals. Nitpicks include the placement of the door grab handle, the heated steering wheel button, and the lack of a fully digital instrument cluster on some trims. A significant concern raised is the appearance of multiple error messages related to sensors and headlights within just three months of ownership, contrasting sharply with the expected reliability. Despite these issues, the reviewer concludes that the RAV4 Hybrid is a reliable, efficient, and comfortable companion, particularly for those prioritizing frugality and ease of use over driving excitement, while anticipating significant improvements with the upcoming generation. less
2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV - 17 Things You Should Know
This video provides an overview of the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV, highlighting 17 key features and aspects of the new electric truck. While the tran... morescript is empty, the title suggests a comprehensive look at what potential buyers should be aware of. Without specific details from the transcript, it's impossible to ascertain the reviewer's specific likes or dislikes, real-world range tests, or detailed performance metrics. The video likely aims to inform viewers about the Silverado EV's capabilities, design, and technology, serving as an initial guide for those interested in this electric pickup. less
6 Worst and 6 Best Things About My 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid: 3 Month Ownership
After three months of ownership, the 2023 Honda CR-V Sport Touring Hybrid presents a mixed bag. The reviewer highlights significant disappointment wit... moreh highway and real-world MPG, averaging a mere 26.9 MPG, which is worse than a 2016 non-hybrid CX-5. This is attributed to the hybrid system's inefficiency at higher speeds, especially in cold weather. On the positive side, the CR-V excels in its driving dynamics, offering a luxurious, refined, and quiet experience that the reviewer deems superior to all competitors in its class. The powertrain transitions are seamless, steering is excellent, and the ride comfort is top-notch. Styling is praised as elegant and sporty, and the cabin, while lacking some premium features like a head-up display or cooled seats, is comfortable, well-built, and practical, particularly its enormous cargo space and spacious rear seats. Minor gripes include the dated infotainment UI, a pathetic horn, and the lack of a spare tire. Despite the MPG shortcomings, the CR-V's driving experience and practicality make it a strong contender, though potential buyers should be aware of its highway fuel economy limitations. less
2025 Mercedes-Benz G580 [G] - 14 Things You Should Know
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G580 with EQ Technology successfully electrifies an icon without compromising its core identity. The reviewer praises Mercedes ... morefor retaining the G-Class's signature styling and old-school feel, making it nearly indistinguishable from its gasoline counterpart, save for the lack of engine noise. Key highlights include the powerful quad-motor setup delivering 579 hp and 859 lb-ft of torque, enabling impressive off-road finesse with virtual locking differentials and true torque vectoring, all while riding on a traditional ladder frame. The interior remains classic G-Class, with subtle blue accents and modern tech like a digital cluster, large infotainment screen, and advanced driver aids. While the 240-mile range from the 116 kWh battery is adequate for daily use, highway driving may reduce this. Charging up to 200 kW allows for a 10-80% charge in 32 minutes. The reviewer finds the driving dynamics familiar, with the characteristic G-Class body roll and steering feel, but notes a smoother, more refined experience compared to the V8 models. The "G Roar" sound experience is mentioned as a subtle, optional enhancement. Despite the high price point, starting at $162,000, the reviewer concludes it's a perfect execution for those who desire the G-Class's presence and capability in an electric package. less
Mazda CX50 Hybrid vs Honda CRV Hybrid - The Best Of The Best
In this comprehensive comparison, the Mazda CX-50 Hybrid and Honda CR-V Hybrid are pitted against each other, with the reviewer concluding they repres... moreent the best in their segment. The CX-50 Hybrid excels in powertrain performance, boasting superior fuel economy (42.8 MPG on the Lakeshore Loop vs. 36.3 MPG for the CR-V Hybrid) and a slightly quicker 0-60 time, earning it the win in this category. However, the CR-V Hybrid takes the lead in practicality, offering significantly more cargo space, especially with the rear seats folded. The reviewer praises the CR-V's refined and comfortable driving experience, noting its smooth hybrid system and superior ride comfort compared to the CX-50's stiffer suspension. While the Mazda offers a more premium interior feel and a head-up display, the Honda's ergonomics and overall cabin interaction are subtly preferred. Technology features are comparable, with neither offering a 360-degree camera. Ultimately, despite the CX-50's efficiency advantage, the reviewer leans towards the CR-V Hybrid for its overall balance of comfort, space, and refinement, acknowledging that both are excellent choices. less
6 Worst And 10 Best Things About The 2025 Rivian R1S
The Rivian R1S (2025) offers a compelling blend of extreme performance and off-road prowess, but it's not without its quirks. The tri-motor setup... more delivers astonishing acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in under 3 seconds, with a quad-motor version promising even more speed. Its off-road capabilities are exceptional, boasting impressive approach, departure, and breakover angles, along with 15 inches of ground clearance thanks to the adjustable air suspension. The interior is a highlight, featuring high-quality materials, excellent build quality, and a spacious, comfortable cabin, particularly for second-row passengers. However, the R1S suffers from a steep learning curve due to a significant lack of physical buttons, with most controls relegated to the touchscreen, which can be frustrating. The absence of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, coupled with a navigation system that lacks alternate routing options, are notable drawbacks. Real-world range, while decent, falls short of advertised figures in adverse conditions, with the Max battery pack yielding around 253 miles in a worst-case highway scenario. Despite these issues, the R1S presents a strong, albeit expensive, option for those prioritizing performance and capability. less
Mazda CX50 Hybrid vs Toyota RAV4 Hybrid - Attack Of The Clones
In this head-to-head comparison, the Mazda CX-50 Hybrid and Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, despite sharing the same powertrain, reveal distinct personalities. Th... moree CX-50 excels in driving dynamics, offering superior steering feel, chassis control, and a more engaging experience, complemented by a notably more upscale and modern interior with better materials and design. However, this comes at the cost of a stiffer, sometimes busy ride. The RAV4 Hybrid, while less engaging to drive, offers a more comfortable and relaxed ride, a larger trunk, and a more spacious rear seat with additional features like heated rear seats and reclining capability. Technologically, the RAV4 also pulls ahead with more modern features like a 360-degree camera and a fully digital instrument cluster, areas where the CX-50 lags. Fuel economy is nearly identical in real-world testing, with both vehicles proving highly efficient. Ultimately, the choice hinges on priorities: the CX-50 for driving enthusiasts prioritizing interior quality and style, and the RAV4 for those seeking comfort, practicality, and the latest tech features. less
6 Worst And 7 Best Things About The 2025 Mazda CX50 Hybrid
The 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid is presented as a compelling, albeit slightly de-contented, alternative in the competitive hybrid SUV segment. While it sh... moreares its mechanical underpinnings with the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Mazda has successfully imbued it with its signature driving dynamics, offering superior steering feel, chassis balance, and a more refined cabin experience compared to its rivals. The reviewer highlights impressive real-world fuel economy, achieving 42.8 MPG on the Lakeshore Loop, surpassing both the EPA estimate and the RAV4's performance. Styling is a strong suit, retaining the CX-50's attractive, modern design. Practicality is also a plus, with a well-thought-out trunk featuring underfloor storage and a spare tire, despite a slight reduction in cargo volume for the hybrid model. On the downside, the CX-50 Hybrid suffers from reduced towing capacity (1,500 lbs), a stiff ride quality on choppy surfaces, and a tech suite that lags behind competitors, notably missing a 360-degree camera, a digital rearview mirror, and a fully digital instrument cluster. Rear seat comfort is adequate but lacks recline and climate controls. Despite these omissions, the reviewer ranks it highly, placing it in the top three, and commends its value proposition starting at $34,000. less
2025 Mercedes-AMG S63 ePerformance - 14 Things You Should Know
The 2025 Mercedes-AMG S63 ePerformance is presented as the undisputed pinnacle of luxury and performance, with the reviewer highlighting a distinct la... moreck of direct competition from BMW or Audi. The vehicle boasts an impressive combined output of 791 horsepower and 1055 lb-ft of torque, enabling a 0-60 mph time of 3 seconds. While it offers an estimated 18 miles of EV range, AMG's focus remains squarely on performance. The reviewer praises the car's dynamic capabilities, attributing its sharp handling for its size to features like rear-wheel steering and active anti-roll bars, despite a slightly stiff AMG adaptive damper tune. The interior is described as intoxicating, with exceptional attention to detail, advanced technology, and unparalleled customization options, particularly in the rear seats. The reviewer is particularly impressed with how the S63 seamlessly blends its extreme performance capabilities with S-Class levels of comfort and refinement in Comfort mode, noting the smooth integration of the hybrid system and minimal road or wind noise. The main drawback mentioned is the reduced trunk space due to the battery placement. Overall, the reviewer is more impressed than anticipated, calling it a stunner. less
2025 Mercedes-AMG E53 - 14 Things You Should Know
The 2025 Mercedes-AMG E53 presents a compelling blend of potent performance and luxury, positioning itself as the most sporting midsize sedan from Mer... morecedes until the E63 arrives. The reviewer highlights its impressive 603 horsepower output, achieved through a 3.0L turbocharged inline-6 and electric motor, delivering acceleration comparable to the previous E63. The plug-in hybrid system offers a usable 21.2 kWh battery with an estimated 42 miles of EV range, and surprisingly includes DC fast charging capability, though at a modest 60kW. Dynamically, the E53 impresses with standard rear-wheel steering, adaptive dampers, and a well-balanced chassis, despite its substantial 5400 lb curb weight. The interior is lauded for its classic Mercedes luxury, featuring high-quality materials, extensive ambient lighting, and a visually striking design, though the reviewer notes a preference for physical controls over the touch-sensitive steering wheel buttons. While the trunk space is slightly compromised by the battery, the overall practicality remains high. The reviewer finds the driving experience engaging, with a synthesized but effective engine note that smooths transitions, and praises the car's ability to switch between sporty AMG character and comfortable luxury. The main criticisms are the synthesized engine sound (though understood for its purpose), the slightly high seating position, and the voice assistant's occasional overzealousness. less
7 Worst And 9 Best Things About The 2025 Mazda CX90 PHEV
The 2025 Mazda CX-90 PHEV offers a compelling blend of style, driving dynamics, and interior refinement, positioning it as a strong contender in the t... morehree-row SUV segment, even bridging into luxury territory. While the PHEV powertrain provides a usable electric range (around 26 miles EPA, with real-world cold-weather results slightly lower) and contributes to an impressive average of over 50 MPG when plugged in, the reviewer notes some clunkiness in the transmission shifts, particularly in EV mode and when the car is cold. The interior is a standout, praised for its premium materials, elegant design, and user-friendly physical controls, earning a near-perfect score. Driving dynamics are also a highlight, with balanced handling, responsive steering, and a refined ride, making it one of the best in its class. However, the CX-90 isn't without its drawbacks. The third row is cramped with limited legroom, and the trunk space, while decent, is not the largest. Minor nitpicks include the infotainment system's reliance on a rotary dial for native functions (though touch is enabled in Apple CarPlay when stationary) and a somewhat awkward second-row cupholder design. Despite these points, the CX-90 PHEV is considered a good value, offering a premium experience at a price point below direct luxury competitors. less
Lexus RX450h+ - 15 Things You Should Know
The Lexus RX450h+ plug-in hybrid for 2024 offers a compelling blend of luxury, efficiency, and practicality, positioning itself as a strong contender ... morein the premium PHEV segment. The reviewer highlights its shared powertrain with the Toyota RAV4 Prime and NX PHEV, delivering a combined 304 hp and a real-world electric range of approximately 36 miles, which is commendable even in cold weather. The vehicle boasts a refined and quiet ride, excellent interior materials, and a host of luxury features, including heated/cooled seats and a standard panoramic roof. However, the reviewer notes that the PHEV model is exclusively offered in the Luxury trim, meaning the sportier F Sport variant is unavailable. Criticisms include a slower charging time compared to some rivals and a higher starting price of $70,580, making it the most expensive RX. Despite these points, the RX450h+ is praised for its true luxury experience and efficient powertrain, making it a solid choice for those prioritizing comfort and refinement over outright sportiness. less
2025 Toyota Camry Hybrid - 13 Things You Should Know
The 2025 Toyota Camry Hybrid, now in its ninth generation, represents a significant evolution, exclusively offering a hybrid powertrain. The reviewer ... morehighlights its class-leading power (232 hp for AWD) and impressive fuel economy, with potential for over 50 MPG. The eAWD system, available on all trims, is a key advantage over competitors like the Honda Accord and Hyundai Sonata, particularly in adverse weather. Positives include a handsome "Hammerhead" design, a spacious and practical interior with good legroom, and a comprehensive tech suite featuring a 12.3-inch infotainment screen and standard wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. However, the reviewer notes some drawbacks: the brakes could offer more initial bite, and wind noise from the panoramic sunroof is present. The driver monitoring system is deemed overly sensitive and prone to false alerts, and in cold weather (around freezing), the hybrid system and EV mode take time to warm up, impacting initial fuel economy. Despite these points, the Camry is ranked as the top choice among its direct rivals due to its blend of power, efficiency, available AWD, and overall refinement. less
3 Worst And 5 Best Things About The 2024 Lexus LC500h (Hybrid)
The Lexus LC500h hybrid is reviewed, with the hosts acknowledging its striking styling and exceptional interior quality as major strengths. The GT exp... moreerience is lauded as superior to competitors like the Mercedes SL and Porsche 911, offering a supple ride and refined cabin. However, the hybrid powertrain, while delivering improved fuel economy (around 29-30 MPG) and decent low-end torque, is seen as a compromise, losing some of the "soul" and rawness of the V8 model due to its CVT-based transmission. Practicality is limited, particularly cargo space, though rear-seat room is surprisingly adequate. Despite the hybrid's improvements and a price point significantly lower than the SL, the V8 remains the preferred choice for the reviewers, who suggest saving money and fuel costs by opting for the V8.
Key Pros:
- Stunning, head-turning exterior styling.
- High-quality, luxurious, and well-built interior.
- Excellent GT experience, superior to competitors in ride comfort and refinement.
- Improved fuel economy over the V8.
- Decent low-end torque for around-town driving.
Key Cons:
- Loss of "soul" and character compared to the V8.
- Inconsistent and sometimes "goofy" CVT transmission behavior.
- Limited cargo space.
- V8 model is still preferred by reviewers. less
Key Pros:
- Stunning, head-turning exterior styling.
- High-quality, luxurious, and well-built interior.
- Excellent GT experience, superior to competitors in ride comfort and refinement.
- Improved fuel economy over the V8.
- Decent low-end torque for around-town driving.
Key Cons:
- Loss of "soul" and character compared to the V8.
- Inconsistent and sometimes "goofy" CVT transmission behavior.
- Limited cargo space.
- V8 model is still preferred by reviewers. less
8 Worst And 6 Best Things About The 2024 Toyota Tundra Hybrid
The 2024 Toyota Tundra Hybrid, specifically the Platinum trim tested, presents a compelling package with strong styling, a comfortable and technologic... moreally advanced cabin, and a capable driving experience. The I-Force Max hybrid powertrain delivers substantial torque (583 lb-ft) and good acceleration, achieving around 19 MPG, which is respectable for its class. The interior boasts high-quality materials, heated/cooled seats, a panoramic roof, and a large infotainment screen. However, the Tundra falls short when directly compared to its closest rival, the Ford F-150 Hybrid. Key drawbacks include a less efficient hybrid system with limited EV-only driving, a lack of Ford's Pro Power Onboard generator functionality, less rear-seat headroom and under-seat storage, and the absence of a 4-Auto mode. While the Tundra is competitive against other trucks like the Silverado and Ram, its hybrid system is outshined by the F-150's more robust implementation. Despite these criticisms, the Tundra offers good value, especially when optioned up, and remains a solid, capable truck. less
2 Worst And 6 Best Things About The 2024 BMW i5
The 2024 BMW i5 eDrive40 is presented as a competent, well-rounded luxury electric sedan, though it doesn't excel in any single area. Its primary... more drawbacks are its range, which falls short of American competitors like the Tesla Model S and Lucid Air, and its starting price, which is less competitive given the performance and range offered by rivals. On the positive side, the i5 boasts a high-quality tech suite with customizable displays and the latest iDrive 8 system, featuring advanced driver aids and unique features like AirConsole games. The driving experience is praised for its refinement, smooth power delivery, excellent ride quality balancing sportiness and comfort, and minimal noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH). While styling is subjective, the reviewer finds it handsome, noting the increased dimensions of the new generation. The cabin is highlighted for its premium materials, elegant design, and comfortable, well-built interior, surpassing Tesla in luxury feel. Practicality is decent, with a usable trunk, though smaller than the Model S and Lucid Air. Rear seats are spacious, comparable to rivals. Ultimately, the i5 is recommended for those prioritizing a genuine luxury car experience with dealer support, comfort, and refinement over outright range or cutting-edge tech found in competitors. less
4 Worst And 7 Best Things About The 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV
The Chevrolet Silverado EV is presented as a highly capable electric truck with standout features like its exceptional range, achieving nearly 450 mil... morees, and the innovative midgate functionality that extends bed capacity significantly. The driving experience is praised for its smooth air suspension, responsive rear-wheel steering, and the advanced Super Cruise system, which is considered superior to competitors' offerings due to its mapping capabilities and towing compatibility. However, the review highlights several significant drawbacks. The truck's considerable weight impacts efficiency, making it less efficient than rivals like the F-150 Lightning. Interior quality is criticized for excessive use of scratchy plastics and minor issues like rattles, which are deemed unacceptable given the high price point (starting around $95,000). The absence of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is also a notable omission. Despite these flaws, the Silverado EV's unique features and impressive range position it as a compelling, albeit expensive, option in the electric truck market. less
3 Worst And 6 Best Things About The 2024 Lexus RX450h+ Plug-In Hybrid
The 2024 Lexus RX 450h+ Plug-In Hybrid is presented as a compelling, albeit not perfect, option in the luxury PHEV segment. While it falls short of th... moree BMW X5 PHEV in terms of size, outright power, and electric range, it counters with a significant price advantage, starting at $3,000 less. The reviewer highlights the powertrain, shared with the RAV4 Prime, as a strong point, delivering 304 net horsepower and an estimated 37 miles of electric range, with a full charge achievable in about 2.5-3 hours on a Level 2 charger. The interior receives high marks for its luxurious materials, refined fit and finish, and comfortable rear seats, complete with heated/cooled options and power recline. Styling is deemed handsome, though the reviewer preferred the previous generation's look. Criticisms include a smaller-than-expected trunk (30 cubic feet, expanding to 46.2 with seats folded) and a lower towing capacity (3,500 lbs) compared to rivals. The reviewer strongly advocates for owners to actually plug in their PHEVs to maximize the benefits of the technology and cost savings. Overall, the RX 450h+ is praised for its comfort, refinement, and value proposition within the PHEV class, despite its practical limitations. less
4 Worst And 7 Best Things About The 2024 Audi RS e-tron GT
The 2024 Audi RS e-tron GT is presented as a premium electric sedan with distinct strengths and weaknesses. While its range (rated at 232 miles, with ... morereal-world expectations around 250 miles) is a significant drawback compared to competitors like the Tesla Model S Plaid and Lucid Air, the reviewer emphasizes that for its target demographic, this may not be a critical issue. The vehicle's high starting price, particularly for the RS trim ($147,000, tested at $159,000), is also noted as a negative. Practicality is questioned due to the tight rear seats and a conventional sedan trunk opening, which is less versatile than a hatchback. However, the RS e-tron GT excels in styling, described as one of the best-looking EVs available, with a sleek, modern design. The driving experience is lauded, particularly its sporty handling and impressive power delivery (590 hp, up to 637 hp in boost), with the reviewer calling it potentially the best-handling Audi outside of an R8. The cabin experience is highlighted as a major positive, offering superior build quality, materials, and refinement compared to rivals, with comfortable and supportive RS seats. The ride comfort, especially with the air suspension and rear steering, is considered class-leading, providing a luxurious and composed experience over various road surfaces. Technology is functional and well-integrated without being overwhelming. Ultimately, the reviewer concludes that while range and price are compromises, the RS e-tron GT's exceptional build quality, refined driving dynamics, and luxurious interior make it a compelling, albeit expensive, choice for those who can overlook its limitations. less
4 Worst And 6 Best Things About The 2024 BMW XM Label
The 2024 BMW XM Label is presented as BMW's M-only halo performance SUV, aiming to compete with luxury exotics. Reviewers highlight its "sav... moreagely quick" acceleration and impressive lap times, attributing this to its powerful 738 horsepower hybrid V8 powertrain. The interior is praised for its high-quality materials, unique design elements like the headliner, and spacious rear seating, offering a comfortable "lounge" experience. However, significant criticisms are leveled against its immense size and weight (over 3 tons), which make it feel less engaging and organic to drive, especially compared to the lighter, less expensive X5M Competition. The cargo practicality is also deemed insufficient for its size, with a significantly smaller trunk than the X5M. Furthermore, the reviewer questions BMW's brand cachet at this price point ($185k+), suggesting it struggles against established luxury supercar brands. The synthetic driving experience and the high price for what is essentially a heavy SUV are noted as major drawbacks, leading to a conclusion that while engineered impressively, it doesn't fully deliver the emotional connection expected from a halo M product. less