Chabby's Rides is a dedicated automotive channel that shares a profound passion for automobiles through engaging video content. This distributor focuses on showcasing the diverse world of cars, appealing to enthusiasts and casual viewers alike with its expertly curated selections.
Explore a collection that celebrates automotive culture, from classic models to modern marvels. Chabby's Rides offers a unique perspective, making it a go-to destination for anyone fascinated by the engineering, design, and history of vehicles.
Explore a collection that celebrates automotive culture, from classic models to modern marvels. Chabby's Rides offers a unique perspective, making it a go-to destination for anyone fascinated by the engineering, design, and history of vehicles.
2025 Toyota RAV4 XSE Hybrid: The Best Compact Hybrid SUV?
The 2025 Toyota RAV4 XSE Hybrid, the best-selling SUV in the US, is reviewed here, highlighting its popularity and practicality. The reviewer praises the vehicle's comfortable ride, smooth hybrid takeoff, and the efficiency offered by the hybrid system, noting its impressive MPG figures. The XSE ...
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2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE Hybrid: Is The 2025 RAV4 The Best Hybrid SUV?
The 2025 Toyota RAV4 XLE Hybrid is reviewed as a practical and reliable compact crossover, continuing its reign as the best-selling SUV in the US. The... more reviewer highlights its standard all-wheel drive, efficient hybrid powertrain delivering an estimated 39 MPG combined, and a comfortable ride with well-damped suspension. Key interior features include an 8-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, heated seats, and a heated steering wheel, though the reviewer notes the interior utilizes a significant amount of plastic compared to competitors. The cargo space is generous, offering 37.5 cubic feet with rear seats up and 69.8 cubic feet with them down, further enhanced by a standard spare tire. While praised for its reliability and practicality, the XLE Hybrid trim, priced around $38,704 with options, is positioned against competitors like the Kia Sportage SX Prestige Hybrid, which offers more amenities and a nicer interior for a similar price, albeit with a less favorable reliability record according to consumer reports. The reviewer concludes that the RAV4's proven reliability is its strongest selling point. less
2025 Cadillac Optiq Sport: Is The All-New 2025 Cadillac Optiq Worth A Look?
The 2025 Cadillac Optiq Sport 1 is presented as a compelling option in the subcompact electric crossover segment, aiming to replace Cadillac's ou... moretgoing gasoline SUVs. The reviewer highlights its smooth, comfortable, and luxurious ride, characteristic of Cadillac, with well-damped suspension and supportive seats. Key features include a striking 33-inch OLED dual display, a panoramic glass roof with a power shade, and a 19-speaker AKG sound system. The dual-motor AWD setup provides 300 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque, offering adequate acceleration for daily driving and road trips, though it's not positioned as a performance EV. The estimated range is 302 miles, with DC fast charging capable of adding 79 miles in 10 minutes. Positives include the refined interior, comfortable seating, and comprehensive safety features. However, the reviewer notes the absence of rear heated seats and a head-up display in the Sport 1 trim (available in Sport 2), and expresses disappointment with the white plastic trim on the dash. The infotainment system's lack of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is also a drawback, despite the video description's initial correction. less
2025 Kia Sportage SX Prestige Hybrid: Is It Worth 40k?
The 2025 Kia Sportage SX Prestige Hybrid is presented as a compelling option in the compact hybrid SUV segment, particularly for buyers seeking a feat... moreure-rich vehicle under the $40,000 mark. The reviewer highlights the attractive Carmine Red interior, the smooth hybrid powertrain delivering 227 horsepower, and an impressive estimated range of 521 miles on a full tank. The vehicle boasts a comfortable and spacious cabin, a user-friendly dual-screen infotainment system (though noted as one generation older), and practical features like a power liftgate and a spare tire. Positives include the responsive steering, effective brakes, and the availability of all-wheel drive. However, the reviewer points out the abundance of gloss black trim on the center stack as a fingerprint and scratch magnet, and the rearview mirror is considered a letdown for the top trim. The exterior matte gray paint, while visually striking, is noted as difficult to maintain. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Sportage Hybrid is positioned as a strong contender against rivals like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V, offering significant value and amenities for its price. less
2025 Kia Niro EX Touring: Is The 2025 Kia Niro The Perfect Daily Driver?
The 2025 Kia Niro EX Touring is presented as a compelling option for daily driving, particularly for those prioritizing fuel efficiency. The reviewer ... morehighlights its impressive estimated 49 MPG combined, translating to a substantial estimated range of 545 miles on its 11.1-gallon tank, making it a strong contender for those not yet ready for a full EV. Key advantages noted include excellent visibility, a comfortable and spacious interior for its class, and a generous 63.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, surpassing competitors like the Mazda CX-30. The reviewer also praises the smooth six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and flickable handling. However, the EX Touring trim, while offering desirable features like ambient lighting and a sunroof, still utilizes Kia's older infotainment system and is criticized for excessive use of gloss black trim, which is prone to scratches and dust. The absence of a heated steering wheel is also noted as a missed opportunity at this price point. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Niro EX Touring is deemed to offer significant value in the subcompact crossover segment. less
2025 Polestar 3: Is The Polestar 3 The Future Of Electric SUVs?
The 2025 Polestar 3 is presented as a compelling option in the performance electric SUV segment, blending Volvo's EV performance division's ... moreprowess with practicality. The reviewer highlights its brisk acceleration, with the dual-motor setup delivering 489 horsepower and 620 lb-ft of torque, making it feel faster than its 4.8-second 0-60 mph time suggests. The handling is praised for being tight and responsive, aided by a low center of gravity and available air suspension. Interior features, including the large vertically mounted Google Assistant system, premium Bowers & Wilkins audio, and comfortable Microtech seating, are noted positively. Practicality is addressed with a decent cargo area and the ability to tow 3,500 lbs. However, the fixed panoramic glass roof without a shade and the reliance on the touchscreen for most controls are potential drawbacks. The reviewer concludes by posing the question of whether the Polestar 3 is the future of electric SUVs, inviting viewer discussion on its value proposition against competitors. less
2024 Jeep Wagoneer S 4xe: Jeep’s Performance EV Is Here To Save You From Boring Hybrids!
The 2024 Jeep Wagoneer S 4xe Launch Edition is presented as a compelling performance EV, aiming to disrupt the market with its blend of luxury, techno... morelogy, and power. The reviewer highlights the vehicle's striking design, premium interior materials, and extensive features, including massage seats, a passenger display, and a sophisticated infotainment system. Performance is a key focus, with the 600 horsepower and 617 lb-ft of torque delivering exhilarating acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in a claimed 3.4 seconds, which the reviewer found impressive and not subject to the power flattening some expected. The estimated range is 303 miles, with fast charging capabilities. Key criticisms include the lack of power-folding rear seats and a spare tire, which seem like oversights for a premium vehicle at its price point of $72,995. Despite these minor drawbacks and being late to the EV party, the reviewer highly recommends the Wagoneer S, praising its comfort, quietness, tech, and overall value proposition compared to competitors like the Polestar 3 and Porsche Macan EV. less
2025 Ford Maverick XLT Hybrid: Is The Hybrid Maverick The Most Efficient Truck?
The 2025 Ford Maverick XLT Hybrid is presented as a highly efficient compact truck option, particularly with its all-wheel-drive configuration. The re... moreviewer highlights its impressive fuel economy (40 city/34 highway/37 combined MPG) and the practicality of the 2.5L hybrid engine, which produces 191 horsepower. A significant update is the new 13.2-inch Sync 4 infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a welcome addition over the previous minimalist setup. The vehicle also boasts the optional 4K tow package, enabling up to 4,000 lbs of towing capacity. However, the reviewer notes the absence of heated seats and a heated steering wheel in this XLT trim, and points out a considerable price increase compared to earlier models, with this example MSRPing at $34,745. The interior is described as Spartan, though functional, with adequate space for front passengers but a tighter rear seating area. The CVT transmission is a necessary compromise for the hybrid's efficiency, and the lack of selectable drive modes is also mentioned as a minor drawback. Overall, the Maverick Hybrid is praised for its driving dynamics and fuel savings, but potential buyers should weigh the increased cost against the updated features and its utilitarian nature. less
2024 Dodge Charger Daytona RT: We Test Dodge’s Electric Muscle Car!
This video marks the beginning of a 36-month long-term test of the 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona EV RT. The reviewer, while acknowledging the car's ... morestriking design and the special feeling it evokes, is highly critical of its performance as an electric vehicle. Key issues highlighted include poor energy efficiency, with the car achieving only 2.8 miles per kWh, significantly below optimal EV standards. Charging is also criticized as slow, with a Level 2 charger taking 6 hours to go from 37% to 80% on the 400-volt architecture. The reviewer also details two immediate recalls: a software reflash to prevent the car from getting stuck in park (potentially due to opening doors too many times) and a replacement of the integrated center stack panel. Despite these criticisms, the reviewer intends to cover the car's "Good, Bad, and the Ugly" over the lease term, emphasizing its role as a compliance car necessary for Stellantis to meet federal regulations and enable future Hemi models. The reviewer expresses a preference for a gas-powered muscle car over this EV iteration. less
2025 Toyota RAV4 XSE Plugin Hybrid: Is The PHEV Really Worth 50 Grand?
The 2025 Toyota RAV4 XSE Plug-in Hybrid presents a compelling, albeit expensive, option in the SUV market. The reviewer highlights its robust powertra... morein, delivering a combined 302 net horsepower and an impressive 42 miles of EV-only range, with a total potential range of up to 600 miles on a full tank. The all-wheel-drive system, powered by electric motors, is noted for its reliability. Interior features like the 10.5-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, heated seats, and a comfortable cabin are appreciated. However, the reviewer questions the $51,000 price tag, suggesting that at this premium level, features like genuine leather upholstery, a digital rearview mirror, ventilated front seats, and power-folding mirrors should be standard, not optional. The lack of LED lighting in the rear and the manual sunshade for the sunroof are also minor criticisms. Ultimately, the decision between the plug-in hybrid and the regular hybrid is left to the consumer, with the reviewer emphasizing the significant price difference for the PHEV variant. less
2025 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD: The Sporty SUV You Didn’t Expect!
The 2025 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD is presented as a compelling value proposition in the subcompact crossover segment, particularly when compared to ri... morevals like the Toyota Corolla Cross and Honda HR-V. The reviewer highlights its sporty appearance, especially in the Ultimate Red paint, and a surprisingly spacious interior for its class, offering ample room for passengers. Key features praised include the full LED lighting, 19-inch alloy wheels, a comprehensive safety suite with blind-spot cameras, a 12.3-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and desirable amenities like heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. However, the reviewer notes significant omissions for a top-trim model priced around $36,000: the lack of a power front passenger seat and rear heated seats are seen as missed opportunities. The interior color, while aesthetically pleasing, is criticized for its susceptibility to staining. Despite these drawbacks, the Kona's performance, aided by its 190 hp turbocharged engine and AWD, is described as surprisingly quick and agile, with responsive handling and a comfortable ride. The reviewer concludes that while it offers substantial amenities for the price, the decision hinges on whether these features outweigh the missing premium touches when stacked against competitors. less
2024 Toyota Prius XLE: Is the Prius More Relevant Than Ever?
The 2024 Toyota Prius XLE presents a striking departure in design, aiming for a more mainstream appeal. While the reviewer acknowledges the car's... more modern aesthetics and the improved interior, particularly the large 12.3-inch infotainment screen, significant drawbacks are highlighted. The low seating position and the unconventional dashboard layout, shared with the bZ4X, are noted as personal dislikes. Practical concerns include limited headroom for taller individuals and a compromised rear visibility due to the sloped roofline. Despite the hybrid powertrain offering a respectable 194 net horsepower and good fuel economy (advertised 52 MPG combined), the reviewer questions its value proposition at a nearly $36,000 MSRP, especially given the noticeable wind and road noise, and the harsh ride from the 19-inch skinny tires. The reviewer concludes by posing the question of whether the Prius, despite its sales struggles, remains a relevant choice in the current market, especially when compared to other Toyota hybrid offerings or alternatives. less
2024 Dodge Charger Daytona: Is It An EV Worth Buying?
The 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona EV RT presents a unique proposition in the electric vehicle market, aiming to blend traditional muscle car aesthetics w... moreith an all-electric powertrain. The reviewer highlights its conventional car-like design as a key differentiator from other futuristic EVs. Positives include the striking Diamond Black Crystal paint, the aggressive Demonic Red interior, functional exterior elements, and a comprehensive infotainment system with customizable drive modes and performance pages. The simulated exhaust note, while artificial, is noted as a more realistic and engaging attempt than some competitors. However, the vehicle faces significant criticism for its high price point, a 0-60 mph time of 4.9 seconds (which is considered not the fastest for its class), and a claimed range of 268 miles which the reviewer seems to doubt, opting for the window sticker's 268 miles over a higher spec. The reviewer also questions whether this EV is a genuine consumer-focused product or a compliance vehicle, given Dodge's simultaneous offering of a gasoline version. The lack of power-folding mirrors on such an expensive vehicle is also noted as a peculiar omission. less
2025 Hyundai Ioniq 6 SEL AWD: Is The Ioniq 6 A Smart Buy?
The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 6 SEL AWD is presented as a compelling value proposition in the EV market, priced significantly below the average EV cost. The ... morereviewer highlights its strong performance, with 320 horsepower and 446 lb-ft of torque, and a respectable estimated range of 270 miles. The 800-volt charging architecture is a key advantage, enabling a 10% to 80% charge in just 18 minutes, adding nearly 190 miles of range. Positives include excellent visibility, a well-damped suspension, responsive steering, and comfortable seating. The interior features a modern, futuristic design with ambient lighting and a spacious cabin. However, the reviewer notes the infotainment system is not the latest generation, requiring wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and expresses a desire for a heated steering wheel. The light gray interior, while aesthetically pleasing, is flagged as prone to staining, particularly from blue jeans. Overall, the Ioniq 6 is deemed a smart buy for its balance of features, performance, and price, despite minor drawbacks. less
2025 Kia Niro EV Wind: The Best Bang For Your EV Buck?
The 2025 Kia Niro EV Wind is presented as a compelling budget-friendly electric vehicle option, with a starting MSRP of $39,600, significantly below t... morehe US average EV price. The reviewer highlights its practical features, including a comfortable interior with a syntax and fabric combination, ample cargo space (22.8 cubic feet with seats up, 63.7 with seats down), and a well-damped suspension that contributes to good handling. The inclusion of a heated steering wheel, heated seats (front and rear outboard), and a wireless charging pad, especially with the optional Wind Preserve package, adds significant value. However, the reviewer notes the older infotainment system with wired Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and the standard headlights, which are considered lacking at this price point. Performance is described as adequate for around-town driving rather than exhilarating, with 201 horsepower and 188 lb-ft of torque. The real-world range is stated as up to 253 miles on a full charge, with DC fast charging capable of adding approximately 177 miles in 43 minutes (10-80%). The reviewer concludes that while the Niro EV is a solid, well-built option, potential buyers should consider the Niro lineup's other hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants for potentially greater range or different powertrain options. less
2025 Toyota Corolla Cross SE Hybrid: The Best Hybrid Subcompact SUV?
The 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross SE Hybrid AWD is presented as a compelling option in the subcompact SUV segment, particularly for those seeking more fea... moretures than the base model. The reviewer highlights the SE trim's aesthetic upgrades, including a sportier grille, machined aluminum wheels, and gloss black accents, which differentiate it from the plainer S trim. Inside, the SE offers a more refined cabin with optional JBL audio and a standard sunroof, though the reviewer notes the continued use of hard plastics in some areas and the lack of power seats or heated steering wheel at this price point. The hybrid powertrain delivers a combined 196 horsepower and excellent fuel economy (42 MPG combined), with the reviewer finding the ride stable and the handling competent, especially in sport mode. However, a significant drawback identified is the dated, fuzzy backup camera. While the SE trim adds desirable features, the reviewer questions if the ~$2,000 price increase over the base S trim is justified, given the powertrain and fuel economy remain identical. The vehicle's strong sales performance in its segment is acknowledged, positioning it as a practical, if not entirely groundbreaking, choice against competitors. less
2025 Toyota Corolla Cross S Hybrid: The Best Budget Hybrid AWD SUV?
The 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross S Hybrid is presented as a strong contender in the subcompact crossover segment, holding the title of the best-selling v... moreehicle in its class for 2024. The reviewer highlights its impressive fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 42 MPG combined, and a competitive starting MSRP of $28,395 for the base S trim. The hybrid powertrain delivers a respectable 196 net horsepower, and the all-wheel-drive system, powered by three electric motors, performs adequately. Positives include good visibility, a smooth ride, and a sharp turning radius. However, the reviewer points out significant drawbacks, particularly the lack of standard safety features like blind-spot monitoring and cross-traffic alert, which are relegated to optional packages. The infotainment system's reverse camera quality is deemed unacceptable for a 2025 model, and the cabin is criticized for excessive wind and road noise, even at moderate speeds. Interior materials in the base trim are described as basic, with a lack of amenities such as heated seats and a center armrest in the rear. Despite its sales success, the reviewer suggests potential buyers should carefully consider the compromises made in the base S trim. less
2025 Lincoln Corsair Hybrid: The Ultimate PHEV SUV?
The 2025 Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring III, presented in the new Harbor Gray Metallic, is a feature-rich plug-in hybrid SUV. The reviewer highlights i... morets premium interior appointments, including 24-way power massaging seats, a large 13.2-inch Sync 4 infotainment system with wireless CarPlay/Android Auto, and a Revel Ultima sound system. The vehicle boasts a 2.5L hybrid engine producing 266 horsepower, with an estimated 76 MPGe or 33 mpg in gas-only mode. It offers up to 28 miles of EV-only range and a total range of 430 miles. However, the primary critique centers on its astronomical price, with the tested Grand Touring III trim, loaded with options, reaching an MSRP of $67,820. The reviewer finds this price point excessive for the Corsair model, suggesting that more affordable trims or even larger Lincoln models like the Aviator could be purchased for less. While acknowledging its smooth ride, quiet cabin, and comprehensive features, the reviewer concludes that the Grand Touring III trim is overpriced and likely to sit on the lot for an extended period. less
2025 Toyota RAV4 XSE Hybrid: The Best Compact Hybrid SUV?
The 2025 Toyota RAV4 XSE Hybrid, the best-selling SUV in the US, is reviewed here, highlighting its popularity and practicality. The reviewer praises ... morethe vehicle's comfortable ride, smooth hybrid takeoff, and the efficiency offered by the hybrid system, noting its impressive MPG figures. The XSE trim features a premium interior with SofTex seats and blue accents, a 10.5-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a spacious cargo area. However, the reviewer points out several shortcomings for a vehicle in this price range, including the absence of 360-degree cameras, ventilated seats, a wireless charging pad, and a premium audio system like JBL. A significant criticism is the interior noise level, with noticeable wind noise potentially exacerbated by roof crossbars. Despite these drawbacks, the RAV4 XSE Hybrid remains a strong contender for those prioritizing fuel economy and practicality in a compact SUV. less
2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid: Better Than a RAV4, CRV or Outback?
The 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid, in the Premium Plus trim with AWD, is presented as a compelling alternative to established rivals like the RAV4, CR-V, an... mored Outback. The reviewer highlights its rugged design, comfortable interior featuring a black leather with brown accent scheme, and a spacious cabin with a panoramic sunroof. Key technological features include a 10.25-inch infotainment system (controlled via a dial), wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, heated and ventilated seats, and a clear head-up display. The powertrain, a collaboration with Toyota utilizing their 2.5L hybrid system, delivers 219 net horsepower and impressive fuel economy, with the reviewer expecting around 38-39 MPG. Positives include excellent visibility, tight handling characteristic of Mazda, and strong all-wheel-drive performance even in adverse conditions. A minor drawback mentioned is the slightly high door sill, which can make ingress and egress a bit cumbersome. The reviewer concludes by questioning whether the hybrid's premium over the gas-only CX-50 or its competitors is justified. less
2024 Toyota Venza XLE: The Final Deliveries!
As Toyota concludes Venza deliveries with the 2024 XLE model, this review highlights its position as a practical, albeit aging, hybrid SUV. The review... moreer praises the Titanium Glow paint, comfortable SofTex interior with cross-stitching, and the robust JBL sound system. Key advantages noted are its excellent fuel economy (estimated 39-40 MPG combined), practical cargo space (28.8 cu ft rear seats up, 55.1 cu ft down), and a tighter turning radius than its successor. However, significant drawbacks are pointed out for a vehicle nearing $43,000 MSRP, including the lack of a sunroof, a power front passenger seat, and a heated steering wheel. While the Venza offers a more SUV-like stance than the Crown Signia, the latter provides a more refined drive, quieter cabin, and nicer amenities, albeit at a higher price point. The Venza remains a solid, economical choice, especially if found at a discount compared to the Crown Signia, but its final iteration shows some missed opportunities in premium features. less
2025 Kia Niro LX: The Best Hybrid CUV?
The 2025 Kia Niro LX presents a compelling value proposition, particularly for budget-conscious buyers seeking a hybrid crossover. The reviewer highli... moreghts its competitive pricing, starting under $30,000, and impressive fuel economy estimates of 53 MPG combined, potentially offering over 600 miles of range on a single tank. Key strengths include a comfortable and well-damped ride, surprisingly spacious interior for its class, and a generous 63.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded. The inclusion of standard safety features like blind-spot monitoring and lane-keep assist, at no extra cost, is also praised. However, the LX trim's base nature is evident in its use of standard halogen headlights (despite LED taillights), hard interior plastics, and the absence of a center rear armrest. The infotainment system, while functional with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, is noted as not being Kia's latest offering. Overall, the Niro LX is deemed a well-positioned and efficient option, offering significant advantages over non-hybrid competitors in its segment. less
2025 Toyota Highlander Hybrid 25th Edition: Celebrating 25 Years
The 2025 Toyota Highlander Hybrid 25th Anniversary Edition celebrates a quarter-century of the model with a special trim based on the Limited. While i... moret boasts a refined hybrid powertrain delivering 243 net horsepower and an estimated 35 MPG combined, the reviewer notes a lack of significant performance upgrades over standard models. Key features include a 12.3-inch infotainment system, heated and ventilated front seats, and a comfortable, spacious interior, particularly in the first two rows. However, the reviewer highlights notable omissions for a vehicle priced around $55,000, such as the lack of heated second-row captain's chairs and connectivity options in the third row. Despite these drawbacks, the Highlander Hybrid remains a solid, smooth-riding, and practical choice for families, with the 25th Edition adding cosmetic enhancements like special badging and illuminated door sills to mark the milestone. less
2025 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition: An Off-Road Poser?
The 2025 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition is presented as an off-road capable variant, featuring 8.1 inches of ground clearance and all-terrain tir... morees. However, the reviewer questions its true off-road prowess, suggesting it's largely an appearance package. While the hybrid powertrain offers good fuel economy (38 city/35 highway/37 combined MPG) and adequate acceleration for daily driving, the reviewer notes that the eCVT is not suited for serious off-roading. The Woodland Edition comes standard with AWD and has a base price of $35,120, with the tested model reaching $38,395 including options and destination. Key features include LED lighting, bronze alloy wheels, and a black two-tone roof. Interior highlights are an 8-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and heated seats/steering wheel via an optional package. The reviewer finds the seats to be basic and firm, and the cargo space is respectable at 37.5 cubic feet with seats up and 69.8 cubic feet with seats down. Ultimately, the reviewer suggests that while the Woodland Edition appeals to some, its necessity and off-road capability are debatable compared to other trims. less
2025 Ford Escape ST-Line Select Hybrid: The Best Compact Hybrid SUV?
The 2025 Ford Escape ST-Line Select Hybrid, presented in Vapor Blue, is evaluated as a contender in the compact hybrid SUV segment, directly compared ... moreagainst the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. The reviewer highlights its full LED lighting, 18-inch alloy wheels, and panoramic sunroof as exterior positives. Inside, the 13.2-inch Sync 4 infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with features like heated seats and a heated steering wheel, are noted as strong points. However, the reviewer expresses disappointment with the interior materials, particularly the vinyl and fabric combination, deeming it insufficient for a vehicle priced around $41,000. Performance is a mixed bag; while the hybrid system offers good potential range (up to 558 miles), the 192 net horsepower feels underpowered in Eco mode, leading to significant lag when merging or accelerating. Sport mode significantly improves responsiveness, making it the recommended driving mode for the reviewer. The reviewer also notes increased road and wind noise compared to expectations. Cargo space is reduced in the hybrid variant compared to the non-hybrid model. Ultimately, the reviewer questions the value proposition at this price point, especially when compared to segment leaders like the RAV4 Hybrid. less