Forester Hybrid vs EV6 Review Clash
About this episode
A detailed review of the 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid and the Kia EV6 highlights the strengths and weaknesses of both vehicles. The Forester Hybrid impresses with its spacious interior, advanced tech features, and decent fuel economy, while the EV6 stands out for its striking design and electric performance. The hosts discuss pricing, competitor models, and practical considerations for potential buyers, including the importance of hybrid options in today's market. The episode also touches on car collecting tips, emphasizing budget and personal interests.
Two very different roads, one clear question: what actually works for everyday drivers? We put miles on the 2025 Subaru Forester Premium Hybrid and the refreshed Kia EV6 GT-Line AWD to find out, comparing real-world efficiency, tech usability, comfort, and cost. Along the way, we pull apart the numbers you care about—mpg versus range, tow ratings, cargo usability—and the little things that make or break ownership, like whether your phone stays put on the charger.
We start with the Forester Hybrid’s practical perks: wide-opening doors that make entry easy, an insulated windshield that softens road noise, and a simple, clean interface anchored by a 12.3-inch digital cluster and 11.6-inch touchscreen. The hybrid system’s 194 horsepower feels adequate, and while the CVT’s manual mode isn’t essential, the all-wheel-drive ride is planted and predictable. We talk through honest mileage—32.3 mpg over nearly 400 miles—and why a 16.6-gallon tank and 1,500-pound tow rating help this small SUV punch above its weight. Then comes the money: where the trim pricing lands, and how it stacks up against CR-V Hybrid, RAV4 Hybrid, CX-50 Hybrid, and Sportage Hybrid.
We switch gears to car culture with a practical guide to starting a collection without celebrity money. Think storage first, define a theme, build a wish list, network with local enthusiasts, and budget for maintenance before you chase the dream. Whether you love 80s Chevys or numbers-matching time capsules, discipline builds a better garage than impulse ever will.
Then the EV6 GT-Line takes center stage. Built in Georgia, this is one of the sharpest-looking EVs on the market, with refreshed front and rear design, a sweeping cockpit display, and a smart flat phone charger in a striking console. We talk range reality—expect around 275 miles in daily use—charging frustrations, surprisingly smooth handling for a 4,500-pound crossover, and a 2,700-pound tow rating that adds real utility. Pricing, competitors, and the truth about finding fast, reliable chargers round it out.
If you’re cross-shopping hybrids and EVs, this ride-along gives you clarity without hype. Follow the show, share it with a friend who’s shopping, and drop your take: team hybrid or team EV? Leave a review and tell us what you’re driv
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2025 Subaru Forester
"All right, timeout for this hour's car review. Mr. Mars, drove the 2025 Subaru Forester and hear his feelings about it. Yeah, so you did the Wilderness last week, so this is a little bit different. It is part of the 6GN..."
The 2025 Subaru Forester is a small SUV that can drive on different types of roads. It has a hybrid version, which means it uses both gas and electricity to run, making it more efficient.
The 2025 Subaru Forester is a compact SUV that offers a hybrid option, providing a balance between efficiency and utility. It is part of the 6th generation of the Forester, which emphasizes versatility and all-wheel drive capability.
Subaru Outback
"...assified, fits in between the cross track and the outback, fits in between those two different sizes if you..."
The Subaru Outback is a type of car that looks like a mix between a wagon and an SUV, and it's designed to handle rough roads and bad weather. It has all-wheel drive, which helps it grip the road better when it's slippery. People like it because it's safe and can carry a lot of gear for adventures.
The Subaru Outback is a crossover SUV that combines the features of a station wagon with the ruggedness of an SUV. It is well-regarded for its all-wheel drive system, making it a popular choice for those who live in areas with harsh weather or enjoy outdoor activities. The Outback is often discussed for its practicality and safety features.
flat four-boxer engine
"Now, up under the hood is a 4-cylinder 2.5-liter flat four-boxer type motor with two electric motor generators..."
A flat four-boxer engine is a type of engine where the cylinders are laid out flat, which helps the car handle better by keeping its weight low.
A flat four-boxer engine is a type of engine configuration where four cylinders are arranged horizontally, opposing each other. This design helps lower the center of gravity and can improve handling in vehicles.
hybrid
"Now, up under the hood is a 4-cylinder 2.5-liter flat four-boxer type motor with two electric motor generators, now this is where the hybrid system that comes in."
A hybrid car uses both a gas engine and an electric motor to help it run. This makes it use less fuel and produce less pollution than regular cars.
A hybrid vehicle combines a conventional internal combustion engine with an electric propulsion system. This setup allows for improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions compared to traditional gasoline-only vehicles.
horsepower
"Now, combined, it puts out 194 horsepower, up from 180 on the regular gasoline-only engine."
Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful an engine is. More horsepower usually means the car can go faster or do more work.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, specifically in engines. It indicates how much work an engine can perform over time, with higher horsepower generally meaning better performance.
CVT
"It is still backed by a CVT, but it does have a 6-speed manual mode on it that I kind of didn't mess with much..."
CVT means Continuously Variable Transmission. It's a special kind of automatic transmission that helps the car use fuel more efficiently by changing gears smoothly without noticeable shifts.
CVT stands for Continuously Variable Transmission, which is a type of automatic transmission that can change seamlessly through a continuous range of effective gear ratios. This allows for smoother acceleration and improved fuel efficiency.
MPG
"...MPG in the city, the EPA says you should look for about 35..."
MPG means 'miles per gallon.' It tells you how many miles a car can go using one gallon of gas. The higher the number, the less gas you need to drive a certain distance.
MPG stands for 'miles per gallon' and is a measure of how far a vehicle can travel on one gallon of fuel. Higher MPG ratings indicate better fuel efficiency.
EPA
"...the EPA says you should look for about 35, highway 34, combined 35..."
The EPA is a government agency that sets rules to protect the environment. They also provide information on how fuel-efficient cars are, which helps you know how much gas a car will use.
The EPA, or Environmental Protection Agency, is a U.S. government agency responsible for regulating and enforcing national standards for environmental protection, including fuel economy ratings for vehicles.
suspension
"...that's an all wheel drive and the suspension that's suspension that's set up for this vehicle..."
Suspension is the system in a car that helps it ride smoothly over bumps. It includes parts that support the car's weight and keep the tires on the ground.
The suspension system of a vehicle includes components like springs and shock absorbers that support the vehicle's weight, absorb bumps, and help maintain tire contact with the road.
all-wheel drive
"...that's an all wheel drive and the suspension that's suspension that's set up for this vehicle..."
All-wheel drive means that power goes to all four wheels of the car, which helps it grip the road better. This is especially useful in rain or snow.
All-wheel drive (AWD) is a drivetrain system that sends power to all four wheels of a vehicle simultaneously, improving traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions.
MSRP
"Now, I did note that the premium, the MSRP, based on the premium, is $34,150."
MSRP is the price that the car maker suggests you should pay for a new vehicle. It's a starting point for negotiations when buying a car.
MSRP stands for Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price, which is the price that the manufacturer recommends for the vehicle. It serves as a guideline for dealerships and consumers when buying a car.
Mazda Cx50
"the Mazda CX-50 hybrid, $35,499 to start."
The Mazda CX-50 is a small SUV that combines sporty driving with everyday usefulness. It's a good choice for people who want a fun car that can also carry things around.
The Mazda CX-50 is a compact crossover SUV that offers a blend of sporty handling and practicality. It's designed to provide a fun driving experience while still being functional for everyday use.
Kia Sportage
"the key is Sportage, that's a hybrid, that's $30,185."
The Kia Sportage is a small SUV that is comfortable and packed with tech features. It's a great option for those looking for a practical and affordable vehicle.
The Kia Sportage is a compact SUV that offers a comfortable ride and a good amount of technology features. It's known for its value and comes with a variety of engine options, including hybrids.
Toyota Rav4
"Toyota's even got a RAV4 hybrid. So there's lots of things to look at, particularly in that small SUV."
The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is a type of SUV that uses both gas and electricity to run, making it more fuel-efficient and better for the environment. It's a great option if you want a vehicle that can handle both city driving and outdoor adventures.
The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is a compact SUV that combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor for improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions. It's popular for its practicality and versatility in urban and outdoor settings.
classic car collecting
"Despite popular misconceptions, classic car collecting isn't a hobby reserve for the rich and famous, you can actually start a collection with hot rods and cars for under 10 grand."
Classic car collecting means buying and taking care of old cars that people think are special or valuable. You don't have to be rich to start collecting these cars; there are options for everyone.
Classic car collecting involves acquiring and maintaining older vehicles that are often considered valuable due to their age, rarity, and historical significance. It's a hobby that can be accessible to a wide range of budgets, contrary to the belief that it's only for the wealthy.
hot rods
"...you can actually start a collection with hot rods and cars for under 10 grand."
Hot rods are old cars that have been changed to go faster and look cooler. People like to collect them because they can be really fun to drive and show off.
Hot rods are modified cars, typically older models, that have been enhanced for performance and speed. They often feature powerful engines and custom designs, making them popular among car enthusiasts and collectors.
muffler
"If you're unsure where to begin, start with a muffler. Start with a muffler."
A muffler is a part of a car that makes it quieter by reducing engine noise. It's found in the exhaust system, which helps to get rid of gases from the engine.
A muffler is a component of a vehicle's exhaust system that reduces noise produced by the engine. It helps to direct exhaust gases away from the engine and minimizes sound levels inside and outside the vehicle.
vintage cars
"what am I more interested in? Vintage, sports cars, hot rods, what type of collectibles can you afford?"
Vintage cars are older cars that are usually at least 20 years old. They are often collected because they have a classic look and are part of automotive history.
Vintage cars are typically defined as vehicles that are at least 20 to 30 years old, often characterized by their classic design and historical significance. They are sought after by collectors for their unique style and nostalgia.
numbers matching
"...Got to have the paperwork. Yep. Numbers matching. The whole line."
'Numbers matching' means that the important parts of a car, like the engine and transmission, are the same ones that came with it when it was first made. This can make the car more valuable to collectors.
'Numbers matching' refers to a vehicle where the engine, transmission, and other major components have their original serial numbers, confirming they are the same parts that were installed at the factory. This is important for collectors as it often enhances the car's value and authenticity.
Ford GT
"As a Ford GT. A Ford GT that still has the original wrap on the seats."
The Ford GT is a fast sports car made by Ford. It's famous for its cool looks and speed, and it pays tribute to a classic race car from the 1960s.
The Ford GT is a high-performance sports car produced by Ford, known for its striking design and powerful performance. It was originally introduced in the early 2000s as a homage to the classic Ford GT40 race cars of the 1960s.
Ford Torino
"...the Torinos. Things like that. That would be something that you would collect."
The Ford Torino is a car made by Ford that was popular in the 1970s. It came in different styles and was known for being fast and powerful.
The Ford Torino is a mid-size car that was produced by Ford in the late 1960s and early 1970s. It was known for its performance variants and was popular among muscle car enthusiasts.
Pontiac Torinos
"The coolers. You know, the Torinos. Things like that."
The Pontiac Torino is an older car that many people loved for its speed and cool looks. It was popular during a time when muscle cars were really exciting and fun to drive. Car fans talk about it because it's a classic and has a lot of history.
The Pontiac Torino is a classic American muscle car produced in the late 1960s and early 1970s, known for its powerful performance and distinctive styling. It holds a nostalgic significance for car enthusiasts and collectors, often discussed for its role in the muscle car era. The Torino is appreciated for its combination of speed and style.
Chevrolet Corvettes
"...you've got Corvettes."
The Chevrolet Corvette is a classic American sports car that is known for being fast and stylish. It's been around for many years and is popular among car enthusiasts.
The Chevrolet Corvette is an iconic American sports car known for its performance, distinctive design, and affordability compared to other high-performance vehicles. It has a long history dating back to the 1950s.
Kia EV6
"...I'm going to do a review now. But the 2025 Kia EV6."
The Kia EV6 is a new electric car from Kia that looks like a sporty SUV. It's part of Kia's effort to make more electric vehicles, which are cars that run on electricity instead of gasoline.
The Kia EV6 is an all-electric crossover SUV that represents Kia's shift towards electric mobility. It features a modern design, advanced technology, and impressive performance metrics, making it a significant player in the growing EV market.
Renault Wind
"...m levels include the light, the light long range, wind, GT line, and GT. I had the GT line long range al..."
The Renault Wind is a small car that can turn into a convertible, meaning you can take the roof off and enjoy the open air while driving. It's designed to be fun and sporty, making it a good choice for people who like to drive with the wind in their hair. It's not very common, so people talk about it for its unique style.
The Renault Wind is a compact convertible sports car that was produced from 2010 to 2012, known for its unique design and fun driving experience. It is significant for its innovative folding roof mechanism and is often discussed for its sporty characteristics and affordability. The Wind appeals to those looking for an enjoyable open-top driving experience.
trim levels
"Available trim levels include the light, the light long range, wind, GT line, and GT."
Trim levels are different versions of a car that come with various features. For example, one trim might have more technology or better wheels than another.
Trim levels refer to the different versions of a vehicle that offer various features and options. Each trim level may include different equipment, styling, and performance characteristics.
torque
"It's an electric motor with 225 horsepower and 258 pound feet of torque..."
Torque measures how strong an engine or motor is at turning things. More torque means better acceleration and the ability to move heavier loads.
Torque is a measure of rotational force, which indicates how much twisting power an engine or motor can produce. It's crucial for acceleration and pulling power.
pound-feet
"It's an electric motor with 225 horsepower and 258 pound feet of torque..."
Pound-feet is a way to measure how strong an engine is at turning things. It tells you how much force the engine can apply.
Pound-feet is a unit of measurement for torque, indicating how much force is applied at a distance. It helps to understand the engine's ability to do work.
electric motor
"It's an electric motor with 225 horsepower..."
An electric motor is what makes electric cars go. It uses electricity to create movement instead of gasoline or diesel.
An electric motor converts electrical energy into mechanical energy, allowing vehicles to operate without traditional internal combustion engines. They are known for their efficiency and instant torque delivery.
direct drive automatic transmission
"with a direct drive automatic transmission..."
A direct drive automatic transmission helps the car move smoothly by connecting the motor directly to the wheels, making it easier to accelerate without changing gears.
A direct drive automatic transmission connects the engine directly to the wheels, allowing for more efficient power transfer and smoother acceleration without the need for traditional gears.
weight
"So rating 2700 pounds, which kind of surprised me..."
Weight is how heavy the car is. A heavier car might not be as fast or efficient as a lighter one.
Weight refers to how heavy the vehicle is, which can affect its performance, handling, and efficiency. In this case, the vehicle weighs 2700 pounds.
miles per gallon
"Manufacturers, miles per gallon E rating is 128 city, 101 highway for a range of 318 miles."
Miles per gallon tells you how efficient a car is with fuel. The higher the number, the less fuel it uses to go a certain distance.
Miles per gallon (MPG) is a measure of how far a vehicle can travel on one gallon of fuel. It is commonly used to evaluate fuel efficiency, with higher numbers indicating better fuel economy.
Tesla
"More range in finding a damn Tesla charger."
Tesla is a company that makes electric cars, which run on batteries instead of gasoline.
Tesla is an American electric vehicle manufacturer known for its innovative technology and electric cars.
Ford Expedition
"and the Nissan Area for 397. Next week, the Ford Expedition. If the area is not being produced anymore."
The Ford Expedition is a big family vehicle that can carry a lot of people and their stuff. It's great for road trips and has a strong engine, which means it can pull trailers or go off the beaten path. People talk about it because it's roomy and useful for many activities.
The Ford Expedition is a full-size SUV known for its spacious interior, powerful engine options, and advanced technology features. It is significant for families and those needing ample cargo space, making it a popular choice in the SUV market. Discussions around the Expedition often highlight its capabilities for towing and off-road performance.
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