Fisker Ocean Review: MKBHD's Honest Take

Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into Marques Brownlee's (MKBHD) comprehensive review of the Fisker Ocean. If you're even remotely interested in electric vehicles, especially the ones trying to shake up the market, you've probably heard of Fisker. And if you're into tech, you definitely know MKBHD. So, what happens when these two worlds collide? Let's break it down.

MKBHD's First Impressions

Okay, so MKBHD gets his hands on the Fisker Ocean, and the first thing he talks about is the design. He points out the car's unique aesthetic, noting how it stands out from the crowd of other EVs. The design is definitely a head-turner, with its sleek lines and distinctive front fascia. It’s not just another blob on wheels, which is a win in his book. He appreciates the attention to detail, like the hidden door handles and the overall minimalist approach.

But it's not all sunshine and roses. MKBHD, being the meticulous reviewer he is, immediately dives into the build quality. Here's where things get a little bumpy. He notices some inconsistencies in the panel gaps and some areas where the fit and finish aren't quite up to par with other vehicles in its class. This is a crucial point because, in the premium EV market, details matter. People are paying a premium price, and they expect a premium experience. These initial impressions can make or break a car, especially when it's trying to establish itself in a competitive landscape.

However, MKBHD doesn't dismiss the car entirely. He acknowledges that Fisker is a relatively new player in the game, and there are bound to be some growing pains. He remains optimistic that these issues can be ironed out over time with software updates and improved manufacturing processes. It's a balanced perspective, recognizing both the potential and the current shortcomings of the Fisker Ocean. The interior is also something he delves into, noting the sustainable materials used and the overall layout of the dashboard and infotainment system. While the design is appealing, the user experience is another story, which we'll get into later.

The Good, the Bad, and the "California Mode"

Alright, let’s get into the nitty-gritty. MKBHD highlights several aspects of the Fisker Ocean that he genuinely likes. One of the standout features is the “California Mode.” This is where all the windows, including the rear windscreen, roll down, giving you an almost convertible-like experience. It’s a fun gimmick and definitely a unique selling point. Imagine cruising down the coast with the wind in your hair (or what’s left of it), soaking up the sun. It’s a cool feature that adds to the car's overall appeal and sets it apart from the competition.

He also appreciates the spacious interior and the comfortable seats. The Ocean offers plenty of room for passengers and cargo, making it a practical choice for families or anyone who needs extra space. The sustainable materials used throughout the cabin are a nice touch, aligning with the eco-friendly ethos of electric vehicles. It’s clear that Fisker has put some thought into creating a comfortable and environmentally conscious interior.

Now, let's talk about the not-so-good stuff. MKBHD doesn't hold back when it comes to the infotainment system. He describes it as clunky and unintuitive, with a steep learning curve. This is a major drawback, as the infotainment system is the primary interface for controlling many of the car's functions. A poorly designed system can be frustrating to use and detract from the overall driving experience. Software glitches and lag further compound the issue, making it a significant area for improvement.

Another issue he points out is the inconsistent performance of some of the driver-assistance features. Adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, for example, sometimes behave erratically, which can be unsettling for the driver. These features are designed to enhance safety and convenience, but if they're not reliable, they can actually make driving more stressful. MKBHD emphasizes the importance of refining these systems to ensure they function smoothly and consistently.

Performance and Range

So, how does the Fisker Ocean perform on the road? MKBHD puts it through its paces, testing its acceleration, handling, and overall driving dynamics. He notes that the Ocean has decent acceleration, especially in its higher-performance trims. It’s not going to break any speed records, but it’s certainly quick enough for everyday driving. The handling is also decent, providing a reasonably comfortable and controlled ride.

However, he points out that the Ocean doesn't quite match the sporty feel of some of its competitors. It's more geared towards comfort and practicality than outright performance. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, as it aligns with the car's overall mission as a family-friendly EV. But if you're looking for a thrilling driving experience, you might want to consider other options.

Range is a crucial factor for any electric vehicle, and MKBHD dives into the Fisker Ocean's real-world range. He notes that the Ocean's range is decent, but it doesn't quite live up to its advertised figures. This is a common issue with EVs, as real-world range can vary depending on driving conditions, weather, and other factors. MKBHD emphasizes the importance of managing expectations and being aware of these limitations.

He also touches on the charging infrastructure, which is a critical consideration for EV owners. While the charging network is constantly expanding, it's still not as convenient as filling up a gas tank. MKBHD recommends planning your routes carefully and being prepared to wait for charging, especially on long trips. He also suggests investing in a home charger to make charging more convenient.

MKBHD's Final Verdict

Okay, so what's MKBHD's final verdict on the Fisker Ocean? He sees potential, but also acknowledges the current shortcomings. He appreciates the car's unique design, spacious interior, and cool features like “California Mode.” However, he's also critical of the infotainment system, build quality issues, and inconsistent performance of some driver-assistance features.

He concludes that the Fisker Ocean is a promising EV, but it's not quite ready for prime time. It needs further refinement and improvement to truly compete with the established players in the market. MKBHD suggests that potential buyers should carefully consider their needs and expectations before making a purchase. He also recommends waiting for future updates and improvements to address the current issues.

Ultimately, MKBHD's review is balanced and fair, highlighting both the strengths and weaknesses of the Fisker Ocean. He acknowledges the challenges that Fisker faces as a new automaker and remains optimistic about the company's potential. His review provides valuable insights for anyone considering buying the Fisker Ocean and helps to set realistic expectations.

Fisker's Response and Future Prospects

Following MKBHD's review and other feedback, Fisker has acknowledged some of the criticisms and has pledged to address them. They've announced plans to release software updates to improve the infotainment system and enhance the performance of driver-assistance features. They're also working on improving the build quality and addressing the panel gap issues.

Fisker's willingness to listen to feedback and make improvements is a positive sign. It shows that they're committed to creating a better product and providing a better experience for their customers. The company's future prospects will depend on their ability to execute these improvements and continue to innovate.

The EV market is constantly evolving, and Fisker faces stiff competition from established automakers like Tesla, as well as new entrants like Rivian and Lucid. To succeed, Fisker needs to differentiate itself and offer something unique that appeals to customers. The “California Mode” is a good start, but they need to continue to innovate and find new ways to stand out from the crowd.

Is the Fisker Ocean Right for You?

So, after all this, is the Fisker Ocean the right EV for you? It depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for a stylish and spacious EV with some unique features, the Ocean might be worth considering. But if you're looking for a polished and refined experience with a flawless infotainment system and perfect build quality, you might want to look elsewhere.

Consider what's important to you: Is it the range, the performance, the technology, or the overall driving experience? Do your research, read reviews from multiple sources, and take a test drive before making a decision. The EV market is full of options, so take your time and find the car that best fits your needs.

And remember, the Fisker Ocean is still a work in progress. It has the potential to be a great EV, but it's not quite there yet. Keep an eye on future updates and improvements, and be prepared to exercise some patience. If you're willing to take a chance on a new automaker and a promising EV, the Fisker Ocean might just surprise you.

Final Thoughts

MKBHD's review of the Fisker Ocean provides a valuable and insightful perspective on this new EV. He highlights both the strengths and weaknesses of the car, offering a balanced and fair assessment. His review is a must-read for anyone considering buying the Fisker Ocean, and it helps to set realistic expectations.

The Fisker Ocean is a promising EV with a lot of potential, but it's not without its flaws. With continued refinement and improvement, it could become a serious contender in the EV market. But for now, it's a car that requires careful consideration and a willingness to accept some compromises.

Thanks for tuning in, and remember to do your research before making any major purchase decisions! Happy driving, guys!