Filed under: EV/Plug-in, Hybrid, Fisker

It's not a surprise that Consumer Reports doesn't like the Fisker Karma. The tester vehicle that the magazine straight-up purchased died before it went 200 miles. Then CR really figured out what was wrong with the plug-in hybrid.

So, is it really a surprise that CR's test results found the $107,000 Karma to have "numerous shortcomings" and "fell well short" of expectations? Enough of each, in fact, to earn a "failing grade." It's a brutal review, and one that goes beyond problems with a single vehicle. No, CR says the Karma has:

poor dash controls, limited visibility, a cramped interior, awkward access into and out of the seats, an engine that is noisy when running, long battery recharge times, and a small backseat and trunk. The Karma's heavy, SUV-like weight affects agility and performance, and the Karma lacks the oomph you would expect.

So, yeah.

Fisker had a response ready, pointing out the good parts of the review, like the "outstanding ride, handling and braking." In the CR video, which you can watch below, reviewer Tom Mutchler does say nice things about those particular aspects, but the good is outweighed by the problems found with the fit and finish of the Karma. In the end he says the car "sacrifices way too much function for fashion."

There's also this: Fisker says, "As the Karma is a concept car come to life, packaging and visibility will of course not be that of a minivan," which no one is asking for. Just a little common practicality. Fisker also says it plans to improve NVH and the touch screen. You can get an idea why those are important, in this video.

Continue reading Consumer Reports says Fisker Karma has 'numerous shortcomings'

Consumer Reports says Fisker Karma has 'numerous shortcomings' originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 25 Sep 2012 17:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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