Great car for the money but annoying safety features
Overall, I really love the car. I can't speak to reliability since I've only had it for 4 months, but so far it's great. I switched from Toyota because it felt like they just weren't innovating anymore and their lineup just doesn't change. A few things I'm not in love with:
- Hybrid: The gas mileage really isn't that great. I don't think I get any better mileage than I did with my non-hybrid Highlander that was 10 years old.
- Annoying safety features: For the most part I've gotten many of them turned off, but there are some I can't figure out how to shut off. Example.... I have a tight driveway and for me to back up to be fully under the car port I need to be really close to our trash cans. The car will physically not allow me to bump a trash can or even get close to it. But if I want to hit something from the front it's fine. Just dumb. Other examples.... while I'm on a day trip, I get constant notices to take a break -- it flashes up a coffee break symbol and mutes my book on tape. If I needed to take a break I would. If you're doing a tight lane change it beeps at you non-stop. Super annoying.
- The locks are wonky. If I'm in the car and then I get out to talk to open the tailgate for the grocery, it won't let me. I have to get in the car and do it from inside the car. The doorlocks are also odd. I have to physically use the key fob to unlock if i'm not on the driver's side.
- Apply play - (might be a apple/waze problem) - you can't use navigation and have it give you the directions out loud if you're using apply play. Got a ticket because it wasn't warning me where the cops were. But, the work around is to completely turn off apply play and just use your phone. Sucks to not be able to use the technology.
BUT, overall, I love it. I'm sure I can figure out how to turn off more annoying features. But it drives great, is really nicely appointed, and is overall a fantastic car.