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3-5 Day Suggested Itinerary (Updated 2025)

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Hong Kong's skyscraper-dotted skyline from above

Hong Kong. Its name inspires visions of a chaotic, jam-packed city with soaring skyscrapers, thick smog, endless noodle stands, big finance, and wild nights out.

It’s one of my favorite cities in the world. The fast pace creates a sense of permanent change, and the crowds, multiculturalism, and food keep me continuously coming back. Oh, the food! I could sit bent over a noodle bowl all day long.

Hong Kong is a busy city of 7.5 million inhabitants with one of the biggest hub airports in the world. It can be overwhelming for many visitors, especially those not used to crowded places.

And, with so much to do in Hong Kong, many travelers scratch their head about where to start in order to get the most out of the trip.

While you can visit the city within one or two days, it’s best to spend at least three days in Hong Kong. If you’re going to visit Macau, I’d add another day, so you’d need 4–5 days to really see the place.

This four-day Hong Kong itinerary will help you organize your trip, steer you off the beaten path, and show you why Hong Kong is one of the most on-the-go cities in the world.

 

Hong Kong Itinerary: Day 1

golden pagoda with a bridge going over a reflecting pool at Nan Lian Garden in Kowloon Park, Hong Konggolden pagoda with a bridge going over a reflecting pool at Nan Lian Garden in Kowloon Park, Hong Kong

The Hong Kong Museum of History
In order to understand a place, you must first understand its past. This museum lets you do just that. It provides an excellent overview of Hong Kong’s long and complex past. There are exhibits relating to the archaeology, social history, ethnography, and natural history of the region. It’s big, so allow about 2–4 hours for your visit.

100 Chatham Road South, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, +852 2724 9042, hk.history.museum/en/web/mh/index.html. Open Wednesday-Monday 10am-6pm (7pm on weekends). Admission is free but some special exhibitions may require a fee.

Kowloon Park
Head to Kowloon Island’s gigantic park that features a swimming pool, a fitness center, little ponds where you can watch ducks and other swimming birds, a Chinese garden, an aviary, and the Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre (not to be confused with the Hong Kong Heritage Museum; more on that museum below). There are also plenty of rest areas here where you can relax to escape the oppressive Hong Kong heat. Spanning 13 hectares (33 acres), it’s one of the best places to people-watch in the city.

22 Austin Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon, +852 2724 3344, lcsd.gov.hk. Open daily 5am-12am and admission is free.

Street Markets in Mong Kok
This area of Hong Kong has the largest and busiest markets in which to soak up the frenetic atmosphere, sights, and sounds of Hong Kong. The crowds and sellers really exemplify Hong Kong’s on-the-move essence.

The two best markets for inexpensive souvenirs are the Ladies Market (bargain clothing, accessories, and souvenirs) and the Temple Street Night Market (flea market). The markets of Mong Kok are best reached by the Hong Kong MTR subway system, stations Yau Ma Tei, Mong Kok, and Prince Edward on the Tsuen Wan (red) line.

The markets are open every day, starting around 11am–noon and closing in the late evening (times vary).

Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade
Stroll along the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront and take in the breathtaking skyline view of Hong Kong Island. While you’re here, make sure to visit the Avenue of Stars, Hong Kong’s answer to the Hollywood “Walk of Fame,” where you can see the stars of Chinese and Western film alike. There are shops, restaurants, and, at night, a large outdoor market serving traditional Cantonese food alongside knockoffs and souvenirs. Come ready to haggle.

Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon (next to the Star Ferry pier). Open 24/7.

The Star Ferry
The best way to get across the harbor from Kowloon Island to Hong Kong Island is via the Star Ferry, which showcases a fantastic view of the city skyline for only 4–6 HKD. Riding the ferry is a fun thing to do even if you aren’t using it for transportation! It’s one of my favorite activities.

Star Ferry Pier, Kowloon Point, Tsim Sha Tsui, +852 2367 7065, starferry.com.hk/en/service. The ferry runs 6:30am-11:30pm every day, though they occur less frequently on weekends and holidays. Tickets start at 4 HKD during the week and 5.6 HKD on the weekends, while a four–day pass costs 50 HKD.
 

Hong Kong Itinerary: Day 2

The Ngong Ping 360 cable car with views of the water and green mountains below, in Hong KongThe Ngong Ping 360 cable car with views of the water and green mountains below, in Hong Kong

Ngong Ping 360
This cable car stretches over 5.7 kilometers (3.5 miles) from Tung Chung across the bay toward the airport and then onward to Lantau Island. The cable car gives you a panoramic view of the airport, harbor, and entire city before it travels through the surrounding mountains. The ride lasts about 25 minutes.

When you get to the top, don’t miss the nearby Po Lin Monastery (a Buddhist monastery founded in 1906) and Tian Tan, a 34-meter (111-foot) bronze Buddha statue that sits on the top of the island’s peak. While Lantau Island is a bit touristy, the ride, views, and monastery make it worth the trip.

11 Tat Tung Road, Tung Chung, Lantau Island, +852 3666 0606, np360.com.hk/en. Open 10am–6pm on weekdays and 9am–6:30pm on weekends/holidays. A round-trip adult ticket for the cable car is 270 HKD for a standard cabin and 350 HKD for a crystal cabin (a cable car with a glass bottom floor). You can reserve tickets online in advance here.

Take a Food Tour
After the morning on the cable car and enjoying a killer view of Hong Kong, spend your afternoon taking a food tour. Hong Kong is a food-filled city (there are over 12,000 restaurants here!) and you’ll find a diverse range of cuisines from around the world. But without help, you’ll never find all the hidden local favorites. The following companies offer the best value tours:

Expect to spend 770–900 HKD per person for a food tour.

Rent a Junk Boat
Junk boats — those classic boats with the large sail you see in any movie about Hong Kong — are a fun way to sail around the harbor on full-day and half-day trips. There is only one traditional junk boat left: the Dukling. It usually sails just on Saturdays and Sundays only, with tickets starting at 220 HKD.

Another option is sailing on The Aqua Luna, a boat that was built in the traditional style in 2006. It sails much more frequently and offers a variety of cruises, from a dim sum cruise to an afternoon tea cruise. Tickets start at 270 HKD.

In addition to these traditional-style junks or if you’re looking for more of a party boat vibe, you can also rent a boat with a large group of friends (15 or so people) or join a group cruise around the harbor. There are a ton of different options to choose from, from all-you-can-eat-and-drink boats with add-on water sports, massages, and DJ packages, to companies that let you just rent the boat and bring everything else yourself.

Here are some recommended companies that offer affordable boat tours:

  • Island Junks – They have a couple of cruise options and you can also charter your own if you’ve got the money!
  • Saffron Cruises – This is a great option if you can put together a large group of 20–30 people.

 

Hong Kong Itinerary: Day 3

The large golden statue of Commander Che Kung with people milling about in front of it at Che Kung Miu Temple in Hong KongThe large golden statue of Commander Che Kung with people milling about in front of it at Che Kung Miu Temple in Hong Kong

Ping Shan Heritage Trail
Located in the New Territories (the city’s less visited northern district), this trail will lead you past some of the most important ancient sights of the Tang clan. There are 14 historic buildings on the trail, including: Hung Shing Temple, The Tang Ancestral Hall, Yeung Hau Temple, Shrine of the Earth God, and the 15th-century Tsui Sing Lau Pagoda (Hong Kong’s only ancient pagoda). Just be aware that not all of the historic buildings on the trail are open to the public.

Another option is the Lung Yeuk Tau Heritage Trail. It begins at the Taoist temple complex of Fung Ying Seen Koon and passes the walled villages of Ma Wat Wai and Lo Wai before ending at the 18th-century Tang Chung Ling Ancestral Hall.

This part of Hong Kong is often skipped by tourists, and the trails, meandering through the city’s more rural region, are quiet and a welcome break from the giant metropolis of the downtown area.

Ping Shan Trail: Sheung Cheung Wai, Yuen Long District, +852 2617 1959, lcsd.gov.hk. Lung Yeuk Tau Trail: 66 Pak Wo Rd, Fanling, Hong Kong, +852 2669 9186.

Hong Kong Heritage Museum
This museum showcases the city’s history and love of art. There’s a large exhibit about the New Territories and an opera house for performances. It fills in some of the blanks left from the Hong Kong History Museum and gives you a look at the artistic culture of the city. It’s also located near the beautiful Sha Tin Park and Shing Mun River, making the surrounding area just as interesting as the museum!

1 Man Lam Rd, Sha Tin, New Territories, +852 2180 8188, hk.heritage.museum/en/web/hm/highlights.html. Open every day but Tuesday 10am-6pm (7pm on weekends). Admission is free.

Che Kung Temple
Just across the river from the Heritage Museum, this temple is dedicated to Che Kung, a general during the Southern Song Dynasty (1127–1279) in ancient China who was known for stopping both uprisings and epidemics. This temple was built in his name during an epidemic in the 17th-century, and it is said that the epidemic ceased the day after its official dedication.

The temple complex is always filled with people, so be prepared for crowds. The traditional architecture and intricate sculptures, including the large golden sculpture of Che Kung himself, make this worth visiting after you see the Heritage Museum.

Che Kung Miu Road, ctc.org.hk. Open daily 8am-6pm.
 

Hong Kong Itinerary: Day 4

The red Peak Tram with the skyscrapers of Hong Kong in the backgroundThe red Peak Tram with the skyscrapers of Hong Kong in the background

The Peak Tram
This tram, which has been in operation since 1888 (with several renovations since then) takes you to the top of the Peak, Hong Kong Island’s largest mountain, at 518 meters (1,700 feet). Upon exiting at the top, you’ll enjoy spectacular 180-degree views of the skyscrapers of Victoria Harbor, Kowloon, and the surrounding hills. It’s the best view of the city.

Also at the top is the huge, wok-shaped Peak Tower with its viewing platform Sky Terrace 428, Madame Tussauds, and a variety of restaurants. Head away from this area and you’ll find many different trails to get into nature and see the city skyline from a bunch of different vantage points. When you’re done at the top, you can either take the tram or walk back down along the trails.

No.1 Lugard Road, +852 2849 7654, thepeak.com.hk. Open daily 7:30am-11pm, with trams running every 15-20 minutes. A return trip is 108 HKD, while the same with entry to the sky terrace viewing platform is 168 HKD per person.

Hong Kong Museum of Art
This museum on the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront is a fascinating and intriguing place. Established in 1962, it was the first public art museum in the city. There are both rotating temporary exhibitions as well as a permanent collection where you’ll find everything from Chinese ceramics, terra cotta, rhinoceros horns, traditional calligraphy, and Chinese paintings, to contemporary art produced by Hong Kong artists.

Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong, +852 2721 0116. Open Monday–Wednesday and Fridays 10am–6pm, weekends 10am–9pm. Admission is free (some special exhibitions have a fee).

Lan Kwai Fong Nightlife
LKF is the main nightlife and party area in Hong Kong and is filled with tons of bars, clubs, shisha (water pipes), and cheap drinks. Nights out here are wild — the street is always crowded, people get very drunk, and shots get handed out like candy. It’s rowdy, but if you want to see Hong Kong’s wilder side, this is the place to do it.
 

Other Things to See and Do in Hong Kong

A plate of Hong Kong noodles on a white tableA plate of Hong Kong noodles on a white table

Take a cooking class — Hong Kong is full of food. Why not learn how to cook some of it? This Hong Kong expat website has a list of 19 schools offering classes! Prices vary but expect to spend around 600–925 HKD per person.

Go hiking — Hong Kong may be a densely packed city, but there is also scenic hiking in the outer mountains and islands. There are a lot of trails (especially in the undeveloped parts of the New Territories). The Hong Kong tourism board lists all the trails here.

Visit Disneyland — If you’re on a family trip, or if you’re a backpacker in touch with your inner child, head to Disneyland. Hang out with Mickey Mouse and shake hands with sea creatures. (Tickets start at 668 HKD.)

Day trip to Macau — The gambling mecca of Macau is a short boat ride away. For as little as 175 HKD, the 60-75–minute boat ride from Hong Kong’s ferry terminal will take you to this former Portuguese colony, where you can wander gigantic modern casinos, stroll historic streets lined with Portuguese-inspired houses, and dine on egg tarts, a famous local specialty.

For more, here are my recommendations for the 23 best things to do in Hong Kong.

***

In a city of almost 8 million people, there are countless things to see and do. One could fill weeks exploring Hong Kong’s many islands, markets, restaurants, sights, and nightlife and still not see it all. Though impossible to condense a city so vast into four days, this Hong Kong itinerary will help you experience the most Hong Kong has to offer in a short period of time!

Book Your Trip to Hong Kong: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight
Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. Two of my favorite place to stay is:

For more places to stay in Hong Kong, this list has my favorite hostels in Hong Kong.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With?
Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Hong Kong?
Be sure to visit my robust destination guide on Hong Kong for even more planning tips!



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Consumer Guide Car Stuff Podcast Episode 258: First Jeep EV, Mazda’s Upscale Strategy, The Cybertruck is a Flop | The Daily Drive

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Chatting with Mazda about moving upmarket.

Mazda's Upscale Strategy
Mazda’s Upscale Strategy

Whether you drive a car, need a car, or just occasionally bum a ride with friends, you’’ve come to the right place. Join Jill and Tom as they break down everything that’’s going on in the auto world. New-car reviews, shopping tips, driving green, electric cars, classic cars, and plenty of great guests. This is the Consumer Guide Car Stuff Podcast. Mazda’s Upscale Strategy.

Episode: 258

Broadcast date: January 27, 2024

Guest: Jon Leverett

 

(Show Notes)

The hosts opened the show discussing an article recently posted by Tom called, The Cybertruck is a Flop. Though the article covers the failures of the Tesla pickup truck from a number of angles, Tom primarily discussed the slow-selling vehicle’s financial impact on Tesla’s future.

 

Still in the first segment, the hosts covered news of a potentially huge recall which would affect all of General Motors’ large trucks, including the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra pickups. The recall would impact up to 900,000 vehicles equipped with the maker’s 6.2-liter V8 engine.

 

Next, Jill shared her impressions of the all-new Jeep Wagoneer S electric midsize crossover. The new Jeep promises more than 300 miles of range, and is being introduced only in Launch Edition trim. Listen in for prices.

 

In the second segment, Jill and Tom are joined by Mazda’s Jon Leverett, the maker’s Launch Strategy Project Manager. Jon talked about the changing crossover segment, and Mazda’s slow but purposeful move upmarket.

 

In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Best Selling Sedans” quiz, which includes a New Zealand fast-food bonus question.

Discussed this week

The Cybertruck is a Flop

Mazda news and reviews

2024 Jeep Wagoneer S: A midsize Jeep that’s also an EV

Ford F-150 Lightning Cold-Weather Range Loss

Chicago Auto Show

 

Follow the crew

 

The Crew

To advertise on the Car Stuff Podcast call Andy Lieb: 847-291-7414

Consumer Guide Car Stuff Podcast Episode 257: Chicago Auto Show Preview, Toyota Gets Quiet, Best-Selling EVs

Consumer Guide Car Stuff Podcast Episode 256: Afeela Bypasses Dealers, Chevrolet Traverse Review, “Best Cars” with Steve and Johnnie

 



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The Best Sweatpants for Men of 2025

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The right pair of pants makes or breaks your travel day. And while I maintain that flying with a blazer is your best airport travel hack, sometimes we must bow to the inevitable practicality of sweats. Comfort is king on long-haul, international flights. By wearing (or packing) the right pairs of sweats, you can feel like you’re traveling first class – no matter where your actual seat on the plane is. And with the quality, style, and craftsmanship that goes into modern sweatpants, you can even look halfway decent, too.

Huckberry Trumbull Vintage Wash Classic Sweatpant

PHOTO: Huckberry

Designed by menswear whisperer Aaron Levine, Trumbull’s aesthetic harkens back to the glory days of sweatpants. Think Muhammed Ali in his prime, but in a modern silhouette. It’s a timeless style that makes every place feel like home.

These are the best sweatpants I own, bar none. The attention to detail is exquisite, the fit is perfect for lounging but with enough swagger for a stylish coffee run, especially when paired with the brand’s quarter-zip. And Trumbull is made in Detroit, a bonus for this Michigan-based writer.

The Details: XS to XXL | 100 percent pre-shrunk cotton

Todd Snyder x Champion Oversized Waffle Sweatpants

PHOTO: Todd Snyder

Wrinkles are a traveler’s nightmare but the inevitable result of jet-setting. An easy solution? Choose a fabric that just doesn’t wrinkle. Todd Snyder’s take on Champion’s classic sweats mixes up the silhouette with a waffle fabric that’s naturally wrinkle-resistant, comfortable, and looks great to boot. 

The Details: XS to XXL | 100 percent cotton

mack-weldon-ace-sweatpant

PHOTO: Mack Weldon
Why We Love It

  • Perfect for travel, these joggers are extraordinarily soft, durable, breathable, and stylish.

Mack Weldon’s ACE Sweatpants are our top pick for the best overall joggers, so you know they’ve got to be good. What makes the difference? The Aces are comfortable when sitting for more than an hour AND when jogging. We found the waistband to hug the waist snuggly without the need to adjust it, and the breathable material kept us warm in cool temperatures. And while we’d be mindful not to rub up against any rogue branches or brambles for fear of tears or snags, we’d be thrilled to wear these joggers anytime, anywhere.

The Details: S to XXL | Sicro-brushed French terry 

Imogene + Willow Fethiye Pants

PHOTO: Imogene + Willow

Imogene + Willow may be famous for denim, but the brand knows quality fabric across all stripes. These hand-loomed lounge pants may slightly stretch the conventional definition of sweatpants, but that won’t bother you as you stretch out for a morning coffee. Equally at home in Music City or Marrakech, these lightweight cotton pants are the pick for your next warm-weather destination. 

The Details: XS to XL | 100 percent cotton 

Icebreaker Men's Merino Blend 200 Shifter Pants

PHOTO: Icebreaker

When it comes to warding off the travel funk, there’s nothing better than merino wool. Icebreaker’s is specially grown on New Zealand sheep and woven with a combination of bio-based synthetic materials for a blend of comfort and performance. These sweats can stand up to a long travel day, a workout, and a lounging session and still pass the sniff test.

The Details: S to XXL | 60 percent TENCEL™ Lyocell, 40 percent merino wool

Patagonia Hemp Work Sweatpants

PHOTO: Patagonia

Patagonia’s take on a sweatpant from the brand’s hemp workwear line feels more at home on the Alaska frontier than in the living room. And that’s a good thing. While the brand has other styles more suited for lounging, this hemp pair is designed to hold up to the challenge of outdoor use (while still maintaining the element of comfort). 

The Details: XS to 3XL | 83 percent recycled polyester, 15 percent industrial hemp, 2 percent spandex blend

Outerknown Sur Sweatpants

PHOTO: Outerknown

Outerknown’s mission centers on sustainable materials, travel-worthy silhouettes, and very comfortable fabrics. The Sur Sweatpants live up to that lofty goal. Specifically designed for travel days, think of these as the sweatpant equivalent of buying carbon offsets.

The Details: S to XXL | 55 percent hemp, 45 percent organic cotton

Russell Men's Dri-Power Open Bottom Fleece Sweatpants

PHOTO: Russell

Russell’s sweats are classic for a reason: the brand helped invent the category. And while there are pricier, more upscale options on the market (and on this list), sometimes what you need is a pair of sweats that can execute on the basics. Russel delivers this at a price point that won’t break the bank. 

The Details: S to 4XL | 50 percent cotton, 50 percent polyester

Industry of All Nations Super Sweatpants

PHOTO: Industry of All Nations

I have a few Industry of All Nations pieces and their dyes and fabrics are unmatched. This Brooklyn-based brand creates luxury by expertly executing the basics. The indigo-dyed sweats are a treat in fabric and color, and could even be fancy enough for breakfast at a five-star resort. Just avoid any white couches for the first few weeks: this is real indigo and can occasionally transfer to other fabrics.

The Details: XS to XXL | 100 percent organic cotton

Reigning Champ Midweight Terry Relaxed Sweatpant

PHOTO: Reigning Champ

Boxing inspired, but fit for lounging, Reigning Champs relaxed-fit sweatpants contain multitudes. Slipping them on might inspire a Rocky-esque workout on your local museum’s steps, or it might inspire a Rocky marathon on your living room couch. Dealer’s choice, but either way, you’ll be comfortable. 

The Details: XS to XXL | 100 percent cotton 

Amazon adidas Men's Adicolor Beckenbauer Track Pants

PHOTO: Amazon

Maybe it’s the former soccer player in me, but there’s nothing better for layering than a pair of Adidas three-stripe pants. These track pants borrow from both soccer and track traditions, are made from recycled material, and come in a plethora of colors. They’re a win even if you’re no longer scoring hat tricks. 

The Details: XS to 4XL | 52 percent cotton, 48 percent polyester (recycled)

Abercrombie & Fitch Baggy Open-Hem Sweatpant

PHOTO: Abercrombie & Fitch

Abercrombie continues to impress with its sharp POV on menswear basics. These heavyweight sweatpants hit the mark — they’re well made, comfortable, and decently priced. The personality comes from interesting color options (like the olive green camo) and not from outsized logos or branding – there’s not a moose logo in sight.

The Details: XS to XXL | 70 percent cotton, 30 percent polyester 

J.Crew Summit 11oz Soft Knit Fleece Sweatpant

PHOTO: J.Crew

Plenty of brands make fleece sweatpants, but J.Crew’s version avoids the plastic-y feel that can accompany lower quality (and lower price) iterations. The fit is sleek enough to get away with pairing the lounge bottoms with a sweater and sneakers for a coffee shop ‘fit that’ll read intentional instead of lazy. 

The Details: XS to XXL | 83 percent cotton, 17 percent polyester 

Tips for Buying Men’s Sweatpants

Consider versatility

As much as we love testing luggage at T+L, we also advocate for packing lightly. If you can wear your sweats in multiple scenarios you can cut down on suitcase space, save room for souvenirs, and make going through T.S.A. a breeze.

Prioritize comfort

If your pants aren’t comfortable, you’re not going to wear them — no matter how cool they look. Make sure they fit well and are comfy enough that you’d want to throw them on for lounging around the hotel or on the plane for a long flight. All of the styles on this list have passed the comfort test, but if comfort is your highest priority, we’d suggest going for a fleece option.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How should men’s sweatpants fit?

    How do you normally wear your pants? Have you embraced the oversized trend or are you still firmly on the skinny jeans train? You should dress to your own level of comfort, and sweatpants are no exception. That said, it’s not uncommon to go for a looser, more relaxed fit that’s more appropriate for lounging when it comes to picking out a pair of sweatpants.

  • How do you care for men’s sweatpants?

    This will depend on the material of your sweats. Cotton, hemp, and wool all have different care instructions. In general, follow the label’s care instructions and remember that sweatpants tend to be a little less finicky than jeans or dress pants — they’re made to take a beating. 

  • What is the inseam length on men’s sweatpants?

    The inseam length varies from brand to brand on men’s sweatpants. Unlike jeans or dress pants, sweatpants inseams are not standardized in their sizing options. Digging into the product descriptions or trying them on in person is always helpful. And remember you can always bring them to a local tailor for hemming should you need it. 

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this story, Matt Medendorp wrote about tried and tested sweatpants he’s taken on international flights over the years and called in new samples for hands-on testing. As a dad of three, he’s been spending more time in sweats than not these days and has developed a reluctant expertise on the subject matter. Not everything he’s tried made this roundup — only the fabrics and silhouettes that went the extra mile. 

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.



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DIY or Disaster: Hidden Dangers of TikTok Tips for Holiday Home Maintenance

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Photo by Fuat Ertuş.

Like a main home, maintenance of a holiday home is crucial to ensure that it remains safe and undamaged, especially during the winter months. Due to the impacts of the cost-of-living crisis, many homeowners are opting to carry out essential maintenance themselves.

TikTok searches for ‘home maintenance tips’ have risen by a staggering 3,700 percent in the past 12 months, suggesting homeowners are increasingly seeking DIY maintenance advice.

Holiday home insurance specialists, Intasure, a Gallagher company, has reviewed viral home maintenance TikTok videos to determine if these hacks are beneficial or could cause damage to a property and invalidate the homeowners’ insurance.

Unblocking gutters: Safe

Photo by Edanur Sonkaya.

A TikTok creator, amassed 77.2 thousand views in a video showing viewers how to clear leaves and debris from their gutters. Instead of risking a potential injury by climbing ladders, the video demonstrates how using a garden hose or leaf blower attachment can help clear guttering.

Gutters help to protect the structure of your home by allowing rainwater to channel into the drains. Holiday homeowners should be advised that if they do not regularly clean their gutters, this can lead to dampness and pest infestations inside their homes. Intasure recommends regular gutter maintenance by investing in tools suggested in the video or consulting a specialist to clear them. If any major damage is caused by poor upkeep of gutters, this can prevent your home’s waterproofing systems from working as well as they should. This could lead to an insurer rejecting a claim, leaving homeowners having to foot the cost of any necessary repairs.

Carrying Out Maintenance on a Boiler: Avoid

Photo by Thirdman.

The cold weather can cause boilers to lose pressure as the pipes leading from the boiler may freeze and cause a blockage. A TikTok creator showed viewers what to do if their boiler loses pressure in a video that has amassed 144.1 thousand views. Holiday homeowners are advised not to tamper with their boiler as this could lead to further, more serious damages. To claim holiday home insurance for a boiler issue, homeowners may need to prove that it has been serviced by a professional in the past year. Additionally, homeowners should check their policy wording for any heating conditions and warranties that they should comply with during the winter months.

Intasure advises that holiday homeowners should contact a plumber when experiencing any issue with their boiler. Even if they think that the issue could be a simple fix, it is not worth risking causing more damage in the long run and invalidating the home’s insurance.

Unblocking a Drain: Safe, With Caution

Photo by Sarah Elizabeth.

Blocked drains can occur when there becomes a build-up of food and oil in the drainage pipes, making a sink unusable. Each month, there are 17,000 UK searches on TikTok for ‘how to unblock a drain.’ One video in particular has amounted 561.4 thousand views, showing viewers how to unclog their under the sink drain. If the blockage seems simple to fix and can be rectified by unscrewing the U-bend waste pipe, then this can be carried out without a professional. However, if the blockage is more serious, it is best to let a professional fix it. If the homeowner ends up making the blockage worse or damaging a component of the plumbing, this could lead to the holiday home insurance being invalid.  Intasure advises holiday homeowners to check with their insurer if a drain blockage results from an unexpected event like a burst pipe or sewer backup to see if it’s covered.

READ MORE: The Luxury Chalet Company Redefines Alpine Escapes

Repairing a Window: Avoid

Photo by Rob Wingate.

Issues with a window can occur at any time of the year, whether that be a crack or there is a fault with the window’s mechanism. There are 19 million TikTok’s covering ‘DIY broken window fix.’ One video in particular gained 237.1 thousand views, with the creator showing viewers how to open a window that has a faulty handle. Viewers are shown how to open and close a window by sticking a card into the handle to release the catch.

Intasure advises people not to follow this advice and instead contact a professional as soon as a window stops opening or closing properly. Tampering with a window could invalidate a homeowners’ insurance, as it may deteriorate the mechanism over time and prevent it from closing. Without evidence of forced entry, a faulty window can invalidate the claim, as there is no proof that the home was fully secured.

Repairing burst pipes: Avoid

Photo by Natali Bredikhina.

During cold weather, water pipes are more likely to burst as water freezes and thaws, causing the pipe to crack. If a holiday home will be unoccupied for a long period in winter, the homeowner should consider turning off the water to prevent pipe damage.

With almost 80 million videos on TikTok offering ‘water pipe repair’ advice, one particular video has amassed 179.1 thousand views showing viewers how to fix a burst water pipe. It is advised to turn off the stopcock immediately if a burst pipe is discovered, however, homeowners should seek professional help from a plumber rather than attempting repairs. By carrying out repairs on the pipe themself, the homeowner risks damaging the plumbing further and causing a more serious issue.

Andy Hale, Holiday Home Specialist at Intasure commented: “Carrying out maintenance on a holiday home is encouraged to ensure that the building is kept in working order and no unexpected damages occur, especially over the colder months.

TikTok maintenance advice might seem simple, but these videos should be approached with caution, as many are not beginner-friendly and require skilled tradespeople.

In fact, the homeowner could risk causing greater damage to their property when attempting to fix plumbing or boiler issues, for example. This damage may not be covered by their holiday home insurance policy, leaving the homeowner out of pocket for damage that they have caused.

If a homeowner is unsure on what maintenance is safe to carry out themselves it is best to seek professional advice and guidance.”

For more on the latest in property reads, click here.





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2025 Ford Everest review | CarExpert

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The Ford Everest is really starting to hit its stride in Australia.


Note: This is an updated version of a review first published in July, as there have been no major changes to pricing or specifications in the past six months since publication, save for some minor 2025.25MY changes announced in November.

We have updated key details such as pricing and specifications with the most up to date information available. Read the original version of this review here.

You can also read the most recent price and specs article here.


WATCH: Paul’s video review of the 2023 Ford Everest Platinum

After a slow-ish start due to short supply of high-demand variants, Ford’s 4WD SUV twin to the top-selling Ranger ute is now top of its class for sales, and regularly breaking sales records for the nameplate.

It’s almost now experiencing the sort of popularity the Territory once enjoyed. With good reason too, it’s a benchmark amongst its peers for performance, refinement and capability. Plus, it blurs the lines between ladder-frame and monocoque SUVs in terms of driving manners.

Here we have the Ford Everest Platinum V6 4WD, the flagship of the range with all the bells and whistles. At launch it was considered expensive, but now that cheaper rivals are getting closer in price, and the new 250 Series Toyota LandCruiser Prado tops out at $100,000, the top-spec Ford may not be such a bad idea after all.

Technically the car we have on test is an MY23 example, but bar some minor price and feature adjustments it’s largely representative of a new vehicle if you order one now – sadly, the older build was all we had access to.

While expensive, the flagship Everest is fitted with everything the nameplate has to offer; and packs enough performance, luxuries, tech and capability to rival a top-spec Prado or even a VW Touareg.

Is this top-spec Everest still a top pick for those wanting a luxurious family adventure vehicle with all the fruit? Or is the asking price too steep? Read on to find out.

How does the Ford Everest compare?

View a detailed breakdown of the Ford Everest against similarly sized vehicles.

Ford Everest cutout image

Ford

Everest

How much does the Ford Everest cost?

Ford Australia recently announced some running changes to the Everest lineup for ‘2025.25MY’, which saw the price of the flagship Platinum rise by $85 as well as the reintroduction of the adventure-themed Wildtrak for a limited time.

ModelPrice before on-roads
2025 Ford Everest Ambiente 4×2 Bi-turbo$54,240
2025 Ford Everest Ambiente 4×4 Bi-turbo$59,240
2025 Ford Everest Sport 4×2 Bi-turbo$63,740
2025 Ford Everest Trend 4×4 Bi-turbo$67,040
2025 Ford Everest Sport 4×4 V6$74,640 (+$900)
2025 Ford Everest Tremor 4×4 V6$76,590
2025 Ford Everest Wildtrak 4×4 V6 (950 units)$76,950 (+$3860)
2025 Ford Everest Platinum 4×4 V6$81,200 (+$85)

Part of the adjustments include a standard acoustic windscreen across the range, while all variants bar the base Ambiente add a 400W inverter with interior power socket.

Further, the Sport loses its 10-speaker premium audio system and the Platinum now misses out on the active park assist feature fitted to previous build years – read more here.

To see how the Everest compares with its rivals, check out our comparison tool

What is the Ford Everest like on the inside?

It’s certainly a little dressier in here than lower-grade variants.

While the overall design and layout are the same Ford Everest (and Ranger) we’ve come to know and (largely) love, the Platinum gets some nicer detailing which really helps to elevate the ambience above the Trend and Sport.

The smooth, quilted leather-accented chairs are an obvious differentiator, and definitely look and feel very nice. They’re also heated and ventilated with power adjustment. Very nice.

It’s a shame the upholstery can’t be ordered in another colour, with black the option locally. The brown wood-look inlays are subtle and a classy touch in this reviewer’s eyes.

Additional padded and stitched surfaces line the dashboard and the door tops, and the Platinum is the only Everest variant to feature the high-end 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster – which is much better than the base unit.

The contrast stitch details even extend to the sides of the centre console as well as the front centre armrest, and there’s a lovely cross-stitch effect for the steering wheel rim, too. Classy.

As noted earlier the larger digital instrument panel kills the piddly unit in lower grades, with lovely graphics, clarity and animations. It’s not quite as configurable as we’d like though, playing second or third fiddle to the units employed by the Volkswagen Group in terms of configurability and features.

The portrait-oriented 12-inch central touchscreen running Ford’s SYNC 4 interface remains a highlight especially compared to the units offered by rival off-roaders. It’s slick, fully featured and pretty easy to use.

In addition to wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, there’s DAB radio and embedded satellite navigation with live traffic updates. The on-board modem also facilitates FordPass Connect, which in addition to the net-based traffic data adds remote functionality via the FordPass app – it remains a benchmark here.

While some will lament the move to digitised climate controls via the touchscreen, Ford has cleverly retained physical knobs and buttons for these functions so owners are offered the choice.

Build quality in our pretty old (by press car standards) test vehicle seemed to hold up pretty well, with no loose fitting bits of trim or any noticeable squeaks or rattles.

Some of the joins around the sides and bridge elements near the touchscreen aren’t quite as consistent as we’d like for a vehicle costing the Platinum’s coin, however, and the harder, scratchier materials dotted throughout areas of the cabin are definitely leaning into the Everest’s utilitarian utes – an Audi Q7 it is not, nor does it really have to be.

Storage options include a deep shelf under the touchscreen with wireless phone charging pad, an assortment of cubbies including a double glovebox and underarm bin, as well as relatively deep door bins.

The elevated theatre-style rear seating means little ones will have a good view out in the second row – no more emergency stops for car sickness.

Leg-, head- and knee room are all plentiful even if you’re over six-foot like myself, and you can squeeze three across for shorter journeys. I will note the decent driveline hump in the floor eats into foot room, however.

While there isn’t a third zone of climate control, there is a manual fan control to toggle the air speed through the roof-mounted air vents in the second and third rows, which is handy. Behind the centre console is also a module with USB-A and USB-C charge ports to keep phones and iPads juiced.

Other rear seat amenities include map pockets behind the front seatbacks, a fold-down centre armrest with cupholders, bottle holders in the doors, as well as the requisite ISOFIX window seat anchors and top-tether points across all three second-row seats.

Access to the third row is via folding and sliding the second row forward, but it’s not quite as easy to get in as it is in something like a Kia Sorento or the now defunct Mazda CX-9.

Once you’re back there it’s more than kid friendly, and you can probably pinch some adults in there for a shorter journey. Air vents feature back there, along with 12V ports, and the curtain airbags cover all three rows of seating. Big windows are also a plus.

Behind the third row, there’s 259L of cargo space, expanding to 898L with it folded and 1818L with the second row folded. With all three rows up, you can fit either some small bags or perhaps one suitcase, pending size.

For 2025.25MY, all Everest variants bar the base Ambiente pick up a 400W inverter with interior socket as standard. Our pictured 2023MY test vehicle doesn’t have this feature, naturally.

DimensionsFord Everest Platinum 4WD
Length4914mm – without tow receiver
Width1923mm – excluding mirrors
Height1837mm – to top of antenna base
Wheelbase2900mm
Kerb weight2512kg
Cargo capacity259 litres – 7-seat mode
898 litres – 5-seat mode
1818 litres – 2-seat mode

To see how the Everest compares with its rivals, check out our comparison tool

What’s under the bonnet?

The Everest Platinum is exclusively available with Ford’s V6 turbo-diesel and four-wheel drive with 4A mode.

Technical SpecificationsFord Everest Platinum 4WD
Engine3.0L turbo-diesel V6
Power184kW @ 3250rpm
Torque600Nm @ 1750-2250rpm
Transmission10-speed auto
Drive type4WD with 4A mode
Fuel economy – claimed8.5L/100km
Fuel economy – as tested10.0L/100km
CO2 emissions – claimed224g/km
Fuel tank80 litres
Kerb weight2512kg
Payload638kg
Braked towing capacity3500kg
Gross vehicle mass – GVM3150kg
Gross combination mass – GCM6250kg

It’s worth noting the entire Everest engine lineup features AdBlue injection in line with Euro 6 emissions standards, which helps to reduce harmful particulates emitted by diesel vehicles such as nitrogen oxides (NOx).

Most rivals only fit a diesel particulate filter (DPF) in line with Euro 5 regulations, the minimum requirement in Australia currently.

To see how the Everest compares with its rivals, check out our comparison tool

How does the Ford Everest drive?

Ute-based SUVs have historically been amongst my least favourite cars to drive due to their workhorse-like nature, but this latest Everest has really flipped that perception on its head.

The Ranger is already an excellently well-rounded utility, but the Everest’s rear coil suspension and family leaning vibe takes that a step further. In Platinum trim, it drives like a properly luxurious vehicle.

Performance from the V6 diesel is a little lazy but also effortless, with all 600Nm available from just 1750rpm, and the 10-speed automatic has what seems like infinite ratios to choose from so that progress is smooth.

You barely notice it row through the cogs, and if you’re not in a hurry it quickly settles in eighth or ninth with revs barely sitting above idle at a cruise.

If you plant your foot it’ll take one, two moments to kick down and get going, but it hustles along alright for a tall, boxy truck weighing 2.5 tonnes. During our 4WD SUV Mega Test, the Everest Platinum V6 managed a 9.39-second 0-100km/h time, which is over a second quicker than the four-cylinder bi-turbo version.

That doesn’t necessarily tell all the story either, because while big diesel SUVs and utes have sluggish 0-100 times by passenger car standards, it’s the rolling acceleration that really impresses – especially relative to four-cylinder rivals.

Having 600Nm on tap means the Everest will perform highway overtakes pretty easily, and according to our testing it’ll do 80-120km/h on the trot 1.3s quicker than an Everest bi-turbo and 2.0s quicker than an Isuzu MU-X 3.0.

And, while it’s doing it the six-cylinder oiler has a much more attractive and muscular engine note than rattly four-cylinder equivalents. If you’re planning to tow often, this powertrain would form as the more attractive option.

What I love most about the Everest V6’s character is cruising on the highway, where at 100-110 clicks it’s quiet, settled and secure. For family road trips, there are few 4WDs with this level of refinement.

It’s pretty darn quiet, with minimal road and wind noise permeating the cabin save for a hint of tyre noise on rougher blacktop and some faint wind whistle over the chunky side mirrors at high speeds on windy days.

The tall body and rugged underpinnings mean you shouldn’t be expecting sporty dynamics, but the light and accurate steering makes this easy to place in tight city manoeuvres as well as winding country roads, and the body is well controlled against lateral forces.

Outward visibility is pretty good thanks to the tall glasshouse and big mirrors, and the surround camera system offers a good view of the vehicle’s surrounds to help keep the Everest between tight carpark markings. That said, at 4.9m long and 1.9m wide with bluff, upright edges; this is still a big ol’ bus.

Ride quality is pretty good even on the Platinum’s 21-inch alloys. You can also option smaller 18-inch rims in all-terrain rubber if you need the more rugged shoes for off-road expeditions. Personally, I think 19s or 20s would have been more than enough.

At times the ute underpinnings come through on sharper hits, with a bit of a terse edge to the initial impact. It’s far from uncomfortable though, and the Everest is a good head and half a shoulder ahead of most rivals in this regard.

The Everest’s suite of assistance systems are very well calibrated and are another area where it beats out its competitors, with intuitive adaptive cruise and lane centring systems to facilitate semi-autonomous driving.

In Platinum trim the Everest is fully loaded, meaning blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert for helping navigate gaps in traffic or reversing out of blind parking spots, and there’s a surround parking camera as noted earlier.

The Platinum also scores the available Matrix LED headlights with auto levelling as standard, with an adaptive highbeam function that not only does a good job of illuminating the road ahead in poorly lit areas, but also intelligently blanks out light segments to avoid dazzling oncoming road users.

As for off-road performance, this exact Everest took part in our 4WD Mega Test in 2023, and performed quite well even with its road-focused wheel and tyre package.

Founder Paul Maric said: “[It] walked through the offset moguls in 4A mode, smartly shuffling torque to the grounded wheels to drag the car out. It was the same situation in 4H with the rear differential unlocked, and the car set to Mud/Ruts mode”.

“The Everest did touch down slightly, indicating it had less ground clearance than some of its rivals. Despite a bit of wheelspin brought about by its road-oriented tyres, the Everest V6 did an impressive job shuffling torque around to climb Mogul Mountain with a constant throttle.

“Ford’s hill-descent control is the best in the business, allowing the driver to adjust speed using the cruise control buttons. The lack of ugly noises from the brakes is also impressive.

“Gravel Mountain challenged the Everest; it failed to scale it on the third attempt despite a healthy serving of the throttle – potentially due to its highway-terrain tyres.”

Technical SpecificationsFord Everest Platinum 4WD
Track front and rear1620mm
Ground clearance226mm – unladen
Approach angle30.2 degrees
Departure angle25.0 degrees
Ramp breakover angle21.9 degrees
Wading depth800mm

To see how the Everest compares with its rivals, check out our comparison tool

What do you get?

2025 Ford Everest Ambiente highlights:

  • 17-inch alloy wheels
  • All-season tyres
  • 17-inch steel spare wheel
  • LED reflector headlights
  • C-shaped LED daytime running lights
  • Front fog lights
  • LED tail lights
  • Black side steps
  • Auto power-folding side mirrors
  • Rain-sensing wipers
  • Two front tow hooks
  • Steel underbody protection (4×4 model only)
  • 10.1-inch SYNC 4 touchscreen infotainment system
  • 8.0-inch digital instrument cluster
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • Embedded modem
  • Wireless phone charger
  • 8-speaker sound system
  • Satellite navigation
  • DAB+ digital radio
  • Embedded voice assistant
  • FordPass with remote start
  • Dual-zone climate control
  • 5 seats (7 seats optional)
  • Fabric upholstery
  • 8-way manual driver seat adjustment
  • 4-way manual front passenger seat adjustment
  • Driver floor mat
  • Electrochromatic rear-view mirror
  • Dash-mounted pull-out cupholders
  • Open storage shelf
  • Tilt and reach steering wheel adjustment
  • Keyless entry with push-button start
  • Vinyl console lid
  • Electronic parking brake
  • Conventional mechanical gear shifter (4×2 only)
  • e-Shifter gear shifter (4×4 only)
  • Locking rear differential (4×4 only)
  • Push-button selectable drive modes
  • Acoustic windscreen (NEW, 2025.25MY)

Everest Trend adds:

  • 18-inch alloy wheels with matching spare
  • Privacy glass
  • Power tailgate
  • Heated, power-folding side mirrors with puddle lamps
  • 12-inch SYNC 4 touchscreen infotainment screen
  • 7 seats
  • Leather-accented upholstery
  • 8-way power driver seat
  • Leather-wrapped steering wheel
  • Driver and passenger floor mats
  • Upper glove box
  • Off-road screen (4×4 models only)
  • Rotary drive mode selector (4×4 models only)
  • Sand, Mud/Ruts drive modes
  • Black stand-off roof rails
  • Zone lighting
  • 400W interior outlet (NEW, 2025.25MY)

Everest Sport adds:

  • 20-inch black alloy wheels with matching spare
  • Black exterior accents
  • Handsfree power tailgate
  • Black 3D bonnet lettering
  • Unique leather-accented upholstery with ‘SPORT’ embossing
  • Unique interior colour accents
  • 10-way power driver seat with memory
  • 8-way power passenger seat
  • Heated and cooled front seats
  • Removes 10-speaker audio (NEW, 2025.25MY)

Everest Platinum adds:

  • 21-inch alloy wheels with matching spare
  • Black-painted roof
  • Satin chrome exterior accents
  • Matrix LED headlights with auto-levelling
  • 12.4-inch digital instrument cluster
  • 12-speaker B&O premium sound system
  • Surround-view camera
  • Tyre pressure monitoring
  • Satin chrome interior accents
  • Leather-accented quilted upholstery
  • Heated second row seats
  • Power-folding third row seats
  • Heated steering wheel
  • Premium front and rear floor mats
  • Interior ambient lighting
  • Removes active park assist (NEW, 2025.25MY)

To see how the Everest compares with its rivals, check out our comparison tool

Options

The Everest Platinum is available with the following options.

18-inch Alloy Wheel Pack: $NCO

  • All-terrain tyres
  • 18-inch alloy wheels

Towing Pack: $1900

  • Tow bar
  • Integrated brake controller
  • Blind-spot trailer coverage

Pro Towing Pack: $2900

  • Pro Trailer Backup Assist*
  • Tow bar
  • Integrated brake controller

*Pro Trailer Backup Assist allows the driver to ‘steer’ the trailer via the outer ring of the drive mode controller while the vehicle moves the steering wheel.

Prestige paint: $700

To see how the Everest compares with its rivals, check out our comparison tool

Is the Ford Everest safe?

The Ford Everest has a five-star ANCAP safety rating based on testing of the closely related Ford Ranger ute. The five-star rating applies to the whole Everest range.

CategoryFord Everest
Adult occupant protection86 per cent
Child occupant protection93 per cent
Vulnerable road user protection74 per cent
Safety assist86 per cent

Standard safety equipment includes:

  • 9 airbags
  • Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
  • Blind-spot monitoring
  • Driver attention alert
  • Lane departure warning
  • Lane keep assist
  • Parking sensors – front, rear
  • Post-impact braking
  • Reverse AEB
  • Reverse camera

To see how the Everest compares with its rivals, check out our comparison tool

How much does the Ford Everest cost to run?

The Everest is backed by a five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty like the wider Ford range.

Servicing and WarrantyFord Everest Platinum 4WD
Warranty5 years, unlimited kilometres
Roadside assistanceUp to 7 years – service activated
Service intervals12 months or 15,000 kilometres
Capped-price servicing5 years (Pre-paid service plan)
Total capped-price service cost$1516 – 5 years

To see how the Everest compares with its rivals, check out our comparison tool

CarExpert’s Take on the Ford Everest

The Everest remains a benchmark for large 4WD SUVs, and the fully-loaded Platinum – while pricey – is a showcase of everything the nameplate has to offer in its current iteration.

It’s loaded with everything Ford can throw at it, including the trick Matrix LED headlights and full digital instrument cluster, while the more luxurious trimmings inside make this less of a workhorse-come-family-bus and a bit more premium tourer.

Ford’s V6 turbo-diesel is a peach, and is a great all-rounder in terms of everyday commuting performance as well as heavy-duty hauling. Even in manicured Platinum trim, the Everest V6 feels purpose built for Australian families.

But the flagship’s asking price is getting precariously close to more premium metal. The Volkswagen Touareg 170TDI is only $5000 more and is arguably a lot more premium and refined thanks to its shared underpinnings with the likes of the Audi Q7 and Bentley Bentayga, and is also rated to tow 3.5 tonnes.

If you don’t plan to tow or go off-road, the Mazda CX-90 D50e GT has more space for people and is more luxuriously trimmed with a similarly punchy six-cylinder diesel, and that’s before you go into other road-biased rivals the Hyundai Palisade and Kia Sorento.

But that’s not why you buy an Everest, is it? Ford’s trusty family 4WD is the Ranger for mums and dads who want to bring the kids and their friends along for the ride, with equivalent capability and more refinement than the brand’s top-selling ute – and the Platinum is perfect for those that want all that but with a dash of fancy.

Click the images for the full gallery

Interested in buying a Ford Everest? Get in touch with one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers here

MORE: Everything Ford Everest





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Lürssen’s 122m Kismet for Charter – LUXUO

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Jacuzzis and pools are tucked away amid sleek exterior lines created by the Venice-based Nuvolari Lenard studio

Design ideas, first explored in creation of a 68m Lürssen in 2007, were further developed in 2014 with arrival of the much-lauded 95m Kismet now called Whisper. The latest 122m beauty is surely the owner’s pièce-de-résistance to date.

From her distinctive jaguar-adorned bow to her imposing six decks and thoughtful stern arrangements, Kismet is a homage to innovation, and to blending unique style elements that encompass sleek Nuvolari Lenard exterior lines and sophisticated Reymond Langton interiors.

Originally introduced by Florida’s famous car and superyacht dealer Jim Moran, who met this Asia-born owner as they both made fortunes in the American automobile industry, the current project, known as JAG before her Kismet credentials were revealed, benefitted from having long-time owner’s reps Captain Kyle Fultz and wife Gerry keeping watch during her five-year construction. Some slight delays occurred because the build spanned the Covid era.

In the beach club, we liked the enclosed hanging basket seats that will presumably provide a little movement if the Quantum zero-speed stabilisers are doing their job

The vessel is fully custom, with many personal touches throughout, but like her popular predecessor she is now available for charter via bespoke British brokers Cecil Wright. Rates are from €3 million a week, and Indo-Asia-Pacific cruises may be on the horizon.

Her owner is fairly high-profile himself, as he runs two football teams, the Jacksonville Jaguars in America’s NFL – hence the big cat on Kismet’s bow – and Fulham soccer team in the British Premier League, which he bought from former Harrods boss Mohamed Al-Fayed a decade ago. Son Tony runs the All Elite Wrestling franchise.

The owner’s favoured American NFL team the Jacksonville Jaguars account for Kismet’s unusual jaguar bow motif

Kismet is a Turkish word which dictionaries define as meaning “personified power that determines the course of future events”, but it is understood more generally to refer to one’s destiny or fate. It has been the title of several Hollywood films, and a stage play.

“To execute such a comprehensive project, an excellent team is necessary,” says the builder’s Managing Partner Peter Lürssen.

“We are very proud of Kismet as yet another statement of Lürssen’s ability and desire to build yachts that meet all of our exacting owner’s requirements, guided by our core focus on expert engineering, beautiful design, and being at the forefront in developing sustainable technologies.”

Main deck aft; six decks allow plenty of options to choose a favoured setting, and there are many nooks and crannies hidden in plain sight

The 122m vessel squeezes in under 5,000GT at 4,918GT. She carries two guests in the enormous owner’s apartment, and 12 others in six substantial suites, plus two auxiliary suites that can be pressed into service. A total of 37 crew are accommodated in 19 cabins.

Top speed is 18 knots, and the vessel has a 6,000-nautical-mile range at 12 knots, powered principally by twin MTU 20V 4000 M73Ls, producing 3,200kW at 1,970rpm. She is flagged by the Republic of the Marshall Islands in Micronesia.

Many pioneering features include an innovative propulsion system that allows short-distance voyaging on electrical power alone, for example operating in stealth mode when entering of leaving harbours or anchorages without disturbing the neighbours. She also features a 4.9m x 1.3m pane of glass, by far the largest single piece of structural glazing ever fitted on a yacht’s transom.

Pascale Reymond of Reymond Langton says guests will move around distinctive design features of the vessel in different journeys

Says Lürssen: “Given that this area is an integral part of the hull, regulations typically restrict such windows to a maximum 60cm x 40cm. To overcome this limitation, Lürssen invested a year-and-a-half in rigorous stress and pressure tests with the classification society Lloyd’s and manufacturers. This process included dropping steel weights onto the glass to assess its residual strength.”

The newly engineered glass plays a significant role in the design, as a great deal of the exterior is either glass windows, or the structural steel hull and aluminium superstructure is clad in glass, allowing the design to seamlessly flow from window to structure and back again.

In certain areas of the bulwark, particularly the Nemo Lounge used for underwater viewing or as a cinema, the glass has an impressive thickness of 13cm, yet maintains excellent clarity.

Nemo Lounge can be used to view over-and-under water activity in vicinity of the vessel, using specially-strengthened glass, or as a classic cinema to watch feature films

Apart from the Art Deco silver jaguar figurehead, a few American footballs are in evidence, and other design features, some hidden, some in plain sight, “come together to create a totally unique and personal yacht, inspired by the owner’s favourite people and places”, says Thorsten Göckes, the Lürssen Project Manager.

Carlo Nuvolari of Nuvolari Lenard said: “Kismet was a perfect project for us, because it was for an owner with considerable technical knowledge and great passion. This allowed us to make functional, stylistic and technical proposals knowing that they would be understood from all points of view. In its external design – the stairs, detailing, furnishings – Kismet is a yacht rich in shapes and choice of materials.”

Pascale Reymond of Reymond Langton told media in Monaco that the owner wanted “an exceptional interior design that makes you travel through time and space”.

Spectacular principal salon takes its inspiration from Le Roi Soleil, The Sun King Louis XIV and the ornate Parisian palace of Versailles

Kismet is not just a yacht or a home,” she said. “The yacht is a journey where all your passion and senses are challenged. The main idea is that, as the vessel is very large, the owners and guests should find their way and recognise each area by the design, and they should experience many different journeys.

Kismet is a time capsule, from the glorious parties of Versailles under Le Roi Soleil, The Sun King, Louis XIV, in the La Galerie des Glaces, to the matinee theatre of the roaring ’20s and Art Deco era.”

The multi-purpose top deck, nestled below the mast, is the perfect getaway. There is a large jacuzzi forward, with a special shallow area, making it safe and accessible for young children. The largest sunbeds on the boat surround the jacuzzi and double as an outside bed and star-gazing spot on warm nights.

The top deck is another design delight

Directly under the mast is a stone-topped dining table which seats 14 guests. Three television screens, a bar, beer fridge and gas-fired pizza oven ensure this is a social and casual place to relax. At the top of the staircase that leads down to the bridge deck aft is a round overhang, which is set up as a DJ station during parties on the deck below.

The large party space is multifunctional and can be turned into a helipad, an outdoor cinema with a projector screen, or another relaxation area with six hammocks and various sunbeds. Shade is provided via removable sun awnings on carbon-fibre posts.

The bridge deck houses the large, dark leather-clad bridge, equipped with state-of-the art navigation equipment and paperless technology. The ship’s office and a guest-quality captain’s cabin are located aft of the bridge. Whilst there is no notable interior guest space on this deck, to service the outside area, there is another large day head.

Top to toe, Kismet is a statement in design excellence

This deck marks the highest stop for the guest elevator, which features a white leather sofa and a bespoke églomisé artwork by Miriam Ellner on the feature wall. The guest staircase begins its long, elegant curve down to the lower deck from here.

Complementing the staircase’s descent is a feature wall and art installation, made up of bronze-coloured pipe light fixtures of varying heights, with Venetian fabric panels behind them, shifting from sky blue to dark green as you descend.

The 11m pool offers a swim-up bar with service and facilities either side

The pool deck is home to an 11m mosaic-lined swimming pool. The inside of the pool glitters in a kaleidoscope of blues, with miniature tiles surrounding an artistically styled grey ‘K’. The exterior of the pool has its own mosaic, this time in cream and greys. A large waterfall feature cascades into the pool from the deck above, and there is a fixed reclining section with massage jets and a swim-up bar facing the dining area.

This deck hosts most of the onboard dining and features a Teppanyaki station as well as a barbecue grill. An unusual choice, the main dining table on this deck is at bar height, with fixed barstools, and seats up to 14 guests. LED lights throughout the space ensure everything twinkles.

The Ibiza-style pool deck lounge transforms into a multicoloured disco at night

One of the yacht’s standout features is a large gold and crystal chandelier. Spanning 4.5m and suspended through a three-deck atrium, it ties the guest lobby spaces on each deck together.

Forward of the pool deck is the owner’s office, with private access down to the master suite below. The office is designed to be dual-purpose, with convertible sofas that can also be used as an extra guest cabin.

Owner’s office, with private access to the master suite, has its desk behind the sofa and converts into another suite

It features a full-service bathroom, complete with dual sinks, a bespoke Crystal Caviar Art Deco mirror, and a large shower, all decked out in Nero Marquina marble and platinum-coloured leather-embossed walls.

A custom Silverlining desk on the port side complements the room, and the focal point is the large red L-shaped sofa, from which to enjoy both the scenery and the large TV that drops down from the ceiling.

“This is the core and the brains behind this fabulous yacht,” says Pascale Reymond. “All directed and orchestrated by the owner from his black, silver and touch of lipstick-red office. He is very much the director and producer – a Chicago 1930s film director – and his office is the heart of it all.”

The master suite commands sweeping views and is sumptuously outfitted with a cream merino wool carpet, high-gloss walnut marquetry and embroidered Sabina Fay Braxton feature walls

The master suite, located on the deck below, occupies more than half of the interior guest space on this deck. It is opulent and ornate, with a cream merino wool carpet, high-gloss walnut marquetry, and embroidered Sabina Fay Braxton feature walls.

Adjacent to the master cabin is a recessed exterior space featuring a jacuzzi pool, along with ample private sunbathing and dining areas. A TV that folds out to face the jacuzzi adds to the luxury.

Forward on the bow is the touch-and-go helipad, certified for a Eurocopter 155. This area can also be converted into an NBA-certified basketball court and a pickleball court, thanks to removable nets and hoops.

Her bathroom features a large bath with bespoke marble mosaic motifs in ivory onyx

Aft of the master cabin are his-and-her bathrooms and dressing rooms, both designed in a similar style. Dark Oriental elements, bespoke Crystal Caviar mirrors with floral details, and Silverlining bespoke marquetry walls and sliding door panels create a luxurious sanctuary.

Centre stage in the saloon is a grand piano designed by Boganyi, a futuristic self-playing piece that draws on automotive design cues. The saloon includes a large bar with a gold glass and black marble finish, and a convivial sofa arrangement with low tables provides for intimate evenings among friends and family.

Centre stage in one salon is a grand piano designed by Boganyi, a futuristic self-playing piece

Guest accommodation starts on the principal deck, with four stunning guest suites amidships, each featuring its own unique theme. Drawing inspiration from nature to the owners’ favourite fashion brands, the suites differ in style but are equal in size.

One suite boasts bespoke wallpaper with Lalique crystal dahlias and swallows, complemented by a matching Lalique headboard and door handles. Each suite has a chaise longue tucked in front of the floor-to-ceiling windows with Avodire Curl high-gloss wood elements.

The dressing rooms are spacious for guest cabins, and the en-suite bathrooms all include his-and-hers sinks. Intricate and ornate vanities, along with bold marbles, ensure each room is completely unique.

Six guest suites with his-and-hers sinks in the bathrooms have unique themes, but each has a relaxing chaise longue in front of floor-to-ceiling windows

Kismet has seven cabins, including the master suite, as well as the third flexible cabin on the lower deck and the owner’s study, which can also convert into guest accommodation, allowing the yacht to sleep up to 18 guests in total.

The lower deck’s primary purpose is as a full-service wellness centre. It features a complete Technogym, a dive store, yoga lounge and juice bar, relaxation room with lounging chairs and waterfall shower, bathtub for mud baths, massage and reflexology area, firepit, dry ice room, plunge pool with waterfall, sauna, hammam, shaving station, ice and snow room, and a cryogenic chamber with a temperature that drops to -85 degrees Celsius.

Six guest suites with his-and-hers sinks in the bathrooms have unique themes, but each has a relaxing chaise longue in front of floor-to-ceiling windows

The spa is themed around a Balinese sanctuary, with elements such as a gold statue, decorative glass with green reeds, and stone walls featuring recessed planters and faux plants that resemble a tropical forest.

Tender storage is located forward on the main deck and houses an 11.2m Hodgson limo, 11.8m Naiad for 16 guests, 8.24m Riva and 6.3m Fassmer. Toys stored here include jet skis, Seabobs, e-foils, slide and large floating platform. Additionally, there is a full dive storage room located aft of the spa.

See also Top 100 Superyachts of Indo-Asia-Pacific 2025.

lurssen.com
cecilwright.com

This article was first seen on YachtStyle.Co

For more on the latest in yachting news, click here.



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Polestar 6 sports car won’t arrive in 2026, Polestar 7 takes priority

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Polestar is planning to launch a number of new models over the next few years, but the one most likely to appeal to car enthusiasts is at the back of the line.

The Polestar 6 sports car is being pushed back to give the Polestar 7 SUV priority, and won’t arrive in 2026 as originally discussed. The news was first reported by Australia’s CarExpert, and subsequently confirmed by Polestar to Motor Authority.

Polestar O2 concept

Polestar O2 concept

“The highly anticipated Polestar 6 will arrive at a later stage,” Polestar spokesperson Mike Ofiara said. The EV brand will continue the rollout of its 3 and 4 SUVs, followed by the 5 fastback, due to arrive later this year, then the 7 SUV, and finally the Polestar 6, he said.

Polestar first previewed the 6 in March 2022 with the O2 concept car, confirming production plans for 2026 a few months later as well as opening reservations at that time. Polestar previously said the concept’s retractable hardtop would carry over to the production version, which would ride on a shortened version of bonded aluminum platform debuting in the 5, and featuring 800-volt charging like that model as well.

Polestar O2 concept

Polestar O2 concept

As far as the powertrain, Polestar said in 2022 that a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system would generate 884 hp and 663 lb-ft of torque, with performance targets of 0-62 mph in 3.2 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph. And that would come in a two-seat sports car package not seen in production form since the original Tesla Roadster.

The Polestar 7, in contrast, will be a small SUV that could replace the Polestar 2 as the EV brand’s entry-level model. Polestar confirmed earlier this month that it will be built in Europe, allowing it to avoid steep tariffs currently placed on Polestar’s Chinese-made vehicles. An SUV body style, entry-level positioning, and European production will likely set the Polestar 7 up for higher potential sales volumes and profits than the 6.



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BP opens first 400-kw TA travel center location, along I-95

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BP on Monday unveiled the first of more than 40 planned electric-vehicle charging hubs to be co-located with TravelCenters of America (TA) highway rest stops.

Located in Jacksonville, Florida, along the busy I-95 corridor, the first site features six CCS DC fast-chargers, configured into 12 “bays ” that each offer a connector.

BP Pulse EV fast-chargers at TravelCenters of America

BP Pulse EV fast-chargers at TravelCenters of America

BP, which acquired TA in 2023, currently has 31 U.S. charging locations operated by its BP Pulse division, with over 100 sites planned nationwide including the TA sites. BP also last summer announced that it would build what it called the first publicly accessible truck fast-charging station, also in conjunction with TravelCenters of America. 

The new TA travel center location will offer 400-kw connectors, and BP told Green Car Reports that it’s planning to build up that capability at its other sites as well. While it’s only using CCS connectors at the moment, BP has also placed a large order for Tesla fast-chargers.

BP to purchase Tesla chargers

BP to purchase Tesla chargers

BP said in 2022 that its fast-chargers were almost as profitable as gas pumps; and at that time it saw its entire charging operation as being profitable by 2025. Before it was acquired by the oil company, TA was set to partner up with Electrify America, announcing plans in early 2023 for about 1,000 individual chargers at 200 different sites, set to be installed over five years, but this new arrangement with BP Pulse supersedes that.

TA isn’t the only chain of traditional travel centers investing in EV chargers. Love’s announced in 2024 that all of its future travel stops will have EV chargers as well.

Recent studies have suggested that Americans don’t need or expect EVs to charge as quickly as gas vehicles can fuel up. But they do want amenities; so this could be one of the templates that works well in the near future. 



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2025 Toyota 4Runner gets dragged into modern times

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  • The 2025 Toyota 4Runner is the 6th generation of the icon

  • Every 2025 Toyota 4Runner has a turbo-4 under its hood

  • The 2025 Toyota 4Runner costs between $42,265 and $68,350

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner has been dragged into the modern era like a toddler screaming and kicking at the mall. For the first time in 14 years, the 4Runner is new.

The old one was still going strong. Toyota sold 92,156 examples in 2024 and 119,238 in 2023. That’s despite the fact it was old enough to have its bar mitzvah and grow chest hair. The new one? From the frame to the powertrain and electronics, it’s new. This isn’t just a reskin. But it’s not yet clear how diehard buyers are going to adapt. Change is hard.

From a hybrid powertrain and more muscular look to bigger screens and even more compromised packaging, the outcry on social media has been swift. That’s before addressing the ever growing matrix of a lineup, which now stands at a confusing nine trim levels. Welcome, Trailhunter.

After crawling around and blasting around on- and off-road, in most of the lineup, I’ve learned the new 4Runner drives better, gets slightly better fuel economy, and has more power than its ancient predecessor, while being just as capable off-road. That makes it a better vehicle, and disgruntled enthusiasts will have to get used to the change as this will inevitably be the 4Runner the world lives with for the next decade plus.

2025 Toyota 4Runner

2025 Toyota 4Runner

2025 4Runner goes turbocharged and hybrid

The V-8’s long gone, and now the naturally aspirated V-6 engine joins it in the history books. RIP. The mob online seems angry about this.

Every 2025 4Runner has a turbo-4 under its hood. The base engine, a 2.5-liter turbo-4 rated at 278 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque, will power most 4Runners sold as it’s the only choice for the base SR5 model, which Toyota says represents about 51% of 4Runner sales. Torque comes on real quick down low in the rev range with peak torque arriving at 1,700 rpm. It’s easy to rip off the line and power delivery is smooth, but a high-pitched turbo whoosh is ever-present. 

Upper trim TRD-badged models like TRD Pro and Trailhunter, along with the most lux model, the Platinum, come standard with the new hybrid powertrain dubbed i-Force Max. Off-Road,  Off-Road Premium, and Limited models can be optioned with the hybrid system. It bolts a 64-hp motor powered by a 1.9-kwh battery pack into the transmission housing. Combined system output checks in at a healthy 326 hp and 465 lb-ft. That’s V-8-like, stump-pulling torque. Peak torque also comes in at 1,700 rpm, and it’s shockingly quick, for a 4Runner at least. My butt dyno estimates the hybrid 4Runner might hit 60 mph from a stop in 6.0 seconds. 

Every 4Runner now has a modern 8-speed automatic transmission. It’s a joy, and is bsolutely as swift and smooth as the ZF-sourced 8-speed in a Jeep Grand Cherokee. The 4Runner’s transmission cracks off shifts with ease, and the Sport and Sport+ modes hang onto gears longer for even better power. But don’t go looking for paddle shifters in any 4Runner, including the TRD Pro.

Full-time four-wheel drive is only on the more lux-oriented Limited and Platinum models. In a rather cheap cop-out move, Toyota equips all the other 4Runners, including the most expensive TRD-badged off-road-oriented models with part-time four-wheel drive. Every four-wheel-drive 4Runner has a 2-speed transfer case. The TRD Pro and Trailhunter models also net a rear locker and electronic disconnecting front sway bar.

Fuel economy improves from yikes status of 17 mpg combined for the last model—which wasn’t even attainable in the real world—to a borderline respectable 23/24/23 mpg in hybrid form. The volume SR5 with its turbo-4 knocks a few mpgs off for 19/25/21 mpg with 4WD. Opting for rear-wheel drive adds 1 mpg across the board. In brief on-road testing I saw an average of 15.3 mpg on the highway in a Trailhunter and 19.7 mpg in a Platinum. Both models were hybrids.

2025 Toyota 4Runner

2025 Toyota 4Runner

2025 Toyota 4Runner

2025 Toyota 4Runner

How to choose between the 4Runner TRD Pro and 4Runner Trailhunter

Buyers looking for the top of the 4Runner off-road foodchain now have a decision to make as the Trailhunter joins the TRD Pro. At $68,350 (including the $1,450 destination charge), the two off-roaders cost the same and even have the same off-road angles. It comes down to how these 4Runners ride and are equipped.

The important off-road TRD Pro and Trailhunter angles:

  • Departure angle: 24 degrees

  • Breakover angle: 24 degrees

  • Ground clearance: 10.1 inches

2025 Toyota 4Runner

2025 Toyota 4Runner

Toyota gives the TRD Pro a set of three-way adjustable, 2.5-inch diameter Fox shocks with remote reservoirs for better heat dissipation. Trailhunters swap those Fox shocks for a set of 2.5-inch forged ARB Old Man Emu shocks with external piggyback remote reservoirs. Both ride on 33-inch all-terrain rubber from the factory, and no one from Toyota could answer whether 35s would fit without rubbing.

The Trailhunter sports skid plates covering every bit from the front bumper back to the behind the transfer case. The TRD Pro only has skid plates that cover to the back of the engine.

The skid plate differentiation highlights the intended use cases. The Trailhunters is designed to crawl over rough, rocky, slippery terrain, while the TRD Pro model is designed to go quickly over loose terrain.

Each revealed its personality quickly both on and off-road. The TRD Pro is set up to ride much firmer with shocks that are tuned to take impacts at speed. The Trailhunter swings to the other end of the spectrum with shocks featuring a soft tune. The Trailhunter rides the softest of the lineup, and exhibits the most body roll on the street and while slowly traversing over rough terrain. The electronic disconnecting front sway bar comes in handy in deep ruts, enabling the independent front suspension to drop farther.

2025 Toyota 4Runner

2025 Toyota 4Runner

The TRD Pro feels better tuned than its Tacoma TRD Pro counterpart. The shock tuning kept the 4Runner TRD Pro more planted, more settled, and overall less jittery. But after one lap on a somewhat tame “high-speed” off-road course, the 4Runner TRD Pro’s brakes smelled and a warning popped up in the gauge cluster noting the transmission oil temp was hot and that the vehicle should stop in a safe place.

2025 Toyota 4Runner

2025 Toyota 4Runner

The surround-view camera system also comes up short. In a Ford Raptor in Baja mode, the system will remain on at speed, showing the terrain ahead. That’s not the case in the new 4Runner. The forward-facing camera turns off within seconds of speeding up after an obstacle. Even in the MTS off-road modes. This is infuriating while trying to continually turn on the system while at speed to ensure you can see the lower terrain ahead. Ford gets it right. Toyota doesn’t.

The hybrid’s immense torque is a boon off-road, but the throttle tuning leaves something to be desired with a hair-trigger tip-in response that can break traction, even if the driver is attempting to feather the throttle to climb a hill. The throttle and brakes aren’t progressive, which makes it hard to be smooth. The Trailhunter’s pillar-mounted snorkel intake accentuates the turbo whoosh to the point of being comical and annoying.

Every 4Runner is quieter inside on the highway than the comparable Land Cruiser, which shares the 4Runner’s powertrain and platform, thanks to a less upright windshield.

2025 Toyota 4Runner

2025 Toyota 4Runner

4Runner gets muscular and tech stacked

The 6th-gen 4Runner didn’t skip leg day. Or arm day. Toyota made sure this SUV is ripped. It looks like a Transformer actively trying to morph. The sheetmetal ripples with muscles from the bulging fenders to the fake hood scoop on the TRD Pro. That hood scoop seems like it’s taped on, and it shakes to no end while off-roading at speed. The front grilles of the TRD Pro and Trailhunter get the LED driving lights from the same models in the Tacoma lineup with the same 10,000-lumen rating. That’s double the output of the weak lightbar on the full-size Sequoia and Tundra TRD Pro, which at 5,000 lumens has a lower output than an $80 flashlight. I didn’t get to test the lighting in the dark so judgement day comes later.

2025 Toyota 4Runner

2025 Toyota 4Runner

The overall shape and stance of the 4Runner hasn’t changed. The design’s evolutionary, at best, but the extra muscles might not be to everyone’s liking. Toyota made a big deal about the throwback rear side windows that wrap over the roofline as a nod to the first-gen 4Runner. They are a cool throwback, but opinions seem to vary. Thankfully, the tailgate glass still powers down into the tailgate to haul longer items or just to increase fresh air in the cabin.

2025 Toyota 4Runner

2025 Toyota 4Runner

2025 Toyota 4Runner

2025 Toyota 4Runner

Inside, the 4Runner evolves to be tech-filled. The hard plastic dashboard now sports an 8.0-inch touchscreen with a large plastic bezel in lower-rent SR5, TRD Sport, and TRD Off-Road models. That bezel is a painful reminder that you didn’t choose a more expensive model. The more expensive models have a hulking 14.0-inch touchscreen straight out of the significantly wider Sequoia hanging off the upright dashboard. It seems like overkill. A standard 7.0-inch digital gauge cluster only makes an appearance in the base SR5 model, while every other 4Runner gets a 12.3-inch digital cluster that shares its design with other recent Toyotas. At least there are hard buttons and knobs for the climate and audio controls.

Anyone hoping the 4Runner TRD Pro would sport the fancy front seats with built-in shock absorbers from the Tacoma TRD Pro will be disappointed. Toyota spokespeople said the Tacoma is a “me truck,” while the 4Runner is a “we truck.” Those neat-looking front seats in the Tacoma eat all the rear legroom, so they don’t make an appearance in the 4Runner. But the TRD Pro 4Runner still requires the choice of camo-patterned black or red leather, which is quite the life choice. Like in the Tacoma, “TOYOTA” is stamped across the passenger side of the dashboard in the TRD Pro and Trailhunter models, and can’t be removed. It’s a three-piece molding and part of the trim itself.

Packaging and materials quality seem to be a real issue with the 4Runner, just like its Land Cruiser sibling. Shut the doors and it sounds like a thin, hollow, tin can. Going down the highway the entire hood flexes in the wind. Lower-spec trims have cheap hard plastic on the door uppers, and even in higher trim models the soft-touch material on the door uppers just covers more hard plastic. It’s the same story for the soft-touch door-mounted armrests and center armrest, both of which allow elbows to sink into the hard plastic in seconds. The center console handle wiggles, and the roof-mounted grab handle on the passenger side felt like it might rip off if used to get into the 4Runner. 

2025 Toyota 4Runner

2025 Toyota 4Runner

2025 Toyota 4Runner

2025 Toyota 4Runner

2025 Toyota 4Runner

2025 Toyota 4Runner

Road trips might not be terribly comfortable in the 4Runner, and that would doubly so for those seated in back. Anyone finding themselves in the front passenger seat of the SR5, TRD Off-Road, or TRD Sport models will note the lack of lumbar adjustments. Passengers in back will find no room for feet or even toes under the front seats. The second-row seat bottoms are low, flat, and mounted above the rear axle. A tiny, barely existent, third row is an option on the base SR5 and Limited models. It’s not really habitable, and it’s not offered on the larger Land Cruiser, which indicates its lack of usefulness here. The cargo area of hybrids induces a higher liftover height because the load floor is raised to accommodate the battery pack. To ensure Toyota can claim there’s a flat load floor a plastic compartment under a cover is installed near the tailgate, like GM did on the last-gen Tahoe and Yukons. This type of packaging should make an engineer sad.

2025 Toyota 4Runner

2025 Toyota 4Runner

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner presents value equation

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner starts at $42,265 including a $1,450 destination charge, but that’s for a base rear-wheel-drive model. Tack on another $2,000 for four-wheel drive, which is almost a given. That’s the volume model, according to Toyota. A lux Platinum costs $64,310, while the TRD Pro and Trailhunter models cost a wince-inducing $68,350. 

The 4Runner carves out its own territory among its competition. The Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler are priced right on top of the entire 4Runner lineup, but those are louder, cruder SUVs with a more defined purpose that compromises livability. Plus, their doors and roofs come off. The Jeep Grand Cherokee undercuts the 4Runner at $38,290 to start, but the Trailhawk off-road model, which has a plug-in hybrid powertrain, costs a TRD-like $67,980. It’s also not as focused on off-roading as the 4Runner.

The 4Runner SR5 makes the most financial sense as, compared to the TRD Pro or Trailhunter models, buyers will have more than $20,000 left in their budgets to modify their vehicles with aftermarket parts rather than opting for the TRD-badged models. But factory-integration and a factory warranty are understandably desirable.

In the end the latest 4Runner is better than the outgoing model. It remains to be seen if customers will have to be dragged kicking and screaming to dealers to buy one or if they will be ready to accept lots of new technology in a vehicle that was beloved for its old-school appeal.

Toyota paid for travel, lodging, and all the dust in my hair and ears so Motor Authority could bring you this test drive review



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Kenanga IB maintains 805k-unit TIV forecast for 2025 amidst OMV deferment, Perodua likely to benefit most

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Kenanga IB maintains 805k-unit TIV forecast for 2025 amidst OMV deferment, Perodua likely to benefit most

The government has deferred to January 2026 the implementation of the Excise (Determination of Value of Locally Manufactured Goods for the Purpose of Levying Excise Duty) Regulations 2019, or for brevity’s sake, OMV/402.

Full explanation here, but this basically means that come January 2026, Malaysians could pay between 10% and 30% more for a locally-assembled (CKD) car. So anyone wanting a CKD car should look at getting it this year, and this forward buying interest is what’s supporting Kenanga Investment Bank’s decision to stick to its 805,000-unit total industry volume (TIV) forecast for this year, Bernama reports.

Notably, Kenanga IB stands out for being the only organisation so far to foresee more than 800,000 new cars to be sold in Malaysia this year – RHB Investment Bank predicts 730,000, Maybank Investment Bank Research 750,000, CIMB Securities 755,000 and the Malaysian Automotive Association 780,000. A record 816,747 new cars were sold in Malaysia last year, breaking 800k for the first time and beating 2023’s 799,821-unit record by 2.1%.

Kenanga IB maintains 805k-unit TIV forecast for 2025 amidst OMV deferment, Perodua likely to benefit most
Theophilus Chin’s idea of what Perodua’s first production EV could look like

Kenanga IB said in a note today that Perodua, which holds 44% market share and has an all-CKD line-up with a high localisation rate, is likely to benefit the most, but the premium segment may be hit as upper-tier M40 and T15 groups may hold back from buying new cars, downsize to smaller cars or switch to hybrid and electric vehicles as targeted RON 95 petrol subsidies loom ahead.

“In general, the industry’s earnings visibility is still good, backed by a booking backlog of 150,000 units as of end-December 2024. More than half of the backlog is made up of new models, alluding to the appeal of new models to car buyers. This trend is likely to persist throughout 2025 given a strong line-up of new launches,” it said, adding that battery-electric vehicles could also prop up the numbers as it’s the last year for fully-imported (CBU) EVs to be tax-free.

“We expect more favourable incentives from the government, which has set a national target for EVs and hybrid vehicles of 20% of TIV by 2030 and 38% by 2040. Meanwhile, the government will speed up the approval for charging stations. The number of proposed charging stations is currently at 4,235 (3,354 built to date), and this should more than double to 10,000 by end-2025,” it said.

The post Kenanga IB maintains 805k-unit TIV forecast for 2025 amidst OMV deferment, Perodua likely to benefit most appeared first on Paul Tan's Automotive News.



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