The Mighty 2025 Ford Ranger PHEV: The Plug-In Pickup That Powers Through Work & Play

It’s not just a pickup. It’s a powerhouse. Say hello to the 2025 Ford Ranger Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) – the rugged legend we know, now supercharged with plug-in power. Whether you’re hitting job sites, conquering backwoods trails, or setting up the ultimate off-grid weekend, this electric-enhanced beast is built to do more — with less emissions.


💪 Torque, Tech, and Trail-Ready: The Full Hybrid Package

The new Ranger PHEV merges Ford’s 2.3L EcoBoost petrol engine with a 75 kW electric motor and 11.8 kWh battery, creating a hybrid setup that churns out a whopping 697 Nm of torque – the most ever for a Ranger. That’s paired with 281 PS of peak power and a smooth 10-speed automatic gearbox.

I had the chance to put this thing through its paces – a mix of regular road driving and an intense 90-minute off-road assault course. And trust me, the Ranger PHEV took it all in stride. It’s smooth on tarmac and absolutely eats up the terrain off-road. There were a couple of small jerks when the electric motor and internal combustion engine handed over to each other – a bit of friction there – but overall, it ticked every box it aimed for, and did so with confidence.

With up to 43 km of pure electric driving, you can cruise the city or glide through your morning commute without a puff of exhaust –



🔋 Charge Up & Power On

Need juice for tools or toys? Ford’s Pro Power Onboard feature turns this truck into a mobile generator. Choose between:

  • 2.3 kW system (great for fridges and e-bikes),

  • or the beefy 6.9 kW system (enough to power a mini worksite with cement mixers, grinders, and flood lights).

Charge the battery in under 4 hours via a 16-amp wall plug, or let regenerative braking and the petrol engine help keep things topped up.

During our demo, I was especially impressed with the hands-off trailer steering – what’s typically a fiddly, stressful task was made so ridiculously easy I was laughing by the end. Honestly, I could see myself using that feature more on a camping trip than a farm – though, I might just lend it to my farming cousins and see how it holds up on their turf too.


🛠️ Built Tough, Styled Smart

Available in three trims – Stormtrak, Wildtrak, and XLT – each variant delivers smart style with zero compromise. Inside, you get Ford’s latest SYNC 4A system on a 12-inch vertical touchscreen, an 8-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless phone charging, and heated everything (seats, steering wheel, mirrors – you name it).

And let’s talk comfort – the cabin is huge. I’m 6’3” and had zero issues finding a good driving position. Even Marcus Bronzy, not exactly a small bloke himself, fit just fine. Given how tall Icelandic folks tend to be, I reckon they’ll feel right at home behind the wheel too.

Need light at night? The 360-degree Zone Lighting has your back. Hitching a trailer? Pro Trailer Backup Assist and Dynamic Hitch Assist make it almost too easy.


🧭 Off-Road Meets On-Grid Intelligence

Drive modes like Mud/Ruts, Tow/Haul, and Sand adapt to any terrain, while e-4WD, a locking rear diff, and 800 mm water wading keep the adventure rolling. Want luxury with your utility? The Stormtrak even offers a 10-speaker B&O sound system and Matrix LED headlamps.

Visually? The Ranger PHEV looks the part – bold, muscular, and ready for action. Probably not the car you’d want to squeeze through central London’s width restrictors, but those raised suspension settings will laugh in the face of speed bumps.


🔧 A Hybrid for Every Mission

Designed for builders, campers, adventurers, and urbanites alike, the 2025 Ranger PHEV is proof that going green doesn’t mean going soft. It’s the no-compromise utility vehicle that delivers hard-core performance and silent strength when you need it most.


Where to Find the Ford Ranger PHEV

Level up your pickup game with the electrified edge of the 2025 Ford Ranger PHEV.
Check it out on the official Ford Europe site
Want to hear more? Dive into our breakdown on the podcast – listen here!


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The New Toyota Aygo X Hybrid: A Tiny Urban SUV That’s Big on Fun, Green on Footprint

Move over, tiny cars—there’s a new small but mighty hybrid in town! The Toyota Aygo X Hybrid is here, and it’s not just another city car—it’s the first full hybrid in its segment, packing a punch with the lowest CO₂ emissions of any non-plug-in car on the market at just 86 g/km. Ready to tackle urban streets with style, smarts, and sustainability, this little crossover is making a big statement.

What Makes the Aygo X Hybrid Special?

Let’s break down what makes this car so much fun:

✅ Electrified Edge: The Aygo X Hybrid introduces full hybrid technology to the A-segment for the first time, combining a 1.5-litre hybrid engine (borrowed from the Yaris and Yaris Cross) with clever packaging that keeps the car nimble and compact.

✅ Eco-First: Thanks to its hybrid powertrain and use of recycled materials like SakuraTouch® plant-based fabrics and cork chip waste from the wine industry, the Aygo X Hybrid cuts lifetime CO₂ emissions by 18% compared to its predecessor.

✅ Zippy City Drive: The hybrid delivers 116 DIN hp, giving it a lively acceleration from 0-100 km/h in under 10 seconds. That’s plenty of zip for city commutes!

✅ Nimble and Stylish: With a turning radius of just 4.7 metres and a confident stance accentuated by 17- or 18-inch alloys, this car is made for squeezing into tight parking spots without sacrificing style.

✅ Safety First: Comes with the latest Toyota Safety Sense package, including Lane Trace Assist, Road Sign Assist, Emergency Driving Stop System, and Pre-Collision System. For the first time, over-the-air updates keep it future-ready.

✅ Interior Innovations: Think 7-inch digital cluster, wireless smartphone charging, USB-C ports, nanoeX™ air purification, and bi-tone colour schemes inspired by spices like Cinnamon and Lavandula. 🍂

✅ GR SPORT Variant: For those wanting more spice, the Aygo X GR SPORT adds a distinctive G-pattern front grille, black accents, and a sharper suspension for a sportier, more engaging drive.

(GR Sport)

Why It’s Perfect for the Urban Jungle

Whether you’re zipping through London, Paris, or Milan, the Aygo X Hybrid is tailored for urban life. Its high seating position gives excellent visibility, while clever design means you can pack in shopping bags or weekend getaway essentials with 231 litres of boot space. And, thanks to Toyota’s hybrid tech, you can drive guilt-free—knowing you’re contributing to a greener future.

When Can You Get It?

The Aygo X Hybrid will hit European markets by the end of 2025—so mark your calendars!


Where to Find the Aygo X Hybrid

Ready to discover the future of fun-to-drive urban crossovers? Visit the Toyota Aygo X website for the latest details.
Want to hear the inside scoop from the guys? Check out the How To Kill An Hour Podcast right here!

🚗 “Next-Gen Beast Mode: The 2025 Toyota RAV4 Gets Smarter, Greener & Meaner

Toyota’s legendary RAV4 is back—and it’s not just back, it’s built different. The 2025 RAV4 world premiere marks a bold leap into the future, where rugged SUV vibes meet cutting-edge tech and eco-conscious muscle.

With a redefined plug-in hybrid powertrain, smarter digital cockpit, and muscular new looks, this sixth-gen RAV4 is designed to dominate both city streets and forest trails with equal flair. Here’s everything you need to know about the all-new model that’s setting the benchmark all over again.


🔋 Dual Power, Maximum Efficiency

The new RAV4’s plug-in hybrid system now offers an impressive 62-mile (100km) all-electric range (WLTP), enough to handle most daily drives without touching a drop of petrol. It also comes with faster 11kW AC and 50kW DC charging, meaning you can juice up from 10–80% in just 30 minutes on a fast charger.

It’s not all about sipping electrons though—the AWD plug-in version cranks out a whopping 300bhp, launching from 0–62mph in just 5.8 seconds. There’s even a front-wheel-drive option with 264bhp for those seeking efficiency with agility.


🧠 Fully Digitised with Arene OS

Say hello to Toyota’s Arene software platform, debuting in the RAV4 to usher in a new age of software-defined vehicles. It powers everything from the advanced Toyota Safety Sense suite to the new digital multimedia system, offering faster, smarter functionality and over-the-air updates for future enhancements.

The digital cockpit features a new 12.9-inch home screen alongside a 12.3-inch combimeter, offering crisp visuals, real-time LEZ alerts, and 3D lane guidance—designed specifically with European roads (and drivers) in mind.


🛡️ Safety So Sharp, It Thinks Ahead

From Front Cross Traffic Alert to Lane Change Assist, the 2025 RAV4 has driver assistance dialled in. A new Rear Vehicle Approach Indicator even warns you when a speeding car is closing in from behind—making motorway driving less stressful.

Plus, the upgraded Pre-Collision System now spots cyclists and motorbikes more accurately, while a new Secondary Collision Brake adds another layer of protection in the unfortunate event of a crash.


🏁 GR Sport: Gazoo Gets Gritty

For performance junkies, the RAV4 GR Sport variant brings in motorsport flavour with 20-inch black alloys, a beefier chassis with sport-tuned dampers, and aggressive styling cues. Inside, red accents, GR logos, and suede seats scream “track-ready,” even when you’re just headed to the supermarket.


🔌 Living the EV-Hybrid Dream

With updated hybrid-only variants also on the menu, Toyota’s multi-pathway approach to electrification gives buyers the freedom to choose how they go green—without compromising on practicality or performance.


Where to Find the 2025 Toyota RAV4

Ready to explore the next evolution of the SUV that changed the game?
Check out the official launch from Toyota: Visit Toyota UK
Want the inside scoop? Hear the team break it down on the podcast: How To Kill An Hour Podcast

Lexus Levels Up: The All-New ES is Sleek, Smart, and Seriously Electrified

The new Lexus ES has officially touched down in Europe, and it’s not just another saloon—it’s a sophisticated showcase of luxury, tech innovation, and electrified engineering. Whether you’re a hybrid devotee or ready to plug in, the eighth-generation Lexus ES is set to redefine what it means to ride in elegance.

🧠 Intelligent Inside and Out

The ES debuts with Lexus’ first fully digital driver cockpit, seamlessly blending the 14-inch LexusConnect multimedia display with the 12.3-inch instrument panel and Lexus Link+ app. This means everything from real-time charging info to cabin temperature control is at your fingertips—literally. Plus, with voice command and over-the-air updates, you’re always in sync without lifting more than a finger.

And let’s talk about those “Hidden Switches”—Lexus’ way of saying, “Why clutter when you can class it up?” These tactile controls stay concealed until needed, glowing softly like magic under the dash. It’s minimalist, it’s clever, and it’s oh-so-Lexus.

⚡ Power Meets Purpose

In its mission toward carbon neutrality, Lexus now offers the ES in both self-charging hybrid and full battery-electricflavours. Take your pick:

  • ES 300h / 350h Hybrids: Refined 2.5-litre four-cylinder powerhouses with up to 247bhp and both FWD and AWD options.

  • ES 350e / 500e EVs: Fully electric stunners pushing up to 338bhp, with up to 0-62mph in just 5.7 seconds.

With a range-enhancing low-slung battery design and access to over 870,000 charging stations across Europe, range anxiety is so last season.

✨ Clean Tech x Elegance

“Clean Tech x Elegance” isn’t just a design philosophy—it’s a lifestyle. Outside, the ES’s spindle body and twin-L LED signature lights scream sophistication. Inside, it’s a cocoon of calm: reclining rear seats, ottoman-style leg support, ambient Bamboo Layering light effects, and a 17-speaker Mark Levinson surround system deliver a first-class experience, whether you’re behind the wheel or being driven.

And yes, it’s larger than the previous ES—longer, wider, and taller—but it’s also more nimble thanks to platform updates from Lexus’ Shimoyama facility. This means it handles like a dream while giving passengers serious stretch-out space.

🛡️ Smarter, Safer, Sharper

The all-new ES goes big on safety with the latest Lexus Safety System+. Highlights include:

  • Driver Monitor System that can detect yawning or phone use 👀

  • Emergency Response System that stops the car and calls help if you’re unresponsive 🚨

  • Blind Spot Detection for cyclists and motorcycles 🏍️

  • Adaptive High-beam System with vertical and horizontal control for extra night-time precision 🌙


Where to Find the Lexus ES

Discover more about the new electrified luxury of the Lexus ES on the official Lexus UK website
Want to hear what we think about it? Check out the podcast on How To Kill An Hour

🚙 “Toyota’s Electric Adventure Wagon: Meet the All-New bZ4X Touring – Built for Families, Powered for the Wild”

Toyota just dropped the curtain on its latest electric marvel, and it’s not your average eco-car. Say hello to the bZ4X Touring—an extended, adventure-ready sibling of the original bZ4X SUV. With more room, more power, and rugged style, this battery electric vehicle (BEV) is dialled in for sporty family lifestyles, epic road trips, and everyday chaos in between.

Family First, Features Second to None

Tailored for action-packed family life, the bZ4X Touring is 140mm longer and 20mm taller than its predecessor. That might sound subtle, but it packs a punch—specifically a 33% boost in boot space, now clocking in at 600 litres. Whether it’s bikes, backpacks, or the dog crate, there’s room for it all.

Inside, it’s smart and stylish, featuring a new centre console, a larger 14-inch multimedia screen, and fresh City Moss upholstery that channels the rugged vibes of the outdoors. Navigation is BEV-optimised too, guiding you to nearby charging points based on your range and charge level.

Power Up: More Juice, More Zoom

The bZ4X Touring comes with a 74.7kWh lithium-ion battery and a targeted range of up to 348 miles (WLTP). That’s school runs, weekend hikes, and IKEA trips—all on a single charge.

Choose your power:

  • FWD model: 221bhp (165kW)

  • AWD version: A whopping 376bhp (280kW), making this the most powerful Toyota BEV to date.

And if you’re thinking of hauling a caravan or a pair of jet skis? This SUV’s got a 1,500kg towing capacity. Rugged much?

Fast Charging, Cold Weather? No Problem.

Toyota brings serious tech upgrades: a new water-cooled battery system and preconditioning function ensure optimal charging even in chillier climates. Plus, fast-charging peaks at around 150kW, and onboard charging supports either 11kW or 22kW, depending on the model grade.

Adventure Looks Good on You

With grained black wheel arches, black alloy wheels, and Touring-specific roof rails (max load: 70kg), the bZ4X Touring looks the part. The rear’s been reworked too, with LED lights and a lower bumper giving it a more outdoorsy, modern vibe. And yes, there’s a slick new Brilliant Bronze colour option too.

Built to Last, Guaranteed to Go Far

Toyota’s BEV battery game is strong. The bZ4X Touring comes with up to 10 years or 650,000 miles of battery cover, thanks to the Battery Care Program—as long as you stick to the annual battery health check. That’s peace of mind with every plug-in.


Where to Find the bZ4X Touring

Ready to take your family adventures electric?
Explore the bZ4X Touring on the official Toyota UK website
Want the inside scoop from the guys? Hear the full chat on the How To Kill An Hour podcast

Ultimate Ears MINIROLL: The Mighty Mini Speaker for Your Adventures

Ultimate Ears MINIROLL: The Mighty Mini Speaker for Your Adventures

Looking for a compact yet powerful companion to amplify your outdoor escapades? Meet the Ultimate Ears MINIROLL—a petite Bluetooth speaker that delivers impressively big, bassy sound, perfect for any adventure.

Big Sound in a Small Package

Don’t let its size fool you; the MINIROLL packs a punch with crisp, clear audio and robust bass, embodying the signature sound Ultimate Ears is renowned for.

All-Day Playtime

With up to 12 hours of battery life on a single charge, the MINIROLL ensures your soundtrack lasts from dawn till dusk, whether you’re hiking, biking, or camping.

Adventure-Ready Durability

Designed to withstand the elements, the MINIROLL boasts an IP67 rating, making it water-resistant, dustproof, and capable of surviving drops from up to 1.2 meters. It’s built to endure the rigors of the great outdoors.

PartyUp Feature

Elevate your gatherings with the PartyUp feature, allowing you to sync an unlimited number of MINIROLL speakers via Auracast™, creating an immersive sound experience for you and your friends.

Hookable Strap for Ultimate Portability

The integrated hookable strap lets you attach the MINIROLL to your backpack, belt loop, or even a tree branch, ensuring your music is always within reach, no matter where your adventures take you.

Eco-Friendly Design

In line with sustainable practices, the MINIROLL is constructed with a minimum of 40% post-consumer recycled plastic, reflecting Ultimate Ears’ commitment to environmental responsibility.

Where to Find the Ultimate Ears MINIROLL

Elevate your adventures with the Ultimate Ears MINIROLL. Want to learn more about this game-changer in portable audio? Listen to the guys chat about it on the podcast via this link (episode 87)!

Krafted Connex: The Swiss Army Knife of Device Connectivity

In today’s tech-savvy world, managing multiple devices often means juggling a plethora of cables and adapters. Enter the Krafted Connex—a compact, all-in-one connectivity solution designed to streamline your digital life. But does it live up to its promise? Let’s delve into the details.

Design and Features

The Krafted Connex is reminiscent of a Swiss Army knife, both in form and function. Measuring 95mm x 31mm x 19mm and weighing approximately 87.5 grams, it’s designed for portability. The device boasts six flip-out connectors:

  • Inputs: USB-C and USB-A (sharing the same “wand”; the USB-A head can be removed to access the USB-C).
  • Outputs: USB-C, Micro USB, and two Lightning connectors (one rated at 4A and the other at 2A, though unmarked).

Each connector is encased in flexible silicone, allowing slight movement. However, the connectors don’t extend completely straight, necessitating some adjustment to ensure a secure fit. Additionally, the lack of clear labeling on the Lightning connectors can make it challenging to identify the optimal one for faster charging.

Performance

In data transfer tests, moving a 4.68GB video from a PC to a Pixel device was initially estimated to take seven minutes but completed in just one minute, indicating efficient performance. However, attempting simultaneous data transfers to multiple devices caused system instability, suggesting that the Connex is best suited for single-device data transfers. Charging multiple devices simultaneously is possible, but the device’s design may require creative positioning to prevent devices from hanging awkwardly when plugged into wall sockets or monitors.

 

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Versatility: Supports multiple device connections, including USB-C, USB-A, Micro USB, and Lightning.
  • Portability: Compact and lightweight, making it ideal for travel.
  • Design: The Swiss Army knife-inspired design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Cons:

  • Connector Flexibility: Connectors don’t fully extend, requiring careful positioning.
  • Lack of Labeling: Unmarked Lightning connectors can lead to confusion regarding optimal charging speeds.
  • Limited Simultaneous Data Transfer: Struggles with multiple device data transfers concurrently.

Final Thoughts

The Krafted Connex is a commendable attempt at consolidating multiple cables into a single, portable device. Its design and versatility make it a handy tool for those frequently on the move. However, certain design limitations and performance constraints suggest there’s room for improvement. At a price point of £29.99, it offers a unique solution for gadget enthusiasts but may not yet be the ultimate answer to cable clutter.

Where to Find the Krafted Connex

Simplify your device connectivity with the Krafted Connex. Want to learn more about this innovative gadget? Listen to the guys chat about it on the podcast via this link!

For a visual overview, check out the official launch video below:

https://youtu.be/Sv_gDuU7zlQ?si=EdMpZAzENaOZ7rku

Title: Solos AirGo 3 Smart Glasses: A Glimpse into the Future

 

Smart glasses have emerged as a cutting-edge trend, providing access to an array of features like audio, AI, and even on-the-go content creation. The Solos AirGo 3 Smart Glasses step into this sphere, offering a fascinating blend of conversational AI, a unique Smart Hinge design, and interchangeable frames. Curious to explore their potential, I got my hands on a pair.

Understanding the Solos AirGo 3 Smart Glasses

The Solos AirGo 3 isn’t just your regular eyewear; it merges premium earbuds seamlessly with stylish frames, all accompanied by a built-in voice assistant. With a lightweight frame, it introduces voice search, translation features powered by ChatGPT, spatial audio for heightened awareness, speech recognition, and guided fitness exercises and tracking.

Exploring the Features

Powered by the Solos app, SolosChat enables effortless interactions through voice, letting you inquire and perform tasks without reaching for your phone. From seeking information on diverse topics to obtaining quick recipes hands-free, the AI simplifies on-the-go communication. SolosTranslate, another highlight, revolutionizes international conversations, bypassing the need for interpreters or constant glances at your phone.

The glasses excel in delivering crystal-clear audio up to 100 decibels, catering to music, podcasts, calls, and more. Patented Whisper Technology ensures superior speech recognition, even in bustling environments, making conversational AI through ChatGPT a seamless experience. The open-ear design with dual-direction speakers prioritizes safety while on the move.

Versatility and Adaptability

The Solos AirGo 3 stands out in adaptability, offering interchangeable frames for various occasions. Whether it’s for sports, fashion, or daily wear, the SmartHinge design provides personalization options to suit individual preferences. Available in different styles, each carrying its unique charm, they promise both style and substance.

Subscription and Enhancements

The glasses come with immediate access to SolosChat, SolosTranslate, and Solos Fitness Coach. For enhanced services, an upgraded Premium Subscription offers additional benefits. Purchases in 2023 include a complimentary three-month premium subscription, unlocking an array of features.

The Experience

Wearing the Solos AirGo 3 with prescription lenses proved comfortable, replacing my everyday glasses effortlessly. The set-up process, though straightforward, might require some adjustments to volume levels and button sensitivity for an optimal experience.

Conclusion

The Solos AirGo 3 Smart Glasses emerge as a promising contender in the smart eyewear arena. Though facing minor quirks, their blend of comfort, functionality, and futuristic AI capabilities make them a worthwhile consideration, especially for those seeking a fusion of smart functionality and stylish eyewear.

To explore the world through a lens of innovation, check out the Solos AirGo 3 Smart Glasses here. For more engaging content and tech insights, tune in to the How to Kill an Hour podcast. Follow us on Instagram @marcusbronzy for the latest updates and trends!

Unveiling the Meta Quest 3: Your Gateway to Next-Gen Mixed Reality Experiences and Accessories | Get Yours Now!

🚀 The Meta Quest 3 isn’t just a headset; it’s a portal to a universe of immersive experiences! With its groundbreaking Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 technology, get ready to be awed by the 4K+ Infinite Display, blurring the lines between reality and imagination.

🎮 Redesigned Touch Plus controllers elevate your gaming encounters, offering unmatched precision and natural responsiveness. Feel every move, lose yourself in lifelike worlds, and explore a new dimension of gaming.

💡 Boasting an extensive library of over 500 immersive apps, the Quest 3 unlocks doors to entertainment, fitness, creativity, and social interaction. Setting up is seamless, and its ergonomic design ensures maximum comfort during extended sessions.

🛒 Pre-orders commence on 27/9/2023, shipping from 10/10/2023. Gear up to redefine reality as you know it! Dive deeper into the future of technology here. Also, don’t miss out on Marcus Bronzy’s latest adventures on Instagram and engaging discussions on the podcast. #MetaQuest3 #ImmersiveTechnology #FutureOfGaming 🌐🎮✨

Coravin Timeless Three Plus: Elevate Your Wine Experience

Wine aficionados, rejoice! The Coravin Timeless Three Plus has arrived, setting a new standard for wine preservation and enhancement. This innovative wine preservation system is designed to cater to both connoisseurs and casual enthusiasts, ensuring every sip is an experience to savor.

Preserve and Aerate with Perfection Say goodbye to the worry of unfinished bottles. This system isn’t just a wine saver; it’s a magician that keeps your cherished reds and whites at their peak for weeks, or even years. With its aerator attachment, your wine undergoes a delightful transformation, akin to decanting for an hour or more.

Seamless Functionality, No Cork Removal Needed Gone are the days of struggling with corks. This wine conservation system redefines ease of use. Simply pour and preserve—no need to remove the cork. It’s a breeze to maintain the integrity of your cherished bottles.

Premium Preservation for High-End Wines The Coravin Timeless Three Plus isn’t just a gadget; it’s a gateway to high-end wine preservation. It allows your precious wines to age gracefully and authentically, preserving the nuances and complexities that make each sip a delight.

The Perfect Gift for Wine Lovers Looking for an exceptional gift for the oenophile in your life? Look no further. This sleek and sophisticated wine accessory set is not just about functionality but also about making an impression. It’s easy to use, easy to clean, and promises to delight any wine enthusiast.

Freedom to Savor, Freedom to Preserve Coravin grants you the liberty to pour the wine you desire without the commitment of finishing the bottle. Savor a glass or two and preserve the rest, knowing it will retain its quality for weeks or even years.

Where to Find the Timeless Three Plus

Elevate your wine experience with the Coravin Timeless Three Plus. Want to learn more about this game-changer in wine preservation? Listen to the guys chat about it on the podcast via this link!