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

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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

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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”

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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

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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

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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

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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!

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🚀 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

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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!

Shure SM7DB: The Rebirth of an Audio Icon

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Shure SM7dB: The Rebirth of an Audio Icon

In the ever-evolving world of audio technology, the Shure SM7dB stands as a testament to the marriage of tradition and innovation. This iconic XLR dynamic microphone has undergone a rebirth, combining the beloved sound that enthusiasts have cherished for years with the added convenience of a built-in preamp. The result is a tool that caters to the needs of podcasters, streamers, and musicians, ensuring pristine vocals in any recording environment.

The Icon Reborn

The Shure SM7dB resurrects the audio icon, offering the timeless sound that users have cherished while integrating a built-in preamp. This inclusion of a Shure-designed preamp provides ample gain, up to +28 dB, eliminating concerns about audio interfaces lacking the necessary power for optimal results. Ideal for podcasters, streamers, and musicians, this latest iteration simplifies the process of achieving impeccable vocals in any recording setup.

How Does it Work?

The SM7dB’s Shure-designed preamp adds a new layer of versatility to this legendary microphone. With the ability to provide up to +28 dB of gain, the preamp preserves the mic’s iconic frequency response. Compatibility is not an issue; all you need is an interface or mixer offering +48V of phantom power to operate the preamp seamlessly. For those who prefer the classic SM7B performance without the preamp, a simple flick of the switch to the left activates the “bypass” mode.

Why is it Better?

All the Gain You Need

Never worry again about whether an audio interface can deliver the necessary gain for outstanding results. The SM7dB eliminates the need for clunky in-line preamps and other accessories, ensuring you capture the classic SM7 tone effortlessly, regardless of your recording environment.

The Sound You Always Wanted

The SM7dB boasts excellent rear-rejection and a textbook cardioid pick-up pattern, isolating your voice from background noise. This makes it ideal for less-than-ideal recording spaces, providing the clarity and precision you need for professional-grade recordings.

Boost, or No Boost

Whether miking loud sound sources like a guitar cab or recording quiet vocals for a podcast, the SM7dB offers flexibility. Use the +18dB boost or bypass the preamp entirely, adapting to the unique requirements of each recording scenario.

Devil is in the Details

Shure engineers have meticulously ensured that the SM7dB maintains the same sound signature as the original SM7B. Regardless of whether the preamp is activated, users can expect the same exceptional detail in their recordings, thanks to the proven dynamic cartridge and a frequency range of 50 to 20,000Hz.

Hear all the Highs and Lows

The SM7dB goes beyond expectations by delivering a truly natural-sounding audio experience. Its custom Shure-designed built-in preamp, featuring technology licensed from Cloud, has been carefully crafted and tuned by Shure’s expert engineers. This ensures that the iconic SM7 sound remains unchanged and unaltered, ready to be embraced by generations to come.

Explore more episodes by listening to How To Kill An Hour.

Land Rover Defender 75th Anniversary Edition: A Tribute to a Legend

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It’s been 75 years since the iconic Land Rover Defender made its debut at the 1948 Amsterdam Motor Show, and in celebration of this remarkable milestone, Land Rover has unveiled the special Land Rover Defender 75th Anniversary Edition.

A Touch of Nostalgia

This special edition is a nod to the Defender’s roots, paying homage to the original Series One model with its classic Grasmere Green color, reminiscent of the rugged outdoors.

Exterior Features

  • The Grasmere Green exterior paint is not the only feature that gives this Defender a unique appearance. It comes with matching 20-inch wheels and a roof in the same striking color. There’s also a special touch with “75 Years” laser etching on the exterior, reminding us of the Defender’s historic journey.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Inside the Defender, you’ll find a blend of modern comfort and advanced technology. The Land Rover Defender 75th Anniversary Edition boasts a front center console with a refrigerator compartment, perfect for keeping your drinks chilled during your adventures.

  • An 11.4-inch center console provides access to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring you’re connected and entertained wherever your journey takes you.
  • The vehicle features a 360-degree parking aid, making parking and maneuvering in tight spots a breeze.
  • For the driver and passengers, there are 14-way heated and cooled electric memory front seats with 4-way manual headrests, ensuring a comfortable ride no matter the weather.
  • The icing on the cake is the impressive 1700-watt Meridian sound system, delivering a premium audio experience.

Performance and Capability

Under the hood, the Land Rover Defender 75th Anniversary Edition is equipped with a powerful 3-liter engine mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. This combination allows for a 0-60 mph acceleration in just 6.5 seconds, making it not only a rugged off-roader but a capable on-road performer as well. Of course, it’s a 4-wheel drive, ensuring that you can tackle any terrain with confidence. Additionally, this Defender can tow up to 3 tons, highlighting its impressive utility.

Listen to us talk about this on episode 17 of the How To Kill An Hour Podcast.