This is what happens when aerospace engineers build a luxury sedan: world-class hardware wrapped in frustratingly unfinished software. The powertrain delivers 512 miles of real-world range and S-Class ride quality, with used Grand Tourings hitting $55-65k (down from $125k new) that make German rivals look overpriced. But the mobile key fails often enough that you'll keep a backup card in your wallet, the infotainment freezes mid-drive, and Dream Drive Pro throws phantom brake warnings on clear roads. Owners who've logged 26,000+ miles still call it irreplaceable, if you can tolerate rebooting after every charge and live near a service center. The company's financial crisis (losing $330k per car in Q1 2026, production guidance suspended) makes this a gamble on whether Saudi backing keeps them afloat long enough to fix the software. Buy it if you want the best EV powertrain money can buy and have patience for startup quirks. Skip it if you expect Tesla-level polish or need a car that just works every time you walk up to it.
The Jetta splits the difference between appliance and enthusiast tool, sharper to drive than a Corolla, 35-40 MPG real-world, and a GLI that borrows the GTI's 228-horse engine and adaptive dampers. Electrical faults are the tax you pay: door sensors, window regulators, and wiring issues shadow every generation, and this car punishes owners who skip oil changes far faster than a Civic would. Buy if you want a compact that rewards engagement and you keep maintenance records; walk if you need a car that forgives missed services or you can't tolerate the occasional quirky fault.