Fisker Ocean UK Review: Is This Electric SUV Worth It?

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Fisker Ocean UK Review: Is This Electric SUV Worth It?

Hey guys, let's dive deep into the Fisker Ocean UK review! This is a car that's been buzzing around, and Carwow has had a good look under the hood. We're talking about a brand-new electric SUV that's aiming to shake things up. Is it just hype, or is the Fisker Ocean genuinely a contender in the already crowded EV market? Stick around as we break down everything you need to know.

First Impressions and Design

When you first lay eyes on the Fisker Ocean, you'll notice it's got a distinct presence. It's designed by Henrik Fisker, a guy known for making some seriously stylish cars, and you can see that pedigree here. The UK model we're looking at is the 'One' launch edition, and it looks pretty slick. Think sleek lines, a minimalist aesthetic, and some cool design touches like the panoramic glass roof that can even slide open. It feels modern and premium, which is exactly what you want when you're dropping a good chunk of change on a new electric vehicle. The exterior design is definitely a head-turner, with a focus on aerodynamics that should help with efficiency. We've got those full-width light bars at the front and rear, which are becoming a bit of a signature for EVs, and they look sharp. The overall silhouette is that of a pretty conventional SUV, but Fisker has added enough unique styling cues to make it stand out from the likes of the Tesla Model Y or the Hyundai IONIQ 5. The charging port is neatly tucked away, and the overall build quality seems solid, though we'll get into the nitty-gritty of that later. One of the coolest design features, in my opinion, is the optional 'California Mode'. This isn't just a gimmick; it's a feature that lets you lower all the windows, including the rear sliding one, and retract the roof panel. Imagine cruising down the coast with the wind in your hair – it’s pretty awesome for an SUV! The wheels are also a decent size, filling out the arches nicely and adding to that sporty stance. Inside, it's a whole different ball game, with a minimalist dashboard dominated by a huge central touchscreen. We’ll get to that in a bit, but the exterior definitely makes a statement. It’s a car that looks like it belongs in the future, and Fisker has clearly put a lot of thought into making it visually appealing. The attention to detail, like the subtle badging and the integrated door handles, all contribute to that premium feel. So, first impressions? The Fisker Ocean UK review suggests it’s a good-looking machine, ready to make a splash.

Interior and Technology

Step inside the Fisker Ocean, and you’re greeted by a cabin that’s all about minimalism and tech. The centerpiece is undoubtedly the massive 17.1-inch touchscreen that controls almost everything – navigation, climate, media, and even some driving settings. It’s a bold choice, and for the most part, it works quite well. Fisker has tried to keep physical buttons to a minimum, which gives the interior a clean, uncluttered look. The materials used feel surprisingly premium, especially on the higher trims. We're talking about recycled plastics, vegan leather, and other sustainable materials, which aligns with Fisker's eco-friendly ethos. It’s great to see a car manufacturer focusing on sustainability not just in the powertrain but also in the interior components. The seats are comfortable, offering good support for longer journeys, and the cabin feels spacious, thanks to the SUV body style and the panoramic roof. Now, about that huge touchscreen in the Fisker Ocean UK review: it’s intuitive enough, with a clear layout, but like any system this complex, there’s a bit of a learning curve. Swiping through menus and adjusting settings can take a moment, and sometimes you might find yourself wishing for a good old-fashioned button. However, Fisker has implemented a clever feature where the screen can be rotated either vertically or horizontally, which is pretty neat. In terms of tech features, you get all the usual suspects: Apple CarPlay, Android Auto (though sometimes these can be a bit fiddly with large touchscreens), a decent sound system, and a suite of driver-assistance systems. These include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. The Fisker Ocean's technology is designed to be cutting-edge, but we need to see how it holds up over time and in real-world conditions. The integration of these systems is crucial for a smooth driving experience. Some users might find the reliance on the touchscreen a bit distracting, especially when trying to adjust something quickly while driving. However, the overall ambiance inside is futuristic and airy, boosted by the large glass areas. The Fisker Ocean UK review also highlights the unique 'Art Senses' feature, which is essentially a digital assistant that can personalize your driving experience with different themes and sounds. It’s a quirky addition that adds a bit of personality to the car. Rear passengers get decent legroom and headroom, and the boot space is also respectable, though perhaps not class-leading. The innovative 'RoboSkin' solar roof is another tech highlight, though its actual contribution to range is minimal in most conditions, it’s more of a talking point and a nod to sustainability. Overall, the interior aims for a blend of luxury, simplicity, and advanced technology, and it mostly succeeds, though the heavy reliance on the touchscreen might not be for everyone. It's a very modern take on a car interior, and it feels like a glimpse into the future of automotive design.

Performance and Driving Experience

So, how does the Fisker Ocean actually drive? This is where things get interesting, guys. The UK models typically come with a decent amount of power, making it feel quite responsive off the line. You get instant torque, as you'd expect from an electric car, which is always fun. The steering is generally well-weighted, providing a good balance between being light enough for city driving and offering enough feedback on the open road. Ride comfort is also a strong point. The Ocean absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road pretty well, making for a comfortable experience, especially on the motorway. It’s not a sporty SUV that corners like a race car, but it’s definitely competent and feels stable. The Fisker Ocean UK review often points out that while it’s not the fastest EV out there, it offers a perfectly respectable level of performance for everyday driving and for those moments when you want a bit of oomph. The acceleration is brisk enough to merge confidently onto busy roads and overtake slower traffic with ease. We're talking about 0-60 mph times that are competitive within its segment, often in the 6-7 second range depending on the specific trim and motor setup. The dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup on the higher-spec models provides excellent traction, which is a real bonus in unpredictable UK weather. This setup also contributes to the car’s stability and sure-footedness. Handling is predictable and safe, with a low center of gravity thanks to the battery pack being mounted under the floor. This helps to reduce body roll when cornering, although you’ll still feel a bit of it, as it is an SUV, after all. The regenerative braking system is also well-tuned. It allows you to recapture energy when you lift off the accelerator, helping to extend the range, and it can be adjusted to your preference. Some drivers might find it takes a little getting used to, but it’s a standard feature in EVs and something you’ll likely appreciate once you get the hang of it. The driving modes allow you to tailor the car’s response, from an eco-friendly setting to a more performance-oriented one. For the Fisker Ocean UK review, the driving experience is generally positive. It offers a smooth, quiet, and comfortable ride, which is paramount for an electric SUV aimed at families and everyday use. It's not trying to be a performance monster like some rivals, but it excels at being a refined and pleasant car to drive. The refinement is noticeable; road noise and wind noise are well suppressed, contributing to a relaxed cabin environment. This makes it a great companion for long road trips or just the daily commute. The overall driving experience is refined and comfortable, making it a strong contender for those prioritizing a smooth ride over outright sportiness. It's a car that feels substantial and well-planted on the road.

Range and Charging

Now, let's talk about the juicy bits: range and charging. These are always top of mind for anyone considering an EV, right? The Fisker Ocean UK review indicates that the available range is pretty competitive. Depending on the battery size and trim level, you can expect a WLTP-certified range that should be sufficient for most people's needs. For the common trims, we're looking at figures that can get you well over 300 miles on a single charge, and some variants even push towards the 400-mile mark. This is great news, as it alleviates a lot of the 'range anxiety' that can still plague potential EV buyers. You should be able to handle your daily commute, weekend trips, and even longer journeys without constantly worrying about finding a charging station. When it comes to charging, the Ocean supports fast DC charging, which is essential for topping up on the go. This means you can get a significant amount of range back in a relatively short period, making longer journeys much more feasible. Imagine stopping for a coffee and coming back to a car that’s significantly more charged – that's the dream! The charging speeds are generally good, allowing you to go from, say, 10% to 80% in under 30-40 minutes at a compatible fast charger. Of course, actual charging times will vary depending on the charger's power output and the car's battery temperature. For home charging, you can use a standard AC wall box, which will fully charge the car overnight, ensuring you wake up to a 'full tank' every morning. This is usually the most convenient and cost-effective way to charge an EV. The Fisker Ocean's range is a significant selling point, positioning it well against established rivals. The company has also focused on making the charging experience as seamless as possible, integrating charging information into the infotainment system. It’s important to note that real-world range can be affected by factors like driving style, speed, temperature, and the use of climate control. However, the official figures suggest that the Fisker Ocean is a capable long-distance EV. The charging infrastructure in the UK is growing, and with a good range like this, the Ocean becomes a practical choice for more drivers. Fisker aims to make owning an EV easy, and good range combined with decent charging speeds is key to that. The company is also working on partnerships to enhance the charging experience for its customers. So, in terms of range and charging, the Fisker Ocean is ticking many of the right boxes, making it a compelling option for those looking to make the switch to electric mobility.

Pros and Cons

Alright guys, let's sum up the Fisker Ocean UK review with a clear breakdown of the good and the not-so-good. It’s always helpful to see where a car shines and where it might need a bit more work.

Pros:

  • Striking Design: The Fisker Ocean is undeniably a looker. Its sleek lines and futuristic styling make it stand out from the crowd. It’s a car that gets noticed for all the right reasons.
  • Premium Interior with Sustainable Materials: The cabin feels modern and sophisticated, and it's great to see Fisker using recycled and vegan materials, emphasizing sustainability.
  • Comfortable Ride: The suspension does a good job of soaking up road imperfections, providing a smooth and comfortable experience, especially on longer journeys.
  • Good Range: With competitive WLTP figures, the Ocean offers enough range for most daily driving needs and longer trips, reducing range anxiety.
  • Innovative Features: 'California Mode' and the rotating touchscreen are unique touches that add to the car's appeal and futuristic feel.
  • Quiet and Refined Driving: Like most EVs, it’s quiet, but the Ocean also does a good job of suppressing road and wind noise, making for a very peaceful drive.

Cons:

  • Reliance on Touchscreen: While the 17.1-inch screen is impressive, it controls everything. This can be distracting and less intuitive than physical buttons for certain functions, especially while driving.
  • Software Glitches: As with many new cars, especially those with complex tech, early software can be prone to glitches. This is something to monitor over time.
  • Build Quality Concerns (Early Models): While improving, some early Fisker Ocean models have had reports of minor build quality issues. It's important to inspect thoroughly.
  • Charging Network Integration: While the car itself charges well, seamless integration with a widespread, user-friendly charging network is still developing.
  • Not the Sportiest: While performance is adequate, it’s not designed to be a performance EV. Drivers seeking sporty handling might look elsewhere.
  • Brand New Brand: Fisker is still a relatively new player in the automotive world. Long-term reliability and customer support are still being tested.

Conclusion: Should You Buy It?

So, after our in-depth Fisker Ocean UK review, what's the verdict, guys? The Fisker Ocean is a really interesting proposition. It's a beautifully designed electric SUV that brings a fresh, sustainable, and tech-forward approach to the market. If you value style, a comfortable ride, and a quiet interior packed with innovative features, the Ocean definitely warrants a serious look. Its good range and respectable performance make it a practical choice for everyday use and longer adventures.

However, it's not without its quirks. The heavy reliance on the touchscreen for almost all functions might not appeal to everyone, and as a newer brand, there are still questions about long-term reliability and the maturity of its software. Early adopters should be prepared for a car that's still finding its feet in some areas.

Compared to rivals like the Tesla Model Y, Hyundai IONIQ 5, or Kia EV6, the Fisker Ocean offers a unique blend of design and eco-consciousness. It carves out its own niche.

Ultimately, whether you should buy the Fisker Ocean depends on your priorities. If you're looking for something different, stylish, and environmentally conscious, and you're willing to embrace a more minimalist, tech-heavy interior, then the Fisker Ocean could be your perfect electric SUV. But if you prefer a more traditional interior with physical buttons or are concerned about buying from a newer manufacturer, you might want to weigh your options carefully or wait a bit longer to see how the brand and its models evolve.

The Fisker Ocean UK review shows it's a car with a lot of potential, aiming to offer a compelling alternative in the booming EV segment. It's a bold statement, and for many, that's exactly what they're looking for.