Fisker Karma Review: Pitfalls of Buying a Used Luxury Hybrid

In this episode of Hoovies Garage, the host embarks on a daring adventure in Palm Beach, Florida, eyeing a 2012 Fisker Karma. This plug-in hybrid, designed by Henrik Fisker himself, boasts a unique and stunning exterior, rivaling even the Tesla Model S. With only 18,000 miles on the clock and a bargain price tag under $20,000, it seems like a steal. However, the Fisker Karma quickly reveals its true colors, showcasing a laggy and unresponsive infotainment system that drives the host to the brink of madness.

As the host delves deeper into the Fisker Karma's troubled history, the dark clouds of bankruptcy loom overhead. With Fisker Automotive's demise in 2013 and subsequent Chinese acquisitions, the once-promising company spiraled into chaos. Despite its alluring design and potential as a plug-in hybrid, the Fisker Karma's checkered past comes back to haunt the host in the form of malfunctioning climate control and a persistent check engine light. The car's diva-like behavior earns it a notorious reputation among owners, leading to desperate attempts at hard resets and costly shipping for repairs.

Behind the wheel, the Fisker Karma offers a mixed bag of experiences. While its snappy acceleration and comfortable ride provide moments of joy, the heavy and unresponsive nature of the car dampens the driving excitement. The GM Ecotech 4-cylinder engine, shared with models like the Pontiac Solstice GXP, delivers a respectable 400 horsepower but struggles to mask the car's underlying issues. Despite the allure of its beautiful design and potential eco-friendliness, the Fisker Karma's numerous quirks and challenges paint a cautionary tale for any prospective buyers.

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Viewer Reactions for Why you should NEVER EVER buy a cheap Fisker Karma! A gorgeous plug-in hybrid disaster...

Hoovie is known for wasting money on unique and questionable cars
Bob Lutz suggested putting a LS7 engine in the Fisker Karma
Some owners regret purchasing the Fisker Karma due to numerous issues
The Fisker Karma was designed by Henrik Fisker around the same time as the Tesla Model S
Concerns about the infotainment system and aging electronics in the Fisker Karma
The Fisker Karma has been problematic for some owners, requiring frequent repairs
Suggestions to LS swap the Fisker Karma due to its issues
Comments on the poor quality and design flaws of the Fisker Karma
Mention of newer versions of the Fisker Karma being the Karma Revero and GS-6
Some viewers suggest the Fisker Karma is a mechanical junkyard