Sony's Afeela 1 feels like a PlayStation 4 in the PS5 era

Sony's pricey Afeela 1 EV lacks in range, speed, and appeal compared to rivals.

: Sony's Afeela 1, debuted at CES 2025, feels outdated with a starting price of $89,900 and a disappointing design. With a range of 300 miles and a charge rate of 150 kW from its 91 kWh battery, it falls short compared to more affordable competitors like the Lucid Air. Both trims, Origin and Signature, underwhelm with limited color options and features that don't justify the cost. Despite the dazzling interior display, the overall package seems misguided in the evolving EV market.

Afeela 1 is Sony's foray into the EV market, making a debut at CES 2025 after years of teasing through prototypes like Vision-S. However, its grand entrance is marred by a high price of $89,900, and a product that feels lacking in modern edge, reminiscent of older technology in a rapidly advancing sector. With its 150 kW charge rate and 300-mile range, the Afeela 1 is subpar when compared to EVs like the less expensive Lucid Air, which offers a 400-mile range and faster charging capabilities. The car's exterior design is characterized by a bland aesthetic, with the only notable features being the conspicuous sensor pod and a questionable media bar.

Inside, the dashboard-spanning display is impressive, adding a splash of Sony's brand identity with customizable themes tied to popular games like Ghost of Tsushima. Nevertheless, these ambitious interior elements are overshadowed by unresolved software issues and misplaced ergonomic features like an oversized volume knob. The two trims - the $89,900 Origin in black, and the $102,900 Signature available in a restrictive palette of white, gray, and black - fail to offer compelling value against the competition. Especially when considering models like the Porsche Taycan, which invites a more engaging driving experience, albeit at a similar price point.

Reflecting on five years of development, the Afeela 1 embodies Sony's unique automotive ambition, though it now feels outdated and overpriced. Expectations are uncertain as production is set to begin at Honda’s Ohio factory, casting doubt about its reception in an increasingly competitive electric vehicle market. Engadget's coverage from CES 2025 underscores a broader narrative of the Afeela 1 as a cautionary tale in consumer technology, reminding us of the swiftly altering landscape of innovation and customer demands.