Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the Tesla Cybertruck, specifically through the lens of Marques Brownlee, also known as MKBHD, one of the most respected tech reviewers out there. If you're even remotely interested in this polarizing vehicle, you’ve probably seen bits and pieces, but let's break down his comprehensive review and see what makes the Cybertruck tick – or, in some cases, not tick.

Marques Brownlee's First Impressions

Marques Brownlee, known for his detailed and unbiased tech reviews, got his hands on the Cybertruck and, as expected, didn't hold back. His initial impressions were a mix of awe and slight bewilderment. The sheer size and unconventional design are hard to ignore. It’s not every day you see a vehicle that looks like it rolled straight out of a sci-fi movie. Brownlee pointed out that the stainless-steel exoskeleton gives it a unique, almost brutalist aesthetic, unlike anything else on the road. This bold design choice is definitely a conversation starter, and whether you love it or hate it, you can't deny it's distinctive.

Beyond the looks, Brownlee immediately focused on the build quality. The stainless steel, while visually striking, presented some challenges in manufacturing. He noted some panel gaps and imperfections, which are common concerns in early production models. However, he also acknowledged Tesla's efforts to improve these issues over time. The interior, while minimalist, is very Tesla. A large touchscreen dominates the dashboard, controlling almost all vehicle functions. Brownlee appreciated the responsiveness of the screen and the overall simplicity of the interface, but also pointed out the potential learning curve for those unfamiliar with Tesla's ecosystem.

Performance-wise, the Cybertruck is a beast. Brownlee tested the acceleration and found it to be incredibly quick, as expected from an electric vehicle. The instant torque provides exhilarating acceleration, making it fun to drive despite its size. He also praised the adaptive air suspension, which provides a smooth and comfortable ride on various terrains. The Cybertruck's off-road capabilities are also noteworthy, thanks to its high ground clearance and robust four-wheel-drive system. Brownlee took it off the beaten path and found it to be surprisingly capable, handling rough terrain with ease. Overall, Marques Brownlee's first impressions highlighted the Cybertruck's unique design, powerful performance, and innovative features, while also acknowledging some of the initial build quality concerns.

Design and Build Quality

Delving deeper into the design and build quality, Marques Brownlee emphasized that the Cybertruck is unlike anything else on the market. The stainless-steel exoskeleton is not just for looks; it's designed to be incredibly durable and resistant to dents and scratches. However, this material also presents some manufacturing challenges. The sharp angles and flat panels require precise welding and assembly, and any imperfections are easily visible. Brownlee pointed out that some early production models had noticeable panel gaps and misalignments, which detracted from the overall fit and finish. Tesla has been working to address these issues, but it's still an area of concern for some potential buyers.

The interior design is minimalist, almost stark. The large touchscreen is the centerpiece, controlling almost all vehicle functions. While Brownlee appreciated the simplicity and responsiveness of the screen, he also noted that it can be distracting for some drivers. The lack of physical buttons and knobs means that everything is controlled through the touchscreen, which can be cumbersome when driving. The yoke steering wheel, another controversial design choice, also took some getting used to. Brownlee found it to be less intuitive than a traditional steering wheel, especially during low-speed maneuvers.

Despite these criticisms, Brownlee also acknowledged some of the innovative design features of the Cybertruck. The vault-like tonneau cover is incredibly strong and secure, providing ample cargo space. The adjustable air suspension allows for variable ride height, making it easy to load and unload cargo. The overall design is functional and utilitarian, prioritizing practicality over aesthetics. The Cybertruck is not for everyone, but it's a bold statement about Tesla's willingness to push the boundaries of automotive design. The build quality and design elements combined contribute significantly to the Cybertruck's unique identity, making it a standout vehicle in the automotive landscape. Brownlee's review highlights both the strengths and weaknesses of these aspects, providing a comprehensive view for potential buyers.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance and handling, the Tesla Cybertruck doesn't disappoint. Marques Brownlee was particularly impressed with the acceleration, which is typical of high-end electric vehicles. The instant torque provides exhilarating acceleration, making it surprisingly quick for its size and weight. Brownlee tested the various driving modes and found that each offered a distinct driving experience, from smooth and efficient to sporty and aggressive.

The adaptive air suspension plays a crucial role in the Cybertruck's handling. It provides a comfortable ride on the road and can be adjusted for off-road use. Brownlee took the Cybertruck off the beaten path and found it to be surprisingly capable. The high ground clearance and robust four-wheel-drive system allowed it to handle rough terrain with ease. He noted that the Cybertruck is not a dedicated off-road vehicle, but it's more than capable of tackling moderate trails and obstacles.

However, Brownlee also pointed out some limitations in the handling. The Cybertruck's large size and weight make it less nimble than smaller vehicles. It's not as easy to maneuver in tight spaces, and the turning radius is wider than expected. The yoke steering wheel, while visually striking, also took some getting used to. Brownlee found it to be less intuitive than a traditional steering wheel, especially during low-speed maneuvers. Despite these limitations, the Cybertruck is a capable and powerful vehicle. The performance is impressive, and the handling is surprisingly good for its size. Brownlee's review provides a balanced perspective on the Cybertruck's performance and handling capabilities.

Technology and Features

In terms of technology and features, the Cybertruck is packed with innovative solutions, though some might find the minimalist approach a bit too extreme. Marques Brownlee highlighted the massive touchscreen that controls almost all vehicle functions. While he praised its responsiveness and clarity, he also noted the potential for distraction. Relying solely on a touchscreen for everything can be cumbersome, especially while driving. The absence of physical buttons and knobs might not appeal to everyone.

The Cybertruck also boasts advanced driver-assistance systems, including Tesla's Autopilot. Brownlee tested these features and found them to be generally effective, but he cautioned against over-reliance. Autopilot is not a fully autonomous system, and it requires constant driver supervision. The Cybertruck also features over-the-air software updates, which allow Tesla to add new features and improve existing ones over time. This is a significant advantage over traditional vehicles, which require manual updates at a dealership.

Brownlee also highlighted some of the unique features of the Cybertruck, such as the vault-like tonneau cover and the adjustable air suspension. The tonneau cover is incredibly strong and secure, providing ample cargo space. The air suspension allows for variable ride height, making it easy to load and unload cargo. Overall, the Cybertruck is a technologically advanced vehicle with a range of innovative features. However, the minimalist approach might not appeal to everyone, and the reliance on a touchscreen can be a potential distraction.

Final Verdict and MKBHD's Thoughts

So, what's the final verdict from Marques Brownlee on the Tesla Cybertruck? Well, it's complicated. He appreciates Tesla's willingness to innovate and push the boundaries of automotive design. The Cybertruck is undoubtedly a unique and eye-catching vehicle, with impressive performance and capabilities. However, it's not without its flaws.

Brownlee pointed out the build quality issues, particularly the panel gaps and misalignments. He also noted the limitations of the minimalist interior design and the reliance on a touchscreen for almost all vehicle functions. The yoke steering wheel also took some getting used to. Despite these criticisms, Brownlee acknowledged the Cybertruck's strengths. The acceleration is exhilarating, the ride is comfortable, and the off-road capabilities are surprisingly good.

Ultimately, Brownlee believes that the Cybertruck is not for everyone. It's a polarizing vehicle that will appeal to a specific type of buyer. If you're looking for a conventional truck, this isn't it. But if you're looking for something different, something bold, and something that pushes the boundaries of what a truck can be, the Cybertruck might be for you. The Cybertruck represents a bold step forward in automotive design and technology, but it's not without its compromises. Whether it's the right vehicle for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Marques Brownlee's comprehensive review provides valuable insights to help you make an informed decision. He appreciates the ambition and innovation behind the Cybertruck, but also highlights its imperfections and potential drawbacks. His final thoughts emphasize the Cybertruck's unique position in the automotive market and its potential to appeal to a specific niche of buyers seeking a vehicle that stands out from the crowd.