2023 Fisker Ocean

Overview

The tide is turning for electric vehicles as an influx of new models flood the market, and Fisker looks to capitalize on that sentiment with its aptly named Ocean SUV. The most attainable model starts under $40,000 and boasts an estimated range of 250 miles. All other Oceans have an all-wheel-drive, dual-motor setup that generates at least 540 horsepower and accelerates to 60 mph in less than 4.0 seconds. The rangiest version is expected to surpass 350 miles on a single charge. Not only is the 2023 Fisker Ocean a handsome SUV in the vein of the Range Rover Evoque, but it also boasts some unique available features. Of note is a 17.1-inch center touchscreen that rotates vertically and horizontally and a mode that opens the roof panel, all the side windows, and the rear glass to give the cabin the windswept feel of a convertible. Only time will tell if the Ocean’s range ratings, performance claims, and parlor tricks will impress the Tesla-obsessed public.

What’s New for 2023?

The 2023 Ocean is a new all-electric SUV from Fisker. The company’s website says select models will arrive sometime this year.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

Sport

$39,000 (est)

$51,500 (est)

Force E

$60,500 (est)

Extreme

$70,500 (est)

One

$70,500 (est)

Fisker has announced preliminary pricing for the entire Ocean lineup. However, the company hasn’t said how much the destination fee will be, so we can only estimate each trim’s starting price. Initially, we think the Ocean Ultra, with its all-wheel-drive powertrain and more desirable standard equipment, looks to be the best value.

EV Motor, Power, and Performance

The entry point into the 2023 Ocean lineup is the Sport model, which features a single electric motor powering the front wheels. With 275 horsepower on tap, it’s expected to go from zero to 60 mph in 6.9 seconds. The Ultra and Extreme (and the limited-edition One) have an electric motor on each axle that creates all-wheel drive. With a total system output of up to 550 horses, the quickest version is estimated to sprint from a stop to 60 mph in 3.6 seconds. All models are fitted with 20-inch wheels on low-rolling-resistance tires. A set of performance tires mounted on 22-inch rims are also available. The front-drive Ocean is rated to tow 2040 pounds, while all-wheel-drive examples can pull 4000 pounds. An off-road-ready Force E model is said to be joining the lineup later by the end of the year.

Range, Charging, and Battery Life

The Ocean comes with different size batteries, but Fisker hasn’t released their useable capacity. Still, the EPA estimates the single-motor model can travel 250 miles on a single charge. With dual motors, that range estimate can exceed 350 miles. The Ocean is also compatible with most EV charging stations, and Fisker has partnered with Electrify America to provide owners with an unspecified amount of complimentary charging. The Ocean’s exact charging times haven’t been released, either, but we’re told the available roof-mounted solar panels (called SolarSky) can supply up to 2000 miles of range per year under ideal conditions. However, that claim remains to be seen.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Inside, the Ocean has a straightforward layout that’s offset by some simple controls, and it’s lined with reclaimed materials that promote sustainability. Along with a large touchscreen that rotates on all but the base model, its dashboard incorporates a slim digital gauge cluster and attractive materials that span across it. The amount of high-end standard amenities is limited since the entry-level Ocean is marketed as an affordable EV. However, every model features a rearview mirror with a digital camera feed, a power-adjustable steering column, and a power rear liftgate. While the Sport trim has a fixed-glass panoramic sunroof, the rest of the lineup has a panoramic glass roof with a retractable panel. Activating the latter’s California mode opens the roof as well as the rear and side glass to create a convertible-like, open-air experience. We only hope that its back seat and cargo area are more useful than those in the company’s ill-fated sedan.

The Car and Driver Difference

Infotainment and Connectivity

Much like a Tesla, the centerpiece of the Ocean’s interior is a huge touchscreen. Unlike a Tesla, the 17.1-inch display can rotate between portrait and landscape orientations, depending on the driving conditions. While the base model’s screen is fixed vertically, its infotainment system comes standard with a Harman/Kardon stereo. All but the Sport model feature the innovative swiveling touchscreen and a more powerful audio system.

How to Buy and Maintain a Car

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The Ocean comes with an impressive amount of standard driver-assistance technology. The out-of-the-box tech—referred to as the Fisker Intelligent Pilot package—includes automated emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. For more information about the Ocean’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking Standard lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist Available adaptive cruise control

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Fisker’s limited and powertrain warranty are above-average. However, its battery warranty is currently the industry standard and complimentary maintenance isn’t included.

Limited warranty covers six years or 60,000 milesPowertrain warranty covers 10 years or 100,000 milesElectrical components are covered for 10 years or 100,000No complimentary scheduled maintenance

As more information becomes available, we’ll update this story with more details about:

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPGe