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Talking Cars (MP3)
30 episodes
All-Weather vs. All-Season Tires; Should I Buy My Own Spare?
Ep 519 · Aug 12, 2026 · 31 min
We answer viewer questions this week, including: the best vehicle for a 14-hour road trip, why automakers have eliminated spare tires, debunk a myth about self-driving cars, and explore the pros and cons of all-weather tires. We also discuss the best ways to learn your vehicle's new features, with or without a dealer's help. Have a question for our experts? Send it to TalkingCars@iCloud.com to be featured on a future episode. 📝 SHOW NOTES: 0:00 - Intro 1:24 - Question #1 - Paul from St.Paul, MN…
Lexus Finally Gets Electric Right: 2026 Lexus ES 500e
Ep 518 · Aug 5, 2026 · 38 min
Is the all-new 2026 Lexus ES EV the luxury electric sedan we've been waiting for? On this week's episode we share our first impressions of the Lexus' newest electric sedan, discussing its whisper-quiet ride, comfort-first philosophy, real-world range, charging performance, interior technology, and whether it delivers a true luxury experience despite a few frustrating tech quirks. Plus, we answer a viewer question: Can you safely extend oil change intervals on a plug-in hybrid if you mostly drive…
Save the Manuals: Driving the New 2026 VW Jetta GLI
Ep 517 · Jul 29, 2026 · 45 min
Is the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta GLI the last great affordable sports sedan? On this week's episode, we debate whether Volkswagen's final manual-transmission sedan is destined to become a future classic—or if the DSG automatic is actually the better buy. We break down the GLI's turbocharged performance, handling, ride comfort, practicality, and why it may be one of the best cars left to learn stick shift. Plus, we answer audience questions about the best used manual cars for beginners and whether dr…
Will Your Next Car Come With a 'Kill Switch'? | Talking Cars with Consumer Reports #516
Ep 516 · Jul 22, 2026 · 30 min
In this episode, we separate fact from fiction about viral claims that a government-mandated "kill switch" for cars is coming in 2027. Our experts explain what the law actually says, how alcohol-impairment detection technology is being developed, and what that means for you when you make your next car purchase. We also answer an audience question about whether newer cars are really safer than older models and how advanced safety systems differ from driver convenience features. SHOW NOTES: 0:00 -…
Why Does Every New Car Feel Like a Smartphone?
Ep 515 · Jul 15, 2026 · 30 min
In this episode of Talking Cars, we discuss why modern vehicles rely so heavily on software, apps, over-the-air updates, and smartphone integration. We compare the pros and cons of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, discuss the learning curve of built-in infotainment systems, and explore personal data privacy and how you can best protect your information while using a vehicle. Join CR at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day. CR is a mission-driven…
Small Trucks Are the Perfect Size for Nobody: 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz
Ep 514 · Jul 8, 2026 · 33 min
In this episode, we take an in-depth look at the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz, which, ironically, was officially discontinued days after we bought one for testing. We talk about the history and future of small trucks, discuss why Hyundai decided to end production of the Santa Cruz, and answer a question from a Santa Cruz owner about why the Santa Cruz returned low scores in our cargo capacity assessment. SHOW NOTES: 0:00 - Introduction & Why We Bought Another Santa Cruz 1:03 - Why Hyundai discontinue…
Everything That's Wrong with the American Auto Industry
Ep 513 · Jul 1, 2026 · 58 min
This week's episode tackles a long-running debate: are American cars inferior to their Asian and European counterparts? We break down the truth about Ford, GM, Stellantis, and Tesla, and how they stack up to Toyota, Honda, and other top automakers, revealing how performance and reliability drive our ratings. Plus: why the American dealership model is still so frustrating, Chinese EV competition, expert tips for negotiating the best price on a new or used car, and how to avoid costly add-ons. We…
The 2026 Subaru Uncharted's Identity Crisis
Ep 512 · Jun 24, 2026 · 47 min
Is the all-new Subaru Uncharted a rugged Subaru, a rebadged Toyota, or something in between? We share our first impressions of the compact EV's strong performance, comfortable ride, confusing ergonomics, and missing EV features. Plus, we answer a viewer's question about the best fun-to-drive car for a college student with a $35,000 budget. Join CR at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organizati…
Get a Job As a CR Tester, Rivian vs. Lucid, Unfair Minivan Bias
Ep 511 · Jun 17, 2026 · 22 min
Consumer Reports experts discuss the financial viability of EV startups like Rivian and Lucid, share EV charging best practices, give advice for hauling large audio equipment, the future of the minivan, vehicle-to-vehicle communication. We also discuss what it takes to become a Consumer Reports vehicle tester, and compare the real-world costs of driving EVs vs. hybrids and gas-powered vehicles. Have a question for a future episode? Send us your questions or a 30-second video to TalkingCars@iClou…
2026 Dodge Charger R/T
Ep 510 · Jun 10, 2026 · 48 min
In this episode, we share our first impressions of the all-new 2026 Dodge Charger. The Charger features new styling and a hatchback design, a twin-turbo inline-six-cylinder engine, all-wheel drive, and an updated interior that feels small, despite the vehicle's overall size. We also discuss what Dodge got right, where the Charger falls short, and whether we'd recommend it over other enthusiast-focused vehicles. Plus, we answer a question about the differences between racing fuel and premium gas,…
How to Survive High Gas Prices
Ep 509 · Jun 3, 2026 · 41 min
As gas prices fluctuate and drivers look for ways to cut costs, on this week's episode we answer the questions drivers are asking most: Is premium fuel worth the extra cost? Does ethanol save money? Do Eco modes actually improve fuel economy? And should high fuel prices push you toward a hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or EV? From choosing the right fuel and finding the best prices at the pump to understanding the long-term costs of different vehicle types, we separate fact from fiction and share practi…
Are Off-Road Trims for SUVs Worth the Extra Money?
Ep 508 · May 27, 2026 · 25 min
On this episode of Talking Cars, we discuss our recent evaluation of popular rugged SUV trims, sometimes called "soft roader" SUVs—including the Subaru Forester Wilderness, Honda Passport TrailSport, Toyota RAV4 Woodland, Ford Explorer Tremor, and more—to see whether they add real capability or mostly rugged styling. Plus, we answer a viewer's question about whether roof crossbars hurt fuel economy on SUVs like the Toyota RAV4 Prime. Join CR at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to access our comprehensiv…
2026 Mazda Miata Is Still the Answer
Ep 507 · May 20, 2026 · 41 min
On this episode we share our impressions of the 2026 Mazda Miata and take a joyride through Miata history. We explain why the 2026 model remains one of the purest sports cars you can buy, and weigh its sublime manual transmission, lightweight feel, reliability, and real-world compromises. Plus, we answer an audience question about Tesla Full Self-Driving—and whether human-driven Miatas are really at risk of disappearing. Join CR at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to access our comprehensive ratings for…
2027 Kia Telluride EX AWD
Ep 504 · May 13, 2026 · 50 min
The 2027 Kia Telluride gets a major redesign, but is it enough to keep this three-row SUV among the best in its class? On this week's episode, we discuss the Telluride's powertrain, styling, comfort, and biggest competitor. We also answer audience questions about navigation systems, satellite radio, and why manufacturers are charging for certain telematics software. SHOW NOTES: 0:00 Intro 0:36 What's New on the 2027 Kia Telluride 02:29 What we love about the 2027 Kia Telluride 10:57 What we disl…
Best Used EVs, Renting with Turo + Sixt, Rivian Reliability + Owner Satisfaction
Ep 505 · May 6, 2026 · 28 min
Consumer Reports experts answer audience questions about CVTs and electric vehicles, including why simulated shifting exists, why the experts at Consumer Reports enjoy it, and how it affects performance and efficiency. We also explore the gap between reliability and owner satisfaction, with examples like the Rivian R1T and Rivian R1S, and what that means for car buyers, as well as current owners. We also discuss alternatives to traditional car rental companies, including peer-to-peer services li…
2026 Jeep Cherokee Laredo
Ep 504 · Apr 29, 2026 · 34 min
We share our first impressions of Jeep's all-new and first-ever hybrid Cherokee, including cabin and cargo space, design, and safety. We discuss its refinement, fuel economy, and how it compares to competitors in a crowded field. We also answer a viewer's question about whether Carvana and other sites are a good option for selling a vehicle. Join CR at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organiza…
2026 Honda Prelude
Ep 503 · Apr 22, 2026 · 31 min
This week, we cover the all-new 2026 Honda Prelude. We reminisce about past Preludes, discuss the 2026 model's hybrid-only powertrain and redesigned styling, and try to figure out who the Prelude is for: it's not sporty enough to be called a sports car, but it falls short on luxury touches to be considered a grand touring coupe. We also answer a question about Consumer Reports' EV Highway Range Test and explore why a buyer might need 300+ miles of driving range. Join CR at https://CR.org/joinvia…
2026 Subaru Outback Premium & Touring XT
Ep 502 · Apr 15, 2026 · 32 min
This week, it's all about the 2026 Subaru Outback. We bought two trims of the Outback: Premium and Touring XT. We discuss its radical redesign from a wagon to an SUV, talk about why we bought two trims and the differences between them, and how Subaru's omission of a hybrid powertrain may be a mistake. Plus, we answer a question about EV replacement tires. Join CR at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonp…
2026 Mazda CX-5 Premium Plus
Ep 501 · Apr 8, 2026 · 45 min
On this episode, we share our first impressions of the 2026 Mazda CX-5. We cover the CX-5's redesign, including its new, large touchscreen infotainment system, mourn its lack of physical climate controls, and discuss how the top trim model we rented doesn't feel that special. We also answer a question about 360 cameras and how to keep the lenses clean in rainy places like Oregon. Join CR at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day. CR is a mission-…
2026 New York Auto Show
Ep 500 · Apr 2, 2026 · 24 min
We're live from the floor of the 2026 New York Auto Show, and sharing our first impressions of the vehicles announced at the show, including the Genesis G90 Wingback and Hyundai Boulder concept cars, the Subaru Getaway 3-row EV SUV, Kia Seltos Hybrid, Volkswagen Atlas, Kia EV3 all-electric compact SUV, and the rise of the softroader! Join CR at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization. SH…
2026 Mitsubishi Outlander SE
Ep 499 · Mar 25, 2026 · 31 min
We purchased a 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander SE for our test program and share our first impressions of the updated compact SUV, including its new 48-volt mild-hybrid turbo engine, improved interior controls, and why the tiny third row and rough ride may give shoppers pause. We also discuss whether a hybrid system may harm the gas engine if short trips prevent it from fully warming up? Join CR at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day. CR is a missio…
EV Range Test Results
Ep 498 · Mar 18, 2026 · 38 min
This week, we share the results of Consumer Reports' EV Range Test. Find out which vehicles have the longest all-electric driving range, how CR's 70-mph highway range test differs from EPA range testing, and what happens when you completely deplete an EV battery while driving. We also explore our range-test methodology and answer a question about the evolution of vehicle headlights. Join CR at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day. CR is a missi…
Are Portable Jump Starters Worth It, The Most Fuel-Efficient Speed to Drive, Timing Chains vs. Timing Belts
Ep 497 · Mar 11, 2026 · 29 min
This week, we go through the mailbag and answer audience questions, including: Is driving 55 mph really more fuel-efficient—even in a 10-speed like the Acura TLX? We break down the science behind highway MPG, explain how regenerative braking affects brake light activation in EVs like the Hyundai Kona Electric, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Kia Niro EV, compare jump-starting with cables vs. lithium battery boosters, dig into timing chain vs. timing belt replacement costs in models like the Honda CR-V, and…
2026 Nissan Sentra SV
Ep 496 · Mar 4, 2026 · 41 min
In this episode, we break down everything you need to know about the 2026 Nissan Sentra SV we purchased for our test program. We cover everything that matters: real-world driving characteristics, engine performance, cabin quality, infotainment usability, and the control frustrations. We also address the big question: why there's still no hybrid version — and whether that's a dealbreaker in today's market. Plus, we answer an audience question about those increasingly massive Yeti, Owala, and Stan…
2026 Audi A6 Premium Plus
Ep 495 · Feb 25, 2026 · 26 min
The redesigned 2026 Audi A6 is here — and we purchased a Premium Plus S-Line trim for our test program. In this episode, we break down everything you need to know about the new A6, including turbo V6 engine performance, transmission pros and cons, driving characteristics, and infotainment and control frustrations. We also answer an audience question about whether it's time to replace the battery in a 2014 Toyota Prius — or replace the whole car. SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 00:…
2026 Nissan Leaf SV+
Ep 494 · Feb 18, 2026 · 42 min
This week, we cover the all-new 2026 Nissan Leaf SV+. No longer "just a commuter car," the Leaf offers increased range, updated SUV styling, a new NACS charge port, and a suite of standard advanced safety equipment, including Nissan's Pro Pilot Assist. We share our first impressions of the Leaf and discuss whether Nissan's improvements to its original EV make it a competitive option. We also talk about how to shop for the best car insurance and answer a question about how the weather can affect…
2026 Toyota bZ
Ep 493 · Feb 11, 2026 · 31 min
We share our first impressions of the all-new Toyota bZ. Formerly known as the bZ4X, it shares much of its DNA with the Subaru Solterra. Our experts share the best and worst parts of the bZ and discuss how the name, powertrain, and new NACS charging port increase its appeal. We also debate how much center console is too much, and whether dual wireless phone chargers are actually an asset. Plus, we answer an audience question about the Hyundai Ioniq 9's reliability. Join CR at https://CR.org/join…
2026 Top Picks
Ep 492 · Feb 4, 2026 · 34 min
Shopping for a new car? Consumer Reports' Top Picks highlight the best cars, SUVs, and trucks you can buy right now—standouts for performance, reliability, owner satisfaction, and safety. In this episode, we break down this year's winners across key segments, from sedans and small SUVs to three-row SUVs, featuring brands like Toyota, Honda, Ford, Tesla, BMW, Lexus, and Subaru. SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 00:00 - Introduction 00:15 - 2026 Top Picks 23:57 - Safety Verdict 29:27…
2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid
Ep 491 · Jan 28, 2026 · 33 min
Subaru is back with a hybrid Crosstrek—will this one finally get it right? For our test program, we purchased a 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Sport Hybrid, and in this episode we share our first impressions. We cover ride comfort, handling, controls, safety technology, and take a close look at Subaru's new hybrid powertrain. We also answer audience questions about repairing older vehicles versus upgrading—and whether buying a first-year redesigned model is a good idea, even when it comes from a reliable…
2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid
Ep 490 · Jan 14, 2026 · 41 min
We bought a 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid Calligraphy AWD for our test program—Hyundai's first model to use its new hybrid system based on a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder. We share our first impressions of this three-row family hauler, covering performance, fuel economy, interior space, cabin luxury, daily usability, and how the hybrid stacks up against the gas-only Palisade. Plus, we answer viewer questions about our All-Season vs. All-Season SUV tire ratings and whether Nissan's "Zero Gr…
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