Talking Cars (MP3) - Special
Join our experts at the Consumer Reports Test Track as they discuss cars, answer buying questions, and share insights on everything automotive.
Episodes
In this all-questions episode of Talking Cars, our experts answer questions on selling a used car online, how to get the most life out of directional tires, storing fuel in a plug-in hybrid, how hybrid engines work, and more. Plus, the rear-wiper saga continues, and we explain why most rear wipers are mounted below the glass on vehicle hatches. Have a question for our experts? Send it to TalkingCars@iCloud.com to be f...
On this week's episode, we share our first impressions of the 2026 Toyota RAV4 PHEV and explore whether the plug-in hybrid is worth its sizable price premium. With up to 54 miles of electric range, 324 horsepower, impressive fuel economy, and no EV range anxiety, it may be the most versatile RAV4 yet—but it still has a few frustrating compromises. Plus, we answer an audience question about wheth...
On this week's episode, we share our first impressions of the redesigned 2027 Kia Seltos, Kia's least expensive SUV. Its roomy interior, comfortable ride, bold styling, and user-friendly controls make it feel surprisingly mature—but the sluggish 147-hp base engine is a major disappointment. We discuss whether the pricey turbo is worth the upgrade or if buyers should wait for the upcoming hybrid....
On this week's episode, we share our first impressions of the 2026 Toyota BZ Woodland, a 375-hp all-wheel-drive EV that promises more space, extra ground clearance, and a little off-road attitude. But is the Woodland really built for the wilderness—or is it better thought of as a quick, practical electric station wagon? We discuss its surprising acceleration, EPA-rated range, cargo area, infotai...
On this week's episode, after 30 years and roughly $6 million spent buying cars for Consumer Reports, Mike Quincy shares his best car-buying advice, worst dealership experiences, and the tricks and fees buyers should watch out for. Plus, a surprise guest drops in to help send him off before he takes one final ride into retirement.
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This week we drive the 2026 Ineos Grenadier on pavement, dirt roads, and CR's challenging Rock Hill to see whether this purpose-built, BMW-powered SUV is worth nearly $90,000. We discuss the driving experience, its unusual steering, noisy cabin, quirky controls, where it excels, and whether we'd actually buy one.&nb...
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 feature...
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 vie...
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 ...
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 a...
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.
In this episode, we take an in-depth look at the2026 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.
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, exper...
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.
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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 qu...
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, ...
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 understandin...
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
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 reall...
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:
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