Talking Cars (MP3)

Latest Episodes:

2026 Toyota RAV4 Dec 17, 2025

Show notes

We take an early look at the 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid XSE, which promises more power and a longer electric-only range than the previous versions called the RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid and RAV4 Prime. We discuss its EV capability, acceleration, interior feel, everyday usability, and where it is worth the $46,000 asking price. We also answer audience questions about how EVs balance horsepower and range, and whether smaller wheels are an effective way to deal with potholes.

00:17 - Toyota RAV4 PHEV first impressions

33:00 - how do EVs balance horsepower and range?

37:22 - how much does wheel size play in role in pothole damage?

2026 Toyota RAV4 PHEV First Impressions: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2026-toyota-rav4-phev-review-a1016340226/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Low-Profile Tires vs. Potholes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FBdRy0utyaM

2026 Reliability Survey Results Dec 04, 2025

Show notes

Consumer Reports' latest reliability findings are in, we share which brands deliver the most reliable cars, trucks, and SUVs in 2026—based on comprehensive survey data from hundreds of thousands of CR members. We break down how major automakers, including Toyota, Tesla, Subaru, Rivian, BMW, Mazda, and Honda, compare; how EVs and plug-in hybrids stack up against traditional gas models; which used cars offer the most dependable performance; and whether luxury brands truly provide an advantage over their mainstream counterparts. We also address why some automakers place the gas cap on the passenger side of their vehicles and offer advice on simple maintenance tasks you can perform yourself to help reduce car-related expenses.

SHOW NOTES

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00:00 - Introduction

00:30 - New Car Reliability

02:51 - Used Car Reliability

05:57 - Big News

06:40 - Cars Least Expensive to Maintain

08:22 - EVs/ Plug-in Hybrids Reliability

10:04 - Hybrid Vehicle Reliability

11:34 - Owner Satisfaction

13:18 - Importance of Car Reliability

15:27 - How CR Gathers Reliability Data

19:55 - Question #1: Why do some car manufacturers put the gas cap on the passenger side and others on the driver side?

23:09 - Question #2: Which simple maintenance tasks can car owners perform on their own to help reduce car-related expenses?

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Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars?

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Which Brands Make the Best Cars?

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles-a6159221985/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Reliability of 5 to 10 year-old cars

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/which-brands-make-the-best-used-cars-a2811658468/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Most and Least Loved Car Brands

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/most-and-least-liked-car-brands-a1291429338/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

10 Most Reliable Cars

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/10-most-reliable-cars-a6569295379/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

How Car Brands Stack Up On Lifetime Repair Cost

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-maintenance/the-cost-of-car-ownership-a1854979198/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

10 Best SUVs You Can Buy Right Now

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/10-best-suvs-you-can-buy-right-now-a8518508556/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Car Reliability and Owner Satisfaction Guide

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/guide-to-car-reliability-owner-satisfaction-a9213219653/

Consumerreports.org/Talkingcars

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/talking-cars-podcast-archive-a1439738009/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

New Car Reliability, Swapping Wheel Sizes, & Is Undercoating Worth It? Nov 26, 2025

Show notes

This episode is dedicated to all audience questions! Keith, Emily, and Mike tackle everything from the most reliable new vehicles, whether you should pay extra for rustproofing, why Americans buy and drive large vehicles, and if keeping a 22-year-old vehicle may be better for your wallet despite the inherent repair costs. Plus, we explain how CR determines a vehicle's predicted reliability and whether you can fit your vehicle with smaller wheels and tires to save money and improve ride comfort.

Exclusive CR discount for Talking Cars viewers: https://www.consumerreports.org/jointalkingcars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YTT4?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Submit a Question to Talking Cars: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/talking-cars-podcast-archive-a1439738009/?EXTKEW=YSOCIAL_YT

Safest New Cars of 2025:

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/safest-new-cars-of-2025-according-to-iihs-a3325666134/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Test Results: Honda HR-V:

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/honda/hr-v/2025/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid:

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2026-subaru-crosstrek-hybrid-review-a6801644233/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

The Hidden Danger of Big Pickup Trucks:

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/the-hidden-danger-of-big-pickup-trucks-a9662450602/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Skip These Car Dealership Extras:

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/buying-a-car/just-say-no-to-these-car-dealership-extras-a9471188276/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars?:

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

SHOW NOTES:

0:00 - Intro

0:30 - Question #1: Should I keep my super basic, 22-year-old Honda CR-V or look for a newer, reliable model car?

04:43 - Question #2: Is the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid a safe bet in terms of reliability?

6:58 - Question #3: What are the pros and cons to decreasing the wheel and tires size on a 2025 Toyota Camry XSE?

10:24 - Question #4: How can CR give large vehicles like the Ford Expedition a positive review?

15:15 - Question #5: Is $1,000 for undercoating on a 2023 Kia Sportage worth it?

18:22 - Question #6: What's a good replacement for a 2017 Mazda 6?

22:51 - Question #7: How does CR come up with new model year predicted reliability?

25:32 - Question #8: What about one pedal driving do CR experts not understand?

2026 Lucid Gravity Nov 12, 2025

Show notes

Lucid recently released its second all-electric vehicle: the 2026 Lucid Gravity. With 828 horsepower, three rows of seating, and impressive electric range, it looks like a potential game-changer in the luxury SUV space. But is it ready for prime time? In this episode, we share our first impressions of the Gravity, including standout features, early glitches, and key omissions. Plus, we tackle your questions: How do you get the most life—and resale value—out of your vehicle? And when planning a long road trip, should you rack up miles on your older car or take the newer one?

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.

SHOW NOTES

-----------------------------------

00:00 - Introduction

00:36 - Overview: 2026 Lucid Gravity

01:17 - What we love

14:39 - What we hate

29:16 - Question #1: How do you get the most life - and resale value - out of your vehicle?

33:57 - Question #2: When planning a long road trip, should you rack up miles on your older car or take the newer one?

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Full Test Results: 2026 Lucid Gravity

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/lucid/gravity/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

First Drive: The 2026 Lucid Gravity Is Spacious and Fast, but Incomplete

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2025-lucid-gravity-review-a8550442240/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars?

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Which Brands Make the Best Cars?

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles-a6159221985/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

10 Best Deals on Electric Vehicles

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/best-deals-on-electric-vehicles-a1198228201/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Find the Best Hybrids & EVs

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

2026 Hyundai Palisade Oct 29, 2025

Show notes

On this episode, we discuss the 2026 Hyundai Palisade. The redesigned three-row SUV excels in nearly every area. From its stylish design to its intuitive controls, our experts found few flaws with the Palisade, aside from one major issue. Additionally, we answer audience questions about CR's Reliability and Owner Satisfaction surveys and offer tips to avoid deceptive sales tactics at the dealership.

Test results here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Exclusive CR discount for Talking Cars viewers: https://www.consumerreports.org/jointalkingcars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YTT4?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Submit a Question to Talking Cars: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/talking-cars-podcast-archive-a1439738009/?EXTKEW=YSOCIAL_YT

Hyundai Palisade Overview: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hyundai/palisade/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Find the Best SUV: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

2025 Hyundai Palisade: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hyundai/palisade/2025/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

9 Hybrids That Save You the Most Money on Gas: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/hybrids-that-save-you-the-most-money-on-gasoline-a1199235608/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Most and Least Loved Car Brands: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/most-and-least-liked-car-brands-a1291429338/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Who Makes the Most reliable New Cars?: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

CR Guide: Car Buying & Pricing: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-buying-and-pricing/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

SHOW NOTES:

0:00 - Intro

0:44 - What we LOVE about the 2026 Hyundai Palisade

12:35 - What we DISLIKE about the 2026 Hyundai Palisade

21:26 - Question #1: Are CR-members biased toward Toyotas?

26:27 - Question #2: What's the best way to navigate a 'bait-and-switch' scenario when purchasing a vehicle?

Tire Buying Advice, All-Season vs All-Weather, and the Best Time to Buy New Tires Oct 15, 2025

Show notes

Consumer Reports tests dozens of tire models every year across all types of weather and road conditions. Our expert evaluations cover key performance factors like grip, handling, braking, comfort, and tread life. In this episode, we explain everything you need to know before buying new tires—when to replace them, how to choose the best tires, and whether electric vehicles need special tires. You'll learn how climate and driving style affect tire performance, and get insider insight into how our engineers test tires for safety and durability. We'll also answer your top tire questions, from whether small rocks in the tread really matter to how all-wheel drive impacts winter traction.

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.

SHOW NOTES

-----------------------------------

00:00 - Introduction

00:36 - When to Buy Tires

02:29 - How to Inspect Tires

04:10 - All-Weather vs. All-Season Tires

08:47 - EV Tires

12:19 - Best Tire Shopping Advice

17:36 - How CR Works With Tire Manufacturers

18:31 - How We Test and Rate Tires

23:15 - 2026 Tire Top Picks

24:31 - What Are We Testing Next?

26:54 - Question #1: Do small rocks lodged in tire treads affect performance?

29:52 - Question #2: How do AWD systems affect tire performance?

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CR Tire Ratings

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/tires/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Choose the Right Tires for Your Vehicle

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/tires/buying-guide/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Top Pick Tires: The Best Car, SUV, and Truck Tires

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/tires/top-pick-tires-best-car-suv-truck-tires-a5778937779/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Best All-Weather Tires

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/tires/best-all-weather-tires-a8621335540/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Best Tire Brands of 2026

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/tires/best-tire-brands-a2990346660/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Best Car Tires of 2026

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/tires/best-car-tires-of-the-year-a1101679070/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Best SUV and Truck Tires if 2026

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/tires/best-suv-and-truck-tires-a3436694441/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Best All-Season Tires

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/tires/best-all-season-tires-a9794563815/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Best Winter/Snow Tires

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/tires/best-winter-snow-tires-a1191260310/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Most and Least Satisfying Tire Retailers

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/tire-stores/most-and-least-satisfying-tire-retailers-a8618669903/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

How to Save Money When Buying Tires

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/tire-buying-maintenance/how-to-save-money-when-buying-replacement-tires-a6799675738/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

How to Read a Tire Sidewall

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/tires/buying-guide/#how-to-read-a-tire-sidewall-and-what-can-it-tell-me/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

When to Replace Your Tires

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/tires/when-to-replace-your-tires-a3107469842/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Do Electric Vehicles Need Special Tires?

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/tires/do-electric-vehicles-need-special-tires-a4689725362/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

2025 Toyota 4Runner Oct 01, 2025

Show notes

This week, we share our impressions of the redesigned 2025 Toyota 4Runner. Now in its sixth generation, the 4Runner retains its body-on-frame platform, preserving its rugged off-road identity while introducing some modern updates. We break down what Toyota got right—like easier access and more comfortable seating—as well as where the redesign falls short. Plus, we answer audience questions about vehicle drive modes and which manufacturers make the best physical controls.

Test results here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Exclusive CR discount for Talking Cars viewers: https://www.consumerreports.org/jointalkingcars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YTT4?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Talking Cars Archive: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/talking-cars-podcast-archive-a1439738009/?EXTKEW=YSOCIAL_YT

2025 Toyota 4Runner: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/toyota/4runner/2025/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

First Drive: 2025 Toyota 4Runner: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2025-toyota-4runner-review-a3128307508/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Toyota 4Runner by Generation: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/toyota/4runner/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Toyota Brand Overview: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/toyota/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Tested: Does Eco Mode Really Save Gas?: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/fuel-economy-efficiency/does-eco-mode-really-save-gas-a6653523930/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

SHOW NOTES:

0:00: Intro

0:18: 2025 Toyota 4Runner Overview

1:29: What we love about the 4Runner

11:49: What we dislike about the 4Runner

22:56: Audience questions

23:17: Question #1: What does the Econ drive mode actually do?

26:22: Question #2: Which vehicles have easy-to-use controls? Will we ever see full voice-activated controls?

2025 Volkswagen Tiguan Sep 17, 2025

Show notes

Our experts share their first impressions of the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan. We break down Volkswagen's latest improvements, explore how the Tiguan stacks up in the crowded compact SUV segment, and explain why its redesign gives it a more refined, "grown-up" feel. Plus, we answer your questions about airbag deployment and recommend the best vehicle for a tall, traveling hockey family.

Test results here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Exclusive CR discount for Talking Cars viewers: https://www.cr.org/jointalkingcars?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

SHOW NOTES:

0:00: Intro

0:24: 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan Overview

2:15: First Impressions

9:28: Volkswagen reliability

12:12: Pricing and competing vehicles

14:51: Question #1: Do airbags deploy if a driver is pressing the horn?

19:51: Question #2: What's the best vehicle for a growing family of six?

2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 Sep 03, 2025

Show notes

This week, we discuss the 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9. This sleek, futuristic-looking three-row electric vehicle shares its basic technology and design with the Kia EV9. We cover the similarities and differences between the two vehicles, share our driving experiences, and lament (once again) the use case of electronic door handles. We also answer questions about fuel savings on hybrid vehicles and the longevity of plug-in hybrid vehicle batteries.

Test results here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Exclusive CR discount for Talking Cars viewers: https://www.cr.org/jointalkingcars?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

SHOW NOTES:

0:00: Intro

0:17: Hyundai Ioniq 9 overview

5:26: EV Charging

7:50: Interior, controls, and cabin storage

16:50: Access

21:57: Regenerative braking

26:22: Driving impressions

29:27: Safety systems

33:50: Hyundai Ionia 9 vs. Kia EV9

37:35: Question #1: Is buying a hybrid still a better choice than a non-hybrid?

42:50: Question #2: Does daily charging degrade a PHEV battery quicker?

2026 Tesla Model Y Aug 20, 2025

Show notes

This week, we share our first impressions of the updated 2026 Tesla Model Y. A smoother ride, upgraded interior, and quieter cabin are just some of the improvements in this refreshed all-electric SUV—but it's not without quirks. We break down its performance on our test track, the challenges with Tesla's delivery process, and our concerns about the vehicle's controls and so-called "Full Self-Driving" system. We also answer your questions about roomy, comfortable gas or hybrid alternatives with modern safety features, and explain how Consumer Reports buys and tests vehicles—including whether we pay MSRP.

More info on the 2026 Tesla Model Y here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/tesla/model-y/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

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.

SHOW NOTES

-----------------------------------

00:00 - Introduction

00:36 - Overview: 2026 Tesla Model Y

02:49 - Buying Process

08:34 - Driving Dynamics

10:01 - Visibility

11:04 - Ride Comfort

12:07 - Access

15:29 - Controls

18:58 - FSD "Full Self-Driving"

25:02 - Infotainment System

27:54 - Build Quality

30:06 - Safety Features

34:17 - Final Thoughts

37:25 - Question #1: Is CR quoting the MSRP price when publishing the price paid for the vehicle?

40:03 - Question #2: what is a roomy, comfortable gas or hybrid alternative with modern safety features under 50K?

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First Drive: The Freshened Tesla Model Y Includes Improvements but Keeps Some Warts

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2026-tesla-model-y-review-a4126153571/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Tested: The Best Tire for Teslas and Other Electric Vehicles

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/tires/tested-best-tires-for-teslas-and-other-electric-vehicles-a6379613635/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Best Electric Cars of 2025, According to Consumer Reports' Tests

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/best-electric-vehicles-from-consumer-reports-tests-a3759669425/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Electric Vehicles With the Longest Range

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/electric-vehicles-with-the-longest-range-a2189661367/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Hot, New Electric Cars That Are Coming Soon

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/hot-new-electric-cars-are-coming-soon-a1000197429/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

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