Talking Cars (MP3)

Latest Episodes:

2025 Toyota Crown Signia Mar 26, 2025

Show notes

Toyota is expanding its SUV portfolio by transforming the Crown sedan into a bold new model, the Crown Signia. In this episode, we dive into our first impressions of this reimagined vehicle, exploring its ride quality, hybrid powertrain, design, and functional shape. We also discuss how the Signia differentiates itself from the original Crown. Plus, we tackle audience questions, including: why EV batteries tend to drain faster in the winter than in the summer, and if you're only able to replace two tires on your car, which ones should you choose—front or rear?

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.

More info on the 2025 Toyota Crown Signia here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/toyota/crown-signia/2025/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

SHOW NOTES

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00:00 - Introduction

00:15 - Overview: 2025 Toyota Crown Signia

02:15 - Wagon or SUV?

04:42 - Driving Dynamics

07:13 - Interior Fit & Finish

08:38 - Exterior

10:01 - Ride and Handling

11:04 - Hybrid Powertrain

14:01 - Who is it for?

16:44 - Question #1: Is it normal for EVs to have a lower driving range in winter than in summer?

20:50 - Question #2: Which car tires should you prioritize replacing: the front or the rear?

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First Drive: 2025 Toyota Crown Signia Hybrid SUV Shines

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2025-toyota-crown-signia-hybrid-review-a8708955858/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Best Deals on Fuel-Efficient Cars and SUVs

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/buying-a-car/best-deals-on-fuel-efficient-cars-a4329802409/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Most Fuel-Efficient Cars

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/fuel-economy-efficiency/the-most-fuel-efficient-cars-best-mpg-a1198903400/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Are Hybrids a Smart Choice Right Now?

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/why-hybrid-vehicles-are-a-smart-choice-right-now-a2736240282/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz Mar 12, 2025

Show notes

In 2017 Volkswagen announced the electrified ID. Buzz at the Detroit Auto Show. Now, seven years later, we've driven the real thing. In this episode, we share our first impressions of the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz, diving into its iconic retro-styling, driving dynamics, electric drivetrain, utility, and infotainment system. Plus, we also answer audience questions, including how to make the most of local mechanics when a dealership isn't nearby and how to find the perfect manual transmission convertible for under $10k.

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

More info on the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz Hybrid here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/volkswagen/id-buzz/2025/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

SHOW NOTES

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00:00 - Introduction

00:15 - Overview: 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz

02:41 - Every Day Usability

05:31 - Electric Range

09:04 - Driving Dynamics

10:44 - Brakes

13:30 - Controls

18:20 - Accessibility

21:08 - Window Controls

22:52 - Driving Position

25:19 - Small Item Storage

26:50 - Cabin Room

27:19 - Would You Buy It?

30:14 - Advanced Driver Assistance System

32:58 - Question #1: Is it safe to rely on local mechanics for vehicle repairs?

39:08 - Question #2: What is a perfect manual transmission convertible for under $10K?

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First Drive: Volkswagen ID. Buzz Is Practical Nostalgia at a High Price

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/volkswagen-id-buzz-minivan-review-a4884016168/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/volkswagen/id-buzz/2025/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Secrets to Electric Car Charging Revealed

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/secrets-to-electric-car-charging-a1611903912/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Most and Least Satisfying Luxury Hybrids, Plug-In Hybrids, and Electric Vehicles

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/most-and-least-satisfying-luxury-hybrids-evs-phevs-a8977712677/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

EVs Are Getting More Reliable, but They Still Lag Behind Hybrids and Gas-Only Cars

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/electric-vehicles-are-less-reliable-than-conventional-cars-a1047214174/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

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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.

2025 Top Picks Feb 26, 2025

Show notes

Our experts reveal CR's 2025 Top Picks, featuring the best vehicles that stand out in our rigorous tests. Find out which cars, trucks, and SUVs made the list and why some fan favorites didn't. Plus, we answer audience questions about CR member surveys, hybrid brake tests, and SUV cargo measurement tests. See our Top Picks list for free at: http://cr.org/toppicks/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

SHOW NOTES:

0:00 - Intro

0:39 - Consumer Reports 2025 Top Picks are free!

1:00 - How CR compiles the Top Picks lis

11:56 - 2025 Top Picks, vehicles

28:15 - Audience Question #1: How does CR calibrate member survey responses?

34:07 - Audience Question #2: Does CR test hybrid brakes in, "B" mode?

36:33 - Audience Question #3: Does CR measure the floor-to-ceiling height for vehicle cargo space?

LINKS:

2025 Top Picks: http://cr.org/toppicks/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Consumer Reports Vehicle Ratings: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/

2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid Feb 12, 2025

Show notes

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.

Mazda has partnered with Toyota to create the 2025 CX-50 Hybrid. Although it's branded as a Mazda, the CX-50 Hybrid has the heart of a Toyota. In this episode, we share our first impressions of the CX-50 Hybrid and discuss its driving characteristics, steering dynamics, and the Toyota drivetrain that powers it. We also address questions about whether it's still wise to purchase a Nissan, given its current financial issues, and whether Lexus is living up to its reputation as the most reliable automaker.

SHOW NOTES

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00:00 - Introduction

00:16 - Overview: 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid

01:34 - Mazda & Toyota Collaboration

07:14 - Driving Dynamics

09:31 - Styling

11:45 - Front Seats

15:20 - The Controls

18:56 - CX-50 vs. RAV4

23:54 - CX-50 vs. CX-50 Hybrid

26:15 - Question #1: Given the current state of Nissan, is it still wise to purchase a vehicle from the manufacturer?

33:40 - Question #2: Is Lexus still living up to its reputation as the most reliable automaker?

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Mazda CX-50 Hybrid First Drive: Power Couple or Odd Couple?

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2025-mazda-cx-50-hybrid-review-a9123627508/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/mazda/cx-50-hybrid/2025/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Compact SUVs From $25,000 to $35,000 With Standard Active Safety Systems

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/affordable-suvs-from-25000-to-35000-dollars-with-safety-systems-standard-a2484348806/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Quietest Midsized SUVs From Consumer Reports' Tests

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/quietest-midsized-suvs-from-consumer-reports-tests-a5278786319/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Best Hybrid SUVs for Less Than $35,000

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/best-hybrid-suvs-for-less-than-35000-dollars-a6380868399/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

The State of EVs in 2025 - Live! Jan 29, 2025

Show notes

Exclusive CR discount for Talking Cars viewers at: https://www.cr.org/jointalkingcars

There's been a lot of change in the US recently! And it will likely have a big impact on the automotive market, particularly when it comes to electric vehicles. On this episode of Talking Cars, we discussed the current state of the EV market, taking questions live from our YouTube audience! We discussed current government policy and regulation regarding EVs, charging infrastructure, market demand, competition in the industry, and more.

Consumer Reports EV Hub: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

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

Have a question for our experts? Leave a comment on this episode, or reach out to us directly! Send us a text at TalkingCars@icloud.com to send a photo, video, or text directly to the Talking Cars team!

2025 Nissan Kicks Jan 15, 2025

Show notes

Nissan redesigned the 2025 Kicks compact SUV--now larger, more powerful, and available with all-wheel drive. We put its driving performance to the test, evaluate its active safety and driver-assistance features, and discuss whether or not its "upscale" design elements deliver on the hype. Plus, we answer questions about our favorite infotainment systems and offer advice before buying extended warranties and maintenance contracts.

More info on the 2025 Nissan Kicks here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2025-nissan-kicks-review-a9588794667/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Ratings and test results on every car CR purchases and tests: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

SHOW NOTES

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00:00 - Introduction

00:15 - Overview: 2025 Nissan Kicks

01:16 - Price

02:24 - Interior and Styling

04:02 - Driving Performance

05:18 - Competition

10:10 - Nissan

11:51 - Question #1: What are the best and worst car infotainment systems on the market today?

17:38 - Question #2: What is CR's advise regarding extended warranties and maintenance contracts?

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First Drive: 2025 Nissan Kicks Grows Into Feature-Rich SUV

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2025-nissan-kicks-review-a9588794667/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

2025 Nissan Kicks

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/nissan/kicks/2025/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

10 Cheap Cars That CR Recommends

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cheap-cars-recommended-by-consumer-reports-a1059266229/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Best New Cars and SUVs for Under $30,000

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/best-new-cars-under-30000-dollars-a6574737993/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Popular Compact Cars to Avoid and What to Buy Instead

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/buying-a-car/popular-compact-cars-to-avoid-what-to-buy-instead-a1188453224/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

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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.

Best & Worst Cars of 2024 Dec 30, 2024

Show notes

Of the dozens of new cars Consumer Reports tested this year, these are the best (and worst) according to the entire staff of CR's Auto Test Center. This team not only keeps the track up and running, but we're all part of the evaluation process - see what our Talking Cars crew, as well as those behind the scenes, thought were the best and worst cars we tested in 2024!

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

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00:00 - Introduction

00:46 - Mike Monticello

05:24 - Jennifer Stockburger

07:06 - Anatoliy Shumskiy

10:59 - Joe Veselak

12:56 - Ben Preston

15:07 - Maddie McCarty

18:55 - John Williams

22:49 - Mike Quincy

28:16 - Alex Knizek

31:55 - Avri Wyshogrod

34:55 - Emily Thomas

39:46 - Andrew Balise

42:49 - Mary Reed

45:36 - Jeff Bartlett

49:27 - Alex George

52:38 - Gabe Shenhar

55:24 - James McQueen

58:02 - Jake Fisher

01:02:54 - Jon Linkov

01:06:14 - Mike Crossen

2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV Dec 18, 2024

Show notes

Chevrolet has expanded its EV lineup with the addition of the 2024 Equinox EV. In this episode, we share our first impressions of the small electric SUV, covering its driving dynamics, power capabilities, key features, and how it stacks up against the Blazer EV and the gas-powered Equinox. We also address audience questions, including whether it's normal to need frequent brake service and why car manufacturers aren't making electric vehicles with upgradable and replaceable batteries.

More info on the 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2024-chevrolet-equinox-ev-review-a7430613629/?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

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00:00 - Introduction

00:40 - Overview: 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV

02:25 - Driving Characteristics

03:44 - How it Compares to Blazer EV

06:26 - Is it Family Friendly Enough

08:54 - Charging Capabilities

10:48 - Infotainment System

15:37 - The Price

16:48 - Question #1: Are auto dimming rear-view mirrors in vehicles less safe than the old-school flip-up ones?

20:20 - Question #2: Is it normal to frequently need to service the brakes on your car?

25:24 - Question #3: Why car manufacturers aren't making electric vehicles with upgradable and replaceable batteries?

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New 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV Will Start at $34,995, Eventually

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2024-chevrolet-equinox-ev-review-a7430613629/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/chevrolet/equinox-ev/2024/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

First Drive: 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV Is a Bumpy Ride

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2024-chevrolet-blazer-ev-review-a1328332871/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

EVs are Getting More Reliable, but They Still Lag Behind Hybrids and Gas-Only Cars

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/electric-vehicles-are-less-reliable-than-conventional-cars-a1047214174/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Guide to Car Reliability & Owner Satisfaction

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

2025 Reliability Survey Results Dec 05, 2024

Show notes

Exclusive CR discount for Talking Cars viewers at: https://www.cr.org/jointalkingcars

Which brands make the most reliable cars, trucks, and SUVs in 2025? The answer may surprise you! CR surveyed owners about any problems they have experienced with their new and used cars, and we share the results! Find out where brands like Toyota, Tesla, Subaru, BMW, Jeep, Honda, and more stack up; how the reliability of EVs and plug-in hybrids compares to standard gas-powered vehicles; who makes the most reliable used cars; and whether an automakers luxury brands hold up better than their less expensive counterparts.

Ratings and test results on every car CR purchases and tests: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Join the Talking Cars community on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@consumerreports/community

Which Car Brands Make the Best Vehicles? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles-a6159221985/

Which Brands Make the Best Used Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/used-car-brand-reliability-a2811658468/

Maintenance and Repair Cost by Brand for 2025: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-maintenance/the-cost-of-car-ownership-a1854979198/

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

Which Car Brands Have the Highest Road Test Scores? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/what-car-brands-have-the-highest-road-test-scores-a6759602787/

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

Consumer Reports' Car Reliability FAQ: https://www.consumerreports.org/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/consumer-reports-car-reliability-faq-a1099917197/

2025 Hyundai Sonata Nov 27, 2024

Show notes

This week, we discuss the 2025 Hyundai Sonata. The all-new Sonata gets drastic, updated styling, Hyundai's latest infotainment system, a ton of standard advanced safety gear, and an improved ride. We also answer audience questions about towing capacity, vehicles with unlabeled controls, and the best type of car for commuting in Utah.

SHOW NOTES:

0:00 - Intro

1:14 - 2025 Hyundai Sonata Overview

3:25 - What's new for the 2025 model year

5:26 - Ride quality

7:36 - Infotainment system

10:20 - Adaptive driver assistance systems (ADAS), Safety features

12:12 - Day-to-day usability

15:58 - Audience questions

16:22 - Question #1: Tips for shopping for a vehicle that can tow 5000 lbs.

19:20 - Question #2: Why do new vehicles have a steep learning curve in terms of usability?

25:10 - Question #3: Shopping for a Subaru Outback replacement (Experts pick)