Talking Cars (Video) artwork

Talking Cars (Video)

450 episodes - English - Latest episode: 16 days ago - ★★★★ - 6 ratings

Join our experts at the Consumer Reports Test Track as they discuss cars, answer buying questions, and share insights on everything automotive.

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Episodes

2024 Hyundai Kona Electric

March 13, 2024 09:45 - 28 minutes - 470 MB Video

Hyundai brings significant improvements to the Kona EV over the previous-generation model. We share our first impressions of the 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric, the power plant, driving dynamics, controls, and what it has to offer for buyers looking to purchase a sensible electric vehicle. Also, we discuss why it is important for EV owners to pay close attention to the 12-volt battery in their electric cars. Our experts had fun making up their own frankencar, choosing the motor, transmission, ch...

The Best Cars of 2024

February 27, 2024 20:00 - 30 minutes - 471 MB Video

More info on the 10 Top Picks of 2024 here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/best-cars-of-the-year-10-top-picks-of-2024-a4675085257/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Consumer Reports annual Top Picks list is out. In this episode we clarify what the Top Picks is and how vehicles get awarded this highly regarded designation. Our experts discuss the 10 cars that made it to the top of the list, trends we're noticing in the automotive industry, and explain what a Brand Report Card is. We also debate w...

2024 Kia EV9

February 21, 2024 10:40 - 21 minutes - 467 MB Video

Kia takes the three-row SUV EV Mainstream with its all-new EV9. We share our first impressions of the 2024 Kia EV9, how it handled around our test track, the third-row seats, controls, and if this newest kia is the best midsized SUV EV or not. And, our experts give advice on what to look for when buying tires to maximize vehicle MPG. We also explain IIHS' updated moderate overlap crash test, and why some vehicles get a poor rating.   More info on the 2024 Kia EV9 here: https://www.consum...

2024 Lexus TX

February 07, 2024 10:40 - 31 minutes - 464 MB Video

Lexus has expanded its SUV line with the all-new TX, a three-row model that shares its dimensions and many mechanical bits with the new Toyota Grand Highlander. On this episode we share our initial impressions of the 2024 Lexus TX and discuss its driving characteristics, luxurious interior, controls, and three different powertrains offered by Lexus, including a V6 plug-in hybrid. We give advice on what to do when a car lease comes to an end: buy the car out; trade it in for a new model; or w...

2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV

January 24, 2024 10:40 - 30 minutes - 463 MB Video

The 2024 Blazer EV is the first Chevrolet vehicle on General Motors’ new Ultium electric platform, which is shared by the Honda Prologue EV and Cadillac Lyriq. We offer our first impressions of the new Blazer, including its driving dynamics, build quality, and why GM ordered dealers to stop selling it. We also discuss the future of internal combustion engines and whether or not EVs will dominate the car market in the next decade. Also, we debate whether the 2025 Toyota Camry hybrid is worth ...

AI Really, REALLY Wants to Be in Your Next Car

January 11, 2024 10:40 - 23 minutes - 460 MB Video

We're at CES in Las Vegas, where much of the hype has been around introducing artificial intelligence into your car's infotainment system. But is AI in your vehicle actually going to be useful, or is it just hype? The EV market is maturing, and we got to see where automakers are going to take the unique abilities that electric vehicles are afforded with fewer moving parts and more space-efficient layouts, including a rebrand of the minivan form factor. We also discuss why hydrogen might be a...

Best and Worst Cars of 2023

December 27, 2023 10:40 - 30 minutes - 470 MB Video

We wrap 2023 with CR experts sharing their most and least favorite cars they drove in our testing fleet. Where do cars like the Toyota Prius, Honda CR-V hybrid, Rivian R1S, and Honda Accord hybrid fall on our lists? We also share some fun statistics from our testing program from 2023, and answer questions about regenerative braking in the Toyota Prius Prime and other hybrids, as well as how AWD systems work in EVs. 00:36 - CR testing statistics from 2023 3:03 - the best cars we tested in...

The Feasibility of Low-Carbon Fuels in the US

December 13, 2023 09:40 - 27 minutes - 225 MB Video

While hybrids and EVs get a lot of attention in the automotive world, they are not the only options for those wanting to lower their carbon emissions; plug-in hybrids, flex fuels, and even hydrogen vehicles have made their way to the US market in recent years. But are these alternatives realistic for many drivers? Dr. Quinta Warren, CR’s Associate Director of Sustainability Policy, shares the latest on the current federal regulations and latest technologies designed to lower the carbon footp...

Why is EV Reliability So Bad?

November 29, 2023 15:00 - 28 minutes - 468 MB Video

More info on the 2023 CR Reliability Survey here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/guide-to-car-reliability-owner-satisfaction-a9213219653/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Ratings and test results on every car CR purchases and tests: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Every year, Consumer Reports surveys thousands of its members, asking about issues and trouble spots with their cars. Using this exclusive data. CR provides reliability rati...

2023 Toyota Prius Prime Plug-in Hybrid

November 15, 2023 11:00 - 32 minutes - 476 MB Video

One of Toyota's popular plug-in hybrids (PHEV) the Prius Prime gets a major redesign for 2023. This week we share our first impressions of the 2023 Toyota  Prius Prime, its new sleek styling, improved fuel economy, driving characteristics, and extended electric-only range. We help a member of our audience find a replacement for her Scion tC with something more fuel efficient, like the Honda CR-Z, Insight, and Fit. Also, we discuss the differences of all-wheel-drive systems on ICE (Internal C...

2024 Buick Envista

November 01, 2023 10:00 - 25 minutes - 457 MB Video

Buick expands its lineup with the all-new Envista, a small, stylish model that transforms elements together from a car and an SUV. We share our first impressions of the 2024 Buick Envista, its driving characteristics, exterior styling, and some of the compromises we have found in our initial time with this test car. Also, we explain how legroom is measured in CR's test for three-row SUVs, and discuss whether or not you should upgrade an older vehicle to gain the latest safety features. Mor...

2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse

October 18, 2023 09:40 - 25 minutes - 426 MB Video

On this episode, we drive the Ford Mustang Dark Horse. Our experts discuss the Mustang’s legacy, V8 powertrain, and race-inspired technology. We explore the future of muscle cars and wonder if the 7th generation Pony Car is the last of its kind. We also answer audience questions about cylinder deactivation and the best vehicle for a long commute. SHOW NOTES:   0:00 - Intro   0:16 - 2024 Mustang model lineup   3:44 - Dark Horse powertrain   5:00 - 10-Speed automatic transmis...

Plug-In Hybrids Are Not What You Think They Are

October 04, 2023 10:00 - 35 minutes - 462 MB Video

We purchased over a dozen of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) for our auto test program at consumer reports, to study deeper and reveal many nuances of the most misunderstood vehicle. This week we share our initial impressions of some of our first interactions with plug-in hybrids and what we have discovered so far. Jake Fisher drafts a complex spreadsheet to help one of our audience members decide between a hybrid and a PHEV. We also answer if there is any correlation between the hyb...

Why Doesn't a 'Headlight Out' Warning Exist; When Will Gas Stations Go Extinct?; EV Tire Wear

September 27, 2023 09:40 - 31 minutes - 255 MB Video

For all the warnings on today's modern vehicles, why don't cars have an alert that a headlight or taillight is out? In the new 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander with a Max powertrain, is there risk of the hybrid battery depleting when carrying a large payload? And if it seems like your EV tires wear much faster than you'd expect, you're not alone. We give expert insight into these questions, as well as the availability of active head restraints, a replacement vehicle for an Audi A3 convertible, a...

How Child Seats Are Crash Tested

September 20, 2023 09:40 - 17 minutes - 265 MB Video

CR is known for its extensive testing of child seats. But did you know we also perform a crash test on each seat we review? We visit our secret crash lab to give you a behind-the-scenes look at how we go beyond the government standards to test each child seat, why our tests better reflect the circumstances of a real world car crash than what is currently required, and share the top 5 tips for making sure your car seat is installed safely and correctly. Consumer Reports all-new baby experie...

2024 Hyundai Kona

September 13, 2023 10:00 - 22 minutes - 448 MB Video

See our car ratings and reviews at: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   We drove the new 2024 Kona 2.0 and 1.6T at our test track, and share our first impressions on the driving dynamics of the standard and turbo versions, redesigned infotainment system, and how it stacks up against its predecessor. How does it stack up against leaders in the subcompact SUV segment like the Subaru Crosstrek and Honda HR-V? Will the EV version fill the affordable electric car void? L...

2024 Grand Highlander

September 06, 2023 16:00 - 25 minutes - 457 MB Video

See our car ratings and reviews at: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   2024 Grand Highlander is all-new for Toyota, as the name suggests it's bigger than the Highlander and slots beneath the larger Sequoia. The Grand Highlander shares powertrains with its namesake while borrowing a performance-oriented turbocharged hybrid from the Lexus RX and Toyota Crown. We share our first impressions of the Grand Highlander, its driving dynamics, the HybridMAX engine, controls,...

2023 Dodge Hornet

August 16, 2023 10:00 - 26 minutes - 463 MB Video

More info on the 2023 Dodge Hornet here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2023-dodge-hornet-review-a4944342068/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Ratings and test results on every car CR purchases and tests: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   With the new 2023 Hornet, Dodge has released its first small SUV since the unimpressive Caliber almost a decade ago. The new Hornet shares most of its body, powertrain, and interior with the Alfa Romeo Tonale, which are both ma...

2024 Subaru Impreza

August 02, 2023 10:00 - 24 minutes - 473 MB Video

More info on the 2024 Subaru Impreza here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/small-cars/2024-subaru-impreza-review-a8590029622/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Ratings and test results on every car CR purchases and tests: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   The redesigned sixth-generation 2024 Impreza remains true to the established Subaru formula. Subaru has simplified the trim range to Base, Sport and RS, and no longer offers a sedan version of the Impreza. We discuss...

2024 Alfa Romeo Tonale PHEV

July 26, 2023 10:00 - 26 minutes - 469 MB Video

See our car ratings and reviews at: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Alfa Romeo advances its electrification with the 2024 Tonale, the small SUV slots beneath the Stelvio and is aimed to compete against the Audi Q3 and BMW X1. We discuss its plug-in hybrid powertrain, spirited driving performance, and whether or not it delivers Alfa's Italian styling glamour. We also talk about why many plug-in hybrid vehicles start their gasoline engine during strong acceleratio...

Does Toyota's New 0W-8 Engine Oil Improve Fuel Economy? Is The Jeep Wrangler a Convertible?

July 19, 2023 10:00 - 27 minutes - 476 MB Video

See our car ratings and reviews at: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   This week we discuss several topics requested by our audience, including: How does an EV's extra battery weight affect braking? Is it necessary to turn a vehicle's front wheels toward the curb when parking on a steep hill, even if it has an automatic transmission? What are the best practices for storing hybrid cars for long periods of time? We also explain how CR's used-car reliability data is g...

2023 Maserati Grecale

July 12, 2023 10:00 - 27 minutes - 476 MB Video

See our car ratings and reviews at: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Maserati’s first entry into the vibrant luxury small SUV segment is the all-new 2023 Grecale, which is meant to compete with many desirable models including the BMW X3 and Audi Q5. The 2023 Maserati Grecale GT we bought for CR's auto test program promises high-performance flair by combining potent powerplants and an air of exclusivity. We discuss whether or not the Grecale's sporty handling, mod...

Braking Without Brake Lights

July 07, 2023 10:00 - 16 minutes - 466 MB Video

See our car ratings and reviews at: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Brake lights are a major safety feature on vehicles that provide a fair warning to drivers traveling behind them. On this bonus episode we discuss recent findings in Consumer Reports' tests that discover potential safety issues with brake lights on EVs from Genesis, Hyundai, Kia, and Mercedes-Benz.     SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 00:00 - Introduction 00:22 - Topic:...

2024 Chevrolet Trax

July 05, 2023 10:00 - 20 minutes - 448 MB Video

See our car ratings and reviews at: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   The newly redesigned Chevrolet Trax is almost a foot larger than the outgoing model and offers a tempting low price tag. We purchased the 2024 Chevrolet Trax 1LT for our test program, and discuss if the small price will compel buyers to look past the dull driving experience and uninspired cabin and overcome competitors including the Honda HR-V, Hyundai Venue, Kia Seltos, Mitsubishi Outlander Spo...

2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV; What Does mpge Even Mean?

June 28, 2023 10:00 - 27 minutes - 423 MB Video

Ratings and test results on every car CR purchases and tests: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   The 2023 Mercedes EQE 350 SUV is the EV complement to the GLE, competing with the Tesla Model X, BMW iX, and Cadillac Lyriq, and the SUV version of the EQE sedan also in Consumer Reports's test program. We discuss how this model, built in Tuscaloosa, Ala., compares to the ultra-luxury EQS SUV, the incredible amount of safety features available on this model, and why eve...

2024 Mazda CX-90

June 21, 2023 10:00 - 30 minutes - 473 MB Video

More info on the 2024 Mazda CX-90 Turbo Preferred Plus here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2024-mazda-cx-90-review-a1943302819/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Ratings and test results on every car CR purchases and tests: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Mazda is aiming upscale with the 2024 CX-90, creating an all-new three-row SUV that separates itself from mainstream models like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, and Ford Explorer, with aspirations toward lux...

2023 Genesis Electrified GV70

June 14, 2023 09:00 - 28 minutes - 233 MB Video

More info on the 2023 Genesis Electrified GV70 AWD Advanced here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/sedans/2023-honda-accord-review-a4740920658/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Ratings and test results on every car CR purchases and tests: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT The Genesis Electrified GV70 is the latest EV from Hyundai's luxury brand. Built on the same platform as the gas-powered version, the all-electric model has an EPA estimated 236 mile range, and shares many of...

2023 Honda Accord

June 07, 2023 09:00 - 30 minutes - 360 MB Video

More info on the 2023 Honda Accord 1.5T EX here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/sedans/2023-honda-accord-review-a4740920658/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Ratings and test results on every car CR purchases and tests: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT We purchased a 2023 Honda Accord 1.5T EX for CR's auto test program, and share our first impressions of the changes to the latest generation of this popular mid-size sedan, how it compares to the Honda Accord Hybrid Sport mod...

The Cost of EV Battery Replacement; Are Expensive Tires Safer Long Term?

May 31, 2023 10:00 - 24 minutes - 469 MB Video

One of the primary questions drivers have about EVs is how long do their batteries last, and how much would a replacement cost in the future. We share our expert information on if electric car batteries are expensive to replace, as well as: where more expensive tires wear slower than cheaper alternatives; why a car in Europe might have a better warranty or more features than its US counterpart; warranty coverage for 48V mild hybrid batteries; whether standard, gas-powered vehicles lose range...

2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE

May 24, 2023 10:00 - 31 minutes - 477 MB Video

More of CR's coverage on Hybrids and EVs:  https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT The 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE electric sedan joins the growing EV market. Equipped with a 90-kWh battery, the EQE promises 305 miles of range with the rear-wheel drive, and 260 miles with the all-wheel drive. Our experts share their first impressions and discuss the EQE’s livability and usability. Plus, we answer on how to understand EV range ratings, like MPGe.  SHOW NOTES: 0:00...

2023 Nissan Z Performance Manual

May 17, 2023 10:00 - 28 minutes - 442 MB Video

More of CR's coverage on the Nissan Z here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/sports-cars/2023-nissan-z-review-a2145463162/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT The 2023 Nissan Z enters the sports car marketplace as one of the few remaining models available today as a manual, competing for attention with the Toyota Supra, Subaru BRZ, and Toyota GR86. We bought a Performance model with a manual transmission for our test program, and share our first impressions of this resurrected nameplate, comparing its s...

2023 Honda Accord Hybrid

May 10, 2023 10:00 - 30 minutes - 477 MB Video

Find out more about the Honda Accord at: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/sedans/2023-honda-accord-review-a4740920658/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT On this episode, we discuss the 2023 Honda Accord Sport Hybrid that we purchased for our test program. Our experts talk about Honda’s new approach to vehicle trim levels and how the Accord Hybrid has evolved since its introduction. We also cover safety improvements, usability and how the Accord can stay competitive in a market flooded with SUVs. Plus,...

2022 Rivian R1S

May 03, 2023 10:00 - 30 minutes - 478 MB Video

Find out more about the Rivian R1S at: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/rivian-r1s-review-a1186513155/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT CR recently took delivery of the 2022 Rivian R1S we purchased for testing at our track. We share our first impressions of this all-electric 3-row SUV, and how it compares to the other major three-row EVs on the market, the Tesla Model X, and well as its pickup truck sibling, the Rivian R1T. We also help a viewer search for a truck that is more fuel effici...

2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid

April 26, 2023 10:00 - 18 minutes - 440 MB Video

See our car ratings and reviews at: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid looks to build on the legacy of fuel economy, utility, and value of its predecessors. We bought a CR-V Hybrid Sport AWD for our test program, and we share our first impressions of its redesigned interior, transmission, and fuel efficiency, and how it stacks up against the Toyota RAV4, and the traditional gas-powered version. And what would be the best car for a new dad...

2024 Subaru Crosstrek

April 19, 2023 10:00 - 19 minutes - 466 MB Video

The Subaru Crosstrek gets a facelift for its 2024 model year. Although this subcompact SUV might look familiar at first glance, it gets an improved chassis, redesigned interior, revamped engine, and transmission refinements. We share our first impressions on these updates, and how this new version stacks up to others in this class, like the Mazda CX-30 and Kia Niro Hybrid. And what would be a safe, fun to drive manual transmission car for a new teen driver? Our experts help a viewer with tip...

2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6

April 12, 2023 10:00 - 26 minutes - 459 MB Video

Hyundai is positioning itself as one of the leaders in electric vehicle manufacturing, adding another EV to its lineup with the Ioniq 6. Sharing a platform with the Genesis GV60, Kia EV6, and Hyundai Ioniq 5, we share our first impressions of this all-electric sedan, including its unique styling, EV performance, driving dynamics, range, and how it stacks up to competitors like Tesla Model 3 and BMW i4. We also discuss whether a flat tire sealant kit is an acceptable and safe alternative to r...

2023 New York Auto Show Highlights

April 07, 2023 19:00 - 24 minutes - 474 MB Video

We discuss our favorite vehicles and trends from the floor of the 2023 NY Auto Show, including previews of the Toyota Grand Highlander, Kia EV9, Ford Mustang, Ram 1500 REV, and Chevrolet Equinox and Blazer EVs. We also share our thoughts on the future direction of the automotive landscape, with the lack of concept cars at this year's show, and the polarization between big trucks and performance vehicles in contrast with the continuing electrification of the industry.     SHOW NOTES -...

2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport

March 29, 2023 10:00 - 30 minutes - 458 MB Video

Land Rover has redesigned the Range Rover Sport for 2023. The new Sport SUV offers a number of powertrains, as well as a plug-in hybrid version. We share our first impressions of the inline-six, 355-horsepower on the SE P360 trim we purchased for our test program, and how it stacks up against competitors like the Porsche Cayenne, Genesis GV80, and even the top shelf Range Rover.       SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 00:00 - Introduction 00:16 - First Impressions ...

2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV

March 22, 2023 10:00 - 30 minutes - 473 MB Video

Become a member at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to find out how each vehicle we purchase performs in our tests. Built on the same platform as its sedan sibling, the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV could be considered the default flagship vehicle for Mercedes, offering S-Class levels of luxury with the utility of a 3-row family hauler, wrapped in a fully electric package. But while trying to serve so many different buyers, does it end up not doing any job particularly well? We purchased a EQS450 4Matic E...

Charging non-Tesla EVs at a Supercharger

March 17, 2023 10:56 - 13 minutes - 210 MB Video

Become a member at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to find out how each vehicle we purchase performs in our tests. Tesla now allows non-Tesla EVs to use its Supercharger network in a handful of locations in New York and California using its new Magic Dock CCS adapter. We visit one of these locations with CR's Kia EV6 and Mercedes EQE test vehicles to evaluate the charging process. We also talk with Tesla owners who give their thoughts about sharing space with non-Tesla electric vehicles, what it'...

2023 Lexus RZ

March 15, 2023 10:00 - 22 minutes - 345 MB Video

Become a member at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to find out how each vehicle we purchase performs in our tests. This week, we share our first impressions of the 2023 Lexus RZ 450e. The RZ is the first battery-electric vehicle from Lexus, sharing a platform with the Toyota bz4X. We discuss everything from styling, range, livability and if the RZ has enough EV traits that buyers are looking for. Plus, we answer an audience question about EV battery replacement costs. SHOW NOTES:  0:00 - Int...

2023 Honda Pilot

March 08, 2023 11:00 - 24 minutes - 378 MB Video

Become a member at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to find out how each vehicle we purchase performs in our tests. On this episode we welcome the 2023 Honda Pilot to our test fleet. We offer our first impressions of the redesigned, three-row SUV, and share our personal experiences with the Pilot during our first few days of ownership. We also answer an audience question about the evolution, or disappearance, of vehicle bumpers and learn about a retired CR test that features the aptly named, ‘bum...

2023 Lexus LX600

March 03, 2023 20:00 - 23 minutes - 372 MB Video

Become a member at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to find out how each vehicle we purchase performs in our tests. This week, we discuss the 2023 Lexus LX600. The three-row SUV boasts off-road prowess while offering consumers a first-class vehicle experience. We talk about the history of the LX and its corporate cousin, the Toyota Land Cruiser, and debate if the six-figure SUV is worth its weight both as a family hauler and a trail-ready ‘truck’. We also answer a question about EV-charging networ...

2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

February 24, 2023 20:00 - 24 minutes - 457 MB Video

Become a member at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to find out how each vehicle we purchase performs in our tests.     Mitsubishi's three-row compact SUV gets a plug-in hybrid version for 2023. We share our first impressions of the 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (is it pronounced P-HEV, or FEV?), discuss its new powertrain, driving characteristics, and how its electric range compares to other popular plug-in hybrids like the Toyota RAV4 Prime, Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage. We also help som...

Consumer Reports 2023 Top Picks

February 16, 2023 15:00 - 18 minutes - 448 MB Video

What are the best cars you can buy right now? The Consumer Reports Top Picks list is a collection of cars, SUVs, and trucks with standout performance across the board. Each represents a key vehicle segment and shines for its combination of road test performance, reliability, owner satisfaction, and safety, garnering a high-enough Overall Score to earn a coveted CR recommendation. We discuss the cars that made it to the top of the list, trends we're noticing in the automotive industry, and ot...

2023 Toyota Crown

February 10, 2023 20:00 - 26 minutes - 436 MB Video

Become a member at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to find out how each vehicle we purchase performs in our tests.   Reviving a nameplate that hasn't been used in the US since 1972, the Toyota Crown is the Japanese automaker's attempt to bridge the gap between sedans and SUVs. But the question remains: is that something drivers are looking for? We share our first impressions of the Crown's unique styling, hybrid powertrain, and whether it's a suitable replacement for the dearly departed Toyota ...

Making Sense of EV Tax Credits

February 08, 2023 22:00 - 17 minutes - 407 MB Video

Become a member at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to find out how each vehicle we purchase performs in our tests.   The Inflation Reduction Act has introduced a number of tax incentives for those who want to drive or lease an electric vehicle, but making sense of which vehicles qualify has proven difficult. In this bonus episode, our experts explain all the current rules for new, used, and leased EVs or hybrids, and how to take full advantage of the program.     SHOW NOTES ------------...

2023 Toyota Prius

February 03, 2023 20:00 - 30 minutes - 407 MB Video

Become a member at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to find out how each vehicle we purchase performs in our tests. The Toyota Prius has always been known for its polarizing styling and undeniable fuel economy. But the new 2023 Prius changes that equation, and now features much sleeker styling, but without a great leap forward in fuel efficiency. In this episode, we share our first impressions of the 2023 Toyota Prius' redesigned cabin, our early fuel economy experiences, and whether legacy fans o...

2023 Lexus RX Hybrid

January 27, 2023 20:00 - 29 minutes - 448 MB Video

Become a member at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to find out how each vehicle we purchase performs in our tests.   The Lexus RX has served as a benchmark for refined, stress-free, midsized luxury SUVs for more than two decades. We recently purchased our own to put through our tests at the Consumer Reports Auto Test track, and share our first impressions of its driving characteristics, controls, how it stacks up against competitors like the BMW X5 and Audi Q7, and whether it maintains its soli...

2023 Kia Niro EV

January 20, 2023 20:00 - 26 minutes - 435 MB Video

Become a member at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to find out how each vehicle we purchase performs in our tests. On this episode, we share our first impressions of the 2023 Kia Niro Electric. Find out how the Niro compares to its corporate EV siblings, the Kia EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 5, and how subtle changes affect the driver’s experience. We also answer a question about all-wheel-drive EVs in winter driving conditions. SHOW NOTES: 0:00 - Intro 0:15 - 2023 Kia Niro Electric 3:34 - Drivin...