On this episode, we cover the 2025 GMC Terrain. Our experts discuss the redesigned compact SUV, its updated, truck-like styling, the new portrait-oriented infotainment system, and share driving impressions. We also debate whether GM is doing enough to stay competitive in the class and how the Terrain differs from mainstream vehicles offered by its sister company, Chevrolet. Plus, we answer audience questions about car buying tactics and faulty Honda Pilot transmissions. Test results here: https:...
Jun 25, 2025•34 min•Season 12Ep. 475
CR has purchased a 2025 Audi Q6 e-tron Quattro Premium+ for our test program. The first of Audi's EVs to use their new Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture, the Q6 is designed to compete with the Lexus RZ, BMW iX, Genesis Electrified GV70, Rivian R1S, and Tesla Model Y. We share our first impressions on how the Q6 drives, its abundant safety features, range, and many, many, MANY controls, including its polarizing HUD display. We also discuss the most efficient way to drive a vehicle that...
Jun 11, 2025•44 min•Season 12Ep. 474
CR is testing the 2025 Buick Enclave Sport Touring, the new luxury 3-row SUV from GM positioned just below Cadillac. Built on the same platform as the Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Acadia, the new Enclave aims to combine upscale comfort with family-friendly practicality. But does it deliver real value in a crowded segment? And how does it stack up against competitors like the Toyota Highlander, Grand Highlander, and the Honda Pilot? We also answer viewer questions about niche tire sizes on some Toy...
May 28, 2025•31 min•Season 12Ep. 473
We purchased a 2025 Kia K4 LXS for CR's test program. At $24,320, the K4 is priced surprisingly low for a new car. Does it deliver value for money? We break down the Kia K4’s features, tech, and performance, and compare it to compact rivals like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Elantra, and the outgoing Kia Forte. What safety and convenience features are included—or left out? We also answer a question about EVs and cargo capacity and help a viewer choose a reliable, fuel-efficient new ca...
May 14, 2025•30 min•Season 12Ep. 472
Volkswagen gives the 2025 Taos a fresh look and updated tech. We share our first impressions of its performance, redesigned interior, and revamped infotainment system—and whether this update is enough to keep the Taos competitive. We also answer audience questions, including: When is it okay to buy a first model year redesign vehicle? Why are EV charging networks—aside from Tesla’s Supercharger—so frustrating to use? And should buyers be concerned about the Hyundai Ioniq 5 due to issues with its...
Apr 30, 2025•31 min•Season 12Ep. 471
Join us on the floor of the 2025 New York Auto Show. We cover the trends, or lack thereof, among automakers in attendance, the debut of several new Subaru models, and talk about which vehicles have the best chance of success in the market. Plus, we share our favorite vehicles from the show floor. SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 00:00 - Introduction 00:15 - Lots of Nostalgia 01:24 - This Year’s Theme 02:35 - New Launches 14:04 - Marketing Choices 20:19 - Flash of Fun 21:15 - Succes...
Apr 18, 2025•26 min•Season 12Ep. 470
The 2025 Nissan Murano gets a bold new look and a revamped powertrain, marking a fresh start for this midsized SUV. In this episode, we share our first impressions of the redesigned Murano, including its refreshed styling, appealing interior, engine performance, and driving dynamics. We also discuss who this SUV is best suited for. We also answer audience questions about the reliability and maintenance of high-voltage hybrid batteries. Plus, we explore why European cars often get advanced safety...
Apr 09, 2025•46 min•Season 12Ep. 469
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 ...
Mar 26, 2025•25 min•Season 12Ep. 468
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 conve...
Mar 12, 2025•47 min•Season 12Ep. 467
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 1...
Feb 26, 2025•42 min•Season 12Ep. 466
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...
Feb 12, 2025•43 min•Season 12Ep. 465
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 i...
Jan 29, 2025•1 hr•Season 13Ep. 464
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.consumerrepor...
Jan 15, 2025•23 min•Season 12Ep. 463
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, indep...
Dec 30, 2024•1 hr 11 min•Season 12Ep. 462
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 o...
Dec 18, 2024•29 min•Season 12Ep. 461
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 relia...
Dec 05, 2024•33 min•Season 12Ep. 460
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 - Adapti...
Nov 27, 2024•31 min•Season 12Ep. 459
The Jeep Compass is the brand's only compact or subcompact SUV. We look at changes to the 2025 Compass, notably a new 200-hp powertrain since the next generation isn't slated to arrive in North America until 2026. Do the latest engine and other updates give this Jeep an edge over its competitors? We also answer viewer questions, including whether tire siping has any downsides. This process involves cutting thin, perpendicular slits into the tire tread to enhance traction in wet conditions. Addit...
Nov 13, 2024•42 min•Season 12Ep. 458
Exclusive CR discount for Talking Cars viewers at https://www.cr.org/jointalkingcars The Mini Cooper has been the cornerstone of the brand since its inception and has been redesigned for 2025. Our experts share their first impressions of the 2025 Mini Cooper S two-door, discussing its performance and whether this fifth-generation model retains the classic British styling, minimalist interior, and unique agility that fans have cherished in previous versions. We also answer viewer questions about ...
Oct 30, 2024•27 min•Season 12Ep. 457
We recently purchased a 2024 Chevrolet Traverse LT AWD for testing. In this episode, we share our first impressions of the four-cylinder turbo engine, infotainment usability, and whether the Traverse works as a family hauler compared to the Kia Telluride, Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, and Hyundai Palisade. And, with recent hurricanes hitting the U.S., we discuss whether a flooded electric vehicle is more prone to becoming a fire hazard and if there are specific steps an owner should take to br...
Oct 16, 2024•50 min•Season 12Ep. 456
Consumer Reports has finally taken delivery of the long-awaited and much-hyped Tesla Cybertruck. We highlight many of its innovative features, polarizing styling, and driving characteristics. Additionally, we address audience questions, including how CR manages to purchase so many cars each year anonymously without staff being recognized by dealerships, and why some car manufacturers, even those known for safety like Subaru, do not make Consumer Reports' safe car list. More info on the 2024 Tesl...
Oct 02, 2024•38 min•Season 12Ep. 455
Exclusive CR discount for Talking Cars viewers at https://www.cr.org/jointalkingcars By redesigning the 2024 Land Cruiser, Toyota reinforces its commitment to off-road excellence. In this episode, we share our first impressions of the new Land Cruiser, highlighting its hybrid powertrain, nostalgic design elements, and off-road capabilities. We also explore how Consumer Reports' new CR Recommended initiative enhances value for car buyers. Additionally, we look at whether front-wheel-drive EVs off...
Sep 25, 2024•34 min•Season 12Ep. 454
The redesigned 2025 Subaru Forester continues decades of Forester fan favorites, including its functionality, excellent visibility, roomy cabin, and standard all-wheel drive. Here, we highlight the updates to the sixth-generation Forester, including its refreshed styling, refined ride, and cabin experience. We also answer audience questions about the affect of gas-saving start/stop systems in vehicles and if a used Ford F-150 Lightning is a practical choice for an EV. More info on the 2025 Subar...
Sep 11, 2024•33 min•Season 12Ep. 453
Exclusive CR discount for Talking Cars listeners at cr.org/jointalkingcars Purchasing a used car is an excellent way to save money, with over 36 million pre-owned vehicles sold in the U.S. in 2023 alone, more than doubling new car purchases. Our experts at CR have meticulously analyzed exclusive test and survey data to pinpoint the best pre-owned cars across different price ranges, helping consumers make informed decisions for a better shopping experience. In this week's episode, we explore the ...
Aug 28, 2024•30 min•Season 12Ep. 452
See our car ratings and reviews at: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT This week, we discuss the 2024 Honda Prologue. It's Honda's first mainstream electric vehicle, made possible through a collaboration between Honda and General Motors. The Prologue shares much of its architecture with the Chevrolet Blazer EV. We cover the differences between the two electric SUVs and debate whether the Prologue is better than the Blazer. Plus, we answer questions about how to buy a car and...
Aug 14, 2024•38 min•Season 12Ep. 451
See our car ratings and reviews at: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Mini's largest SUV, the Countryman, has been thoroughly redesigned. For 2025, it's bigger in almost every dimension. This week, we share our first impressions of the Countryman, including its performance, driving characteristics, fashionable interior with unique design cues, and whether it still upholds its British nostalgia feel. We also answer audience questions, including whether white cars are safer o...
Jul 31, 2024•31 min•Season 12Ep. 450
This week on Talking Cars, we're talking trucks! We share our first impressions of the 2024 Toyota Tacoma, a perennially popular and traditionally reliable midsized truck. We cover Tacoma's 2024 redesign and discuss how it compares to other pickups in the competitive segment. Plus, we answer questions about sourcing parts for older vehicles and the reliability of newer turbo 4-cylinder engines proliferating in the car market. SHOW NOTES: 0:00 - Intro 0:24 - Audience Question, Gavin from Utah: Wi...
Jul 17, 2024•41 min•Season 12Ep. 449
Consumer Reports just purchased a 2024 Lincoln Nautilus AWD Reserve II for testing, and we already have strong opinions about the vehicle. The Nautilus is based on the Ford Edge, but a lot is unique to this car, including a panoramic screen that runs the length of the dashboard. We share our first impressions of its touchscreen controls, optional 24-way adjustable seats, "different approach" to air vents, ride, handling, and overall driving impressions. We also answer questions about why SUVs ha...
Jul 03, 2024•53 min•Season 12Ep. 448
The redesigned 2024 BMW X2 boasts more cargo room, expanded voice-activated controls, and standard driver assistance features. In this episode, we share our first impressions and discuss the changes, including its powertrain, and we compare the X2 to other BMW models, including its close sibling, the X1. We also answer audience questions, including whether or not stop/start systems are worth it, what happened to cornering headlights found on vehicles from the '70s, and options for a reliable sma...
Jun 19, 2024•29 min•Season 12Ep. 447
This week, we share our early impressions of the 2025 Toyota Camry. While Toyota didn’t revolutionize the 2025 model, it gets a big powertrain update, as every Camry will only come as a hybrid. We discuss why this change shouldn’t scare longtime Camry lovers and why Toyota’s reliability record should boost buyers’ confidence. Plus, we answer questions about legacy CR vehicle tests and EV home chargers. Check out CR's complete vehicle ratings and test results: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars...
Jun 05, 2024•30 min•Season 12Ep. 446
