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 EV for ...
Mar 22, 2023•30 min•Ep 404•Transcript available on Metacast 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's like...
Mar 17, 2023•14 min•Transcript available on Metacast 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 - Intro 0:18 - 20...
Mar 15, 2023•22 min•Ep 403•Transcript available on Metacast 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, ‘bumper bas...
Mar 08, 2023•24 min•Transcript available on Metacast 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 networks and...
Mar 03, 2023•24 min•Transcript available on Metacast 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 someone from our ...
Feb 24, 2023•24 min•Ep 400•Transcript available on Metacast 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 other ...
Feb 16, 2023•19 min•Transcript available on Metacast 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 Avalon. We...
Feb 10, 2023•26 min•Ep 398•Transcript available on Metacast 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 ----------------------------------...
Feb 08, 2023•17 min•Transcript available on Metacast 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 of the ...
Feb 03, 2023•31 min•Transcript available on Metacast 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 solid reputati...
Jan 27, 2023•29 min•Transcript available on Metacast 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 - Driving impressions ...
Jan 20, 2023•26 min•Ep 395•Transcript available on Metacast 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 new Toyota Highlander. Our experts share their first impressions of the three-row SUV and talk about how the Highlander sticks to what it does best, despite its 2023 refresh. We also answer audience questions about top tier gasoline and why the Genesis GV70 SUV comes with a launch control feature. SHOW NOTES: 0:00 - Intro 0:21 - 2023 Toyota Highlander 2:12 - Highl...
Jan 13, 2023•24 min•Transcript available on Metacast You'd be forgiven for thinking that if a car is electric, it has to have a minimalist design, with weird door handles and every function controlled through a touchscreen. But the BMW i4 both looks and feels very much like a traditional sports car. But is that a good thing? We discuss the BMW i4 M50 we purchased for our test program, how it performs on our track, its questionable range, whether it carries on the "ultimate driving machine" lineage of its parent company, and how it compares to EV c...
Jan 06, 2023•19 min•Transcript available on Metacast 2022 Year in Review Become a member at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to find out more about our tests. On this episode, we recap 2022 and share our personal picks for the best and worst cars we tested this year. We also discuss the biggest trends in the auto industry, including the evolution of electric vehicles, infotainment customization and smartphone apps that enhance the ownership experience. We share what we're most looking forward to in the year ahead. SHOW NOTES: 0:00 - Intro 1:18 - Favorite ...
Dec 30, 2022•37 min•Transcript available on Metacast Become a member at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to find out how each vehicle we purchase performs in our tests. The Lucid Air is an ultra-luxury, all-electric sedan, built by the fledgling EV automaker to compete with other high-end EVs like the Tesla Model S and Porsche Taycan. We discuss its driving dynamics, interior quality, what technical improvements it adds to electric vehicles as a whole, and whether it might be worth its six-figure price tag. We also discuss the role low-rolling-resistance ...
Dec 23, 2022•21 min•Ep 391•Transcript available on Metacast The 2023 BMW X1 redesign brings more features, room, and power, but does it have enough to compete with the Audi Q3, Lexus NX, Mercedes-Benz GLA, and other competitors in the entry-level luxury SUV segment? We discuss its driving characteristics, updated technology, cabin, and how much utility an SUV this size can really provide. Our experts also share tips on how to avoid MSRP dealer markups when car shopping, and give our picks for a reliable and fuel efficient family vehicle. ----------------...
Dec 16, 2022•27 min•Ep 390•Transcript available on Metacast Become a member at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to find out how this car performs in our tests. This week we discuss the all-new 2023 Nissan Ariya, the second electric vehicle to join the automaker's EV roster behind the Leaf. We discuss the extensive Ariya model lineup, how it stacks up against other electric car competitors like the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, Volkswagen ID.4, and Subaru Solterra. We also debate how future-proof the new Nissan may be, and answer an audience question about backup cam...
Dec 09, 2022•31 min•Transcript available on Metacast Become a member at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to find out how this car performs in our tests. On this episode, we share our first impressions of the 2023 Honda CR-V. We cover the details of the CR-V’s redesign, its role in Honda’s vehicle lineup and how its understated nature fits into a consumer's life. We also answer a question about catalytic converter theft, and what you can do to protect your own vehicle. SHOW NOTES: 0:00 - Intro 0:15 - Welcome Michael Crossen 1:07 - 2023 Honda CR-V 2:23 - Fi...
Dec 02, 2022•19 min•Ep 388•Transcript available on Metacast Become a member at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to find out how each vehicle we purchase performs in our tests. What's the difference between all-season and all-weather tires? How are they different from winter tires? And do I need to bother if my car has all-wheel drive? On this episode, we explain the differences between each of these types of tires, which conditions they work best in, and offer Consumer Reports buying advice on how to make sure you're prepared for driving in icy, snowy weather. W...
Nov 25, 2022•27 min•Transcript available on Metacast Become a member at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to find out how this car performs in our tests. This week we cover everything you need to know about buying a used car. Our experts discuss the finer points of financing, vehicle selection, inspection and overall reliability based on Consumer Reports’ latest data. We also answer an audience question about a rebuilt vehicle title and if it’s a safe bet when buying a second-hand vehicle. SHOW NOTES: 0:00 - Intro 0:39 - Welcome Steve Elek! 2:02 - State of...
Nov 18, 2022•27 min•Transcript available on Metacast Become a member at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to find out how this car performs in our tests. On this episode, we share our first impressions of the redesigned 2023 Lexus RX. We discuss how it drives, new safety features like active driver monitoring, and the updated powertrain. We also debate the perceived color of the RX we rented from Lexus and answer an audience question that begs, “What’s the deal with voice controls?” SHOW NOTES: 0:00 - Introduction 0:15 - 2023 Lexus RX 500h 4:14 - Debating ...
Nov 11, 2022•29 min•Transcript available on Metacast We recently published the results of a nationally representative survey of over 8,000 people, asking their opinions about EVs, and what concerns they have about purchasing one. Consumer Reports Senior Policy Analyst Chris Harto joins us to break down the findings, explain why the survey gives us a more representative data of the country as a whole, and reveal more surprising findings. ----------------------------------- Have a question for our experts? Leave a comment on this episode, or reach o...
Nov 10, 2022•14 min•Transcript available on Metacast Become a member at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to find out how this car performs in our tests. This week we share our first impressions of the 2023 Kia Niro. We discuss the Niro’s hybrid and electric powertrains, its promising fuel economy estimates and how the 2023 redesign seems more like a refresh. We also answer an audience question about vehicle service— and whether it's better to visit a dealer or an independent repair shop. SHOW NOTES: 0:00-15:30 - 2023 Kia Niro 1 5:31 - Question: Is it a go...
Nov 04, 2022•23 min•Ep 384•Transcript available on Metacast We just purchased a 2023 Subaru BRZ for the Consumer Reports test fleet, and stacked it up in a head-to-head comparison with our tested Toyota GR86. While both of these cars (created in a partnership between Toyota and Subaru) are identical in many ways, there are a few critical differences in how they perform. Which came out on top? Our experts share which one they'd choose, as well as discuss the important differences between all-weather, all-season, and snow tires. ---------------------------...
Oct 28, 2022•24 min•Transcript available on Metacast The all-new Q4 e-tron is Audi's third EV model, and we share our first impressions of its driving characteristics, tech-heavy interior, whether the 240 miles range will be enough for most drivers, and how it compares to the Tesla Model Y, Genesis GV60, and Ford Mustang Mach-E. We also share some important tips to avoid buying a car that has been in a flood. ----------------------------------- Have a question for our experts? Leave a comment on this episode, or reach out to us directly! From your...
Oct 21, 2022•23 min•Ep 382•Transcript available on Metacast This week we explain how the Inflation Reduction Act has changed the federal EV tax credit for new EV and plug-in hybrids; how miles per gallon is converted for electric vehicles into MPGe; should anyone really care about how many gears a transmission has; and is it necessary to ever service your car’s transmission? ----------------------------------- Have a question for our experts? Leave a comment on this episode, or reach out to us directly! From your iOS device, iMessage us at TalkingCars@ic...
Oct 14, 2022•31 min•Ep 381•Transcript available on Metacast We've already tested the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee, but this week we share our first impressions of the all-new Trailhawk 4xe version. This rugged, off-road-capable two-row SUV makes use of a turbocharged plug-in hybrid powertrain, which gives it the ability to drive solely on electric power—a unique experience in the woods. We also attempt to find a three-row electric vehicle for a growing family under 50K. ----------------------------------- Have a question for our experts? Leave a comment on t...
Oct 07, 2022•25 min•Transcript available on Metacast Ford has transformed the nation's best-selling pickup truck into a quick and capable EV. We share our first impressions of the 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning, and discuss its prodigious power, swift acceleration, strong towing capability, and impressive electric range. We also talk about whether the new Lighting is a truck for the new, greener era. Plus, we help an audience member with some tire-buying advice and explain the importance of changing out your car's summer tires when the weather starts g...
Sep 30, 2022•19 min•Ep 379•Transcript available on Metacast With the cold season just around the corner, we share vital tips on preparing your vehicle for driving in wintry conditions, including checking and maintaining the proper tire pressure, the state of your car's battery charge, and topping off appropriate fluids. Also, we inspire a young mechanical engineering student with personal stories of how we advanced in our own automotive careers and give advice regarding future opportunities. And we welcome a special guest to the show this week, Consumer ...
Sep 23, 2022•41 min•Ep 378•Transcript available on Metacast 
