We just bought a 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Plug-in Hybrid, and share our first impressions of how it drives. We also answer quite a few audience questions this week, ranging from why we don't have Japanese Kei cars in the US market, how to find out if the car you are purchasing has unresolved manufacturer recalls, and can you put a child in the front seat.    ------------------------------------- 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@icloud.com to send a photo, video, or text directly to the Talking Cars team!  We love to feature our viewers on the show, so submit video questions at https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-talking-cars/  Subscribe to Talking Cars on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jr8wJRJyN9v8T6LC1fQQ6   SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 00:37 - 2019 Subaru Crosstrek PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid) First Impressions 06:48 - Question 1: Can a Car Manufacturer Recall Expire? 10:09 - Question 2: Why Kei Cars Do Not Exist In The US Market? 13:23 - Question 3: When To Sell a Car With Too Many Repairs? 16:30 - Question 4: How Safe Are The Front Seat Passengers From Stuff In The Trunk? 18:29 - Question 5: How Do Head Restraints Effect Rear Seat Occupants? 21:08 - Question 6: Fully Loaded Mazda CX-5 vs. Lower Trim BMW X3 25:44 - Question 7: Can Small Children Ride In The Front Seat?   -----------------------------------    4K Review: 2018 Subaru Crosstrek Quick Drive https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4J005E_TMeY   Safety Issues & Recalls https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls   4K Review: 2017 Mazda CX-5 Quick Drive https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KmTVgcuD2V4   4K Review: 2018 BMW X3 Quick Drive https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ogONHegJwXk   -----------------------------------   Check out http://www.ConsumerReports.org for the latest reviews, tips, and recommendations and subscribe to our YouTube Channel: http://bit.ly/1Nlb1Ez   Follow Us on Social: Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1IQ2w5q Twitter: http://bit.ly/1Yf5Fh2 Pinterest: http://bit.ly/1P37mM9 Instagram: http://bit.ly/1I49Bzo Google+: http://bit.ly/1Md3gfQ

#206 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Plug-in Hybrid First Impressions; Audience Questions

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In this supersized episode, we share our very unusual experience purchasing, receiving, and driving our 2023 Fisker Ocean Ultra; there are so many twists and turns to this story, we can’t summarize them here, you’ll just have to listen to the entire wild experience! We also answer audience questions about how to store an EV for long periods of time, and the best car for road trips: the Ford Maverick, Subaru Forester, or Toyota Camry.   More info on the 2023 Fisker Ocean here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/fisker-ocean-electric-suv-review-a2735159415/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Ratings and test results on every car CR purchases and tests: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT     SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 00:00 - Introduction 00:15 - Our Fisker Ocean 01:53 - Buying & Delivery Experience 06:19 - Issue with the Ocean 09:16 - Payment 09:53 - Driving Experience 10:46 - Software Versions 12:19 - Customer Service 14:41 - Experiencing The Car 21:12 - Missing Safety Features 23:02 - Features we liked 23:43 - Range & Charging 27:49 - Regenerative Braking 31:25 - Controls 33:34 - ABS Issue 34:59 - Cabin 37:09 - SDV - Software Defined Vehicle 39:18 - State of Fisker 43:26 - Price Drop 45:06 - The Paint 47:50 - Inventory 51:37 - Consumer Take Aways 54:22 - Question #1: What is the best way to store an electric vehicle  for a long period of time? 57:34 - Question #2: What is the best car for road trips: the Ford Maverick, Subaru Forester, or Toyota Camry?     ----------------------------------   First Drive: 2023 Fisker Ocean Electric SUV Proves to Be Unfinished Business https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/fisker-ocean-electric-suv-review-a2735159415/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   2023 Fisker Ocean https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/fisker/ocean/2023/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Electric Cars and Plug-In Hybrids That Qualify for Federal Tax Credits https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/electric-cars-plug-in-hybrids-that-qualify-for-tax-credits-a7820795671/?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     ----------------------------------- 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@icloud.com to send a photo, video, or text directly to the Talking Cars team!   We love to feature our viewers on the show, so submit video questions at https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-talking-cars/   Subscribe to Talking Cars on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jr8wJRJyN9v8T6LC1fQQ6     ----------------------------------- To find out how products scored in CR’s rigorous lab tests—and to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day—become a member. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization. Join now at https://CR.org/joinviaYT

The Crazy Saga of Our Fisker Ocean

Are less expensive cars cool again? The prevalence of cars real people can afford is one of the trends we noticed at the 2024 New York Auto Show. We looked closely at the new Nissan Kicks, Subaru Forester, Honda Prologue, Toyota Camry, Volkswagen ID. Buzz, and many more. Our experts also share their favorite car/trend/feature from the show floor.    See our car ratings and reviews at: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT     SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 00:00 - Introduction 00:31 - Universal Appeal 02:07 - 2025 Toyota Camry 03:30 - 2025 Kia K4 04:09 - 2025 Subaru Forester 05:10 - Manufacturer’s Presence 06:24 - EVs 09:22 - Volkswagen ID.Buzz 10:59 - Race Cars 12:32 - Pet Ownership, Mobility & Accessibility Appeal 15:47 - Color Trend 16:53 - 2025 Nissan Kicks 17:43 - 2024 Ford Bronco Heritage     ----------------------------------   Preview: Redesigned 2025 Nissan Kicks Grows Slightly, Gains AWD https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2025-nissan-kicks-review-a9588794667/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Preview: Redesigned 2025 Toyota Camry Goes Hybrid-Only, With AWD Available on All Trims https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/2025-toyota-camry-hybrid-review-a1114602128/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Preview: 2025 Subaru Forester Boasts Brawny Styling, More Tech, and a Quiet Cabin https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2025-subaru-forester-review-a4022375572/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Preview: 2024 Honda Prologue Electric Vehicle Is Sensible and Roomy https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2024-honda-prologue-review-a8015429336/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Preview: 2025 Volkswagen ID.Buzz Electric Minivan Offers AWD and Nostalgia https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/volkswagen-id-buzz-minivan-review-a4884016168/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT     ----------------------------------- 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@icloud.com to send a photo, video, or text directly to the Talking Cars team!   We love to feature our viewers on the show, so submit video questions at https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-talking-cars/   Subscribe to Talking Cars on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jr8wJRJyN9v8T6LC1fQQ6     ----------------------------------- To find out how products scored in CR’s rigorous lab tests—and to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day—become a member. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization. Join now at https://CR.org/joinviaYT   Check out https://www.ConsumerReports.org for the latest reviews, tips, and recommendations and subscribe to our YouTube Channel: http://bit.ly/1Nlb1Ez

2024 New York Auto Show

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, chassis, interior, and body from any car they wished and making their own creation.   More info on the 2024 Hyundai Kona here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2024-hyundai-kona-review-a8558776955/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Ratings and test results on every car CR purchases and tests: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT     SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 00:00 - Introduction 00:16 - First Impressions: 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric 01:57 - Cabin and Controls 03:07 - Compared to Gas Powered Vehicle 04:00 - Driving and Power 04:55 - Some Compromises 05:38 - Powertrain 06:19 - Regenerative Braking 08:42 - Cabin Noise 10:26 - Charging Systems 14:18 - Question #1: Do EVs have 12-volt batteries like regular cars, and do they need to be serviced? 18:18 - Question #2: If you could design a car where you source the powertrain, infotainment, interior, chassis, etc from any automaker, what would you make?     ----------------------------------   First Drive: Redesigned 2024 Hyundai Kona Has Grown Larger and Gained New Features https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2024-hyundai-kona-review-a8558776955/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   2024 Hyundai Kona Electric https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hyundai/kona-electric/2024/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Automakers Move to a Common Plug Standard to Allow Their EVs to Use Tesla Superchargers https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/tesla-superchargers-open-to-other-evs-what-to-know-a9262067544/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   How to Find All the Available Electric Car Incentives https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/how-to-find-all-the-available-electric-car-incentives-a5786754228/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Hybrids/EV Buying Guide https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/buying-guide/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT     ----------------------------------- 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@icloud.com to send a photo, video, or text directly to the Talking Cars team!   We love to feature our viewers on the show, so submit video questions at https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-talking-cars/   Subscribe to Talking Cars on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jr8wJRJyN9v8T6LC1fQQ6     ----------------------------------- To find out how products scored in CR’s rigorous lab tests—and to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day—become a member. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization. Join now at https://CR.org/joinviaYT

2024 Hyundai Kona Electric

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 which would be the ultimate food delivery vehicle, the Toyota Prius or the Corolla Hybrid.    Ratings and test results on every car CR purchases and tests: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT     SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 00:00 - Introduction 00:17 - What is the Top Picks List 01:29 - Auto Market Shift 03:52 - Car Categories in Top Picks 05:13 - Question #1: When looking at CR’s reliability rating, why are hybrids are among the most reliable vehicles, but plug-in hybrids are among the least? 11:10 - 10 Top Picks of 2024 11:34 - EVs 12:48 - Plug-in Hybrids 16:07 - Hybrids 18:48 - Gas Powered Vehicles 22:54 - Brand Report Card 25:46 - Question #2: Which car is the ultimate food delivery vehicle: the Toyota Corolla Hybrid or the Prius AWD?     ----------------------------------   Best Cars of the Year: 10 Top Picks of 2024 https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/best-cars-of-the-year-10-top-picks-of-2024-a4675085257/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Which Car Brands Make the Best Vehicles https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles-a6159221985/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Hybrids/EV Buying Guide https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/buying-guide/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Mazda3 https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/mazda/3/2024/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Subaru Crosstrek  https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/subaru/crosstrek/2024/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Subaru Forester  https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/subaru/forester/2024/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Toyota Camry Hybrid  https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/toyota/camry-hybrid/2024/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Toyota Prius/Prius Prime https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/toyota/prius/2024/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Ford Maverick/Maverick Hybrid  https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/ford/maverick/2024/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Toyota RAV4 Prime  https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/toyota/rav4-prime/2024/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Toyota Highlander Hybrid  https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/toyota/highlander-hybrid/2024/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   BMW X5/X5 PHEV https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/bmw/x5/2024/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Tesla Model Y  https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/tesla/model-y/2024/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT     ----------------------------------- Subscribe to Talking Cars on Apple Podcasts!   Video version: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-cars-hq/id630839767?mt=2   Audio version: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-cars-mp3/id630831189?mt=2   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@icloud.com to send a photo, video, or text directly to the Talking Cars team!   We love to feature our viewers on the show, so submit video questions at https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-talking-cars/   Subscribe to Talking Cars on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jr8wJRJyN9v8T6LC1fQQ6     ----------------------------------- To find out how products scored in CR’s rigorous lab tests—and to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day—become a member. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization. Join now at https://CR.org/joinviaYT

The Best Cars of 2024

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.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2024-kia-ev9-review-a4079455654/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Ratings and test results on every car CR purchases and tests: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT     SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 00:00 - Introduction 00:15 - First Impressions: 2024 Kia EV9 ll 01:05 - What is the EV9? 02:17 - How it Drives 03:43 - The Third-Row Seats 05:09 - Power & Range 06:55 - Controls 10:21 - Fit and Finish 12:11 - Question #1: Do hybrid vehicles need specific tires to maintain its fuel efficiency? 14:59 - Question #2: Why some vehicles are getting a poor rating on the IIHS updated moderate overlap crash test     ----------------------------------   First Drive: 2024 Kia EV9 Takes the Three-Row EV Mainstream https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2024-kia-ev9-review-a4079455654/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   2024 Kia EV9 https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/kia/ev9/2024/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Electric Vehicles That Can Go More Than 250 Miles on a Charge https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/electric-vehicles-that-can-go-more-than-250-miles-on-a-full-charge-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   Popular Midsized SUVs to Avoid and What to Buy Instead https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/popular-midsized-suvs-to-avoid-and-what-to-buy-instead-a7341748420/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT     ----------------------------------- 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@icloud.com to send a photo, video, or text directly to the Talking Cars team!   We love to feature our viewers on the show, so submit video questions at https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-talking-cars/   Subscribe to Talking Cars on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jr8wJRJyN9v8T6LC1fQQ6     ----------------------------------- To find out how products scored in CR’s rigorous lab tests—and to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day—become a member. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization. Join now at https://CR.org/joinviaYT

#206 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Plug-in Hybrid First Impressions; Audience Questions

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