Talking Cars (MP3)

Talking Cars (MP3)

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    per episode

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Talking Cars (MP3) episodes

  • 2024 Lexus TX

    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 walk away. Also, we answer if PHEVs (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles) are cheaper or more expensive to operate and maintain than the all-electric and internal combustion engine vehicles.

    More info on the 2024 Lexus TX here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2024-lexus-tx-review-a1128675523/?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 Lexus TX

    02:06 - 3 Powertrain Options

    04:32 - Plug-in Hybrid Version

    06:03 - 4-Cylinder Engine Performance

    08:47 - Ride and Handling

    11:14 - Dynamic Steering

    12:23 - 3rd-Row Seats

    13:34 - 2nd-Row Seats

    14:07 - Cargo and Space

    15:51 - Controls, Fit and Finish

    18:36 - Safety Systems

    20:13 - Lexus TX vs. Toyota Grand Highlander

    22:49 - Electronic Door Release

    24:19 - Question #1: What to do at the end of a vehicle lease: buy the car out; trade it in; or walk away?

    28:16 - Question #2: Are PHEVs more expensive to operate and maintain than all-electric and internal combustion vehicles?

    ----------------------------------

    First Drive: All-New 2024 Lexus TX Delivers Modern Luxury for the Whole Family

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2024-lexus-tx-review-a1128675523/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    2024 Lexus TX

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/lexus/tx/2024/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    First Drive: 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Shines Brightest With Hybrid Max Engine

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2024-toyota-grand-highlander-review-a7963942236/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    10 Best Luxury SUVs You Can Buy Right Now

    https://www.consumerreports.org/search/?query=three-row%20SUVs?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 [email protected] 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

    32 min
  • 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV

    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 the wait, or is the recently updated 2024 Honda Accord hybrid.

    More info on the 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2024-chevrolet-blazer-ev-review-a1328332871/?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 Chevrolet Blazer EV

    01:26 - Issues we encountered

    02:58 - Lack of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

    06:16 - Charging

    06:40 - Interior Quality

    07:08 - Driving Dynamics

    10:14 - The Brakes

    11:49 - Design oddities

    12:35 - Controls

    13:26 - Stop Sale Order

    14:39 - More issues

    16:43 - Things we liked

    17:20 - Visibility

    18:00 - Seat Comfort

    19:44 - Question #1: What will be the prevalent fuel source for vehicles in the next decade?

    25:26 - Question #2: Is the 2025 Toyota Camry worth the wait?

    ----------------------------------

    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

    2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV

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

    Hybrid & EV Ratings

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/?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: 2023 Cadillac Lyriq Shows GM's Commitment to Electric Cars

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/cadillac-lyriq-review-a5185208455/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Car Safety Guide

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/car-safety-guide-a6462424223/?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 [email protected] 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

    31 min
  • AI Really, REALLY Wants to Be in Your Next Car

    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 viable alternative to battery-electric vehicles in the future, and try to figure out why anyone would want a large LED screen built into their bumper.

    See our car ratings and reviews at: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    SHOW NOTES

    -----------------------------------

    00:00 - Introduction

    00:17 - Why is CR at CES 2024?

    01:30 - Who was not at CES 2024?

    03:46 - AI in your next car

    11:10 - Automakers Reimagining EVs

    14:30 - Large LED Screens inside and outside of vehicles

    17:11 - Hydrogen Vehicles

    21:03 - New EV concepts

    ----------------------------------

    First Drive: Toyota Mirai, the Hydrogen-Powered Luxury Cruiser

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2021-toyota-mirai-fuel-cell-vehicle-review-a6180665724/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Hybrid & EV Ratings

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Futuristic EQS Proves Mercedes-Benz's Commitment to EVs

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2022-mercedes-benz-eqs-review-a2271854355/?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 [email protected] 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

    24 min
  • Best and Worst Cars of 2023

    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 2023

    8:06 - the worst cars we tested in 2023

    18:36 - do hybrids benefit from regeneration braking like electric vehicles?

    23:51 - do all-wheel drive systems in EVs work the same way as in standard vehicles?

    Popular Cars to Avoid and What to Buy Instead: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-popular-cars-to-avoid-and-what-to-buy-instead-a5131342215/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    10 Most Reliable Cars: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/10-most-reliable-cars-a6569295379/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Best Tires of the Year: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/tires/best-car-tires-of-the-year-a1101679070/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Best Car Batteries of the Year: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-batteries/best-car-batteries-of-the-year-a2280775847/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Which Brand Makes the Most Reliable Vehicles? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

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

    Subscribe to Talking Cars on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@consumerreports/podcasts

    Have a question for our experts? Leave a comment on this episode, or reach out to us directly! Send us a text at [email protected] to send a photo, video, or text directly to the Talking Cars team!

    31 min
  • The Feasibility of Low-Carbon Fuels in the US

    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 footprint of vehicles in the United States.

    Things People Wished They'd Known Before Buying an EV:https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/smarter-things-people-wished-theyd-known-before-buying-an-ev-a5564226363/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    EVs vs. Gasoline: Which is Right for Your Life: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Can Using Gas With 15 Percent Ethanol Damage Your Car?:https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-repair-maintenance/can-using-gas-with-15-percent-ethanol-damage-your-car-a7855829511/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Can Electric Vehicle Owners Rely on DC Fast Charging?: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/can-electric-vehicle-owners-rely-on-dc-fast-charging-a7004735945/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

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

    Subscribe to Talking Cars on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@consumerreports/podcasts

    Have a question for our experts? Leave a comment on this episode, or reach out to us directly! Send us a text at [email protected] to send a photo, video, or text directly to the Talking Cars team!

    28 min
  • Why is EV Reliability So Bad?

    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 ratings for every major mainstream model, from brands that are highly rated to those that give owners constant issues. In this episode, we discuss some notable new insights on EVs, plug-in hybrids, hybrids, and traditional gas vehicles, and the difference in their reliability performance. Also, we explain how CR's "average" reliability rating has changed over the years--Is an "average" car from 2022 more or less reliable than one from 2012. And as a comparison, what is a more sensible purchase? A Tesla Model 3 or a Toyota Corolla hatchback?

    SHOW NOTES

    -----------------------------------

    00:00 - Introduction

    00:16 - What is CR's Car Reliability Survey

    01:04 - What's New in the 2023 Survey

    02:00 - Reliability Trends

    02:40 - EV Reliability

    06:04 - Tesla

    07:58 - Hybrid Vehicle Reliability

    11:25 - Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) Reliability

    13:41 - New Charts and Presentation

    17:13 - Sustainability

    18:29 - Has CR's "average" reliability rating change over the years?

    23:24 - What is a more sensible purchase, a Tesla Model 3 or a Toyota Corolla Hatchback?

    ----------------------------------

    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

    10 Least Reliable Cars

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/10-least-reliable-cars-a2967595976/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    10 Most Reliable Cars

    https://www.consumerreports.org/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/10-most-reliable-cars-a6569295379/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Car Reliability Histories

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/car-reliability-histories-a1200719842/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Car Safety Guide

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/car-safety-guide-a6462424223/?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 [email protected] 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

    29 min
  • 2023 Toyota Prius Prime Plug-in Hybrid

    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 Combustion Engine) vehicles and EVs, and how to improve traction in wintry weather driving.

    More info on the 2023 Toyota Prius Prime here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2023-prius-prime-review-a5923308955/?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: 2023 Toyota Prius Prime

    02:28 - Prime vs Regular Prius

    05:31 - Traffic Jam Assist

    07:19 - Safety Features

    10:40 - How it Drives

    13:26 - Controls

    15:41 - Is it worth the extra cost?

    21:06 - Question #1: What is a fuel efficient alternative for a Scion tC?

    27:25 - What are some differences between gas powered vehicles and EV's all-wheel drive systems?

    ----------------------------------

    Redesigned 2023 Toyota Prius Prime Gets Longer Electric-Only Range

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2023-prius-prime-review-a5923308955/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    2023 Toyota Prius Prime

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/toyota/prius-prime/2023/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Best Hybrid Cars for Under $35,000

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/fuel-economy-efficiency/best-hybrid-cars-from-consumer-reports-tests-a5841270718/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Everything You Need to Know About Leasing an EV or PHEV With a Tax Credit

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/what-to-know-about-leasing-an-ev-or-phev-with-tax-credit-a3007689035/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Redesigned 2023 Toyota Prius Trades Practicality for Style

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2023-toyota-prius-review-a1192095682/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Car Safety Guide

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/car-safety-guide-a6462424223/?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 [email protected] 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

    Follow Us on Social:

    TikTok: https://bit.ly/3BVzGR9

    Instagram: http://bit.ly/1I49Bzo

    Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1IQ2w5q

    Twitter: http://bit.ly/1Yf5Fh2

    Pinterest: http://bit.ly/1P37mM9

    33 min
  • 2024 Buick Envista

    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.

    More info on the 2024 Buick Envista here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2024-buick-envista-review-a7250677190/?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 Buick Envista

    01:31 - What is Envista?

    04:33 - Price and Size

    06:14 - Driving Characteristics

    07:05 - Features

    08:23 - The Buick Brand

    09:01 - Styling

    10:19 - Low Cost Vehicles

    12:30 - Question #1: How does Consumer Reports measure legroom in back rows for three-row SUVs?

    18:09 - Question #2: Is it wise to upgrade an older vehicle for the sake of modern safety features?

    ----------------------------------

    First Drive: Stylish 2024 Buick Envista Is a Bargain Runabout

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2024-buick-envista-review-a7250677190/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    2024 Buick Envista

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/buick/envista/2024/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    How to Buy a New Car in Today's Challenging Market

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/buying-a-car/how-to-buy-a-car-in-todays-challenging-market-a7648220054/?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

    Car Safety Guide

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/car-safety-guide-a6462424223/?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 [email protected] 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

    Follow Us on Social:

    TikTok: https://bit.ly/3BVzGR9

    Instagram: http://bit.ly/1I49Bzo

    Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1IQ2w5q

    Twitter: http://bit.ly/1Yf5Fh2

    Pinterest: http://bit.ly/1P37mM9

    26 min
  • 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse

    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 transmission

    8:26 - Handling & ride dynamics

    9:25 - Ford Drift Brake

    12:06 - Driver screen & infotainment

    15:40 - Seats

    16:47 - Gauge clusters

    17:40 - Is this the last Mustang?

    19:24 - Audience Question

    LINKS:

    2024 Ford Mustang: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/ford/mustang/2024/overview/

    2024 Ford Mustang Early Review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jFinVVIOl3c

    Find the Best Sports Cars & Convertibles: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/sports-cars/

    26 min
  • Plug-In Hybrids Are Not What You Think They Are

    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 hybrid battery and the 12-volt battery in hybrid vehicles.

    CR's PHEV cost calculator: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1AHW1tUQIXa5NMWAKLHxKh1Xoro6tkOHpyV6cDbAu6U8/edit?usp=sharing

    More info on plug-in hybrid electric vehicles here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/is-a-plug-in-hybrid-vehicle-right-for-you-a9339147016/?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 - Why (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) PHEVs?

    04:28 - What are plug-in hybrids?

    07:28 - Who are PHEVs for?

    12:10 - Plug-ins are a version of gas powered vehicles

    13:39 - Our experience with 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe (PHEV)

    16:52 - Driving the 2023 Ford Escape PHEV

    20:08 - 2023 Mazda CX90 PHEV

    21:04 - PHEVs are not for everyone

    26:08 - Question #1: Which plug-in hybrid should I buy?

    31:22 - Question #2: Will a 12-volt trickle charger also keep the hybrid battery topped off?

    ----------------------------------

    Is a Plug-In Hybrid Vehicle Right for You?

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/is-a-plug-in-hybrid-vehicle-right-for-you-a9339147016/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Electric Cars 101: Answers to All Your EV Questions

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/electric-cars-101-the-answers-to-all-your-ev-questions-a7130554728/?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

    Car Safety Guide

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/car-safety-guide-a6462424223/?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 [email protected] 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/

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    36 min

About Talking Cars (MP3)

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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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