Talking Cars (MP3)

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 that wants to drive something sporty? Our experts share their personal picks for keeping driving exciting while staying family friendly.

SHOW NOTES

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

00:00 - Introduction

00:17 - Highlights: 2023 Honda CR-V

01:14 - Fuel Economy

02:40 - Hybrid vs. Non-Hybrid Comparison

06:04 - Inside the Cabin & Controls

09:50 - Wrap Up: Hybrid or Regular

11:32 - Question: What would be the best car for a new dad that wants to drive something sporty?

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First Drive: Redesigned 2023 Honda CR-V Sticks With Winning Formula

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2023-honda-cr-v-review-a1196843568/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/honda/cr-v-hybrid/2023/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

2023 Honda CR-V

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/honda/cr-v/2023/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid Early Review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RDU8P6YlQq0

2023 Toyota RAV4

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/toyota/rav4/2023/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Quietest Compact SUVs From Consumer Reports' Tests

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/quietest-compact-suvs-from-consumer-reports-tests-a6460127872/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

2023 Kia Telluride

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/kia/telluride/2023/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

First Drive: The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI and Golf R Build on Hot-Hatch Fundamentals

https://www.consumerreports.org/sports-cars/2022-volkswagen-gti-golf-r-review-a6013272130/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

2023 Honda Civic

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/honda/civic/2023/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

First Drive: 300-HP 2023 Toyota GR Corolla Proves Both Fast and Furious

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/sports-cars/2023-toyota-gr-corolla-review-a7360611291/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Guide to Car Safety

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-guide-to-car-safety/?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://www.CR.org/join

Check out https://www.ConsumerReports.org for the latest reviews, tips, and recommendations and subscribe to our YouTube Channel: http://bit.ly/1Nlb1Ez

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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 tips for shopping for his first car that has both sporty driving dynamics and important safety features.

SHOW NOTES

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

00:00 - Introduction

00:15 - First Impressions: 2024 Subaru Crosstrek

02:07 - New Updates

04:01 - The Ride

05:20 - Styling

07:16 - Seat Comfort and Driving Position

09:56 - Controls

12:34 - AWD and Off-Road Capability

14:35 - Question: What would be a safe, fun to drive manual transmission vehicle for a new teen driver?

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

First Drive: 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Benefits from Subtle Updates

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2024-subaru-crosstrek-review-a4045387800/

2024 Subaru Crosstrek

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/subaru/crosstrek/2024/overview/

2023 Mazda CX-30

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/mazda/cx-30/2023/overview/

2022 Kia Niro

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/kia/niro/2022/overview/

2023 Mazda 3

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/mazda/3/2023/overview/

2017 Honda Accord

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/honda/accord/2017/overview/

Guide to Car Safety

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-guide-to-car-safety/

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

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

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

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

Follow Us on Social:

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

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 run-flat tires or a dedicated spare.

SHOW NOTES

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

00:00 - Introduction

00:16 - First Impressions: 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6

03:06 - Competitors

05:16 - Styling

06:47 - Ride and Handling

12:25 - Brake Regeneration

14:43 - Interior

15:56 - Controls

16:41 - Personal Choice

20:19 - Question: Most new cars include a flat tire repair kit rather than a spare, is it wise to drive without a spare tire?

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

First Drive: All-New 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6 Is Quick, Quiet, and Comfortable

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2023-hyundai-ioniq-6-review-a1122495086/

2023 Hyundai Ioniq

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hyundai/ioniq-6/2023/overview/

The Kia EV9 Promises to Be a Family-Friendly, 3-Row Electric SUV

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2024-kia-ev9-review-a4079455654/

Guide to Car Safety

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-guide-to-car-safety/

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

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://www.CR.org/join

Check out https://www.ConsumerReports.org for the latest reviews, tips, and recommendations and subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Follow Us on Social:

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

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

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

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

00:00 - Introduction

00:15 - Polar Opposites: Big Trucks/Performance Cars vs. EVs

01:40 - RAM 1500 REV

02:50 - Dodge Challenger Demon SRT 170

04:29 - Chevrolet Camero

05:25 - Ford Mustang

07:01 - Chevrolet Blazer EV

07:24 - Kia EV9

12:38 - Hyundai Kona EV

13:26 - Chevrolet Equinox EV

15:02 - Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray

16:16 - Chevrolet TRAX

17:03 - Toyota Grand Highlander

10:51 - Lack of Concept Cars

18:45 - Personal Picks of The Show

22:40 - Japanese Domestic Market Cars

23:13 - Top Secret V12 Supra Gold

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

Longer 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Boasts Big Power

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

2024 Hyundai Kona Breaks Cover as an EV

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2024-hyundai-kona-review-a8558776955/

Preview: 2025 RAM 1500 REV Packs 500-Mile Range, 14,000-lb. Tow Capacity

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2025-ram-1500-rev-review-a2009025869/

The Kia EV9 Promises to Be a Family-Friendly, 3-Row Electric SUV

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2024-kia-ev9-review-a4079455654/

High Powered, High-Tech 2024 GMC Sierra EV Breaks Cover

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2024-gmc-sierra-ev-review-a5905542270/

Stunning 2024 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray Combines Hybrid and AWD

https://www.consumerreports.org/sports-cars/chevrolet-corvette-hybrid-electric-review-a2522443606/

2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV Unveiled With Up to 320-Mile Range

https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/2024-chevrolet-blazer-ev-review-a1328332871/

2024 Chevrolet Trax Grows in Size, Not Price

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2024-chevrolet-trax-review-a4562224665/

2024 Ford Mustang Boosts Power and Technology, and a Dark Horse Emerges

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/sports-cars/2024-ford-mustang-review-a1352269489/

New 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV Starts at $30,000

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2024-chevrolet-equinox-ev-review-a7430613629/

Guide to Car Safety

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-guide-to-car-safety/

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

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://www.CR.org/join

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

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

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 Land Rover Range Rover Sport

23:13 - Question: Why does CR's reliability ratings change from year to year on vehicle models?

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

Redesigned 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport Finds Its Niche

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2023-land-rover-range-rover-sport-review-a9874404418/

2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/land-rover/range-rover-sport/2023/overview/

Guide to Car Safety

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-guide-to-car-safety/

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

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://www.CR.org/join

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

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

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

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 our test program, and share our first impression of its range, infotainment system, the usability of the third row, and how it compares to other EV SUVs like the Tesla Model X and BMW iX. We also discuss what happens to a car's telematics and infotainment systems when 3G and 4G service is shut down by wireless carriers.

SHOW NOTES:

0:00 - Intro

0:37 - 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQS450 SUV

2:38 - First Impressions

5:46 - Range/charge times

6:57 - Tech specs

8:20 - Infotainment screen

10:00 - Steering wheel controls

11:18 - Third-row seat

14:43 - EV characteristics

18:49 - Interior screens

20:00 - Who is this vehicle for?

22:15 - Fit and finish

23:24 - Question: What will happen to vehicles with 4G connected services when 5G takes over?

—

LINKS:

Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/mercedes-benz/eqs-suv/

How Well Do Tesla Superchargers Work for Non-Tesla EVs?: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/ev-chargers/how-well-do-tesla-superchargers-work-for-non-tesla-evs-a4713673565/

CR's Hybrid & EV Guide: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/

Will an Electric Car Save You Money?: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/will-an-electric-car-save-you-money-a9436870083/

Electric Cars 101: The Answers to All Your EV Questions: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/electric-cars-101-the-answers-to-all-your-ev-questions-a7130554728/

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/

How to Decide If a Hybrid, Plug-In Hybrid, or Fully Electric Car Is Right for You: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/how-to-decide-if-a-hybrid-plug-in-hybrid-or-fully-electric-c-a6216376327/

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 to see cars like the Rivian R1T and BMW iX in charging stalls, and follow one Volkswagen ID.4 owner as he experiences some hiccups using the new system.

Follow Us on Social:

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

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 - 2023 Lexus RZ 450e

0:57 - Lexus/Toyota EVs

1:30 - Range/charging time

4:10 - Competing EVs in the same price range

4:30 - Safety technology

7:30 - Lexus buyer experience

8:15 - Driving impressions

10:15 - Climate features

11:00 - Lexus/Subaru/Toyota family of EVs

12:08 - Pedestrian safety features

14:11 - Visibility

15:27 - Driver display

16:10 - Lexus RZ pricing

17:13 - Steering yoke

18:33 - Question: How much should it cost to replace an EV battery?

—

LINKS:

All-New 2023 Lexus RZ 450e Is a Disappointing First EV Effort: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2023-lexus-rz-450e-review-a5803485687/

First Drive: 2023 Toyota bz4X EV Impresses on the Road: https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/2023-toyota-bz4x-review-a7787483444/

2023 Subaru Solterra EV Charges to Production with Up to 228 Miles of Range: https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/subaru-solterra-electric-suv-preview-a9988300130/

How to Decide If a Hybrid, Plug-In Hybrid, or Fully Electric Car Is Right for You: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/how-to-decide-if-a-hybrid-plug-in-hybrid-or-fully-electric-c-a6216376327/

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 basher.'

SHOW NOTES:

0:00 - Intro

0:28 - 2023 Honda Pilot

1:52 - Ideal family vehicle?

5:19 - Driving impressions

10:25 - Interior space

11:31- Driving position

14:35 - Controls

16:01 - Audience Question: What happened to all the bumpers?

20:58 - CR bumper basher

—

LINKS:

Honda Pilot: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/honda/pilot/

2023 Honda Pilot Makes Big Strides With Redesign: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2023-honda-pilot-review-a5711400779/

Stress-Free SUVs That You'll Love Driving and Owning: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/suv-smart-buys-without-deal-breaking-flaws-a1747391349/

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 welcome back an old friend to the show.

SHOW NOTES:

0:00 - Intro

0:17 - New Talking Cars publish day

1:07 - Welcome back Joe Veselak!

3:28 - 2023 Lexus LX600

5:43 - Who is the LX600 for?

7:00 - Driving impressions

12:00 - Interior, 2nd/3rd row access

15:15 - Fit and finish

17:00 - Would you buy the LX600?

19:00 - Question: How will the transition from gas to electric vehicles happen in terms of charge station and gas station availability?

LINKS:

Lexus LX: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/lexus/lx/

Electric Cars 101: The Answers to All Your EV Questions: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/electric-cars-101-the-answers-to-all-your-ev-questions-a7130554728/

How To Choose the Best Home Charger for Your Electric Vehicle: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/how-to-choose-the-best-home-wall-charger-for-your-electric-vehicle-a6908889697/

Will an Electric Car Save You Money?: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/will-an-electric-car-save-you-money-a9436870083/

Tesla to Open Some of Its Chargers to Non-Tesla EVs: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/tesla-to-open-some-of-its-chargers-to-non-tesla-evs-a7285754322/