Talking Cars (SD)

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

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

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

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:

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

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/

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 audience choose a comfortable, dependable, and fuel efficient hybrid vehicle that's great for long road trips.

SHOW NOTES

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

00:00 - Introduction

00:13 - First Impressions : 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

18:21 - Question: What is a great hybrid vehicle for long trips that is comfortable, dependable, and fuel efficient?

----------------------------------  

2023 Mitsubishi Outlander

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/mitsubishi/outlander/2023/overview/

First Drive: The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander Is Ready to Be Relevant

https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2022-mitsubishi-outlander-review-a1828625346/

Hybrids & EVs

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/

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

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

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

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

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

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 interesting insights from our Autos Spotlight coverage.

SHOW NOTES

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

00:00 - Introduction

00:13 - Top Picks Introduction

02:57 - Hybrid Trends

05:09 - Price Comparisons Between Hybrids and Gas Engine Vehicles

08:41 - Toyota and Lexus Trends

11:04 - New Car Models

12:03 - The Venerable

13:19 - Electric Vehicles

15:34 - Question: Why does the CR overall reliability score change over time?

----------------------------------  

Cars

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/

Which Car Brands Make the Best Vehicles?

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles-a6159221985/

Best and Worst New Cars

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/best-and-worst-new-cars-a9664336148/

Best Cars of the Year: 10 Top Picks of 2023

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/best-cars-of-the-year-10-top-picks-of-2023-a8846595830/

Hot, New Electric Cars That Are Coming Soon

https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/hot-new-electric-cars-are-coming-soon-a1000197429/

Will an Electric Car Save You Money?

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/will-an-electric-car-save-you-money-a9436870083/

Guide to Car Safety

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

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

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 [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

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

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

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.

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 also discuss a viewer's issues with trying to fix their car's software issues and glitches with a dealership mechanic.

SHOW NOTES

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

00:00 - Introduction

00:13 - First Impressions: 2023 Toyota Crown

18:19 - Question: It seems that mechanics have a hard time diagnosing issues with electronics, will that increase with electric vehicles?

----------------------------------  

2023 Toyota Crown Reinvents the Modern Sedan

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2023-toyota-crown-review-a1002681250/

2023 Toyota Crown 

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/toyota/crown/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

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

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

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.

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

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

00:00 - Introduction

01:07 - What’s new with the EV Federal Tax Credit.

01:47 - 200,000 Vehicle Cap.

02:27 - Income Caps.

03:03 - County of origin restrictions.

04:03 - Foreign Entity of Concern Rule.

04:57 - EV purchase walkthrough.

06:44 - How auto manufacturers are making their cars qualify for the Tax Credit.

08:00 - Why is the EV Tax Credit so complicated?

09:46 - Taking advantage of the Tax Credit when leasing.

10:39 - EV Tax Credit for commercial vehicles.

13:07 - Used EV Tax Credit.

14:50 - The bottom line.

----------------------------------  

Electric Cars and Plug-In Hybrids That Qualify for Tax Credits Under the Inflation Reduction Act

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/electric-cars-plug-in-hybrids-that-qualify-for-tax-credits-a7820795671/

More SUVs, Teslas Now Qualify for the New Electric Vehicle Tax Credit

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/electric-vehicles-that-qualify-for-new-ev-tax-credit-a9310530660/

Electric Vehicle Savings Finder

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/ev-incentive-finder/

New Cars You Can Count On: Highlights From Consumer Reports’ Latest Car Reliability Survey

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/new-cars-you-can-count-on-latest-car-reliability-survey-a9891586663/

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

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

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

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

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