We purchased a 2025 Kia K4 LXS for CR's test program. At $24,320, the K4 is priced surprisingly low for a new car. Does it deliver value for money? We break down the Kia K4’s features, tech, and performance, and compare it to compact rivals like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Elantra, and the outgoing Kia Forte. What safety and convenience features are included—or left out? We also answer a question about EVs and cargo capacity and help a viewer choose a reliable, fuel-efficient new car, with a hitch for a bike rack, for under $28,000.

Full test results and more here: cr.org/cars?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

:17 - 2025 Kia K4 first impressions

21:32 - what's a reliable and fuel efficient new car for under $28k?

24:44 - does the weight of an EV/hybrid vehicle affect its cargo carrying capacity?

Exclusive CR discount for Talking Cars viewers: https://www.cr.org/jointalkingcars?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Volkswagen gives the 2025 Taos a fresh look and updated tech. We share our first impressions of its performance, redesigned interior, and revamped infotainment system—and whether this update is enough to keep the Taos competitive. We also answer audience questions, including: When is it okay to buy a first model year redesign vehicle? Why are EV charging networks—aside from Tesla’s Supercharger—so frustrating to use? And should buyers be concerned about the Hyundai Ioniq 5 due to issues with its Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU)?

More info on the 2025 Volkswagen Taos here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/volkswagen/taos/2025/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Join CR at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization.

SHOW NOTES

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00:00 - Introduction

00:15 - Overview: 2025 Volkswagen Taos

01:09 - The Powertrain

02:50 - Driving Dynamics

06:17 - Lack of Hybrid Model

08:47 - Reliability

11:28 - Competition

13:24 - Cargo Space

14:18 - Controls

15:28 - Would You Buy It?

20:09 - Question #1: Is it sensible to purchase a first year model redesign?

23:01 - Question #2: Why EV chargers are so frustrating to use?

27:28 - Question #3: Should you avoid buying an Ioniq 5 due to ICCU issues?

Join us on the floor of the 2025 New York Auto Show. We cover the trends, or lack thereof, among automakers in attendance, the debut of several new Subaru models, and talk about which vehicles have the best chance of success in the market. Plus, we share our favorite vehicles from the show floor.

SHOW NOTES

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00:00 - Introduction

00:15 - Lots of Nostalgia

01:24 - This Year’s Theme

02:35 - New Launches

14:04 - Marketing Choices

20:19 - Flash of Fun

21:15 - Success or Failure?

22:45 - Our Favorites

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Preview: The 2026 Subaru Outback Is Truly an SUV Now

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2026-subaru-outback-review-a9885722682/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Preview: 2026 Hyundai Palisade Is Larger, More Powerful, and More Upscale

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2026-hyundai-palisade-review-a7560459286/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Preview: 2026 Honda Passport Gets Tougher Looks and an Updated V6 Engine

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2026-honda-passport-review-a2462413763/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Preview: 2026 Subaru Trailseeker Is a Bigger, Better Solterra EV

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2026-subaru-trailseeker-review-a5418969450/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Preview: 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid Brings More Power, Greater Efficiency

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2025-subaru-forester-hybrid-review-a4285500200/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Preview: 2026 Kia EV4 Has a Long Range and Angular Styling

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2026-kia-ev4-review-a3005904446/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Preview: 2025 Ford Expedition Brings Off-Road Tech to the Three-Row SUV

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2025-ford-expedition-review-a6764495550/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

The 2025 Nissan Murano gets a bold new look and a revamped powertrain, marking a fresh start for this midsized SUV. In this episode, we share our first impressions of the redesigned Murano, including its refreshed styling, appealing interior, engine performance, and driving dynamics. We also discuss who this SUV is best suited for. We also answer audience questions about the reliability and maintenance of high-voltage hybrid batteries. Plus, we explore why European cars often get advanced safety features years before they become standard in the U.S.

More info on the 2025 Nissan Murano here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/nissan/murano/2025/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Join CR at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization.

SHOW NOTES

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00:00 - Introduction

00:16 - Overview: 2025 Nissan Murano

02:49 - Murano's History

03:17 - Driving Dynamics

08:09 - What Is It?

09:12 - Front Seats

10:09 - Controls

16:08 - Pro Pilot Assist

18:04 - Access

18:49 - Rear Seats

20:37 - Cargo Space

21:05 - Who Is This Car For?

25:43 - Question #1: How long does the high-voltage hybrid battery last, how should it be maintained, and what is the cost of replacement?

32:03 - Question #2: Why are advanced safety features in European vehicles approved years before in the U.S., and what can be done to speed up U.S. approvals?

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First Drive: 2025 Nissan Murano Is Reinvented, But Is It Still Relevant?

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2025-nissan-murano-review-a6988352928/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Most Reliable and Fuel-Efficient New Midsized SUVs

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/new-midsized-suvs-most-reliable-fuel-efficient-a2811867777/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

New Cars on the Horizon

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/new-cars-on-the-horizon-a1920770135/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

These SUVs, Cars, and Minivans Are the Easiest to Get Into and Out Of

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs-cars-minivans-that-are-easiest-to-get-in-and-out-of-a1450236794/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Toyota is expanding its SUV portfolio by transforming the Crown sedan into a bold new model, the Crown Signia. In this episode, we dive into our first impressions of this reimagined vehicle, exploring its ride quality, hybrid powertrain, design, and functional shape. We also discuss how the Signia differentiates itself from the original Crown. Plus, we tackle audience questions, including: why EV batteries tend to drain faster in the winter than in the summer, and if you're only able to replace two tires on your car, which ones should you choose—front or rear?

Join CR at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization.

More info on the 2025 Toyota Crown Signia here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/toyota/crown-signia/2025/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

SHOW NOTES

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

00:00 - Introduction

00:15 - Overview: 2025 Toyota Crown Signia

02:15 - Wagon or SUV?

04:42 - Driving Dynamics

07:13 - Interior Fit & Finish

08:38 - Exterior

10:01 - Ride and Handling

11:04 - Hybrid Powertrain

14:01 - Who is it for?

16:44 - Question #1: Is it normal for EVs to have a lower driving range in winter than in summer?

20:50 - Question #2: Which car tires should you prioritize replacing: the front or the rear?

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First Drive: 2025 Toyota Crown Signia Hybrid SUV Shines

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2025-toyota-crown-signia-hybrid-review-a8708955858/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Best Deals on Fuel-Efficient Cars and SUVs

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/buying-a-car/best-deals-on-fuel-efficient-cars-a4329802409/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Most Fuel-Efficient Cars

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/fuel-economy-efficiency/the-most-fuel-efficient-cars-best-mpg-a1198903400/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Are Hybrids a Smart Choice Right Now?

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/why-hybrid-vehicles-are-a-smart-choice-right-now-a2736240282/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

In 2017 Volkswagen announced the electrified ID. Buzz at the Detroit Auto Show. Now, seven years later, we’ve driven the real thing. In this episode, we share our first impressions of the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz, diving into its iconic retro-styling, driving dynamics, electric drivetrain, utility, and infotainment system. Plus, we also answer audience questions, including how to make the most of local mechanics when a dealership isn’t nearby and how to find the perfect manual transmission convertible for under $10k.

Exclusive CR discount for Talking Cars viewers at: https://www.consumerreports.org/jointalkingcars?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

More info on the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz Hybrid here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/volkswagen/id-buzz/2025/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

SHOW NOTES

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

00:00 - Introduction

00:15 - Overview: 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz

02:41 - Every Day Usability

05:31 - Electric Range

09:04 - Driving Dynamics

10:44 - Brakes

13:30 - Controls

18:20 - Accessibility

21:08 - Window Controls

22:52 - Driving Position

25:19 - Small Item Storage

26:50 - Cabin Room

27:19 - Would You Buy It?

30:14 - Advanced Driver Assistance System

32:58 - Question #1: Is it safe to rely on local mechanics for vehicle repairs?

39:08 - Question #2: What is a perfect manual transmission convertible for under $10K?

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First Drive: Volkswagen ID. Buzz Is Practical Nostalgia at a High Price

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/volkswagen-id-buzz-minivan-review-a4884016168/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/volkswagen/id-buzz/2025/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Secrets to Electric Car Charging Revealed

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/secrets-to-electric-car-charging-a1611903912/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Most and Least Satisfying Luxury Hybrids, Plug-In Hybrids, and Electric Vehicles

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/most-and-least-satisfying-luxury-hybrids-evs-phevs-a8977712677/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

EVs Are Getting More Reliable, but They Still Lag Behind Hybrids and Gas-Only Cars

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/electric-vehicles-are-less-reliable-than-conventional-cars-a1047214174/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

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Join CR at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization.

Our experts reveal CR’s 2025 Top Picks, featuring the best vehicles that stand out in our rigorous tests. Find out which cars, trucks, and SUVs made the list and why some fan favorites didn't. Plus, we answer audience questions about CR member surveys, hybrid brake tests, and SUV cargo measurement tests. See our Top Picks list for free at: http://cr.org/toppicks/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT  

SHOW NOTES:

0:00 - Intro

0:39 - Consumer Reports 2025 Top Picks are free! 

1:00 - How CR compiles the Top Picks list

11:56 - 2025 Top Picks, vehicles

28:15 - Audience Question #1: How does CR calibrate member survey responses?

34:07 - Audience Question #2: Does CR test hybrid brakes in, “B” mode?

36:33 - Audience Question #3: Does CR measure the floor-to-ceiling height for vehicle cargo space?

LINKS:

2025 Top Picks: http://cr.org/toppicks/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT 

Consumer Reports Vehicle Ratings: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/

Join CR at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization.

Mazda has partnered with Toyota to create the 2025 CX-50 Hybrid. Although it's branded as a Mazda, the CX-50 Hybrid has the heart of a Toyota. In this episode, we share our first impressions of the CX-50 Hybrid and discuss its driving characteristics, steering dynamics, and the Toyota drivetrain that powers it. We also address questions about whether it's still wise to purchase a Nissan, given its current financial issues, and whether Lexus is living up to its reputation as the most reliable automaker.

SHOW NOTES

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

00:00 - Introduction

00:16 - Overview: 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid

01:34 - Mazda & Toyota Collaboration

07:14 - Driving Dynamics

09:31 - Styling

11:45 - Front Seats

15:20 - The Controls

18:56 - CX-50 vs. RAV4

23:54 - CX-50 vs. CX-50 Hybrid

26:15 - Question #1: Given the current state of Nissan, is it still wise to purchase a vehicle from the manufacturer?

33:40 - Question #2: Is Lexus still living up to its reputation as the most reliable automaker?

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Mazda CX-50 Hybrid First Drive: Power Couple or Odd Couple?

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2025-mazda-cx-50-hybrid-review-a9123627508/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/mazda/cx-50-hybrid/2025/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Compact SUVs From $25,000 to $35,000 With Standard Active Safety Systems

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/affordable-suvs-from-25000-to-35000-dollars-with-safety-systems-standard-a2484348806/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Quietest Midsized SUVs From Consumer Reports’ Tests

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/quietest-midsized-suvs-from-consumer-reports-tests-a5278786319/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Best Hybrid SUVs for Less Than $35,000

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/best-hybrid-suvs-for-less-than-35000-dollars-a6380868399/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Exclusive CR discount for Talking Cars viewers at: https://www.cr.org/jointalkingcars

There's been a lot of change in the US recently! And it will likely have a big impact on the automotive market, particularly when it comes to electric vehicles. On this episode of Talking Cars, we discussed the current state of the EV market, taking questions live from our YouTube audience! We discussed current government policy and regulation regarding EVs, charging infrastructure, market demand, competition in the industry, and more.

Consumer Reports EV Hub: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

CR Cars: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

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!

Nissan redesigned the 2025 Kicks compact SUV--now larger, more powerful, and available with all-wheel drive. We put its driving performance to the test, evaluate its active safety and driver-assistance features, and discuss whether or not its "upscale" design elements deliver on the hype. Plus, we answer questions about our favorite infotainment systems and offer advice before buying extended warranties and maintenance contracts.

More info on the 2025 Nissan Kicks here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2025-nissan-kicks-review-a9588794667/?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 - Overview: 2025 Nissan Kicks

01:16 - Price

02:24 - Interior and Styling

04:02 - Driving Performance

05:18 - Competition

10:10 - Nissan

11:51 - Question #1: What are the best and worst car infotainment systems on the market today?

17:38 - Question #2: What is CR’s advise regarding extended warranties and maintenance contracts?

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First Drive: 2025 Nissan Kicks Grows Into Feature-Rich SUV

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2025-nissan-kicks-review-a9588794667/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

2025 Nissan Kicks

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/nissan/kicks/2025/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

10 Cheap Cars That CR Recommends

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cheap-cars-recommended-by-consumer-reports-a1059266229/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Best New Cars and SUVs for Under $30,000

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/best-new-cars-under-30000-dollars-a6574737993/?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

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Join CR at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization.