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!

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!

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

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

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

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

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/

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/

Subscribe to Talking Cars on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jr8wJRJyN9v8T6LC1fQQ6

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

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

For all the warnings on today's modern vehicles, why don't cars have an alert that a headlight or taillight is out? In the new 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander with a Max powertrain, is there risk of the hybrid battery depleting when carrying a large payload? And if it seems like your EV tires wear much faster than you'd expect, you're not alone. We give expert insight into these questions, as well as the availability of active head restraints, a replacement vehicle for an Audi A3 convertible, and if the days of the local gas station are numbered.

How CR Tests Headlights: https://www.consumerreports.org/video/view/cars/car-safety/6060466527001/headlight-testing/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

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

When to Replace Your Tires: https://www.consumerreports.org/video/view/cars/car-care/6258106759001/when-to-replace-your-tires/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Audi A3 Road Test Results: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/audi/a3/2023/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

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

:47 - are gas stations in danger of disappearing?

6:20 - why do EV tires seem to wear out so fast?

12:34 - why is there no head light/tail light out warning?

17:50 - are active head restraints still available on new cars?

21:07 - what's a good replacement for a 2015 Audi A3 convertible?

28:00 - what happens if you drain the hybrid battery on a Toyota Grand Highlander Max while towing a heavy load uphill?

CR is known for its extensive testing of child seats. But did you know we also perform a crash test on each seat we review? We visit our secret crash lab to give you a behind-the-scenes look at how we go beyond the government standards to test each child seat, why our tests better reflect the circumstances of a real world car crash than what is currently required, and share the top 5 tips for making sure your car seat is installed safely and correctly.

Consumer Reports all-new baby experience: https://www.consumerreports.org/babies/?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!

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

We drove the new 2024 Kona 2.0 and 1.6T at our test track, and share our first impressions on the driving dynamics of the standard and turbo versions, redesigned infotainment system, and how it stacks up against its predecessor. How does it stack up against leaders in the subcompact SUV segment like the Subaru Crosstrek and Honda HR-V? Will the EV version fill the affordable electric car void? Later, we talk about why some driving positions feel "off", and the importance of a symmetrical driving position for a vehicle's driving comfort.

SHOW NOTES

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

00:00 - Introduction

00:15 - First Impressions: 2024 Hyundai Kona

01:06 - The Subcompact Segment

03:19 - The Version to Buy

07:17 - Hyundai's New Design

07:54 - The Competition

10:02 - Electric Version

12:16 - Question: How does CR assess the driving position and vehicle comfort?

----------------------------------  

2024 Hyundai Kona Breaks Cover as an EV

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2024-hyundai-kona-review-a8558776955/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

2024 Hyundai Kona

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hyundai/kona/2024/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

Vehicles With the Best Combination of Fuel Economy and Acceleration

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/fuel-economy-efficiency/vehicle-fuel-economy-vs-performance-a2066683994/?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