448 episodes

Join our experts at the Consumer Reports Test Track as they discuss cars, answer buying questions, and share insights on everything automotive.

Talking Cars (Video‪)‬ Consumer Reports

    • Leisure
    • 4.1 • 277 Ratings

Join our experts at the Consumer Reports Test Track as they discuss cars, answer buying questions, and share insights on everything automotive.

    • video
    2024 New York Auto Show

    2024 New York Auto Show

    Are less expensive cars cool again? The prevalence of cars real people can afford is one of the trends we noticed at the 2024 New York Auto Show. We looked closely at the new Nissan Kicks, Subaru Forester, Honda Prologue, Toyota Camry, Volkswagen ID. Buzz, and many more. Our experts also share their favorite car/trend/feature from the show floor. 
     
    See our car ratings and reviews at: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
     
     
    SHOW NOTES
    -----------------------------------
    00:00 - Introduction
    00:31 - Universal Appeal
    02:07 - 2025 Toyota Camry
    03:30 - 2025 Kia K4
    04:09 - 2025 Subaru Forester
    05:10 - Manufacturer’s Presence
    06:24 - EVs
    09:22 - Volkswagen ID.Buzz
    10:59 - Race Cars
    12:32 - Pet Ownership, Mobility & Accessibility Appeal
    15:47 - Color Trend
    16:53 - 2025 Nissan Kicks
    17:43 - 2024 Ford Bronco Heritage
     
     
    ----------------------------------  
    Preview: Redesigned 2025 Nissan Kicks Grows Slightly, Gains AWD
    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2025-nissan-kicks-review-a9588794667/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
     
    Preview: Redesigned 2025 Toyota Camry Goes Hybrid-Only, With AWD Available on All Trims
    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/2025-toyota-camry-hybrid-review-a1114602128/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
     
    Preview: 2025 Subaru Forester Boasts Brawny Styling, More Tech, and a Quiet Cabin
    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2025-subaru-forester-review-a4022375572/?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: 2025 Volkswagen ID.Buzz Electric Minivan Offers AWD and Nostalgia
    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/volkswagen-id-buzz-minivan-review-a4884016168/?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 TalkingCars@icloud.com 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

    • 18 min
    • video
    2024 Hyundai Kona Electric

    2024 Hyundai Kona Electric

    Hyundai brings significant improvements to the Kona EV over the previous-generation model. We share our first impressions of the 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric, the power plant, driving dynamics, controls, and what it has to offer for buyers looking to purchase a sensible electric vehicle. Also, we discuss why it is important for EV owners to pay close attention to the 12-volt battery in their electric cars. Our experts had fun making up their own frankencar, choosing the motor, transmission, chassis, interior, and body from any car they wished and making their own creation.
     
    More info on the 2024 Hyundai Kona here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2024-hyundai-kona-review-a8558776955/?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 Hyundai Kona Electric
    01:57 - Cabin and Controls
    03:07 - Compared to Gas Powered Vehicle
    04:00 - Driving and Power
    04:55 - Some Compromises
    05:38 - Powertrain
    06:19 - Regenerative Braking
    08:42 - Cabin Noise
    10:26 - Charging Systems
    14:18 - Question #1: Do EVs have 12-volt batteries like regular cars, and do they need to be serviced?
    18:18 - Question #2: If you could design a car where you source the powertrain, infotainment, interior, chassis, etc from any automaker, what would you make?
     
     
    ----------------------------------  
    First Drive: Redesigned 2024 Hyundai Kona Has Grown Larger and Gained New Features
    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2024-hyundai-kona-review-a8558776955/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
     
    2024 Hyundai Kona Electric
    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hyundai/kona-electric/2024/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
     
    Automakers Move to a Common Plug Standard to Allow Their EVs to Use Tesla Superchargers
    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/tesla-superchargers-open-to-other-evs-what-to-know-a9262067544/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
     
    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/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
     
    Hybrids/EV Buying Guide
    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/buying-guide/?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 TalkingCars@icloud.com 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

    • 28 min
    • video
    The Best Cars of 2024

    The Best Cars of 2024

    More info on the 10 Top Picks of 2024 here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/best-cars-of-the-year-10-top-picks-of-2024-a4675085257/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
     
    Consumer Reports annual Top Picks list is out. In this episode we clarify what the Top Picks is and how vehicles get awarded this highly regarded designation. Our experts discuss the 10 cars that made it to the top of the list, trends we're noticing in the automotive industry, and explain what a Brand Report Card is. We also debate which would be the ultimate food delivery vehicle, the Toyota Prius or the Corolla Hybrid. 
     
    Ratings and test results on every car CR purchases and tests: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
     
     
    SHOW NOTES
    -----------------------------------
    00:00 - Introduction
    00:17 - What is the Top Picks List
    01:29 - Auto Market Shift
    03:52 - Car Categories in Top Picks
    05:13 - Question #1: When looking at CR’s reliability rating, why are hybrids are among the most reliable vehicles, but plug-in hybrids are among the least?
    11:10 - 10 Top Picks of 2024
    11:34 - EVs
    12:48 - Plug-in Hybrids
    16:07 - Hybrids
    18:48 - Gas Powered Vehicles
    22:54 - Brand Report Card
    25:46 - Question #2: Which car is the ultimate food delivery vehicle: the Toyota Corolla Hybrid or the Prius AWD?
     
     
    ----------------------------------  
    Best Cars of the Year: 10 Top Picks of 2024
    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/best-cars-of-the-year-10-top-picks-of-2024-a4675085257/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
     
    Which Car Brands Make the Best Vehicles
    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles-a6159221985/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
     
    Hybrids/EV Buying Guide
    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/buying-guide/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
     
    Mazda3
    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/mazda/3/2024/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
     
    Subaru Crosstrek
    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/subaru/crosstrek/2024/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
     
    Subaru Forester
    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/subaru/forester/2024/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
     
    Toyota Camry Hybrid
    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/toyota/camry-hybrid/2024/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
     
    Toyota Prius/Prius Prime
    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/toyota/prius/2024/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
     
    Ford Maverick/Maverick Hybrid
    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/ford/maverick/2024/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
     
    Toyota RAV4 Prime
    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/toyota/rav4-prime/2024/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
     
    Toyota Highlander Hybrid
    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/toyota/highlander-hybrid/2024/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
     
    BMW X5/X5 PHEV
    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/bmw/x5/2024/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
     
    Tesla Model Y
    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/tesla/model-y/2024/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
     
     
    -----------------------------------
    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 TalkingCars@icloud.com 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

    • 30 min
    • video
    2024 Kia EV9

    2024 Kia EV9

    Kia takes the three-row SUV EV Mainstream with its all-new EV9. We share our first impressions of the 2024 Kia EV9, how it handled around our test track, the third-row seats, controls, and if this newest kia is the best midsized SUV EV or not. And, our experts give advice on what to look for when buying tires to maximize vehicle MPG. We also explain IIHS' updated moderate overlap crash test, and why some vehicles get a poor rating.
     
    More info on the 2024 Kia EV9 here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2024-kia-ev9-review-a4079455654/?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 Kia EV9 ll
    01:05 - What is the EV9?
    02:17 - How it Drives
    03:43 - The Third-Row Seats
    05:09 - Power & Range
    06:55 - Controls
    10:21 - Fit and Finish
    12:11 - Question #1: Do hybrid vehicles need specific tires to maintain its fuel efficiency?
    14:59 - Question #2: Why some vehicles are getting a poor rating on the IIHS updated moderate overlap crash test
     
     
    ----------------------------------  
    First Drive: 2024 Kia EV9 Takes the Three-Row EV Mainstream
    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2024-kia-ev9-review-a4079455654/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
     
    2024 Kia EV9
    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/kia/ev9/2024/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
     
    Electric Vehicles That Can Go More Than 250 Miles on a Charge
    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/electric-vehicles-that-can-go-more-than-250-miles-on-a-full-charge-a2189661367/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
     
    Hot, New Electric Cars That Are Coming Soon
    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/hot-new-electric-cars-are-coming-soon-a1000197429/?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 TalkingCars@icloud.com 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

    • 21 min
    • video
    2024 Lexus TX

    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 TalkingCars@icloud.com 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
    • video
    2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV

    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 TalkingCars@icloud.com 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

    • 30 min

Customer Reviews

4.1 out of 5
277 Ratings

277 Ratings

Hullo08 ,

A nice informative video podcast!

Talking Cars is a neat show, with some neat people! The consumer reports staff is knowledgeable, and they don’t interrupt each other. Once in a while, the show does get a bit boring, so unless you are an absolute gearhead, expect to skip around a tiny bit.

The bottom line:
If you like seeing how cars measure up to each other, and learning the latest news, this show is for you. If you want to use this as a resource to find your next car, then even more so. If you don’t know much about cars, this show might be a little bit boring.

ten year old cars lover james ,

More

I love cars ever since I was nine now that I’m ten I found about this show I could not get my eyes off of it but one thing I would like to see you guys review more expensive cars like Lamborghinis and rolls Royce and other cars like that but other than that keep the show going and hope to see more cars like that in future episodes

# I love cars ,

Great show but Gabe has gotta go

I love cars and think they usually do a great jo . They bring in awesome content besides basic stats. I love the Jen, Ryan, and Monty combo. UH Gabe UH Shenhar UH needs to UH be UH off UH the podcast!!!! He says uhmmmm before every couple words and he says that more than actual content. It rly distracts from the show but otherwise good show

Top Podcasts In Leisure

THIS CAR POD! With Doug DeMuro & Friends!
Doug DeMuro
Critical Role
Critical Role
The Big Three by Donut Media
Donut
Duck Call Room
Si Robertson & Justin Martin
The Carpool with Kelly and Lizz
The Car Mom LLC / tentwentytwo Projects
ClutterBug - Organize, Clean and Transform your Home
Clutterbug

You Might Also Like

Talking Cars (MP3)
Consumer Reports
The Autoblog Podcast
Autoblog
TFL Car Chat
www.allTFL.com
Everyday Driver Car Debate
Everyday Driver
Driven Car Reviews
Tom Voelk
TFL Talkin' Trucks
www.tfl-studios.com

More by Consumer Reports

Talking Cars (MP3)
Consumer Reports
Talking Cars (Video)
Consumer Reports
Talking Cars (Video)
Consumer Reports
Consumer Reports Podcast
Consumer Reports
Consumer Reports Podcast
Consumer Reports
Consumer Reports Podcast
Consumer Reports