Talking Cars (Video‪)‬ Consumer Reports

In this supersized episode, we share our very unusual experience purchasing, receiving, and driving our 2023 Fisker Ocean Ultra; there are so many twists and turns to this story, we can’t summarize them here, you’ll just have to listen to the entire wild experience! We also answer audience questions about how to store an EV for long periods of time, and the best car for road trips: the Ford Maverick, Subaru Forester, or Toyota Camry.
 
More info on the 2023 Fisker Ocean here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/fisker-ocean-electric-suv-review-a2735159415/?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 - Our Fisker Ocean
01:53 - Buying & Delivery Experience
06:19 - Issue with the Ocean
09:16 - Payment
09:53 - Driving Experience
10:46 - Software Versions
12:19 - Customer Service
14:41 - Experiencing The Car
21:12 - Missing Safety Features
23:02 - Features we liked
23:43 - Range & Charging
27:49 - Regenerative Braking
31:25 - Controls
33:34 - ABS Issue
34:59 - Cabin
37:09 - SDV - Software Defined Vehicle
39:18 - State of Fisker
43:26 - Price Drop
45:06 - The Paint
47:50 - Inventory
51:37 - Consumer Take Aways
54:22 - Question #1: What is the best way to store an electric vehicle  for a long period of time?
57:34 - Question #2: What is the best car for road trips: the Ford Maverick, Subaru Forester, or Toyota Camry?
 
 
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First Drive: 2023 Fisker Ocean Electric SUV Proves to Be Unfinished Business
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/fisker-ocean-electric-suv-review-a2735159415/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
 
2023 Fisker Ocean
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/fisker/ocean/2023/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
 
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
 
 
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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

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
 
 
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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

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?
 
 
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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

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
 
 
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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

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
 
 
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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

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?
 
 
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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