Talking Cars (MP3)

Consumer Reports
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Talking Cars (MP3)

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

  1. 13 HR AGO

    2025 Nissan Kicks

    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?     ----------------------------------   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     ----------------------------------- 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.

    23 min

  2. 30/12/2024

    Best & Worst Cars of 2024

    Of the dozens of new cars Consumer Reports tested this year, these are the best (and worst) according to the entire staff of CR’s Auto Test Center. This team not only keeps the track up and running, but we’re all part of the evaluation process - see what our Talking Cars crew, as well as those behind the scenes, thought were the best and worst cars we tested in 2024!   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 ----------------------------------- 00:00 - Introduction 00:46 - Mike Monticello 05:24 - Jennifer Stockburger 07:06 - Anatoliy Shumskiy 10:59 - Joe Veselak 12:56 - Ben Preston 15:07 - Maddie McCarty 18:55 - John Williams 22:49 - Mike Quincy 28:16 - Alex Knizek 31:55 - Avri Wyshogrod 34:55 - Emily Thomas 39:46 - Andrew Balise 42:49 - Mary Reed 45:36 - Jeff Bartlett 49:27 - Alex George 52:38 - Gabe Shenhar 55:24 - James McQueen 58:02 - Jake Fisher 01:02:54 - Jon Linkov 01:06:14 - Mike Crossen

    1h 11m

  3. 18/12/2024

    2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV

    Chevrolet has expanded its EV lineup with the addition of the 2024 Equinox EV. In this episode, we share our first impressions of the small electric SUV, covering its driving dynamics, power capabilities, key features, and how it stacks up against the Blazer EV and the gas-powered Equinox. We also address audience questions, including whether it's normal to need frequent brake service and why car manufacturers aren’t making electric vehicles with upgradable and replaceable batteries.   More info on the 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2024-chevrolet-equinox-ev-review-a7430613629/?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 ----------------------------------- 00:00 - Introduction 00:40 - Overview: 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV 02:25 - Driving Characteristics 03:44 - How it Compares to Blazer EV 06:26 - Is it Family Friendly Enough 08:54 - Charging Capabilities 10:48 - Infotainment System 15:37 - The Price 16:48 - Question #1: Are auto dimming rear-view mirrors in vehicles less safe than the old-school flip-up ones? 20:20 - Question #2: Is it normal to frequently need to service the brakes  on your car? 25:24 - Question #3: Why car manufacturers aren’t making electric vehicles with upgradable and replaceable batteries?     ----------------------------------   New 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV Will Start at $34,995, Eventually https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2024-chevrolet-equinox-ev-review-a7430613629/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/chevrolet/equinox-ev/2024/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   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   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   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

    29 min

  4. 05/12/2024

    2025 Reliability Survey Results

    Exclusive CR discount for Talking Cars viewers at: https://www.cr.org/jointalkingcars Which brands make the most reliable cars, trucks, and SUVs in 2025? The answer may surprise you! CR surveyed owners about any problems they have experienced with their new and used cars, and we share the results! Find out where brands like Toyota, Tesla, Subaru, BMW, Jeep, Honda, and more stack up; how the reliability of EVs and plug-in hybrids compares to standard gas-powered vehicles; who makes the most reliable used cars; and whether an automakers luxury brands hold up better than their less expensive counterparts. Ratings and test results on every car CR purchases and tests: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Join the Talking Cars community on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@consumerreports/community Which Car Brands Make the Best Vehicles? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles-a6159221985/ Which Brands Make the Best Used Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/used-car-brand-reliability-a2811658468/ Maintenance and Repair Cost by Brand for 2025: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-maintenance/the-cost-of-car-ownership-a1854979198/ Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/ Which Car Brands Have the Highest Road Test Scores? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/what-car-brands-have-the-highest-road-test-scores-a6759602787/ Most and Least Loved Car Brands: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/most-and-least-liked-car-brands-a1291429338/ Consumer Reports' Car Reliability FAQ: https://www.consumerreports.org/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/consumer-reports-car-reliability-faq-a1099917197/ Have a question for our experts? Leave a comment on this episode, or reach out to us directly! Send us a text at TalkingCars@icloud.com to send a photo, video, or text directly to the Talking Cars team!

    33 min

  5. 27/11/2024

    2025 Hyundai Sonata

    This week, we discuss the 2025 Hyundai Sonata. The all-new Sonata gets drastic, updated styling, Hyundai’s latest infotainment system, a ton of standard advanced safety gear, and an improved ride. We also answer audience questions about towing capacity, vehicles with unlabeled controls, and the best type of car for commuting in Utah.   SHOW NOTES:   0:00 - Intro   1:14 - 2025 Hyundai Sonata Overview   3:25 - What’s new for the 2025 model year   5:26 - Ride quality   7:36 - Infotainment system   10:20 - Adaptive driver assistance systems (ADAS), Safety features   12:12 -  Day-to-day usability   15:58 -  Audience questions   16:22 - Question #1: Tips for shopping for a vehicle that can tow 5000 lbs.   19:20 - Question #2: Why do new vehicles have a steep learning curve in terms of usability?   25:10 -  Question #3: Shopping for a Subaru Outback replacement (Experts pick)   LINKS:   Hyundai Sonata Oveview: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hyundai/sonata/   2024 Hyundai Sontata: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hyundai/sonata/2024/overview/   Find the Best Sedans & Hatchbacks: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/sedans/

    31 min

  6. 13/11/2024

    2025 Jeep Compass

    The Jeep Compass is the brand's only compact or subcompact SUV. We look at changes to the 2025 Compass, notably a new 200-hp powertrain since the next generation isn't slated to arrive in North America until 2026. Do the latest engine and other updates give this Jeep an edge over its competitors? We also answer viewer questions, including whether tire siping has any downsides. This process involves cutting thin, perpendicular slits into the tire tread to enhance traction in wet conditions. Additionally, our experts reveal their favorite parts of CR's test track. 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 ----------------------------------- 00:00 - Introduction 00:15 - Overview: 2025 Jeep Compass 01:43 - The Compass Halo Effect 03:48 - Power Delivery 07:32 - Infotainment Touchscreen 08:28 - The Ride 10:01 - Livability 11:42 - Interior Details 12:44 - The Engine 13:54 - Driving Position 16:22 - Fit and Finish 19:21 - How It Stacks Up to the Competition 26:43 - Question #1: What are the benefits of cutting extra grooves in tires, aka tire siping? 30:21 - Question #2: What is the best used car for teen drivers under $10,000? 34:47 - Question #3: Which part of the track CR’s testers enjoy most?     ----------------------------------   First Drive: 2025 Jeep Compass Still Trails the Best Compact SUVs https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2025-jeep-compass-review-a1044361232/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   2025 Jeep Compass https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/jeep/compass/2025/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Best Used Cars for Teens Under $20,000 https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/teen-driving/best-cars-for-teens-a2115540753/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Best Used Cars and SUVs for Less Than $5,000 https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/best-used-cars-suvs-under-5000-dollars-a4731293141/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Best New Cars for Teens https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/best-new-cars-for-teens-a8314221512/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   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     ----------------------------------- Ratings and test results on every car CR purchases and tests: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    42 min

  7. 30/10/2024

    2025 Mini Cooper

    Exclusive CR discount for Talking Cars viewers at https://www.cr.org/jointalkingcars The Mini Cooper has been the cornerstone of the brand since its inception and has been redesigned for 2025. Our experts share their first impressions of the 2025 Mini Cooper S two-door, discussing its performance and whether this fifth-generation model retains the classic British styling, minimalist interior, and unique agility that fans have cherished in previous versions. We also answer viewer questions about DIY insulation for reducing engine noise in older vehicles and the reliability of infotainment touch screens in new cars. More info on the 2025 Mini Cooper here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/sports-cars/2025-mini-cooper-review-a4730724572/?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 - Overview: 2025 Mini Cooper S 02:19 - Classic British Styling 03:38 - Infotainment Touchscreen 07:20 - Driving Experience 09:06 - Stop/Start System 10:34 - Reliability 11:47 - Livability 14:41 - Question #1: How reliable and future-proof are infotainment touchscreens in new cars? 17:30 - Question #2: Is it safe to add insulation to the engine bay of an older vehicle to reduce noise? 21:35 - Question #3: Is the Mini Cooper a practical choice for the Kenyan car market? ----------------------------------   First Drive: Next-Gen 2025 Mini Cooper Is Still Quirky, But Less Fun https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/sports-cars/2025-mini-cooper-review-a4730724572/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT 2025 Mini Cooper https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/mini/cooper/2025/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Preview: Mini Continues Its All-Electric March With the Aceman Small Crossover https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/mini-aceman-review-a5304694715/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Cars and SUVs With the Easiest Controls https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/automotive-technology/cars-and-suvs-with-the-easiest-controls-a7135184399/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT 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

    27 min

  8. 16/10/2024

    2024 Chevrolet Traverse; Are Flooded EVs a Fire Hazard?

    We recently purchased a 2024 Chevrolet Traverse LT AWD for testing. In this episode, we share our first impressions of the four-cylinder turbo engine, infotainment usability, and whether the Traverse works as a family hauler compared to the Kia Telluride, Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, and Hyundai Palisade. And, with recent hurricanes hitting the U.S., we discuss whether a flooded electric vehicle is more prone to becoming a fire hazard and if there are specific steps an owner should take to break in a hybrid car, truck, or SUV.   More info on the 2024 Chevrolet Traverse here: https://www.consumerreports.org/search/?query=Chevrolet%20traverse   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 - Overview: 2024 Chevrolet Traverse 02:24 - The Engine 08:48 - How It Drives 12:33 - 2nd & 3rd Row Seats 19:02 - The Drive Seat 23:03 - The Controls 28:51 - Standard Safety Features 33:28 - GM Super Cruise 37:04 - Cargo Area 38:51 - Would You Buy It? 43:13 - Question #1: Are flooded electric vehicles really prone to becoming a fire hazard? 46:16 - Question #2: Are there specific steps an owner should take to break in a hybrid car, truck, or SUV?     ----------------------------------   First Drive: 2024 Chevrolet Traverse Proves to Be a Balanced 3-row SUV, with One Exception https://www.consumerreports.org/search/?query=Chevrolet%20traverse   2024 Chevrolet Traverse https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/chevrolet/traverse/2024/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Cars and SUVs With the Easiest Controls https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/automotive-technology/cars-and-suvs-with-the-easiest-controls-a7135184399/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   SUVs and Minivans With the Best Third-Row Seats https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs-and-minivans-with-the-best-third-row-seats-a6809768331/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   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

    50 min
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About

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

Information

  • Creator
    Consumer Reports
  • Years Active
    2013 - 2025
  • Episodes
    472
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    ℗ & © 2022 Consumer Reports. All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Talking Cars (MP3)

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