Talking Cars (MP3)

Consumer Reports

4.3 (412)
AUTOMOTIVE
UPDATED WEEKLY

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

19H AGO

2026 Top Picks

Shopping for a new car? Consumer Reports' Top Picks highlight the best cars, SUVs, and trucks you can buy right now—standouts for performance, reliability, owner satisfaction, and safety. In this episode, we break down this year's winners across key segments, from sedans and small SUVs to three-row SUVs, featuring brands like Toyota, Honda, Ford, Tesla, BMW, Lexus, and Subaru. SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 00:00 - Introduction 00:15 - 2026 Top Picks 23:57 - Safety Verdict 29:27 - Question: What's the best way to buy a car located too far away to inspect in person? ---------------------------------- Best Cars of 2026 — CR Top Picks https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/best-cars-of-the-year-10-top-picks-of-2025-a1930591024/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Safety Verdict https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/safety-guide/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT The Safest Cars You Can Buy Right Now https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/the-safest-cars-you-can-buy-right-now-a6584555585/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Which Brands Make the Best Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles-a6159221985/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT How Car Brands Stack Up On Lifetime Repair Cost https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-maintenance/the-cost-of-car-ownership-a1854979198/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT 10 Best SUVs You Can Buy Right Now https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/10-best-suvs-you-can-buy-right-now-a8518508556/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Consumerreports.org/Talkingcars https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/talking-cars-podcast-archive-a1439738009/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT The Weekly Cars Newsletter: Shop Smarter. Drive Smarter. https://www.consumerreports.org/email-newsletters/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Lock in savings with a better way to buy a car. https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-prices-build-buy-service/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

34 min
JAN 28

2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid

Subaru is back with a hybrid Crosstrek—will this one finally get it right? For our test program, we purchased a 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Sport Hybrid, and in this episode we share our first impressions. We cover ride comfort, handling, controls, safety technology, and take a close look at Subaru's new hybrid powertrain. We also answer audience questions about repairing older vehicles versus upgrading—and whether buying a first-year redesigned model is a good idea, even when it comes from a reliable manufacturer like Subaru. 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 00:16 - Overview: 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid 02:14 - What we liked 10:16 - What we did not like 25:15 - Question #1: Is it worth repairing an older vehicle versus upgrading to a newer one? 29:32 - Question #2: Should you still avoid buying a first-year redesign if the powertrain carries over from the previous generation? ---------------------------------- Full Test Results: 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/subaru/crosstrek-hybrid/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Popular Small SUVs to Avoid and What to Buy Instead https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/popular-small-suvs-to-avoid-and-what-to-buy-instead-a1273704153/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Which Brands Make the Best Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles-a6159221985/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT 10 Most Reliable Cars https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/10-most-reliable-cars-a6569295379/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT How Car Brands Stack Up On Lifetime Repair Cost https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-maintenance/the-cost-of-car-ownership-a1854979198/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT 10 Best SUVs You Can Buy Right Now https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/10-best-suvs-you-can-buy-right-now-a8518508556/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Car Reliability and Owner Satisfaction Guide https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/guide-to-car-reliability-owner-satisfaction-a9213219653/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Consumerreports.org/Talkingcars https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/talking-cars-podcast-archive-a1439738009/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

33 min
JAN 14

2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid

We bought a 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid Calligraphy AWD for our test program—Hyundai's first model to use its new hybrid system based on a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder. We share our first impressions of this three-row family hauler, covering performance, fuel economy, interior space, cabin luxury, daily usability, and how the hybrid stacks up against the gas-only Palisade. Plus, we answer viewer questions about our All-Season vs. All-Season SUV tire ratings and whether Nissan's "Zero Gravity" seats deliver real comfort or just marketing hype. 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 00:16 - Overview: 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid 00:52 - What we liked 13:59 - What we did not like 28:48 - Question #1: Do Nissan's "Zero Gravity" seats actually deliver any comfort or is it just marketing hype? 34:10 - Question #2: What is the difference between the All-Season and All-Season SUV category in CR's tire ratings? ---------------------------------- Full Test Results: 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hyundai/palisade-hybrid/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Which Brands Make the Best Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles-a6159221985/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Reliability of 5-10 year old cars https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/which-brands-make-the-best-used-cars-a2811658468/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT 10 Most Reliable Cars https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/10-most-reliable-cars-a6569295379/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT How Car Brands Stack Up On Lifetime Repair Cost https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-maintenance/the-cost-of-car-ownership-a1854979198/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT 10 Best SUVs You Can Buy Right Now https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/10-best-suvs-you-can-buy-right-now-a8518508556/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Car Reliability and Owner Satisfaction Guide https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/guide-to-car-reliability-owner-satisfaction-a9213219653/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Consumerreports.org/Talkingcars https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/talking-cars-podcast-archive-a1439738009/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

41 min
12/31/2025

Best & Worst Cars of 2025

We gathered a number of staffers who work behind the scenes at CR's Auto Test Center to share which are their picks for the best and worst cars that Consumer Reports tested in 2025! This team is a key part of CR's evaluation process, driving our test cars in their everyday lives to see which ones are the best to live with - and which ones they wouldn't recommend to friends and family.

58 min
12/17/2025

2026 Toyota RAV4

We take an early look at the 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid XSE, which promises more power and a longer electric-only range than the previous versions called the RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid and RAV4 Prime. We discuss its EV capability, acceleration, interior feel, everyday usability, and where it is worth the $46,000 asking price. We also answer audience questions about how EVs balance horsepower and range, and whether smaller wheels are an effective way to deal with potholes. 00:17 - Toyota RAV4 PHEV first impressions 33:00 - how do EVs balance horsepower and range? 37:22 - how much does wheel size play in role in pothole damage? 2026 Toyota RAV4 PHEV First Impressions: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2026-toyota-rav4-phev-review-a1016340226/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Low-Profile Tires vs. Potholes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FBdRy0utyaM

44 min
12/04/2025

2026 Reliability Survey Results

Consumer Reports' latest reliability findings are in, we share which brands deliver the most reliable cars, trucks, and SUVs in 2026—based on comprehensive survey data from hundreds of thousands of CR members. We break down how major automakers, including Toyota, Tesla, Subaru, Rivian, BMW, Mazda, and Honda, compare; how EVs and plug-in hybrids stack up against traditional gas models; which used cars offer the most dependable performance; and whether luxury brands truly provide an advantage over their mainstream counterparts. We also address why some automakers place the gas cap on the passenger side of their vehicles and offer advice on simple maintenance tasks you can perform yourself to help reduce car-related expenses. SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 00:00 - Introduction 00:30 - New Car Reliability 02:51 - Used Car Reliability 05:57 - Big News 06:40 - Cars Least Expensive to Maintain 08:22 - EVs/ Plug-in Hybrids Reliability 10:04 - Hybrid Vehicle Reliability 11:34 - Owner Satisfaction 13:18 - Importance of Car Reliability 15:27 - How CR Gathers Reliability Data 19:55 - Question #1: Why do some car manufacturers put the gas cap on the passenger side and others on the driver side? 23:09 - Question #2: Which simple maintenance tasks can car owners perform on their own to help reduce car-related expenses? ---------------------------------- Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Which Brands Make the Best Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles-a6159221985/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Reliability of 5 to 10 year-old cars https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/which-brands-make-the-best-used-cars-a2811658468/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Most and Least Loved Car Brands https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/most-and-least-liked-car-brands-a1291429338/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT 10 Most Reliable Cars https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/10-most-reliable-cars-a6569295379/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT How Car Brands Stack Up On Lifetime Repair Cost https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-maintenance/the-cost-of-car-ownership-a1854979198/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT 10 Best SUVs You Can Buy Right Now https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/10-best-suvs-you-can-buy-right-now-a8518508556/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Car Reliability and Owner Satisfaction Guide https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/guide-to-car-reliability-owner-satisfaction-a9213219653/ Consumerreports.org/Talkingcars https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/talking-cars-podcast-archive-a1439738009/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

30 min
11/26/2025

New Car Reliability, Swapping Wheel Sizes, & Is Undercoating Worth It?

This episode is dedicated to all audience questions! Keith, Emily, and Mike tackle everything from the most reliable new vehicles, whether you should pay extra for rustproofing, why Americans buy and drive large vehicles, and if keeping a 22-year-old vehicle may be better for your wallet despite the inherent repair costs. Plus, we explain how CR determines a vehicle's predicted reliability and whether you can fit your vehicle with smaller wheels and tires to save money and improve ride comfort. Exclusive CR discount for Talking Cars viewers: https://www.consumerreports.org/jointalkingcars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YTT4?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Submit a Question to Talking Cars: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/talking-cars-podcast-archive-a1439738009/?EXTKEW=YSOCIAL_YT Safest New Cars of 2025: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/safest-new-cars-of-2025-according-to-iihs-a3325666134/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Test Results: Honda HR-V: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/honda/hr-v/2025/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2026-subaru-crosstrek-hybrid-review-a6801644233/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT The Hidden Danger of Big Pickup Trucks: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/the-hidden-danger-of-big-pickup-trucks-a9662450602/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Skip These Car Dealership Extras: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/buying-a-car/just-say-no-to-these-car-dealership-extras-a9471188276/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars?: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT SHOW NOTES: 0:00 - Intro 0:30 - Question #1: Should I keep my super basic, 22-year-old Honda CR-V or look for a newer, reliable model car? 04:43 - Question #2: Is the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid a safe bet in terms of reliability? 6:58 - Question #3: What are the pros and cons to decreasing the wheel and tires size on a 2025 Toyota Camry XSE? 10:24 - Question #4: How can CR give large vehicles like the Ford Expedition a positive review? 15:15 - Question #5: Is $1,000 for undercoating on a 2023 Kia Sportage worth it? 18:22 - Question #6: What's a good replacement for a 2017 Mazda 6? 22:51 - Question #7: How does CR come up with new model year predicted reliability? 25:32 - Question #8: What about one pedal driving do CR experts not understand?

31 min
11/12/2025

2026 Lucid Gravity

Lucid recently released its second all-electric vehicle: the 2026 Lucid Gravity. With 828 horsepower, three rows of seating, and impressive electric range, it looks like a potential game-changer in the luxury SUV space. But is it ready for prime time? In this episode, we share our first impressions of the Gravity, including standout features, early glitches, and key omissions. Plus, we tackle your questions: How do you get the most life—and resale value—out of your vehicle? And when planning a long road trip, should you rack up miles on your older car or take the newer one? 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 00:36 - Overview: 2026 Lucid Gravity 01:17 - What we love 14:39 - What we hate 29:16 - Question #1: How do you get the most life - and resale value - out of your vehicle? 33:57 - Question #2: When planning a long road trip, should you rack up miles on your older car or take the newer one? ---------------------------------- Full Test Results: 2026 Lucid Gravity https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/lucid/gravity/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT First Drive: The 2026 Lucid Gravity Is Spacious and Fast, but Incomplete https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2025-lucid-gravity-review-a8550442240/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Which Brands Make the Best Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles-a6159221985/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT 10 Best Deals on Electric Vehicles https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/best-deals-on-electric-vehicles-a1198228201/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Find the Best Hybrids & EVs https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

38 min

See All (501)

4.3

out of 5

412 Ratings

Video

09/23/2025

RyslanSiz

Hello, y’all should add video format for podcasts via Apple Podcasts especially when talking about certain things and bringing up an image of a car or what you’re describing.
Great Podcast, wish it was weekly

10/02/2025

Moeman99

Finally an automotive podcast that is about reliability, fuel mileage, and driving cars on the road rather than speeding around a track and clocking the best 0-60. I like these folks aren’t bought and paid for and tell you what is wrong with a car and what they’d buy. Wish this was weekly and possibly add episodes on buying cars, how dealerships work, car repair, etc to help consumers
Car theft

04/17/2025

mary1222222

When r u going to talk about how easy it is to steal cars , and why hasn’t the car manufacturers do anything about it. U can go on u tube and watch how fast a car is stolen. Everyone would love a program on this. Also testing after market alarm systems. And will the void the warranty. ????
Good Pod!

07/09/2025

INSOMNIATIC

I enjoy this pod. Everything you need to know about the car discussed. One thing (and not removing a star for this). Maddie needs to know that the word button has not one but two ts. It’s buTTon not buh-en.