Talking Cars (MP3‪)‬ Consumer Reports

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 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

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 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
 
Follow Us on Social:
TikTok: https://bit.ly/3BVzGR9
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Twitter: http://bit.ly/1Yf5Fh2
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?
 
 
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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 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
 
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 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
 
 
-----------------------------------
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 TalkingCars@icloud.com 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?