Talking Cars (Video)

Consumer Reports

4.0 (10)
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.

FEB 12 · VIDEO

2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid

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. Mazda has partnered with Toyota to create the 2025 CX-50 Hybrid. Although it's branded as a Mazda, the CX-50 Hybrid has the heart of a Toyota. In this episode, we share our first impressions of the CX-50 Hybrid and discuss its driving characteristics, steering dynamics, and the Toyota drivetrain that powers it. We also address questions about whether it's still wise to purchase a Nissan, given its current financial issues, and whether Lexus is living up to its reputation as the most reliable automaker. SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 00:00 - Introduction 00:16 - Overview: 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid 01:34 - Mazda & Toyota Collaboration 07:14 - Driving Dynamics 09:31 - Styling 11:45 - Front Seats 15:20 - The Controls 18:56 - CX-50 vs. RAV4 23:54 - CX-50 vs. CX-50 Hybrid 26:15 - Question #1: Given the current state of Nissan, is it still wise to purchase a vehicle from the manufacturer? 33:40 - Question #2: Is Lexus still living up to its reputation as the most reliable automaker? ---------------------------------- Mazda CX-50 Hybrid First Drive: Power Couple or Odd Couple? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2025-mazda-cx-50-hybrid-review-a9123627508/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/mazda/cx-50-hybrid/2025/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Compact SUVs From $25,000 to $35,000 With Standard Active Safety Systems https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/affordable-suvs-from-25000-to-35000-dollars-with-safety-systems-standard-a2484348806/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Quietest Midsized SUVs From Consumer Reports’ Tests https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/quietest-midsized-suvs-from-consumer-reports-tests-a5278786319/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Best Hybrid SUVs for Less Than $35,000 https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/best-hybrid-suvs-for-less-than-35000-dollars-a6380868399/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

43 min
JAN 29 · VIDEO

The State of EVs in 2025 - Live!

Exclusive CR discount for Talking Cars viewers at: https://www.cr.org/jointalkingcars There's been a lot of change in the US recently! And it will likely have a big impact on the automotive market, particularly when it comes to electric vehicles. On this episode of Talking Cars, we discussed the current state of the EV market, taking questions live from our YouTube audience! We discussed current government policy and regulation regarding EVs, charging infrastructure, market demand, competition in the industry, and more. Consumer Reports EV Hub: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT CR Cars: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT 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!

1 hr
JAN 15 · VIDEO

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
12/30/2024 · VIDEO

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
12/18/2024 · VIDEO

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
12/05/2024 · VIDEO

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
11/27/2024 · VIDEO

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
11/13/2024 · VIDEO

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

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out of 5

10 Ratings

Expert opinions and viewer comments

09/24/2014

tycowang

It’s not as crazy as Motor Trend or as suave as CNET’s Brian Cooley. Talking Cars with Consumer Reports is an automotive web series consisting of two to six people, usually three guys around 40, sitting on stools in front of two vehicles. The vehicles aren’t driven on the show but are part of the background as the panel talks openly and honestly amongst themselves about all things cars/trucks/SUVs. Much of the show is devoted to answering questions and replying to comments from their viewers or listeners.