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?

 

 

----------------------------------  

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

 

 

-----------------------------------

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

 

 

----------------------------------  

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?

 

 

----------------------------------  

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

 

 

-----------------------------------

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

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?

 

 

----------------------------------  

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

The 2024 Blazer EV is the first Chevrolet vehicle on General Motors’ new Ultium electric platform, which is shared by the Honda Prologue EV and Cadillac Lyriq. We offer our first impressions of the new Blazer, including its driving dynamics, build quality, and why GM ordered dealers to stop selling it. We also discuss the future of internal combustion engines and whether or not EVs will dominate the car market in the next decade. Also, we debate whether the 2025 Toyota Camry hybrid is worth the wait, or is the recently updated 2024 Honda Accord hybrid.

 

More info on the 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2024-chevrolet-blazer-ev-review-a1328332871/?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 Chevrolet Blazer EV

01:26 - Issues we encountered

02:58 - Lack of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

06:16 - Charging

06:40 - Interior Quality

07:08 - Driving Dynamics

10:14 - The Brakes

11:49 - Design oddities

12:35 - Controls

13:26 - Stop Sale Order

14:39 - More issues

16:43 - Things we liked

17:20 - Visibility

18:00 - Seat Comfort

19:44 - Question #1: What will be the prevalent fuel source for vehicles in the next decade?

25:26 - Question #2: Is the 2025 Toyota Camry worth the wait?

 

 

----------------------------------  

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

 

2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/chevrolet/blazer-ev/2024/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

 

Hybrid & EV Ratings

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/?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: 2023 Cadillac Lyriq Shows GM’s Commitment to Electric Cars

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/cadillac-lyriq-review-a5185208455/?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

We're at CES in Las Vegas, where much of the hype has been around introducing artificial intelligence into your car's infotainment system. But is AI in your vehicle actually going to be useful, or is it just hype? The EV market is maturing, and we got to see where automakers are going to take the unique abilities that electric vehicles are afforded with fewer moving parts and more space-efficient layouts, including a rebrand of the minivan form factor. We also discuss why hydrogen might be a viable alternative to battery-electric vehicles in the future, and try to figure out why anyone would want a large LED screen built into their bumper.

 

See our car ratings and reviews at: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

 

 

SHOW NOTES

-----------------------------------

00:00 - Introduction

00:17 - Why is CR at CES 2024?

01:30 - Who was not at CES 2024?

03:46 - AI in your next car

11:10 - Automakers Reimagining EVs

14:30 - Large LED Screens inside and outside of vehicles

17:11 - Hydrogen Vehicles

21:03 - New EV concepts

 

 

----------------------------------  

First Drive: Toyota Mirai, the Hydrogen-Powered Luxury Cruiser

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2021-toyota-mirai-fuel-cell-vehicle-review-a6180665724/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

 

Hybrid & EV Ratings

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

 

Futuristic EQS Proves Mercedes-Benz’s Commitment to EVs

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2022-mercedes-benz-eqs-review-a2271854355/?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

We wrap 2023 with CR experts sharing their most and least favorite cars they drove in our testing fleet. Where do cars like the Toyota Prius, Honda CR-V hybrid, Rivian R1S, and Honda Accord hybrid fall on our lists? We also share some fun statistics from our testing program from 2023, and answer questions about regenerative braking in the Toyota Prius Prime and other hybrids, as well as how AWD systems work in EVs.

00:36 - CR testing statistics from 2023

3:03 - the best cars we tested in 2023

8:06 - the worst cars we tested in 2023

18:36 - do hybrids benefit from regeneration braking like electric vehicles?

23:51 - do all-wheel drive systems in EVs work the same way as in standard vehicles?

Popular Cars to Avoid and What to Buy Instead: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-popular-cars-to-avoid-and-what-to-buy-instead-a5131342215/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

10 Most Reliable Cars: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/10-most-reliable-cars-a6569295379/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Best Tires of the Year: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/tires/best-car-tires-of-the-year-a1101679070/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Best Car Batteries of the Year: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-batteries/best-car-batteries-of-the-year-a2280775847/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Which Brand Makes the Most Reliable Vehicles? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/?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!

While hybrids and EVs get a lot of attention in the automotive world, they are not the only options for those wanting to lower their carbon emissions; plug-in hybrids, flex fuels, and even hydrogen vehicles have made their way to the US market in recent years. But are these alternatives realistic for many drivers? Dr. Quinta Warren, CR’s Associate Director of Sustainability Policy, shares the latest on the current federal regulations and latest technologies designed to lower the carbon footprint of vehicles in the United States.

Things People Wished They’d Known Before Buying an EV:https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/smarter-things-people-wished-theyd-known-before-buying-an-ev-a5564226363/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

EVs vs. Gasoline: Which is Right for Your Life: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Can Using Gas With 15 Percent Ethanol Damage Your Car?:https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-repair-maintenance/can-using-gas-with-15-percent-ethanol-damage-your-car-a7855829511/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Can Electric Vehicle Owners Rely on DC Fast Charging?: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/can-electric-vehicle-owners-rely-on-dc-fast-charging-a7004735945/?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!

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