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    #149 Are Ford sedans REALLY disappearing? 2018 Mazda6

    en-usMay 03, 2018

    About this Episode

    To borrow from Mark Twain, reports of the death of the Ford sedan have been greatly exaggerated! We discuss this surprising news, and how a lot of the media coverage has gotten the story wrong. We give our impressions of a borrowed Mazda6 we drove at our track. We wrap up this episode with viewer questions about swapping out your seasonal tires, low-speed AEB, and if there is any true replacement for the Mazda5 micro van.

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    More info on the 2024 Hyundai Kona here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2024-hyundai-kona-review-a8558776955/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

     

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    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

     

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

    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 Best Cars of 2024

    The Best Cars of 2024

    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

     

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    BMW X5/X5 PHEV

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    Tesla Model Y

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

    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

    2024 Kia EV9

    2024 Kia EV9

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    More info on the 2024 Kia EV9 here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2024-kia-ev9-review-a4079455654/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

     

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    SHOW NOTES

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    00:00 - Introduction

    00:15 - First Impressions: 2024 Kia EV9 ll

    01:05 - What is the EV9?

    02:17 - How it Drives

    03:43 - The Third-Row Seats

    05:09 - Power & Range

    06:55 - Controls

    10:21 - Fit and Finish

    12:11 - Question #1: Do hybrid vehicles need specific tires to maintain its fuel efficiency?

    14:59 - Question #2: Why some vehicles are getting a poor rating on the IIHS updated moderate overlap crash test

     

     

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

    First Drive: 2024 Kia EV9 Takes the Three-Row EV Mainstream

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2024-kia-ev9-review-a4079455654/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

     

    2024 Kia EV9

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/kia/ev9/2024/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

     

    Electric Vehicles That Can Go More Than 250 Miles on a Charge

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/electric-vehicles-that-can-go-more-than-250-miles-on-a-full-charge-a2189661367/?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

     

    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

    2024 Lexus TX

    2024 Lexus TX

    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

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    First Drive: 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Shines Brightest With Hybrid Max Engine

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    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

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

    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

    2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV

    2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV

    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

    AI Really, REALLY Wants to Be in Your Next Car

    AI Really, REALLY Wants to Be in Your Next Car

    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

    Best and Worst Cars of 2023

    Best and Worst Cars of 2023

    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!

    Talking Cars (HQ)
    en-usDecember 27, 2023

    The Feasibility of Low-Carbon Fuels in the US

    The Feasibility of Low-Carbon Fuels in the US

    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!

    Talking Cars (HQ)
    en-usDecember 13, 2023

    Why is EV Reliability So Bad?

    Why is EV Reliability So Bad?

    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

    2023 Toyota Prius Prime Plug-in Hybrid

    2023 Toyota Prius Prime Plug-in Hybrid

    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

     

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