Talking Cars (MP3)

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/

Direct download: 2411CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_459.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:45am EST

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

Direct download: 2410CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_458.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:45am EST

1