Wed, 6 May 2026
Consumer Reports experts answer audience questions about CVTs and electric vehicles, including why simulated shifting exists, why the experts at Consumer Reports enjoy it, and how it affects performance and efficiency. We also explore the gap between reliability and owner satisfaction, with examples like the Rivian R1T and Rivian R1S, and what that means for car buyers, as well as current owners. We also discuss alternatives to traditional car rental companies, including peer-to-peer services like Turo and Sixt, and if you can avoid getting a bad car from the vague categories rental places use. Plus, we share advice on shopping for the best used EV under $40,000, with models like the Ford F-150 Lightning, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Audi Q6 and A6 e-tron, Honda Prologue, and more.
SHOW NOTES: 00:00 - Intro 00:55 - Chad (Wichita, KS): Simulated Upshifts in Hybrids 05:34 - Joe: Rivian Reliability vs Owner Satisfaction 10:04 - Robert: Best Used EV Options (Audi vs Honda + Alternatives) 14:51 - Gordon (Atlanta, GA): Why Are Turn Signals Moving Lower? 18:20 - Daniel (Video Question): Is the Chevy Equinox EV Being Discontinued? 20:54 - Andrew (Video Question): Rental Car Hacks (Turo, Sixt, Categories) 26:44 - Outro & How to Submit Questions LINKS: Subaru Forester Hybrid Test Results: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/subaru/forester-hybrid/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT 2026 Owner Satisfaction Survey Results: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/most-and-least-liked-car-brands-a1291429338/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Best Used EVs: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/buying-a-used-electric-vehicle-what-to-know-a7139266510/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Chevrolet Equinox EV Test Results: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/chevrolet/equinox-ev/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Best and Worst Rental Car Companies: https://www.consumerreports.org/money/car-travel/best-and-worst-car-rental-companies-a1417885044/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
|
Wed, 29 April 2026
We share our first impressions of Jeep’s all-new and first-ever hybrid Cherokee, including cabin and cargo space, design, and safety. We discuss its refinement, fuel economy, and how it compares to competitors in a crowded field. We also answer a viewer's question about whether Carvana and other sites are a good option for selling a vehicle.
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 Intro 00:32 Overview: 2026 Jeep Cherokee Laredo 01:45 Jeep Brand Appeal 03:02 Space, Size & Family Practicality 04:50 Design, Comfort & Interior Quality 08:00 Safety Features & Standard Equipment 09:11 Hybrid Performance & Driving Experience 11:44 Key Drawbacks 14:03 Door Safety & Usability Concerns 17:11 Should You Buy It? 19:09 Ride, Handling & Trim Strategy 21:46 Infotainment & Tech Usability 25:13 Small Wins & Practical Features 27:15 Question: Is using Carvana or similar online services a good option for selling a vehicle?
---------------------------------- Test Results: 2026 Jeep Cherokee Laredo https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/jeep/cherokee/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Which Brands Make the Best Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles-a6159221985/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
10 Best SUVs You Can Buy Right Now https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/10-best-suvs-you-can-buy-right-now-a8518508556/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Where to Shop for Used Cars https://www.consumerreports.org/used-cars/where-to-shop-for-your-next-used-car-a1016305271/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Selling Your Car to Online Retailers https://www.consumerreports.org/money/selling-a-car/how-to-sell-your-car-to-an-online-retailer-a2790904993/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT |
Wed, 22 April 2026
This week, we cover the all-new 2026 Honda Prelude. We reminisce about past Preludes, discuss the 2026 model's hybrid-only powertrain and redesigned styling, and try to figure out who the Prelude is for: it's not sporty enough to be called a sports car, but it falls short on luxury touches to be considered a grand touring coupe. We also answer a question about Consumer Reports' EV Highway Range Test and explore why a buyer might need 300+ miles of driving range. 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 Intro & Why We Bought the Honda Prelude 00:57 What the New Prelude Is (and Isn’t) 03:35 Design, Features & First Impressions 06:00 Driving Experience & Everyday Usability 08:21 How It Compares to Other Cars (Civic, Prius, Z) 10:50 The Identity Problem & Who It’s For 12:58 Styling, Practicality & Value Debate 16:03 Final Thoughts on the Prelude 19:38 Audience Question: EV Range vs Real Driving Needs 22:12 Why EV Range Testing Still Matters LINKS: 2026 Honda Prelude: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/honda/prelude/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT First Drive: Who is the Honda Prelude For?: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2026-honda-prelude-review-a7655687395/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT 2025 Honda Civic Adds Hybrid, Hatchback, Google, and More Power: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/small-cars/2025-honda-civic-hybrid-review-a1056711696/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Consumer Reports’ Real-World Electric Car Range Comparison: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/real-world-ev-range-tests-models-that-beat-epa-estimates-a1103288135/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT |
Wed, 15 April 2026
This week, it's all about the 2026 Subaru Outback. We bought two trims of the Outback: Premium and Touring XT. We discuss its radical redesign from a wagon to an SUV, talk about why we bought two trims and the differences between them, and how Subaru's omission of a hybrid powertrain may be a mistake. Plus, we answer a question about EV replacement tires.
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: 2026 Subaru Crosstrek 01:10 - 180hp Non-Turbo vs 260hp Turbo engine 08:19 - Premium vs Touring XT Seats 11:25 - Fit and Finish Differences 13:50 - Wheels and Tires 14:59 - Cabin Noise 17:56 - Controls 19:58 - No Hybrid Option? 20:37 - New, Bold Styling 22:49 - Wrap up 25:49 - Question: Is it necessary to use EV-specific tires when replacing the tires on an electric vehicle?
---------------------------------- Test Results: 2026 Subaru Outback https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/subaru/outback/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
How Car Brands Stack Up on Repair Costs https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-maintenance/the-cost-of-car-ownership-a1854979198/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Which Brands Make the Best Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles-a6159221985/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
10 Best SUVs You Can Buy Right Now https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/10-best-suvs-you-can-buy-right-now-a8518508556/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT |
Wed, 8 April 2026
On this episode, we share our first impressions of the 2026 Mazda CX-5. We cover the CX-5’s redesign, including its new, large touchscreen infotainment system, mourn its lack of physical climate controls, and discuss how the top trim model we rented doesn’t feel that special. We also answer a question about 360 cameras and how to keep the lenses clean in rainy places like Oregon. 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: 0:00 - Intro 0:17 - 2026 Mazda CX-5 Overview 1:18 - What we love about the 2026 Mazda CX-5 7:05 - What we dislike on the 2026 Mazda CX-5 30:50 - Is it worth buying top trim vehicles? 36:05 - What we’d buy instead of a 2026 Mazda CX-5 39:10 - Audience Question: What’s the best way to keep a vehicle’s 360º camera clean? LINKS: Mazda CX-5 Model History: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/mazda/cx-5/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Redesigned 2026 Mazda CX-5: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2026-mazda-cx-5-review-a2402724881/EXTKEY=SOCIAL_YT Mazda CX-50 Hybrid: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/mazda/cx-50-hybrid/2026/overview/EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Compact SUV Ratings: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/types/new/suvs/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT |
Thu, 2 April 2026
We're live from the floor of the 2026 New York Auto Show, and sharing our first impressions of the vehicles announced at the show, including the Genesis G90 Wingback and Hyundai Boulder concept cars, the Subaru Getaway 3-row EV SUV, Kia Seltos Hybrid, Volkswagen Atlas, Kia EV3 all-electric compact SUV, and the rise of the softroader!
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 00:56 - NYAS Show Floor 02:43 - Softroaders 08:17 - Subaru Trailseeker 08:29 - Subaru Uncharted 09:59 - Jeep Recon 10:58 - Subaru Getaway 11:53 - Hyundai Boulder 13:46 - Genesis G90 Wingback 14:07 - Our Favorites 16:23 - Best of Show 18:07 - Most Absurd 20:19 - Minivans 21:26 - Fuel Economy
---------------------------------- Preview: 2026 Jeep Recon Electric SUV https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2026-jeep-recon-electric-suv-review-a1341965777/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Preview: 2026 Subaru Uncharted Electric SUV https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2026-subaru-uncharted-review-a1017237029/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Preview: 2026 Subaru Trailseeker https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2026-subaru-trailseeker-review-a5418969450/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Preview: Next-Gen 2027 Kia Seltos https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2027-kia-seltos-review-a1747520334/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Preview: All-New 2027 Subaru Getaway https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2027-subaru-getaway-review-a5360151843/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT |
Wed, 25 March 2026
We purchased a 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander SE for our test program and share our first impressions of the updated compact SUV, including its new 48-volt mild-hybrid turbo engine, improved interior controls, and why the tiny third row and rough ride may give shoppers pause. We also discuss whether a hybrid system may harm the gas engine if short trips prevent it from fully warming up?
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 00:16 - Overview: 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander SE 02:10 - What we liked 07:39 - What we disliked 18:16 - Would you buy it? 25:07 - Question: Could the hybrid system harm the gas engine if short trips prevent it from fully warming up?
---------------------------------- Test Results: 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/mitsubishi/outlander/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
10 Best SUVs You Can Buy Right Now https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/10-best-suvs-you-can-buy-right-now-a8518508556/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Which Brands Make the Best Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles-a6159221985/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Hybrids Are Still the Most Reliable Cars https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/electric-vehicles-are-less-reliable-than-conventional-cars-a1047214174/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT |
Wed, 18 March 2026
This week, we share the results of Consumer Reports' EV Range Test. Find out which vehicles have the longest all-electric driving range, how CR's 70-mph highway range test differs from EPA range testing, and what happens when you completely deplete an EV battery while driving. We also explore our range-test methodology and answer a question about the evolution of vehicle headlights. 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: 0:00 - Intro 1:30 - Consumer Reports’ 70-mph highway range test 6:04 - Consumer Reports range test vs. EPA range test 8:00 - Test Conditions: EV driving range 13:22 - How the brands stack up 14:38 - Recovering GM Ultium vehicles 22:17 - Why vehicle efficiency matters 28:35 - Audience Question: When did turn signals become a design accent?/What’s the deal with all these new-fashioned headlights?
LINKS: EV Range Test Results: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/electric-vehicles-with-the-longest-range-a2189661367/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Fastest Charging EVs: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/fastest-charging-electric-vehicles-a4112188427/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Complete EV Ratings: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/types/new/hybrids-evs/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Hybrid & EV Buying Gude: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/buying-guide/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT |
Wed, 11 March 2026
This week, we go through the mailbag and answer audience questions, including: Is driving 55 mph really more fuel-efficient—even in a 10-speed like the Acura TLX? We break down the science behind highway MPG, explain how regenerative braking affects brake light activation in EVs like the Hyundai Kona Electric, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Kia Niro EV, compare jump-starting with cables vs. lithium battery boosters, dig into timing chain vs. timing belt replacement costs in models like the Honda CR-V, and help you decide whether to buy or lease a Honda Ridgeline. Plus, we highlight the best used cars for easier entry and exit, including the Toyota Crown and Subaru Crosstrek.
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 01:39 - Question #1: Does the old ‘55 mph is best’ rule still work with 10-speed transmissions? 05:51 - Question #2: Can jump-starting hurt electronics—or is a lithium booster safer? 10:08 - Question #3: Timing chain vs. timing belt: why aren’t chains standard? 13:36 - Question #4: Does regen braking trigger the brake lights? 17:54 - Question #5: Keep my Honda Ridgeline or wait for a hybrid version? 21:05 - Question #6: What’s the best used car that’s easy for seniors to get in and out of?
---------------------------------- Most Fuel-Efficient Cars https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/fuel-economy-efficiency/the-most-fuel-efficient-cars-best-mpg-a1198903400/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Jump Starter Test Results https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/jump-starters/c37102/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
How to Find a Great Mechanic https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-repair-shops/buying-guide/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Brake Lights Can Fail to Provide Fair Warning on Some Electric Vehicles https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/brake-lights-can-fail-to-provide-fair-warning-on-some-evs-a9533519285/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
How to Make Your Car More Accessible for Aging, Injury, Disability, or Pregnancy https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/how-to-make-your-car-more-accessible-a9092978287/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
10 Best SUVs You Can Buy Right Now https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/10-best-suvs-you-can-buy-right-now-a8518508556/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT |
Wed, 4 March 2026
In this episode, we break down everything you need to know about the 2026 Nissan Sentra SV we purchased for our test program. We cover everything that matters: real-world driving characteristics, engine performance, cabin quality, infotainment usability, and the control frustrations. We also address the big question: why there’s still no hybrid version — and whether that’s a dealbreaker in today’s market. Plus, we answer an audience question about those increasingly massive Yeti, Owala, and Stanley tumblers. Where’s the safest place to store them in your car? Are they actually a projectile hazard in a crash?
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 00:16 - Overview: 2026 Nissan Sentra SV 01:40 - What We Liked 09:12 - What We Did Not Like 30:50 - Question: What is the safest place to store large water bottles in your car?
---------------------------------- Test Results: 2026 Nissan Sentra https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/nissan/sentra/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Which Brands Make the Best Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles-a6159221985/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
How Car Brands Stack Up on Repair Costs https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-maintenance/the-cost-of-car-ownership-a1854979198/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT |
Wed, 25 February 2026
The redesigned 2026 Audi A6 is here — and we purchased a Premium Plus S-Line trim for our test program. In this episode, we break down everything you need to know about the new A6, including turbo V6 engine performance, transmission pros and cons, driving characteristics, and infotainment and control frustrations. We also answer an audience question about whether it’s time to replace the battery in a 2014 Toyota Prius — or replace the whole car.
SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 00:00 - Introduction 00:26 - Overview: 2026 Audi A6 01:00 - What We Loved 11:40 - What We Did Not Like 22:28 - Question: When should you replace the hybrid battery on a Toyota Prius?
---------------------------------- Full Test Results: 2026 Audi A6 https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/audi/a6/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Which Brands Make the Best Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles-a6159221985/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
How Car Brands Stack Up on Repair Costs https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-maintenance/the-cost-of-car-ownership-a1854979198/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT |
Wed, 18 February 2026
This week, we cover the all-new 2026 Nissan Leaf SV+. No longer “just a commuter car,” the Leaf offers increased range, updated SUV styling, a new NACS charge port, and a suite of standard advanced safety equipment, including Nissan’s Pro Pilot Assist. We share our first impressions of the Leaf and discuss whether Nissan’s improvements to its original EV make it a competitive option. We also talk about how to shop for the best car insurance and answer a question about how the weather can affect your car’s advanced driver-assistance systems.
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:
0:00 - Intro
0:30 - 2026 Nissan Leaf SV+ Overview
1:08 - What we like about the 2026 Nissan Leaf
12:00 - What we dislike about the 2026 Nissan Leaf
25:36 - How to find the best car insurance
37:51 - Audience Question: Does inclement weather affect a vehicle’s radar and safety systems?
LINKS:
Nissan Leaf Model History: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/nissan/leaf/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Test Results: 2026 Nissan Leaf: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/nissan/leaf/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
CR Guide to Advanced Car-Safety Features: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/clearing-confusion-about-advanced-car-safety-feature-names-a1035752654/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Best Car Insurance Companies: https://www.consumerreports.org/money/car-insurance/best-car-insurance-companies-a8534720090/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Car Insurance Ratings: https://www.consumerreports.org/money/car-insurance/c34685/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Car Insurance Buying Guide: https://www.consumerreports.org/money/car-insurance/buying-guide/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Car Safety Guide: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/safety-guide/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT |
Wed, 11 February 2026
We share our first impressions of the all-new Toyota bZ. Formerly known as the bZ4X, it shares much of its DNA with the Subaru Solterra. Our experts share the best and worst parts of the bZ and discuss how the name, powertrain, and new NACS charging port increase its appeal. We also debate how much center console is too much, and whether dual wireless phone chargers are actually an asset. Plus, we answer an audience question about the Hyundai Ioniq 9’s reliability.
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:
0:00 - Intro
0:17 - 2026 Toyota bZ Overview
0:55 - What we like about the Toyota bZ
8:13 - What we dislike about the Toyota bZ
18:35 - What EV would we buy?
23:19 - Audience Question: How does Consumer Reports score and weight vehicle reliability year-to-year?
LINKS:
Model Overview; Toyota bZ : https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/toyota/bz/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Test Results: Toyota bZ4X: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/toyota/bz4x/2025/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Tesla Superchargers vs. Non-Tesla TVs: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/ev-chargers/how-well-do-tesla-superchargers-work-for-non-tesla-evs-a4713673565/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
2026 Nissan Leaf: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/nissan/leaf/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Model Overview; Hyundai Ionia 5: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hyundai/ioniq-5/?EXTKEY=SOCIAL_YT
Test Results: Hyundai Ionia 9: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hyundai/ioniq-9/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=SOCIAL_YT
Test Results: Cadillac Vistiq: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cadillac/vistiq/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT |
Wed, 4 February 2026
Shopping for a new car? Consumer Reports’ Top Picks highlight the best cars, SUVs, and trucks you can buy right now—standouts for performance, reliability, owner satisfaction, and safety. In this episode, we break down this year’s winners across key segments, from sedans and small SUVs to three-row SUVs, featuring brands like Toyota, Honda, Ford, Tesla, BMW, Lexus, and Subaru.
SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 00:00 - Introduction 00:15 - 2026 Top Picks 23:57 - Safety Verdict 29:27 - Question: What’s the best way to buy a car located too far away to inspect in person?
---------------------------------- Best Cars of 2026 — CR Top Picks https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/best-cars-of-the-year-10-top-picks-of-2025-a1930591024/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Safety Verdict https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/safety-guide/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
The Safest Cars You Can Buy Right Now https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/the-safest-cars-you-can-buy-right-now-a6584555585/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Which Brands Make the Best Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles-a6159221985/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
How Car Brands Stack Up On Lifetime Repair Cost https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-maintenance/the-cost-of-car-ownership-a1854979198/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
10 Best SUVs You Can Buy Right Now https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/10-best-suvs-you-can-buy-right-now-a8518508556/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Consumerreports.org/Talkingcars https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/talking-cars-podcast-archive-a1439738009/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
The Weekly Cars Newsletter: Shop Smarter. Drive Smarter. https://www.consumerreports.org/email-newsletters/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Lock in savings with a better way to buy a car. https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-prices-build-buy-service/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT |
Wed, 28 January 2026
Subaru is back with a hybrid Crosstrek—will this one finally get it right? For our test program, we purchased a 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Sport Hybrid, and in this episode we share our first impressions. We cover ride comfort, handling, controls, safety technology, and take a close look at Subaru’s new hybrid powertrain. We also answer audience questions about repairing older vehicles versus upgrading—and whether buying a first-year redesigned model is a good idea, even when it comes from a reliable manufacturer like Subaru.
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 00:16 - Overview: 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid 02:14 - What we liked 10:16 - What we did not like 25:15 - Question #1: Is it worth repairing an older vehicle versus upgrading to a newer one? 29:32 - Question #2: Should you still avoid buying a first-year redesign if the powertrain carries over from the previous generation?
---------------------------------- Full Test Results: 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/subaru/crosstrek-hybrid/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Popular Small SUVs to Avoid and What to Buy Instead https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/popular-small-suvs-to-avoid-and-what-to-buy-instead-a1273704153/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Which Brands Make the Best Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles-a6159221985/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
10 Most Reliable Cars https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/10-most-reliable-cars-a6569295379/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
How Car Brands Stack Up On Lifetime Repair Cost https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-maintenance/the-cost-of-car-ownership-a1854979198/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
10 Best SUVs You Can Buy Right Now https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/10-best-suvs-you-can-buy-right-now-a8518508556/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Car Reliability and Owner Satisfaction Guide https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/guide-to-car-reliability-owner-satisfaction-a9213219653/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Consumerreports.org/Talkingcars https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/talking-cars-podcast-archive-a1439738009/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT |
Wed, 14 January 2026
We bought a 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid Calligraphy AWD for our test program—Hyundai’s first model to use its new hybrid system based on a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder. We share our first impressions of this three-row family hauler, covering performance, fuel economy, interior space, cabin luxury, daily usability, and how the hybrid stacks up against the gas-only Palisade. Plus, we answer viewer questions about our All-Season vs. All-Season SUV tire ratings and whether Nissan’s “Zero Gravity” seats deliver real comfort or just marketing hype.
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 00:16 - Overview: 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid 00:52 - What we liked 13:59 - What we did not like 28:48 - Question #1: Do Nissan’s “Zero Gravity” seats actually deliver any comfort or is it just marketing hype? 34:10 - Question #2: What is the difference between the All-Season and All-Season SUV category in CR’s tire ratings?
---------------------------------- Full Test Results: 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hyundai/palisade-hybrid/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Which Brands Make the Best Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles-a6159221985/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Reliability of 5-10 year old cars https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/which-brands-make-the-best-used-cars-a2811658468/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
10 Most Reliable Cars https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/10-most-reliable-cars-a6569295379/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
How Car Brands Stack Up On Lifetime Repair Cost https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-maintenance/the-cost-of-car-ownership-a1854979198/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
10 Best SUVs You Can Buy Right Now https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/10-best-suvs-you-can-buy-right-now-a8518508556/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Car Reliability and Owner Satisfaction Guide https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/guide-to-car-reliability-owner-satisfaction-a9213219653/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Consumerreports.org/Talkingcars https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/talking-cars-podcast-archive-a1439738009/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
|
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