2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid
Talking Cars (MP3)
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...
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2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid
Talking Cars (MP3)
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...
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Best & Worst Cars of 2025
Talking Cars (MP3)
We gathered a number of staffers who work behind the scenes at CR's Auto Test Center to share which are their picks for the best and worst cars that Consumer Reports tested in 2025! This team is a key part of CR's evaluation process, driving our test cars in their everyday lives to see which ones are the best to live with - and which ones they wouldn't recommend to friends and family.
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2026 Toyota RAV4
Talking Cars (MP3)
We take an early look at the 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid XSE, which promises more power and a longer electric-only range than the previous versions called the RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid and RAV4 Prime. We discuss its EV capability, acceleration, interior feel, everyday usability, and where it is worth the $46,000 asking price. We also answer audience questions about how EVs balance horsepower and range, and whether smaller wheels are an effective way to deal with potholes. 00:17 - Toyota RAV4 PHEV first impressions 33:00 - how do EVs balance horsepower and range? 37:22 - how much does wheel size...
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2026 Reliability Survey Results
Talking Cars (MP3)
Consumer Reports’ latest reliability findings are in, we share which brands deliver the most reliable cars, trucks, and SUVs in 2026—based on comprehensive survey data from hundreds of thousands of CR members. We break down how major automakers, including Toyota, Tesla, Subaru, Rivian, BMW, Mazda, and Honda, compare; how EVs and plug-in hybrids stack up against traditional gas models; which used cars offer the most dependable performance; and whether luxury brands truly provide an advantage over their mainstream counterparts. We also address why some automakers place the gas cap on the...
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New Car Reliability, Swapping Wheel Sizes, & Is Undercoating Worth It?
Talking Cars (MP3)
This episode is dedicated to all audience questions! Keith, Emily, and Mike tackle everything from the most reliable new vehicles, whether you should pay extra for rustproofing, why Americans buy and drive large vehicles, and if keeping a 22-year-old vehicle may be better for your wallet despite the inherent repair costs. Plus, we explain how CR determines a vehicle’s predicted reliability and whether you can fit your vehicle with smaller wheels and tires to save money and improve ride comfort. Exclusive CR discount for Talking Cars viewers: Submit a Question to Talking Cars: ...
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2026 Lucid Gravity
Talking Cars (MP3)
Lucid recently released its second all-electric vehicle: the 2026 Lucid Gravity. With 828 horsepower, three rows of seating, and impressive electric range, it looks like a potential game-changer in the luxury SUV space. But is it ready for prime time? In this episode, we share our first impressions of the Gravity, including standout features, early glitches, and key omissions. Plus, we tackle your questions: How do you get the most life—and resale value—out of your vehicle? And when planning a long road trip, should you rack up miles on your older car or take the newer one? ...
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2026 Hyundai Palisade
Talking Cars (MP3)
On this episode, we discuss the 2026 Hyundai Palisade. The redesigned three-row SUV excels in nearly every area. From its stylish design to its intuitive controls, our experts found few flaws with the Palisade, aside from one major issue. Additionally, we answer audience questions about CR's Reliability and Owner Satisfaction surveys and offer tips to avoid deceptive sales tactics at the dealership. Test results here: Exclusive CR discount for Talking Cars viewers: Submit a Question to Talking Cars: Hyundai Palisade Overview: Find the Best SUV: 2025 Hyundai Palisade: 9 Hybrids...
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Tire Buying Advice, All-Season vs All-Weather, and the Best Time to Buy New Tires
Talking Cars (MP3)
Consumer Reports tests dozens of tire models every year across all types of weather and road conditions. Our expert evaluations cover key performance factors like grip, handling, braking, comfort, and tread life. In this episode, we explain everything you need to know before buying new tires—when to replace them, how to choose the best tires, and whether electric vehicles need special tires. You’ll learn how climate and driving style affect tire performance, and get insider insight into how our engineers test tires for safety and durability. We’ll also answer your top tire questions,...
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2025 Toyota 4Runner
Talking Cars (MP3)
This week, we share our impressions of the redesigned 2025 Toyota 4Runner. Now in its sixth generation, the 4Runner retains its body-on-frame platform, preserving its rugged off-road identity while introducing some modern updates. We break down what Toyota got right—like easier access and more comfortable seating—as well as where the redesign falls short. Plus, we answer audience questions about vehicle drive modes and which manufacturers make the best physical controls. Test results here: Exclusive CR discount for Talking Cars viewers: Talking Cars Archive: ...
info_outlineJoin us on the floor of the 2025 New York Auto Show. We cover the trends, or lack thereof, among automakers in attendance, the debut of several new Subaru models, and talk about which vehicles have the best chance of success in the market. Plus, we share our favorite vehicles from the show floor.
SHOW NOTES
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00:00 - Introduction
00:15 - Lots of Nostalgia
01:24 - This Year’s Theme
02:35 - New Launches
14:04 - Marketing Choices
20:19 - Flash of Fun
21:15 - Success or Failure?
22:45 - Our Favorites
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Preview: The 2026 Subaru Outback Is Truly an SUV Now
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2026-subaru-outback-review-a9885722682/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Preview: 2026 Hyundai Palisade Is Larger, More Powerful, and More Upscale
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2026-hyundai-palisade-review-a7560459286/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Preview: 2026 Honda Passport Gets Tougher Looks and an Updated V6 Engine
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2026-honda-passport-review-a2462413763/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Preview: 2026 Subaru Trailseeker Is a Bigger, Better Solterra EV
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2026-subaru-trailseeker-review-a5418969450/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Preview: 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid Brings More Power, Greater Efficiency
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2025-subaru-forester-hybrid-review-a4285500200/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Preview: 2026 Kia EV4 Has a Long Range and Angular Styling
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2026-kia-ev4-review-a3005904446/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Preview: 2025 Ford Expedition Brings Off-Road Tech to the Three-Row SUV
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2025-ford-expedition-review-a6764495550/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT