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Talking Cars (MP3)

Talking Cars (MP3)

Consumer Reports 523 Episodes Jul 22, 2026

Join our experts at the Consumer Reports Test Track as they discuss cars, answer buying questions, and share insights on everything automotive.

Episodes

Will Your Next Car Come With a 'Kill Switch'? | Talking Cars with Consumer Reports #516
Will Your Next Car Come With a 'Kill Switch'? | Talking Cars with Consumer Reports #516 Jul 22, 2026 29:51 In this episode, we separate fact from fiction about viral claims that a government-mandated "kill switch" for cars is coming in 2027. Our experts explain what the law actually says, how alcohol-impairment detection technology is being developed, and what that means for you when you make your next car purchase. We also answer an audience question about whether newer cars are really safer than olde
Why Does Every New Car Feel Like a Smartphone?
Why Does Every New Car Feel Like a Smartphone? Jul 15, 2026 30:07 In this episode of Talking Cars, we discuss why modern vehicles rely so heavily on software, apps, over-the-air updates, and smartphone integration. We compare the pros and cons of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, discuss the learning curve of built-in infotainment systems, and explore personal data privacy and how you can best protect your information while using a vehicle.   Join CR at https://CR
Small Trucks Are the Perfect Size for Nobody: 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz
Small Trucks Are the Perfect Size for Nobody: 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz Jul 8, 2026 32:40  In this episode, we take an in-depth look at the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz, which, ironically, was officially discontinued days after we bought one for testing. We talk about the history and future of small trucks, discuss why Hyundai decided to end production of the Santa Cruz, and answer a question from a Santa Cruz owner about why the Santa Cruz returned low scores in our cargo capacity assessme
Everything That's Wrong with the American Auto Industry
Everything That's Wrong with the American Auto Industry Jul 1, 2026 58:11 This week's episode tackles a long-running debate: are American cars inferior to their Asian and European counterparts? We break down the truth about Ford, GM, Stellantis, and Tesla, and how they stack up to Toyota, Honda, and other top automakers, revealing how performance and reliability drive our ratings. Plus: why the American dealership model is still so frustrating, Chinese EV competition, e
The 2026 Subaru Uncharted's Identity Crisis
The 2026 Subaru Uncharted's Identity Crisis Jun 24, 2026 47:20 Is the all-new Subaru Uncharted a rugged Subaru, a rebadged Toyota, or something in between? We share our first impressions of the compact EV's strong performance, comfortable ride, confusing ergonomics, and missing EV features. Plus, we answer a viewer's question about the best fun-to-drive car for a college student with a $35,000 budget.   Join CR at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to access our compre
Get a Job As a CR Tester, Rivian vs. Lucid, Unfair Minivan Bias
Get a Job As a CR Tester, Rivian vs. Lucid, Unfair Minivan Bias Jun 17, 2026 21:37 Consumer Reports experts discuss the financial viability of EV startups like Rivian and Lucid, share EV charging best practices, give advice for hauling large audio equipment, the future of the minivan, vehicle-to-vehicle communication. We also discuss what it takes to become a Consumer Reports vehicle tester, and compare the real-world costs of driving EVs vs. hybrids and gas-powered vehicles. Ha
2026 Dodge Charger R/T
2026 Dodge Charger R/T Jun 10, 2026 48:08 In this episode, we share our first impressions of the all-new 2026 Dodge Charger. The Charger features new styling and a hatchback design, a twin-turbo inline-six-cylinder engine, all-wheel drive, and an updated interior that feels small, despite the vehicle's overall size. We also discuss what Dodge got right, where the Charger falls short, and whether we'd recommend it over other enthusiast-foc
How to Survive High Gas Prices
How to Survive High Gas Prices Jun 3, 2026 41:05 As gas prices fluctuate and drivers look for ways to cut costs, on this week's episode we answer the questions drivers are asking most: Is premium fuel worth the extra cost? Does ethanol save money? Do Eco modes actually improve fuel economy? And should high fuel prices push you toward a hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or EV? From choosing the right fuel and finding the best prices at the pump to understa
Are Off-Road Trims for SUVs Worth the Extra Money?
Are Off-Road Trims for SUVs Worth the Extra Money? May 27, 2026 25:09 On this episode of Talking Cars, we discuss our recent evaluation of popular rugged SUV trims, sometimes called "soft roader" SUVs—including the Subaru Forester Wilderness, Honda Passport TrailSport, Toyota RAV4 Woodland, Ford Explorer Tremor, and more—to see whether they add real capability or mostly rugged styling. Plus, we answer a viewer's question about whether roof crossbars hurt fuel econom
2026 Mazda Miata Is Still the Answer
2026 Mazda Miata Is Still the Answer May 20, 2026 40:41 On this episode we share our impressions of the 2026 Mazda Miata and take a joyride through Miata history. We explain why the 2026 model remains one of the purest sports cars you can buy, and weigh its sublime manual transmission, lightweight feel, reliability, and real-world compromises. Plus, we answer an audience question about Tesla Full Self-Driving—and whether human-driven Miatas are really
2027 Kia Telluride EX AWD
2027 Kia Telluride EX AWD May 13, 2026 49:30 The 2027 Kia Telluride gets a major redesign, but is it enough to keep this three-row SUV among the best in its class? On this week's episode, we discuss the Telluride's powertrain, styling, comfort, and biggest competitor. We also answer audience questions about navigation systems, satellite radio, and why manufacturers are charging for certain telematics software.   SHOW NOTES: 0:00 Intro 0:36 W
Best Used EVs, Renting with Turo + Sixt, Rivian Reliability + Owner Satisfaction
Best Used EVs, Renting with Turo + Sixt, Rivian Reliability + Owner Satisfaction May 6, 2026 27:52 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.

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