• 37 minutes 29 seconds
    2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid: More Power, Way Less Drama

    This week, we share our first impressions of the 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid—the first hybrid version of Kia's popular three-row SUV. We discuss its 329-hp hybrid powertrain, improved fuel economy, quiet and comfortable ride, controls, front-seat comfort, and how it compares with the closely related Hyundai Palisade Hybrid. Plus, we answer an audience question about choosing a luxurious, fuel-efficient three-row SUV for long highway trips.

    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

    00:47 - 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid Overview

    03:30 - Hybrid Powertrain

    08:13 - Telluride Hybrid vs. Hyundai Palisade Hybrid

    09:56 - Low-Speed Hybrid Hiccups and Transmission Behavior

    12:43 - Fuel Economy: 31 MPG vs. 20 MPG

    13:43 - Ride Comfort, Handling, and Wheel Size

    15:46 - Interior Storage and Everyday Usability

    16:54 - Climate Controls and Infotainment

    20:57 - Roomy Cabin, Convenient Features, and Door Handles

    23:00 - Front-Seat Comfort and Driving Position

    27:32 - Which Hyundai/Kia Three-Row SUV Would We Choose?

    30:55 - Audience Question: Best Luxury Three-Row SUV for Long Commutes

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

    Test Results: 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/kia/telluride-hybrid/2027/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    2027 Kia Telluride

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/kia/telluride/2027/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Most and Least Satisfying Hybrids, Plug-In Hybrids, and EVs

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/most-and-least-satisfying-electric-vehicles-and-hybrids-a2825600877/?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

    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

    Find an Efficient Vehicle That's Right for You

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/buying-guide/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

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

    Consumer Reports experts: Mike Monticello, Joe Veselak, Jeff Bartlett

    30 September 2026, 9:45 am
  • 27 minutes 25 seconds
    Selling Your Car Privately, Fuel Stabilizer in a PHEV, When Is CR Testing a VinFast?

    In this all-questions episode of Talking Cars, our experts answer questions on selling a used car online, how to get the most life out of directional tires, storing fuel in a plug-in hybrid, how hybrid engines work, and more. Plus, the rear-wiper saga continues, and we explain why most rear wipers are mounted below the glass on vehicle hatches. Have a question for our experts? Send it to [email protected] to be featured on a future episode.

    SHOW NOTES:

    0:00 - Intro

    1:16 - Question #1 (video): How to sell your car online

    6:39 - Question #2: What's the best strategy to get the most mileage out of directional tires?

    8:39 - Question #3: Should you use fuel stabilizer in a PHEV?

    11:10 - Question #4 (video): What is the Atkinson cycle and how does it work?

    16:54 - Question #5: Will CR ever buy and test a VinFast?

    22:17 - Question #6: Why are rear-mounted wipers attached to the bottom of the rear glass?

    LINKS:

    Send a Question to Talking Cars: https://www.consumerreports.org/talkingcars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    How To Sell Your Car Online: https://www.consumerreports.org/money/selling-a-car/how-to-sell-your-car-to-an-online-retailer-a2790904993/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    First Drive: VinFast VF8: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/vinfast/vf-8/2025/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    VinFast Brand Overview: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/vinfast/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    23 September 2026, 9:30 am
  • 50 minutes 10 seconds
    The 2026 Toyota RAV4 PHEV Is Great—but Is It $50,000 Great?

    On this week's episode, we share our first impressions of the 2026 Toyota RAV4 PHEV and explore whether the plug-in hybrid is worth its sizable price premium. With up to 54 miles of electric range, 324 horsepower, impressive fuel economy, and no EV range anxiety, it may be the most versatile RAV4 yet—but it still has a few frustrating compromises. Plus, we answer an audience question about whether a reliable, high-mileage vehicle is a smart choice for a teen driver.

    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

    0:37 Overview: 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid

    1:23 Is the PHEV Worth It?

    6:14 Electric Range and Efficiency

    9:31 Charging at Home

    13:07 Ride and Handling

    15:36 Acceleration and Power

    19:15 Controls and Technology

    27:02 Interior and Comfort

    31:59 Reliability

    35:45 Final Verdict

    42:43 Viewer Question: Are High-Mileage Cars Safe for Teens?

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

    Test Results: 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/toyota/rav4-plug-in-hybrid/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    First Drive: 2026 Toyota RAV4 PHEV Is Quick, Efficient, and Packed with Useful Tech

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2026-toyota-rav4-phev-review-a1016340226/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Most and Least Satisfying Hybrids, Plug-In Hybrids, and EVs

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/most-and-least-satisfying-electric-vehicles-and-hybrids-a2825600877/?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

    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

    Find an Efficient Vehicle That's Right for You

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/buying-guide/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Safest Car Brands Ranked by CR's Safety Verdict

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/safest-car-brands-a1065426408/?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

    Best Used Cars and SUVs Under 10K

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/best-used-cars-suvs-under-10000-dollars-a8966344858/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

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

    Consumer Reports experts: Jon Linkov, Jake Fisher, Alex George

    16 September 2026, 9:45 am
  • 30 minutes 54 seconds
    Say It to Me Seltos: First Impressions of the 2027 Kia Seltos

    On this week's episode, we share our first impressions of the redesigned 2027 Kia Seltos, Kia's least expensive SUV. Its roomy interior, comfortable ride, bold styling, and user-friendly controls make it feel surprisingly mature—but the sluggish 147-hp base engine is a major disappointment. We discuss whether the pricey turbo is worth the upgrade or if buyers should wait for the upcoming hybrid. Plus, we answer an audience question about balancing the financial benefits of keeping an older car with the safety improvements found in newer models.

    Consumer Reports experts: Alex Knizek, Jeff Bartlett, John Williams

    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

    00:37 Overview: 2027 Kia Seltos

    02:12 Mature Subcompact SUV

    04:26 Ride Comfort and Handling

    07:20 The Engine

    08:43 Is the Turbo Worth it?

    09:58 Upcoming Hybrid

    12:39 Infotainment

    14:23 Climate Controls and Interior Design Quirks

    18:13 Door Handles

    20:27 Interior Space, Cargo Room, and Rear Seats

    22:12 Seat Comfort and Head Restraint Problems

    25:29 Interior Quality

    27:22 Audience Question: When Should You Replace an Older Car?

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

    Test Results: 2027 Kia Seltos

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/kia/seltos/2027/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Most and Least Satisfying Hybrids, Plug-In Hybrids, and EVs

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/most-and-least-satisfying-electric-vehicles-and-hybrids-a2825600877/?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

    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

    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

    Find the Safest New Car Using CR's Safety Verdict

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/how-to-find-safest-new-car-using-crs-safety-verdict-a3169270635/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Safest Car Brands Ranked by CR's Safety Verdict

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/safest-car-brands-a1065426408/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    9 September 2026, 9:45 am
  • 43 minutes 29 seconds
    Is the 2026 Toyota bZ Woodland EV the Golden Child of the Toyota-Subaru Marriage?

    On this week's episode, we share our first impressions of the 2026 Toyota BZ Woodland, a 375-hp all-wheel-drive EV that promises more space, extra ground clearance, and a little off-road attitude. But is the Woodland really built for the wilderness—or is it better thought of as a quick, practical electric station wagon? We discuss its surprising acceleration, EPA-rated range, cargo area, infotainment and controls, and overly sensitive driver-monitoring system. Plus, we answer an audience question about why cars don't have automatic rain-sensing rear wipers, which turned into a debate over whether cars really need rear windshield wipers at all.

    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

    00:36 Overview: 2026 Toyota bZ Woodland

    01:18 What Does "Woodland" Actually Mean?

    03:35 Toyota and Subaru's Growing EV Family

    04:47 Performance

    06:05 Interior Quality, Controls, and Usability

    09:24 Driving Position and Storage

    12:05 Cargo Space

    14:13 Is the bZ Woodland an Electric Subaru Outback?

    15:53 Toyota's Infotainment

    18:20 Instrument Cluster

    21:09 Phone Connectivity

    24:40 All-Terrain Tires

    25:19 Are "Off-Road" Trims Worth It?

    28:14 Safety and Driver Assistance Features

    33:41 Audience Question: Why No Rain-Sensing Rear Wipers?

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

    Test Results: 2026 Toyota bZ Woodland

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/toyota/bz-woodland/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    2026 Toyota bZ

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/toyota/bz/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Popular Electric Vehicles to Avoid and What to Get Instead

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/electric-vehicles-to-avoid-and-the-evs-to-get-instead-a6654236864/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Best Electric Cars of 2026, According to Consumer Reports' Tests

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/best-electric-vehicles-from-consumer-reports-tests-a3759669425/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Most and Least Satisfying Hybrids, Plug-In Hybrids, and EVs

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/most-and-least-satisfying-electric-vehicles-and-hybrids-a2825600877/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Most Reliable Used Electric Vehicles

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/most-reliable-used-electric-vehicles-a8864540677/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    2 September 2026, 9:45 am
  • 52 minutes 26 seconds
    I Bought 171 Cars for Consumer Reports. Here's What I Learned.

    On this week's episode, after 30 years and roughly $6 million spent buying cars for Consumer Reports, Mike Quincy shares his best car-buying advice, worst dealership experiences, and the tricks and fees buyers should watch out for. Plus, a surprise guest drops in to help send him off before he takes one final ride into retirement.

    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

    00:41 – Mike Quincy's Last Ride

    02:08 – 171 Cars and $6 Million: Mike's Car-Buying Career

    04:48 – The Most Memorable Cars Mike Bought

    08:27 – How Car Buying Has Changed Over the Years

    13:28 – What's Better—and Worse—About Buying a Car Today

    16:00 – How to Handle the Finance Office

    20:27 – Mike's Worst Dealership Experiences

    28:02 – The Best Car-Buying Experiences

    33:23 – What Car Will Mike Buy for Retirement?

    37:15 – Looking Back on 30 Years at Consumer Reports

    37:29 – A Surprise Guest Joins the Podcast

    43:56 – What Mike Will Miss Most

    46:42 – Buying a New Car Should Be Exciting

    51:10 – Mike Quincy's Final Sign-Off

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

    How to Spot and Avoid Unnecessary Car-Buying Fees

    https://www.consumerreports.org/money/fees-billing/how-to-avoid-car-buying-fees-a7209896255/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    What to Know Before Buying a Car: 7 Questions to Ask at the Dealership

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/buying-a-car/questions-to-ask-before-you-buy-a-car-a6387933582/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    How to Buy a New Car in Today's Challenging, High-Priced Market

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/buying-a-car/how-to-buy-a-car-in-todays-challenging-market-a7648220054/?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

    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

    Find an Efficient Vehicle That's Right for You

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/buying-guide/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    26 August 2026, 9:45 am
  • 44 minutes 42 seconds
    The Ineos Grenadier Might Be the Perfect Backcountry Vehicle

    This week we drive the 2026 Ineos Grenadier on pavement, dirt roads, and CR's challenging Rock Hill to see whether this purpose-built, BMW-powered SUV is worth nearly $90,000. We discuss the driving experience, its unusual steering, noisy cabin, quirky controls, where it excels, and whether we'd actually buy one. Plus, we answer an audience question about what to do with an older BMW whose necessary repairs cost more than the car is worth.

    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

    00:37 Overview: 2026 Ineos Grenadier

    02:22 The Story Behind the Grenadier

    04:00 Why it SUV Stands Out

    07:28 Off-Road Test

    10:12 Locking Differentials and Low-Range Gear

    12:28 Built to Be Repaired in the Middle of Nowhere

    13:40 BMW Power in a Serious Off-Roader

    15:33 The Grenadier's Quirky Interior

    17:20 Compromises

    19:06 The Steering

    22:31 Buttons, Switches, and an Airplane-Style Cockpit

    27:31 Driving Position and Seat Comfort

    30:32 Cabin Noise

    32:05 On-Road Handling

    33:45 Would We Spend $90,000 on One?

    36:22 What It's Really Like to Live With

    38:44 How Would the Grenadier Score in CR Testing?

    39:36 Audience Question: Should I sell a car that costs more to repair than it's worth?

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

    Find the Best SUVs

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/?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

    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

    How It Works: FWD vs. RWD vs. AWD vs. 4WD

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/automotive-technology/2wd-vs-awd-vs-4wd-a5663578720/?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

    CR Car Value Estimator

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-value-estimator/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    19 August 2026, 9:45 am
  • 31 minutes 22 seconds
    All-Weather vs. All-Season Tires; Should I Buy My Own Spare?

    We answer viewer questions this week, including: the best vehicle for a 14-hour road trip, why automakers have eliminated spare tires, debunk a myth about self-driving cars, and explore the pros and cons of all-weather tires. We also discuss the best ways to learn your vehicle's new features, with or without a dealer's help.

    Have a question for our experts? Send it to [email protected] to be featured on a future episode.

    📝 SHOW NOTES:

    0:00 - Intro

    1:24 - Question #1 - Paul from St.Paul, MN: Which car brands make the best self-driving systems?

    8:31 - Question #2 - Paul: Where did all of the spare tires go?

    15:25 - Question #3 - Darnley from Yonkers, NY: What's the best car for a 14-hour road trip?

    18:30 - Question #4 - Noah from Richmond, VA: Do all-weather tires live up to the hype?

    23:57 - Question #5: Steve from TN: What's the best way to learn about the new features on a car, when you don't buy from a dealer?

    🌐 LINKS:

    Car Features to Help You Stay Safe on the Road: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/cars-and-features-to-help-you-stay-safe-on-the-road-a1543711001/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Clearing the Confusion About Advanced Car-Safety Feature Names: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/clearing-confusion-about-advanced-car-safety-feature-names-a1035752654/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Some Newer Cars Are Missing a Spare Tire: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/tires/some-newer-cars-are-missing-a-spare-tire-a9928775934/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Consumer Reports' Tire Selector Tool: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/tires/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    12 August 2026, 9:30 am
  • 37 minutes 45 seconds
    Lexus Finally Gets Electric Right: 2026 Lexus ES 500e

    Is the all-new 2026 Lexus ES EV the luxury electric sedan we've been waiting for? On this week's episode we share our first impressions of the Lexus' newest electric sedan, discussing its whisper-quiet ride, comfort-first philosophy, real-world range, charging performance, interior technology, and whether it delivers a true luxury experience despite a few frustrating tech quirks. Plus, we answer a viewer question: Can you safely extend oil change intervals on a plug-in hybrid if you mostly drive in EV mode?

    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

    00:16 - First Impressions of the 2026 Lexus ES 500e

    03:42 - Ride Comfort

    08:13 - Interior Design

    10:17 - Controls & Tech Quirks

    15:07 - Rear Seat Comfort

    18:07 - Real-World EV Range & Charging

    20:31 - Practicality

    22:22 - EV Platform Explained

    23:06 - Comfort vs. Performance

    26:01 - One-Pedal Driving & EV Experience

    28:26 - Everyday Usability

    30:40 - Safety Features

    33:32 - Audience Question: Oil Changes for Plug-in Hybrids

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

    Test Results: 2026 Lexus ES

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/lexus/es/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    How to Find the Best Home EV Charger

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/how-to-choose-the-best-home-wall-charger-for-your-electric-vehicle-a6908889697/EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    How Long Does It Take to Charge These Popular Electric Cars

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/fastest-charging-electric-vehicles-a4112188427/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    10 Best Deals on Electric Vehicles

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/best-deals-on-electric-vehicles-a1198228201/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Most & Least Satisfying Hybrids, PHEVs, and Electric Vehicles

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/most-and-least-satisfying-electric-vehicles-and-hybrids-a2825600877/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Popular Electric Vehicles to Avoid and What to Get Instead

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/electric-vehicles-to-avoid-and-the-evs-to-get-instead-a6654236864/?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

    5 Things to Know About Oil Changes for Your Car

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-maintenance/things-to-know-about-oil-changes-for-your-car-a9532249359//?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    5 August 2026, 9:45 am
  • 44 minutes 51 seconds
    Save the Manuals: Driving the New 2026 VW Jetta GLI

    Is the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta GLI the last great affordable sports sedan? On this week's episode, we debate whether Volkswagen's final manual-transmission sedan is destined to become a future classic—or if the DSG automatic is actually the better buy. We break down the GLI's turbocharged performance, handling, ride comfort, practicality, and why it may be one of the best cars left to learn stick shift. Plus, we answer audience questions about the best used manual cars for beginners and whether driving a stick can actually make teen drivers safer.

    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

    00:15 2026 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

    02:01 Driving Experience

    07:29 Performance, Handling, and Ride Quality

    16:39 Comfort, Seats, and Interior Features

    22:13 Manual vs. DSG Transmission Debate

    26:50 Practicality and Interior Drawbacks

    30:00 Would We Buy the Jetta GLI?

    33:29 Questions #1: Where did Mike Quincy buy his classes?

    36:25 Question #2: What is the best used manual transmission cars for teen drivers

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

    Test Results: Volkswagen Jetta

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/volkswagen/jetta/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

    How Car Brands Stack Up on Repair Costs

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-maintenance/the-cost-of-car-ownership-a1854979198/?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

    Best used cars under $20,000 for teens

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/teen-driving/best-cars-for-teens-a2115540753/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Car Distractions: How to Stay Focused While Driving

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/car-distractions-how-to-stay-focused-while-driving-a1144545692/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    29 July 2026, 9:45 am
  • 29 minutes 51 seconds
    Will Your Next Car Come With a 'Kill Switch'? | Talking Cars with Consumer Reports #516

    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 older models and how advanced safety systems differ from driver convenience features.

    SHOW NOTES:

    0:00 - Intro

    1:10 - The 2027 Car 'Kill Switch' myth

    2:05 - What is the HALT Drunk Driving Act?

    7:51 - Direct Driver Monitoring Systems (DDMS)

    10:30 - Audience Question: Are newer cars really safer?

    13:03 - How Advanced Driver Safety Systems help prevent crashes

    15:54 - Convenience Features vs. Real Safety Technology

    24:03 - Why Modern Safety Features Matter

    LINKS:

    No, Your Car Isn't Getting a 'Kill Switch' in 2027: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/2027-car-kill-switch-explained-a2146992793/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Driver Monitoring Systems Can Help You Be Safer on the Road: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/driver-monitoring-systems-ford-gm-earn-points-in-cr-tests-a6530426322/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Consumer Reports' Car Safety Guide: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/safety-guide/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Find the Safest New Car Using Consumer Reports' Safety Verdict: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/how-to-find-safest-new-car-using-crs-safety-verdict-a3169270635/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    22 July 2026, 9:30 am
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