• 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
  • 30 minutes 7 seconds
    Why Does Every New Car Feel Like a Smartphone?

    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.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

    01:20 - CarPlay vs. Native Infotainment Systems

    02:20 - Why Connectivity Still Fails

    03:40 - Software Updates, Over-the-Air updates

    07:04 - Why EVs Depend on Advanced Software

    10:50 - Common Infotainment Frustrations

    18:20 - What Makes a Good Infotainment System?

    20:25 - Privacy, Data Collection & Connected Cars

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

    How Do In-Car Infotainment Systems Compare to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?: https://www.consumerreports.org/infotainment-systems/in-car-infotainment-systems-vs-apple-carplay-android-auto/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    How Do Over-the-Air Update Work: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-maintenance/ota-car-software-updates-are-they-safe-how-they-work-a4081157745/?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

    Get the Most From Your Car's Infotainment System: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/automotive-technology/get-the-most-from-your-cars-infotainment-system-a1056374937/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    How to Clear Your Personal Data From a Car: https://www.consumerreports.org/electronics/personal-information/how-to-clear-your-personal-data-from-a-car-before-selling-a2082502452/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    15 July 2026, 9:45 am
  • 32 minutes 40 seconds
    Small Trucks Are the Perfect Size for Nobody: 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz

    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 assessment.

    SHOW NOTES:

    0:00 - Introduction & Why We Bought Another Santa Cruz

    1:03 - Why Hyundai discontinued the Santa Cruz

    3:03 - Is a small truck enough for most people?

    7:05 - What we dislike about the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz

    13:35 - Best Small Truck Alternatives

    19:50 - Audience Question: How Does CR Score the Bed Size of a truck?

    27:15 - Audience Question Follow up: Favorite cars purchased by Ernie from North Carolina

    LINKS:

    2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hyundai/santa-cruz/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Test Results: Ford Maverick: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/ford/maverick/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Model History: Honda Ridgeline: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/honda/ridgeline/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Test Results: Ford Maverick Hybrid: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/ford/maverick-hybrid/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Test Results: Ford F-150 Hybrid: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/ford/f-150-hybrid/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    6 Most Reliable Used Pickup Trucks, According to Consumer Reports' Experts: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/pickup-trucks/most-reliable-used-pickup-trucks-a7737894754/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    8 July 2026, 9:30 am
  • 58 minutes 11 seconds
    Everything That's Wrong with the American Auto Industry

    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, expert tips for negotiating the best price on a new or used car, and how to avoid costly add-ons. We also answer a viewer question about what we think American cars do better than the competition.

    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

    00:15 Do Consumer Reports Hate American Cars?

    00:55 The Myth About American Car Reliability

    03:56 What Is an "American-Made" Car?

    09:33 Why Consumer Choice Matters

    12:37 Chinese EVs and the Future of the Auto Industry

    20:26 Why Do Detroit Automakers Struggle With Reliability?

    28:05 EVs vs. Hybrids: What's Next?

    33:16 Why Buying a Car Is Still So Hard

    35:42 Dealership Tips: Avoid Costly Add-Ons

    42:06 The Future of the U.S. Auto Market

    51:13 Audience Question: What Do American Cars Do Better?

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

    Best cars, SUVs, and Trucks from American Brands

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-best-american-cars-suvs-trucks-a1034107548/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Best cars made in the USA

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/best-cars-made-in-the-usa-a7966845571/?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 to buy a new car in today's high-priced market

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

    Chinese-made cars are already here.

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/automotive-industry/chinese-made-cars-in-us-market-a3786571662/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Most and least satisfying hybrids, PHEVs, and EVs

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

    How do hybrid cars work?

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/how-do-hybrid-cars-work-a1034181509/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Find an efficient vehicle that's right for you

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

    What to know when buying a new car

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

    Best Cars Under $30K

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/best-new-cars-under-30000-dollars-a6574737993/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

    Best new-car deals for July Fourth

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