Best and Worst Cars of 2023 | Talking Cars with Consumer Reports
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- Опубліковано 22 вер 2024
- We wrap 2023 with CR experts sharing their most and least favorite cars they drove in our testing fleet. Where do cars like the Toyota Prius, Honda CR-V hybrid, Rivian R1S, and Honda Accord hybrid fall on our lists? We also share some fun statistics from our testing program from 2023, and answer questions about regenerative braking in the Toyota Prius Prime and other hybrids, as well as how AWD systems work in EVs.
00:36 - CR testing statistics from 2023
3:03 - the best cars we tested in 2023
8:06 - the worst cars we tested in 2023
18:36 - do hybrids benefit from regeneration braking like electric vehicles?
23:51 - do all-wheel drive systems in EVs work the same way as in standard vehicles?
Popular Cars to Avoid and What to Buy Instead: www.consumerre...
10 Most Reliable Cars: www.consumerre...
Best Tires of the Year: www.consumerre...
Best Car Batteries of the Year: www.consumerre...
Which Brand Makes the Most Reliable Vehicles? www.consumerre...
Ratings and test results on every car CR purchases and tests: www.consumerre...
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Consumer Reports please consider adding decibel meter interior noise reviews on vehicles! This would be very helpful to consumers.
On the Rivian: when you sit on a waiting list for months or years, and when you spend that much money for a vehicle, it makes sense to me that you will claim a high satisfaction level with the vehicle and overlook its many flaws. You don't want to admit to yourself or to anyone else that you made a bad bet on an investment that significant.
That's not always true. Many times you will hear the exact opposite ("I waited over a year for this car, and I hate it"). Why do people make up things?
Totally false. It's objectively a great vehicle to drive - comfortable, quiet, well appointed, good technology, faster than any SUV on the road, capable in all respects as far as off roading or bad weather, looks great, practical storage with a large power frunk, not to mention inexpensive to fuel and low maintenance. I can't think of another SUV I'd rather own.
Jennifer thinks Subarus are great, that gives you an idea of how high power and technology are on her list of priorities.
I don't agree. Firstly, when you are responding to a survey, you don't have any social pressure. I have R1S for about 13 months and driven 16k+ miles as of now. Last 6 years of owning SUVs, never driven a car more than 10k a year. Only service visit was for rotating wheels. R1S is so versatile and fun to drive as well. Camped in the car twice, took for off-roading, and many trip for skiing. When I got the car I was thinking to flip it for some cash but after driving for a day, I've decided to keep it.
My Rivian is by far the best vehicle I have ever owned. Insane speed, insane hauling, 2 years, no problems, great range. Better than any BMW or high class car I've owned and better than any truck I've had. Quality everywhere and an amazing driving experience. Given the person that didn't liked it enjoyed the Honda, well, that says all you need to know.
True. Something like a “Stockholm syndrome”…
I've been with Consumer Reports for decades. I've always thought of the people behind the scenes as mysterious folks in lab coats. Nice to finally see they are real, ordinary-looking people who are very insightful and interesting.
I had a plug in Prius and used it for tailgating for football games. I would hold the charge until i got to the tailgate lot, then use an inverter to run a TV and crock pot. I don't have that car anymore, and i miss that a lot. Was a fun feature!
I have such a passion for automobiles that Consumer Report wouldn't even feel like work.
Just bought the 2023 Honda CR-V Sport Hybrid and I love it! Drives really smooth and I'm getting 400+ miles per fill up. Also looks amazing!! I love the new body style! Great car!
Feel like new hybrids, especially Honda and Toyota, has solved the issue with cvt power and longevity issues and added that power and mpg. Very good time to buy a car
Interesting, a lot of outlets said the Prius drives great. Some publications even gave it car of the year!
I have had a 23 Prime for 4 months and it drives great 😎; much improved over the old version, which was a solid car in itself (for what it is… nobody pretending it to be a performance car, just an all round ultra-practical and reliable vehicle). I upgraded from a Gen 3 Plug-in (2014), and I had a Gen 2 before that. Light years ahead!
Saying it is “worse” than the old one is a definite stretch, and just shows their hate for the Prius brand. I mean lack of fake shift noises as a major drawback? 🙄😂. Sure, the CR-V hybrid has shifty noises and is surely also a great car (truck) as well…. But I’m also kinda partial to finding my vehicle in the driveway where I left it in the morning. 😕
Are there drawbacks from vs the old Prius? A few, sure. Lower roofline/rear headroom, reduced cargo on the regular Prius (which is consistent on the Prime, BTW), would be nice if there was still a rear wiper (though the digital mirror is nice), and of course it is more expensive, but they had to shift the target market for this vehicle, as there is too much competition from Corolla hybrid and competitors and low-end EVs (while still around, like Bolt) for ultra economy, and declining Prius sales over the last decade have shown this.
Sure, the 15’s on the old Prius were oddly small while the 19’s seem like overkill, but this is where the market is going. While 17’s seem like the logical middle ground, even 17’s are starting to be “small” in the eyes of some, so they made the marketing gamble that the small efficiency hit would still make the car more appealing for the demographic they are going for. If it bothers you that much, wheels are easy to change, and I am sure there are LE/SE owners out there open to a swap.
Anyway, I would expect nothing less than CR to complain about a Prius, while most other publications are raving about the same..🙄. Some criticism is welcome of course, but when they say it is worse than the outgoing model, well… 😂
Sounds like if you're at all interested you should probably try it yourself. People have wildly different priorities with their vehicles.
I have had the AWD version for about 3 months and am very satisfied overall. Love the MPGs! Drives great, but I don't routinely test drive vehicles.
The Prius is a car without a meaning. Looks great but is ergonomically inferior. Especially if you have hybrid cars like the RAV 4 Hybrid, the Venza, Corolla Hybrid, Camry Hybrid and the Crown in the Toyota stable. All of them superior in their domains. What is the Prius for?
$33k for prime, it's pretty, but doesn't make sense vs Bolt $30k-ish FOR ME.
Regarding regen, we had a trip up to the mountains in the Pacifica Plug In Hybrid and the other benefit is regen when going downhill. On one mountain we started up with no remaining electric range but on the way down regened all the way to 36 percent! That's equivalent to over 10 miles of flat/level driving. It normally takes hours on our regular 120 volt charger to add that much juice. Yeah it was recovered energy but very cool to think of the efficiency improvement over using breaks to make make the rotors hot. BTW, a plug-in hybrid minivan has to be the greatest do-it-all utility vehicle conceivable.
Honda crv not having a spare tire is a deal breaker for me.
How often did you need your spare tire in the last few years?
Totally agree! In my current and last few vehicles of 9 (company and personal vehicles combined since 2006), I’ve never ever needed to use and put on the spare tire! Had a fusion hybrid once with the tire inflator kit and had to use the inflator with dispersing sealant for temp driving due to a puncture. That worked until I could drive it to the tire repair shop!
Twice.@@jddhan1656
I've had to use a spare maybe 2 times in 25 years, while traveling out of town. I live in Brooklyn, and there are tire repair shops everywhere.
I'm so sorry for you. I hope you find your spare. Usualy they sit on the extra's list.
Very detailed report, thanks! I recently test drove the Honda CRV hybrid, and agree with you, loved the way it "shifted." Currently have a 2020 CRV non-hybrid, and I am use to the cvt and I don't notice the drone much unless under heavy acceleration, but I really liked the new application. I decided to keep my 2020 for now, but the 2023 I drove was very tempting.
I also have a 2020 CR-V 1.5T, and my opinions are similar to yours. I don't notice the drone unless I'm accelerating hard. Enthusiasts tend to frown upon CVT's, but Honda actually tends to tune them really well.
It’s slow
@@jayslomine4280 It will zip up to highway speed no problem. How fast are you driving? I feel like "car reviewers" disparage any car that can't help a boomer get an erection I mean umm... Power. Yeah. Power.
I’m shocked that two of the best cars picked were Hondas. I figured it would’ve been a Subaru or Toyota based off your comments throughout the year.
Honda are deserved winners.
Subaru blows up Toyota makes mistakes Honda doesn’t
They do seem to have this lingering love affair with Subaru; I've been driving one for 2 years and am not impressed enough to buy another.
@@gizzardfan7349 Im still driving my 2007 Legacy and its been a gem. No issues with 318K miles
That was last year. Shocker 😂
I never consider a vehicle until I have consulted with Consumer Reports. I use the information as a reference source and have made many great choices because of the info I wouldn't otherwise have had. Additionally, I am glad that you also review other products and services and work to keep us consumers informed and aware. Thank you for this valuable service!
Take their opinions with a heavy grain of salt
Sorry to hear that
Do you know which organizations are behind CR? Definitely not the most objective organization.
These guys are LITERALLY the worst possible source for a recommendation for cars. LITERALLY.
You are better off talking to your old uncle that has "opinions" on everything and no college degree, his recommendation would be equally as terrible as these guys,
You also probably believe in 1/6
What an excellent show! I'm a car nut and these three reviewers really covered the aspects of driving that I consider for long term ownership.
One of the things I love about CR is the folks aren't afraid to dislike/criticize cars most others adore. Jen bashes the Rivian R1S and R1T while any other publication raves about and loves both cars like they're the greatest cars ever made. Monticello doesn't like the Prius while most other publications love it, and some even gave it a car of the year award or nominee. Jen and Ryan like the old Prius more than the new one while most other publications would think this new one is light years better. Great show and always love hearing things you'd only know if you live with a car.
How come that's a good review! This is a publication that runs surveys every year and now saying something completely against what owners are saying in their survey.
Their subscription business model and commitment to purchasing vehicles on their own helps them remain editorially independent compared to ad-driven publications who need to stay on manufacturers’ good sides to be invited to future events where they can test and shoot cars.
I'd say they get payola from Honda. Have you driven a new Prius or Rivian?
If Honda didn't ruin the exterior styling of the Accord, I'd have bought it by now. Holding out for when they [finally] put that hybrid power train in the Civic.
Accord’s looks are polarizing, I think it’s the best looking Accord yet
Consumer Reports needs to pay their people better.
Also the regen on electrics is also not just something you adapt to quickly but specifically enjoy. I rarely hit my brakes and because of this they last a really long time.
From my understanding, the mission of Consumer reports is to provide information that ultimately help to inform and protect the public. They do more than just test cars. Please be informed before making broad statements.
CR used to be about providing objective data NOT SUBJECTIVE opinions. THANK YOU FOR REMINDING ME WHY I NO LONGER HAVE A MEMBERSHIP!
I agree. High regen is great for efficiency and saves on brake replacement costs. It's also adjustable on the Rivian R1S specifically.
@@Mark-de4hj provide OBJECTIVE information, not SUBJECTIVE opinion. They themselves said R1S has 5 star satisfaction from owners according to the surveys and still saying it's a not good car, how come that's helping consumers?
The Honda hybrid system doesn’t provide an MPG benefit on the highway, while Toyota’s does
I had a 2022 CR-V hybrid and in the 3 months I had it it never averaged more than 30 mpg. Drove it primarily highway (like 70/30) so, yeah. Big disappointment especially since a friend's RAV4 hybrid driven in a similar manner averaged in the high 30's.
That simulated "shifting" comes with a fuel economy penalty.
Yes, the 35 mpg average they stated didn’t impress me. My 2021 RAV4 Hybrid has an average of over 42 mpg in mixed driving over the last 3 years.
I have the Rav. But the Honda CRV does seem a deserved winner. Not as efficient as the Rav, I agree. Toyota need to up their game.
What are you talking about? I have a 2024 Accord hybrid and the electric motor certainly is working at highway speeds.
It's hard to take your opinions seriously when the most emphasized "fault" with the Rivian R1S is too strong of regen braking. This is a something that can be set in the menu to taste so if you are new to EVs, or incapable of adjusting your driving tendencies with the max setting, you can reduce it to a level more appropriate to your driving style. EV owner/driver(not Rivian owner/driver)
Also, how can they recommend cars that are so flimsy that they need constant attention from a dealer/mechanic on a regular basis. It is not acceptable.
Would be great to get a follow-up on this. The EV market surprisingly bottomed out super quickly and wondering what happens now. More podcasts on your tube please. Also, the Norwegians love their EVs (thinking about that last question).
Thanks Talking Cars! CR greatly impacts the car industry by representing everyday consumers who value safety, reliability & efficiency.
If I lose my job tomorrow, I wouldn't buy a car. It's a no-brainer.
Pretty much everyone likes the new Prius way more than the old one...except Mr. Contrary.
Same with Jen for Rivian. Jen is one of the few folks who doesn't gush and rave over the Rivian like it's the greatest thing since sliced bread as basically any publication out there does. That's why I like CR. They actually test, live with these cars, and understand the cars more so.
He’s not wrong though
Have a 2005/ford escape hybrid AWD. I’ve never replaced the brakes due to the regenerative brakes. It has very little maintenance requirements love it !
The channel should do categories. I need to know best subcompact suv of the year
Suzuki Jimny
The CR-V hybrid does not have a CVT. It uses an electric motor up to about 45 mph where a clutch then engages the driveline directly. The power for the electric motors is generated by the 2 liter gas engine that drives a large generator that runs both the motors and charges the battery.
*New Subscriber* This is a very valuable video. Real world, practical feedback on cars. Things that really matter when you're owning them. So much, much better than other reviews that just focus on "is it fast ? does it look cool ?". This is really fantastic !
LOL regarding the "simulated up-shifts". I have been driving a Prius since 2004 and this never occurred to me for "comfort" reasons. We added a Tesla model Y long range to our stable, and so far so good (still not missing the "simulated up-shift" here either).
So the reason I don't think they are only viable where it's warm because of how well they do in Norway. The issue doesn't seem to be the vehicle but the infrastructure.
Prius A pillars: A pillar blind spots are real. I had an accident driving a swoopy 2010 civic with also oversized a pillars ( probably because of the cab forward dash)
8th gen civics have great visibility…
We test drove a Honda Accord, a Subaru Outback (my first choice) & a BMW 3-series, that were all around the same price. We are very happy with the BMW so far.
Wait until you see the servicing costs 😒
I have always wondered how heavy EVs handle slick surfaces for breaking and turning. The only time I've been in accendents has been in slick conditions and was required to stop or turn quickly. To me, it seems like the more weight, the harder it would be to slow down and turn.
I just wanted to say thank you to all of you for a year filled with great discussions and information. I always look forward to your videos and I look forward to your new content in the upcoming year. Happy New Year!
I was not impressed with Honda CR-V hybrid. Overpriced, not very comfortable, driving was not much fun.
I test drove approx. 10 cars/suvs in the $40k range and was blown away by it. Very comfortable, quiet, good power, outstanding utility.
I bought a new 2024 Honda Passport Trailsport and I know it probably won’t be as capable off road (yes I watched the TFL videos) as the 2025 Trailsport but I really don’t care. The Honda V6 is awesome and for what I drive on, pavement, gravel and the occasional trek across the prairie across the deer stand, it is perfect for what I want.
Interesting how EV/PHEV test cars are disproportionately represented in the test fleet.
I’ve never even seen a Rivian in traffic where I live, yet it’s included in the conversation.
Most EVs are too much money for average buyers and aside from Tesla, the charging infrastructure is like a software beta. The focus on tech features is bloating costs and features such as touch screen distraction rather than safety.
In terms of EVs the replacement of batteries and associated costs because of normal road debris contact is becoming a real problem at least with some of the stories we are hearing here in Canada. With costs exceeding the purchase cost of the car it’s really a concerning issue. This and the lack of infrastructure to charge is a real issue. Plus we are now hearing that manufacturer’s are purposefully holding back de.deliveries for ordered vehicles to maintain inflated pricing.
Nio has a battery swap solution for that, and it's faster than charging a EV, but it's going to take a while for them to come to North America. ua-cam.com/video/hNZy603as5w/v-deo.html
I bet there are higher rates of catastrophic engine failure in an ICE than issues with batteries. Also insurance covers damage from road debris like an accident. Soon there will be exchanges to offset a new battery as the cells usually can be reused. The auto companies just haven’t put this in place. Replacing a whole pack because you punctured a coolant line is like replacing an engine for a blown head gasket. This will be fixed soon.
Reving CVT’s are a total turn off for sure. 🤢
Thanks for the informative video! I completely agree that the Honda products are the most polished and satisfying hybrids on the market. Never been a fan of the Rivian. Can’t wait for the Cybertruck review.
Excellent episode!!!
Great show today! I'm quite interested in seeing what all these start-up EV companies manage to bring to the table (and which ones don't make it to production). Definitely a lot of interesting new brands trying to get off the ground!
This is frustrating. I’ve been subscribing to CR for years, but why intentionally avoid specifics? Why wouldn’t you mention specifics on fuel economy with the alpha, or which EV had the battery issues?
Yes, that battery issue may be one off, but shouldn’t that be available to us, the consumers and subscribers?
Simulated upshifts are anachronistic and should only be called out as a negative not a positive. They make cars slower, and less efficient by replicating a symptom of the shortcomings of internal combustion engines.
I agree. I don't know why they praise CVTs that "fake shift", since they are giving you worse actual performance (mpg and acceleration)
False. Try again.
In this case I believe the point was made as to the sound of the engine, especially since most of us at this point, are used to combustion sounds. As an owner of several hybrid vehicles that was immediately understood.
I totally agree. If we're going to go retro, why not make it feel like you're riding a horse 😂
@@stephenj4937 1. The CR-V doesn't have a CVT. 2. The "simulated" shifts don't impact the acceleration. The power to the wheels doesn't decrease with each "shift".
The older Zs had manual transmission issues before 60K miles. Not sure where their made (not Japan), but many of my friends complained about it. Hopefully these manuals are better cuz i love the new Z!
There is a psychology of purchasing. The more you spend for an item, the more you force yourself to become satisfied.
Best & Worst isn't what you presented. This was too much personal preference rather than features and performance statistics that makes best & worst.
CR needs to add some ratings for shorter drivers (5’3” and under). Seat belts cross body portion) even when adjustable don’t adjust low enough. They are dangerous because they cut across the neck in a rapid stop or collision. Seat height is another issue. I’m not comfortable if I can’t see over the top of the hood.
My favorite of all the vehicles I’ve driven is the VW Touareg although not perfect it’s much better than most with cross-body belt which could go even lower. And the seat adjustment is great for me. The seat adjustment has to go along with a steering column the adjusts up and down as well as telescopes so the driver is not trying to drive with the steering wheel in their lap.
Just a suggestion. 😊
For me, EV's are not quite what I want unless I had 1 for staying in town, and a ICE vehicle for long drives. Combine that into one and the PHEV would be the best of both worlds.
The regen vs brake question was full of misunderstanding and/or straight up misinformation.
If you turn off 1 pedal drive the brake pedal still uses regen first and blends the brakes in as you decelerate faster. So even if you turn off 1 pedal you are not going to use up your brakes unless you are the type to race to the stop sign or light and stop quickly.
TLDR: regen is always “on”. Basically you as a driver gets to decide if you want it tied to letting off the go pedal or linked to pushing the brake pedal.
It's always uncomfortable,never just gliding.
Bought a 23 Tesla model Y as far as regeneration on ice. First EV. Was really happy with regeneration using comfort mode also made stoping starting much safer. Get rid of the OEM tires for winter driving.
Just saw a Tesla CT in the wild. The thing is massive looking compared to other cars and seems to handle like a sports car. It passed me and weaved in and out of traffic with agility and stability with little observable body lean.
I'm So happy to see another Ford Flex lover! I have one, it has almost 250k on it and has been absolutely rock solid! I have driven it all over the US and can't think of a better road car!
Great show CR!
I would like to see more EVs that uses Tesla charging standard and has a more traditional dash design.
Reviewing the reviews: Jen: Please quit chiming in and interrupting when the other reviewers are speaking. It's distracting and not especially polite. Great reviews. Just let everyone speak without the constant pushing in.
Thanks.
Need to add Timestamps!
Sounds like Jennifer needs a raise. LOL.
I recently drove a base model Subaru Outback for about 2500 miles. I consistently got 33 mpg average in mostly highway driving where I was driving quite normally, with the flow of traffic, etc. This is a big vehicle with a VERY mechanical AWD system (and all the extra weight that entails) and so I just have a hard time getting excited about a hybrid that "boasts" 35 mpg. I think that's ultimately what's left me feeling "meh" about Honda Hybrids. Since their introduction of mild hybrids many many years ago, they seem to me to always to be missing the point of making a hybrid. Or rather missing the point of why people buy hybrids. If I'm going to get a hybrid, I want "stupid" mileage and great refinement.
I get stupid good mileage out of my gas only honda
Honest question: why can’t you switch out to smaller tires on a top trim car? Will that screw up the speedometer?
Smaller wheels with taller tires works, look at the optional sizes for many cars, they have the same outside diameter
Thank you!
Should have titled this "Best and worst EV's" You nearly ignored what 80%-85% of "consumers" are currently buying!
I wonder what happens to the current plug vehicles as they convert to a Tesla plug. Do they become unusable and lose value?
Great trio to end the year. 👍🏼
I found this episode to be an absolutely excellent example of why Consumer Reports is still helpful and relevant in the modern automotive review realm. Your observations about "where we are" when it comes to EVs in particular were spot on, in my view. We do indeed live in a world where there is great uncertainty about the long-term reliability of these vehicles. Your observations about the (stupid) focus on the part of manufacturers on "gobs of torque", very fast "zero-to-60" times and range.
Simply put, most of the EVs we've seen thus far are waaay too "fat". Jennifer Stockberger's musings about tires and other EV subsystems chime with the doubts I have (built up through my review of your assessments, and those of the--very few--credible car reviewers "out there"--including 'Savage Geese' and "The Car Care Nut').
WRT the Honda Accord Hybrid (Mike Crossen's favourite of 2023), yes, it does look like a worthy vehicle... except for the fact that it doesn't 'look' very nice (the thing looks like it was styled by a corporate committee). What a contrast with the (relatively new) Honda Civic--hatchback in particular.
As for the Honda CRV Hybrid (JS's favourite), the hybrid drive train is a definite selling point. However, the car is not inexpensive and, as 'The Car Care Nut' observed, having an "always on" mechanical propeller shaft (to transfer mechanical power to the rear wheels) could pose maintenance problems down the road.
Finally, on the Nissan Z (Mike Monticello's favourite), all I can say is "good for Mike".
The Z, like the Honda Civic Type R, the Acura Integra S-Type and vehicles like the Toyota GR-86, is one of the few 'fun' cars left on the road. The Mazda MX-5 is still my favourite 'affordable fun car' (the six-speed shifter feels like no other), but I was glad Mike chose as he did.
And, BTW, his observations about the 2023 Toyota Prius were spot on, in my view.
Thank you for this. Happy New Year!
Before buying a Rivian, check the Insurance costs for these vehicles.
On the R1S, sounds like the lady is unfamiliar with one-pedal driving. I own an R1S, and I did have the kind of trouble she mentions, when I first test drove it (having had no one-pedal driving experience before-hand). But after delivery and after driving it a few times, I developed the one-pedal driving skill needed for smooth operation. It's kind of like a driver who is used to an automatic transmission in an ICE car driving a stick shift for the first time or two: There will be some lurching, the noise of gears grinding, and likely some stalling. But after awhile, most people will develop excellent skill in driving a manual transmission car.
Further, there are many excellent features and functions in the R1S that I do enjoy, not the least of which is that its driving dynamics improve each month with new software downloads, and new features and functions are provided this way as well--all of which improve the ownership experience. I bought the vehicle for its seven-passenger capability and its ability to wade in excess of three feet of water. I've got a passel of grandchildren to haul around, and I live in a flood-prone area. So far, I like the vehicle very much, and the customer service is very good. It's the best vehicle I've driven or owned.
I don’t agree 150% percent with the R1S comments. First I test drove and didn’t even notice the brake regen being difficult to get used to. I found it really smooth because it needs to be in the All Purpose drive. Now I’ve owned a R1S for 2.5 weeks and I love it. Looks and feels like what it was designed for, really luxurious all terrain vehicle that is thrilling and is a step into the future of automobile ownership. All their favorites are really pedestrian cars, plain and stuck in the present.
I've been thinking the new Prius, now I'll have to consider the Accord hybrid as well. Thanks guys.
In the R1S talking cars episode Jake said if you put it in snow mode the regenerative braking and driving dynamics aren't as bad.
I disagree with your Alfa Romeo Tonale PHEV comments. I bought an Alfa Romeo Tonale Sprint model PHEV ( the base model, not the dolled up, expensive Veloce model, which is more readily more available, as for every Sprint model Alfa imported, they imported 9 Veloces ) almost a year ago. I was the first one to buy one in Canada, and basically bought it off the truck. I paid less then MSRP, and got it less then what a Ford Escape PHEV ( which at the time had a dealer mark up of $3,500, and add ons like $3,500 for Ford's Blue Cruise ) was going for, and where a RAV4 Prime ( basically the same price without add ons ) was ( and still is ) unavailable, and a 2 year old used Prime was selling for $14,000 more then my out the door price. Other then 9 recalls ( 2 for decals that did not have metric or French on them, that I did myself, 3 for checking high voltage connections were tight, no parts needed, 1 to replace a switch, and 3 for software updates, because where I live the vehicle would not update itself ) I have had zero problems with it, everything is operating above my expectations, and I am getting better electrical range and gas mileage then stated on the Vehicle MSRP sheet. It handles great, looks much nicer then its competition ( I compared the Sprint model against the Escape and Prime, where most reviewers, etc., compare the Veloce model that they are given by the dealers against the BMW X1 or Mercedes GLA, etc. which to me is not a fair comparison, especially a PHEV to a non PVEV ). It is not perfect, just like every vehicle in certain aspects, but I love it, love driving it, glad I bought it rather then any of the half dozen or so other PHEVS I test drove, and I would buy it again. And, it fits nicely in my garage.
All new vehicles have there problems, and mine did too, but the dealership I bought mine from, bent over backwards to accommodate me with the recalls, offered me a loaner while my vehicle was being serviced, and Alfa has resolved every issue with my vehicle, some well documented. I cannot say I would have gotten the same treatment from any other manufacturer.
Maybe I am lucky with my vehicle, but my whole experience, from buying it through to service, driving, etc., could not have been simpler, easier, stress free, and satisfying.
No mention of Honda 1.5L oil dilution? Seems leg CR.
On the topic of regen. You guys seem to really nag on it and personally I think it is one of the best things about a ev. Brakes last much longer and driving is great using one pedal. There is a learning curve but it is well worth it in the long run once you get used to it.
Agree with brakes lasting longer, my RAV4 hybrid 21 has original brakes and I’m pushing 75,000 miles and I drive it pretty hard.
However, she said on the Rivian if you take your foot off the gas you lunge forward. That sounds horrible, I lift all the time and like to coast.
Will the Volvo XC40 Recharge all electric be tested in 2024?
PHEV: 2 technologies, EV + ICE = 2 times the complexity, 2 times the headaches, and 2 times the maintenance cost.
Unless you like wasting money, stay the heck away!
Great show!
why on hearth would you celebrate a compact hybrid suv that is 10k more (In canada) than the rav4? it is not 10k better
Consumer reports is US based?
I just can’t embrace EVs at this point. Many areas of the country don’t have adequate charging locations. I’m in NE Ohio and without a charger at home, charging would be very difficult.
Tuning on EVs is huge for tire longevity.
Very long time subscriber and I do appreciate the digital content. My one gripe with this episode is with the selection criteria. I thought this was what were the CR reviewers "most and least favorite cars" to drive. I don't believe I heard at the beginning of this episode that it was the "most favorite" car I could afford. I want to know what are the best cars you reviewed not the best ones you can afford.
Yes exactly. List the objectively best in each category and then maybe sprinkle in some subjective stuff
I disagree...most everyone else on UA-cam in their year-end favorite cars has 60, 70, 80, 90, $100k+ cars on their lists. I ALSO like the CR "affordable" perspective. I don't need another group telling me how awesome the Lotus Emira is to drive, or how the Lucid Air is perfection. (FWIW, the Z car that everyone loves to drive is NOT the 42K base model that Nissan expertly used in their marketing talking points while putting reviewers in the 52k performance model on a track to drive)
Hey everyone
Which EV needed battery work? Why’s it a secret? 😂
Owners loving it while reviewers not liking the Rivian means the reviewer is out of touch with the intended buyer.
Retirement is an option
Don't get me wrong, i love honda. But Honda has reliability issue recently
Prius should be a Uber friendly car and they made it worse. As a passenger my head hit and my bags from airport barely fit in.
“Extravaganza” ! 😂
So far I'm happy with my 2024 CRV Hybrid Touring.
I’m really surprised by Jen’s pick of the Rivian as her least favorite car especially given how high the customer satisfaction is. It seems to be more of a personal preference rather than an unbiased review.
My favorite car. 1965 dodge dart. 225 cu in slant 6
3/4 way through and you have mentioned 3 cars
Fantastically frank video. Thanks so much!
"EVs are moving to the Tesla plug" as nice as CR can be these people are so ignorant on electrics. Electrics/PHEVs in America are all standardizing to one plug. Tesla is also being asked or politely forced to open up their network since all cars will be on one plug. It doesn't matter what that plug looks like. Everyone will have the one plug, or will be provided a compatible adapter. You won't have to check compatibility before going to a charge station. They will all work. That's what happened. We didn't "go with the Tesla plug". It's like saying "all gas cars use BP gas". There's only one gas.
I’ve been a Honda fan for a long time but over the past few years I’ve noticed that overall quality has been dropping in their vehicles. Also pricing has become less competitive especially with the Korean models. I think I’m going Korean in the future as you seem to gel more for less and the quality seems to be equal now to the Japanese.
So…. You’re right except for your last statement.
Research Hyundai engine fires and recalls. This is why I won't own one. There is a reason they give such long warranties (which they don't always honor).
I remember how highly rated the teslas initially were. I think customer appreciation has dropped over time.
What we need is more power plants for EVs. In particular Nukes. We cannot pretend we do not need baseload power for our economy anymore. I know only peripheral to this video, but I was first going to point out that once people have a home charger, EV acceptance will follow. But that takes powerplants producing electricity.
How will a multi story parking garage designed for the weight of Ice cars fare in the future when they are filled with much heavier EVs ?
Honda CR-V is out for me. I have fog a lot on my mountain - and they don't sell fog lights in the USA, only Canada. Honda Accord lacks AWD, so also out (getting up my mountain in the snow with snow tires does not work - my old Honda Accord cannot do it). Nissan Z won't meet our needs. However, love the show and you can learn a lot in addition to their subscription.
Are Hybrid Brake Pads Different than Regular ICE Brake Pads??
As time goes complicated becomes problematic! I keep vehicles 20 plus years and if a vehicle is problematic and costly then it comes to a point it is scrap. Those wonderful batteries exposed to winter salt in the north; hum what is the true life of those EV batteries? Everyday driver is a 96 Accord and I don't plan on parting with it anytime soon. Hum, 28 model years old same engine, transmission, struts, and four sets of new tires. Any EV batteries capable of lasting 28 years? If there is one then I would consider one; if not then in my lifetime I will never own an EV!
PHEV’s will not age well, just think about it, clearly CR hasn’t.