2025 Nissan Armada

The 2025 Nissan Armada gets a major redesign. Our experts share their first impressions of the Nissan Armada SL with Intelligent AWD in this episode. We put the new Armada through its paces on our test track and take a close look at its refined exterior, premium interior, updated powertrain, and family-friendly space. Plus, we compare it to top rivals like the Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford Expedition, Jeep Wagoneer, Toyota Sequoia, and its luxury cousin, the Infiniti QX80. We also answer viewer questions and opine on the irritating turn signal in the 2025 Jeep Compass, should you worry about the Mazda CX-90’s multiple drive chains and potential repair bills, and what’s a fun, budget-friendly manual car under $35K that won’t cramp a tall driver?   More info on the 2025 Nissan Armada here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/nissan/armada/2025/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   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 - Introduction 00:17 - Overview: 2025 Nissan Armada 01:15 - Powertrain 03:12 - Cabin Noise 04:37 - Driving Dynamics 07:02 - Safety Features 10:32 - Visibility 13:08 - Interior 15:04 - Access 16:20 - Controls 18:41 - Who is it For? 22:26 - Question #1: Are the turn signals on the Jeep Compass really as bad as reported by Consumer Reports? 24:25 - Question #2: Should Buyers worry about the Mazda CX-90’s multiple drive chains and potential repair bills? 26:55 - Question #3: What’s a fun-to-drive, budget-friendly manual transmission car under $35K that’s comfortable for a taller driver?     ----------------------------------   First Drive: 2025 Nissan Armada Gains Refinement and Powerful V6 https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2025-nissan-armada-review-a5305201346/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Large SUVs That Can Hold the Most Cargo https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/large-suvs-that-can-hold-the-most-cargo-a4504301576/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Large SUV Face-Off: Chevrolet Tahoe vs. Ford Expedition https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/suv-face-off-chevrolet-tahoe-vs-ford-expedition-a1069860077/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Popular Luxury SUVs to Avoid and What to Get Instead https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/popular-luxury-suvs-to-avoid-and-what-to-get-instead-a2249647096/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

On this episode, we cover the 2025 GMC Terrain. Our experts discuss the redesigned compact SUV, its updated, truck-like styling, the new portrait-oriented infotainment system, and share driving impressions. We also debate whether GM is doing enough to stay competitive in the class and how the Terrain differs from mainstream vehicles offered by its sister company, Chevrolet. Plus, we answer audience questions about car buying tactics and faulty Honda Pilot transmissions.  Test results here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Exclusive CR discount for Talking Cars viewers: https://www.cr.org/jointalkingcars?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   SHOW NOTES: 0:00: Intro 0:15: 2025 GMC Terrain overview 1:30: First Impressions 4:27: The difference between GMC and Chevy 6:27: Driving Impressions 11:53: Which compact SUV would we buy? 18:14: Question #1: What should I be asking/doing to lower the purchase price of a new car? 27:52: Question #2: How does variable cylinder management work, and are they harmful to transmissions?

CR has purchased a 2025 Audi Q6 e-tron Quattro Premium+ for our test program. The first of Audi's EVs to use their new Premium Platform Electric (PPE) architecture, the Q6 is designed to compete with the Lexus RZ, BMW iX, Genesis Electrified GV70, Rivian R1S, and Tesla Model Y. We share our first impressions on how the Q6 drives, its abundant safety features, range, and many, many, MANY controls, including its polarizing HUD display. We also discuss the most efficient way to drive a vehicle that can switch between EV and hybrid modes, how horsepower is calculated in a hybrid car, and a good replacement for a Mazda CX-5 for a family with many large dogs! Test results here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Exclusive CR discount for Talking Cars viewers: https://www.cr.org/jointalkingcars?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

CR is testing the 2025 Buick Enclave Sport Touring, the new luxury 3-row SUV from GM positioned just below Cadillac. Built on the same platform as the Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Acadia, the new Enclave aims to combine upscale comfort with family-friendly practicality. But does it deliver real value in a crowded segment? And how does it stack up against competitors like the Toyota Highlander, Grand Highlander, and the Honda Pilot? We also answer viewer questions about niche tire sizes on some Toyota and Lexus vehicles (like the Prius and Crown Signia), and is it worth keeping a 2009 Toyota Highlander with over 250k miles, or is it time to find a replacement?   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. More info on the 2025 Buick Enclave here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/buick/enclave/2025/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT     SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 00:00 - Introduction 00:17 - Overview: 2025 Buick Enclave 02:05 - What is The Enclave? 05:27 - The Controls 09:35 - Ride Comfort 10:36 - The Powertrain 12:54 - Driving 13:39 - Cargo Area 14:24 - Super Cruise System 18:18 - Would You Buy It? 20:49 - Question #1: Why do manufacturers make cars with odd tire sizes that are hard to find? 24:58 - Question #2: When is the right time to replace an older vehicle?     ----------------------------------   First Drive: 2025 Buick Enclave 3-Row SUV Tries to Justify Its Almost-Luxury Price https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2025-buick-enclave-review-a2392197540/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   SUVs and Minivans With the Best Third-Row Seats https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs-and-minivans-with-the-best-third-row-seats-a6809768331/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Most Reliable 3-Year-Old Used Midsized SUVs https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-most-reliable-3-year-old-midsized-suvs-a1933721124/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Safest New Cars of 2025, According to the IIHS https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/safest-new-cars-of-2025-according-to-iihs-a3325666134/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT  

We purchased a 2025 Kia K4 LXS for CR's test program. At $24,320, the K4 is priced surprisingly low for a new car. Does it deliver value for money? We break down the Kia K4’s features, tech, and performance, and compare it to compact rivals like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Elantra, and the outgoing Kia Forte. What safety and convenience features are included—or left out? We also answer a question about EVs and cargo capacity and help a viewer choose a reliable, fuel-efficient new car, with a hitch for a bike rack, for under $28,000. Full test results and more here: cr.org/cars?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT :17 - 2025 Kia K4 first impressions 21:32 - what's a reliable and fuel efficient new car for under $28k? 24:44 - does the weight of an EV/hybrid vehicle affect its cargo carrying capacity? Exclusive CR discount for Talking Cars viewers: https://www.cr.org/jointalkingcars?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Volkswagen gives the 2025 Taos a fresh look and updated tech. We share our first impressions of its performance, redesigned interior, and revamped infotainment system—and whether this update is enough to keep the Taos competitive. We also answer audience questions, including: When is it okay to buy a first model year redesign vehicle? Why are EV charging networks—aside from Tesla’s Supercharger—so frustrating to use? And should buyers be concerned about the Hyundai Ioniq 5 due to issues with its Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU)?   More info on the 2025 Volkswagen Taos here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/volkswagen/taos/2025/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   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 - Introduction 00:15 - Overview: 2025 Volkswagen Taos 01:09 - The Powertrain 02:50 - Driving Dynamics 06:17 - Lack of Hybrid Model 08:47 - Reliability 11:28 - Competition 13:24 - Cargo Space 14:18 - Controls 15:28 - Would You Buy It? 20:09 - Question #1: Is it sensible to purchase a first year model redesign? 23:01 - Question #2: Why EV chargers are so frustrating to use? 27:28 - Question #3: Should you avoid buying an Ioniq 5 due to ICCU issues?

Join us on the floor of the 2025 New York Auto Show. We cover the trends, or lack thereof, among automakers in attendance, the debut of several new Subaru models, and talk about which vehicles have the best chance of success in the market. Plus, we share our favorite vehicles from the show floor.     SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 00:00 - Introduction 00:15 - Lots of Nostalgia 01:24 - This Year’s Theme 02:35 - New Launches 14:04 - Marketing Choices 20:19 - Flash of Fun 21:15 - Success or Failure? 22:45 - Our Favorites     ----------------------------------   Preview: The 2026 Subaru Outback Is Truly an SUV Now https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2026-subaru-outback-review-a9885722682/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Preview: 2026 Hyundai Palisade Is Larger, More Powerful, and More Upscale https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2026-hyundai-palisade-review-a7560459286/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Preview: 2026 Honda Passport Gets Tougher Looks and an Updated V6 Engine https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2026-honda-passport-review-a2462413763/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Preview: 2026 Subaru Trailseeker Is a Bigger, Better Solterra EV https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2026-subaru-trailseeker-review-a5418969450/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Preview: 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid Brings More Power, Greater Efficiency https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2025-subaru-forester-hybrid-review-a4285500200/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Preview: 2026 Kia EV4 Has a Long Range and Angular Styling https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2026-kia-ev4-review-a3005904446/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Preview: 2025 Ford Expedition Brings Off-Road Tech to the Three-Row SUV https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2025-ford-expedition-review-a6764495550/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

The 2025 Nissan Murano gets a bold new look and a revamped powertrain, marking a fresh start for this midsized SUV. In this episode, we share our first impressions of the redesigned Murano, including its refreshed styling, appealing interior, engine performance, and driving dynamics. We also discuss who this SUV is best suited for. We also answer audience questions about the reliability and maintenance of high-voltage hybrid batteries. Plus, we explore why European cars often get advanced safety features years before they become standard in the U.S.   More info on the 2025 Nissan Murano here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/nissan/murano/2025/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   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 - Introduction 00:16 - Overview: 2025 Nissan Murano 02:49 - Murano History 03:17 - Driving Dynamics 08:09 - What Is It? 09:12 - Front Seats 10:09 - Controls 16:08 - Pro Pilot Assist 18:04 - Access 18:49 - Rear Seats 20:37 - Cargo Space 21:05 - Who Is This Car For? 25:43 - Question #1: How long does the high-voltage hybrid battery last, how should it be maintained, and what is the cost of replacement? 32:03 - Question #2: Why are advanced safety features in European vehicles approved years before in the U.S., and what can be done to speed up U.S. approvals?     ----------------------------------   First Drive: 2025 Nissan Murano Is Reinvented, But Is It Still Relevant? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2025-nissan-murano-review-a6988352928/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Most Reliable and Fuel-Efficient New Midsized SUVs https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/new-midsized-suvs-most-reliable-fuel-efficient-a2811867777/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   New Cars on the Horizon https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/new-cars-on-the-horizon-a1920770135/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   These SUVs, Cars, and Minivans Are the Easiest to Get Into and Out Of https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs-cars-minivans-that-are-easiest-to-get-in-and-out-of-a1450236794/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Toyota is expanding its SUV portfolio by transforming the Crown sedan into a bold new model, the Crown Signia. In this episode, we dive into our first impressions of this reimagined vehicle, exploring its ride quality, hybrid powertrain, design, and functional shape. We also discuss how the Signia differentiates itself from the original Crown. Plus, we tackle audience questions, including: why EV batteries tend to drain faster in the winter than in the summer, and if you're only able to replace two tires on your car, which ones should you choose—front or rear? 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. More info on the 2025 Toyota Crown Signia here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/toyota/crown-signia/2025/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT     SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 00:00 - Introduction 00:15 - Overview: 2025 Toyota Crown Signia 02:15 - Wagon or SUV? 04:42 - Driving Dynamics 07:13 - Interior Fit & Finish 08:38 - Exterior 10:01 - Ride and Handling 11:04 - Hybrid Powertrain 14:01 - Who is it for? 16:44 - Question #1: Is it normal for EVs to have a lower driving range in winter than in summer? 20:50 - Question #2: Which car tires should you prioritize replacing: the front or the rear?     ----------------------------------   First Drive: 2025 Toyota Crown Signia Hybrid SUV Shines https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2025-toyota-crown-signia-hybrid-review-a8708955858/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Best Deals on Fuel-Efficient Cars and SUVs https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/buying-a-car/best-deals-on-fuel-efficient-cars-a4329802409/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Most Fuel-Efficient Cars https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/fuel-economy-efficiency/the-most-fuel-efficient-cars-best-mpg-a1198903400/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Are Hybrids a Smart Choice Right Now? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/why-hybrid-vehicles-are-a-smart-choice-right-now-a2736240282/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

In 2017 Volkswagen announced the electrified ID. Buzz at the Detroit Auto Show. Now, seven years later, we’ve driven the real thing. In this episode, we share our first impressions of the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz, diving into its iconic retro-styling, driving dynamics, electric drivetrain, utility, and infotainment system. Plus, we also answer audience questions, including how to make the most of local mechanics when a dealership isn’t nearby and how to find the perfect manual transmission convertible for under $10k.   Exclusive CR discount for Talking Cars viewers at: https://www.consumerreports.org/jointalkingcars?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   More info on the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz Hybrid here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/volkswagen/id-buzz/2025/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT     SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 00:00 - Introduction 00:15 - Overview: 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz 02:41 - Every Day Usability 05:31 - Electric Range 09:04 - Driving Dynamics 10:44 - Brakes 13:30 - Controls 18:20 - Accessibility 21:08 - Window Controls 22:52 - Driving Position 25:19 - Small Item Storage 26:50 - Cabin Room 27:19 - Would You Buy It? 30:14 - Advanced Driver Assistance System 32:58 - Question #1: Is it safe to rely on local mechanics for vehicle repairs? 39:08 - Question #2: What is a perfect manual transmission convertible for under $10K?     ----------------------------------   First Drive: Volkswagen ID. Buzz Is Practical Nostalgia at a High Price https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/volkswagen-id-buzz-minivan-review-a4884016168/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/volkswagen/id-buzz/2025/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Secrets to Electric Car Charging Revealed https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/secrets-to-electric-car-charging-a1611903912/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Most and Least Satisfying Luxury Hybrids, Plug-In Hybrids, and Electric Vehicles https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/most-and-least-satisfying-luxury-hybrids-evs-phevs-a8977712677/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   EVs Are Getting More Reliable, but They Still Lag Behind Hybrids and Gas-Only Cars https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/electric-vehicles-are-less-reliable-than-conventional-cars-a1047214174/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT     ----------------------------------- 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.