Talking Cars 434: The Best and Worst Cars We Tested in 2023
We also answer audience questions about regenerative braking for PHEVs, and how EV all-wheel-drive systems differ from mechanical AWD setups
Main theme: This week’s podcast takes a look back at the vehicles we tested throughout 2023 at the Consumer Reports Auto Test Center. From EVs to PHEVs to hybrids to good old-fashioned gas-powered cars, our test program ran the gamut in 2023. And yes, we even tested a few cars fitted with a manual transmission. Talk about retro!
After reflection, we each give our picks for our most-favorite and least-favorite models we tested in 2023.
We wrap up the segment on a hopeful note, with our panelists discussing what automotive-related things they are most looking forward to experiencing in 2024.
Audience Questions
- Can plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) take advantage of regenerative braking to extend the driving range just as in EVs and regular hybrids?
- Does an electric vehicle’s instant torque create an additional traction issue when driving in the snow compared to a conventional gasoline model or a hybrid, even if it has all-wheel drive?
Photo: Consumer Reports Photo: Consumer Reports
As with other “Talking Cars With Consumer Reports” episodes, this one is available free through Apple Podcasts. (Subscribe to the audio or video.) You’ll also find the audio on Spotify (log-in required) and video on YouTube.
- Why EVs and Why Now, bonus episode
- Car Reliability Highlights, episode 433
- Driving the 2023 Toyota Prius Prime, episode 432
- Buick Envista vs. Chevrolet Trax, episode 431
- Driving the 2024 Ford Mustang Dark Horse, episode 430
Have a Question?
We’d love to include it in a future show. Upload your video questions to our Dropbox folder. Please send high-definition (1920x1080) MP4 video files with high-quality audio. Or send an iMessage question to our TalkingCars@icloud.com account.
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