Best and Worst Cars of 2023 | Talking Cars with Consumer Reports  

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.

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!

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.

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 have such a passion for automobiles that Consumer Report wouldn't even feel like work.

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!

*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 !

Honda crv not having a spare tire is a deal breaker for me.

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.

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 !

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.

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 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!

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).

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.

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!

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.

The Honda hybrid system doesn’t provide an MPG benefit on the highway, while Toyota’s does

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.

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)

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!

The channel should do categories. I need to know best subcompact suv of the year

Thanks Talking Cars! CR greatly impacts the car industry by representing everyday consumers who value safety, reliability & efficiency.

Excellent episode!!!

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.

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)

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.

I’ve never even seen a Rivian in traffic where I live, yet it’s included in the conversation.

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!

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.

Fantastically frank video. Thanks so much!

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.

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.

Great show CR! I would like to see more EVs that uses Tesla charging standard and has a more traditional dash design.

Great show!

I've been thinking the new Prius, now I'll have to consider the Accord hybrid as well. Thanks guys.

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.

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.

Great trio to end the year. 👍🏼

Thank you!

If I lose my job tomorrow, I wouldn't buy a car. It's a no-brainer.

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.

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!

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. 😊

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.

Pretty much everyone likes the new Prius way more than the old one...except Mr. Contrary.

God I love you guys. You always include such great information in your podcasts. Thank you. 🙏🏼

Brought a Chevrolet Bolt because it made in U.S. and has a $7,500 rebate!😊

To each their own on the R1S I guess, tested one that someone I know owns and I had no problem with the regen or driving. I probably wouldn't get either as even if I wait for a depreciated one I don't need anything that big, but I don't need a bed either so R1S with more interior cabin space would be the go to.

Reving CVT’s are a total turn off for sure. 🤢

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!

“Extravaganza” ! 😂

Interesting how EV/PHEV test cars are disproportionately represented in the test fleet.

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.

So far I'm happy with my 2024 CRV Hybrid Touring.

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.

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.

Will the Volvo XC40 Recharge all electric be tested in 2024?

Honest question: why can’t you switch out to smaller tires on a top trim car? Will that screw up the speedometer?

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.

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 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.

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.

Before buying a Rivian, check the Insurance costs for these vehicles.

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?

Tuning on EVs is huge for tire longevity.

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.

Are Hybrid Brake Pads Different than Regular ICE Brake Pads??

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.

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.

I was not impressed with Honda CR-V hybrid. Overpriced, not very comfortable, driving was not much fun.

I'm looking forward to seeing your review of the EV9. It sounds amazing but I'm worried it is all hype

Need to add Timestamps!

WOW, no one picked Vinfast for worst? I am very surprised with the rivian pick. I did order that R1S lol. But wont go through with it due to high cost. I own a tesla model x and a hyundai ioniq 6, really nice cars, but increasingly i'm finding myself wanting to sell them to save on costs (due to high monthly payments). Life is interesting

I know that consumer reports buys their own vehicles but does anyone know what they do with them after tests? do employees get them at cost? anyone know?

I have to say, if there ever was a “dream job” for me, it would be what these folks do! Meanwhile, I really appreciate the information they provide and ALWAYS make it part of my research when purchasing my next new-used car (never buy new.) This was an extremely valuable video for my future investments!

16:33 based on the fact that someone already totaled a cybertruck, I'd say we already have your answer. now it's just a question of "how bad is it going to get?"

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.

Maybe you guys would like to ask me about PE’s I am on my fourth I had one CMA, which I traded for the energy CAX I had three of those. When Ford stopped making them in my lease was up. I got a Kia Nero PHED so I have been driving them now for more than 12 years I think I can give you a better synopsis of hardware, software interaction, and how to drive them and who therefore they probably anybody as I was a first adopter and a consistent adopter, and probably will even buy another one since my lease was up last year.

She does love the Flex.

No mention of the plane landing on the test track?

I wonder what happens to the current plug vehicles as they convert to a Tesla plug. Do they become unusable and lose value?

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 ?

It's refreshing to hear some negative comments about the new Prius, after all the "enthusiast" publications have been heaping only praise on it (for its new looks and power). Those other publications also seem reluctant, anymore, to express negative feelings about driving cars with CVT transmissions; I have to wonder what part pressure from their advertisers plays in that?

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.

I wonder why Mazda didn't continue using their i-eloop system that used a capacitor for charging and discharging. I had a 2014 Mazda3 that averaged 38mpg over the 30k miles I had it. The capacitor took up very little space.

I think one important aspect to speak about regarding EV's is the amount of power they now have and available to the general public where there exists a plethora of terrible, unsafe drivers who don't know how to drive with 150-200hp and near similar torque. Let alone EV's that have 300, 400, 500, 600+ HP and torque! In my opinion, driving education needs to change with more offense and defensive driving skills taught if vehicles with those high power figures are going to remain on the market.

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.

I remember how highly rated the teslas initially were. I think customer appreciation has dropped over time.

Don't get me wrong, i love honda. But Honda has reliability issue recently

No mention of Honda 1.5L oil dilution? Seems leg CR.

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.

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.

Rivian driving experience is abismal. Couldn't agree more. Now I shall wait no more than a day before a rivian owner comes at me and tells me I don't know how to drive...

Do you sale the cars you test?