We take an early look at the 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid XSE, which promises more power and a longer electric-only range than the previous versions called the RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid and RAV4 Prime. We discuss its EV capability, acceleration, interior feel, everyday usability, and where it is worth the $46,000 asking price. We also answer audience questions about how EVs balance horsepower and range, and whether smaller wheels are an effective way to deal with potholes.

00:17 - Toyota RAV4 PHEV first impressions

33:00 - how do EVs balance horsepower and range?

37:22 - how much does wheel size play in role in pothole damage?

2026 Toyota RAV4 PHEV First Impressions: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2026-toyota-rav4-phev-review-a1016340226/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Low-Profile Tires vs. Potholes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FBdRy0utyaM

Consumer Reports' latest reliability findings are in, we share which brands deliver the most reliable cars, trucks, and SUVs in 2026—based on comprehensive survey data from hundreds of thousands of CR members. We break down how major automakers, including Toyota, Tesla, Subaru, Rivian, BMW, Mazda, and Honda, compare; how EVs and plug-in hybrids stack up against traditional gas models; which used cars offer the most dependable performance; and whether luxury brands truly provide an advantage over their mainstream counterparts. We also address why some automakers place the gas cap on the passenger side of their vehicles and offer advice on simple maintenance tasks you can perform yourself to help reduce car-related expenses.

SHOW NOTES

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00:00 - Introduction

00:30 - New Car Reliability

02:51 - Used Car Reliability

05:57 - Big News

06:40 - Cars Least Expensive to Maintain

08:22 - EVs/ Plug-in Hybrids Reliability

10:04 - Hybrid Vehicle Reliability

11:34 - Owner Satisfaction

13:18 - Importance of Car Reliability

15:27 - How CR Gathers Reliability Data

19:55 - Question #1: Why do some car manufacturers put the gas cap on the passenger side and others on the driver side?

23:09 - Question #2: Which simple maintenance tasks can car owners perform on their own to help reduce car-related expenses?

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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

Reliability of 5 to 10 year-old cars

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/which-brands-make-the-best-used-cars-a2811658468/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Most and Least Loved Car Brands

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/most-and-least-liked-car-brands-a1291429338/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

10 Most Reliable Cars

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/10-most-reliable-cars-a6569295379/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

How Car Brands Stack Up On Lifetime Repair Cost

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-maintenance/the-cost-of-car-ownership-a1854979198/?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

Car Reliability and Owner Satisfaction Guide

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/guide-to-car-reliability-owner-satisfaction-a9213219653/

Consumerreports.org/Talkingcars

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/talking-cars-podcast-archive-a1439738009/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

This episode is dedicated to all audience questions! Keith, Emily, and Mike tackle everything from the most reliable new vehicles, whether you should pay extra for rustproofing, why Americans buy and drive large vehicles, and if keeping a 22-year-old vehicle may be better for your wallet despite the inherent repair costs. Plus, we explain how CR determines a vehicle's predicted reliability and whether you can fit your vehicle with smaller wheels and tires to save money and improve ride comfort.

Exclusive CR discount for Talking Cars viewers: https://www.consumerreports.org/jointalkingcars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YTT4?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Submit a Question to Talking Cars: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/talking-cars-podcast-archive-a1439738009/?EXTKEW=YSOCIAL_YT

Safest New Cars of 2025:

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/safest-new-cars-of-2025-according-to-iihs-a3325666134/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Test Results: Honda HR-V:

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/honda/hr-v/2025/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid:

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2026-subaru-crosstrek-hybrid-review-a6801644233/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

The Hidden Danger of Big Pickup Trucks:

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/the-hidden-danger-of-big-pickup-trucks-a9662450602/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Skip These Car Dealership Extras:

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/buying-a-car/just-say-no-to-these-car-dealership-extras-a9471188276/?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

SHOW NOTES:

0:00 - Intro

0:30 - Question #1: Should I keep my super basic, 22-year-old Honda CR-V or look for a newer, reliable model car?

04:43 - Question #2: Is the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid a safe bet in terms of reliability?

6:58 - Question #3: What are the pros and cons to decreasing the wheel and tires size on a 2025 Toyota Camry XSE?

10:24 - Question #4: How can CR give large vehicles like the Ford Expedition a positive review?

15:15 - Question #5: Is $1,000 for undercoating on a 2023 Kia Sportage worth it?

18:22 - Question #6: What's a good replacement for a 2017 Mazda 6?

22:51 - Question #7: How does CR come up with new model year predicted reliability?

25:32 - Question #8: What about one pedal driving do CR experts not understand?