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    Talking Cars 450: Driving the New Mini Countryman

    Plus we answer your questions about paint colors and dealership fees

    Main theme: We discuss the 2025 Mini Countryman S All4 we just purchased for our test program. Based on the new BMW X2, it’s roomier than its predecessor and has a very modern interior, but is it worth the price compared with other tiny SUVs? And what’s up with that funky round touchscreen?

    Read CR’s First Drive review of the 2025 Mini Countryman S All4.

    Audience Questions
    • Does white paint make a car safer or easier to see than darker-colored cars?
    • A dealership is charging me a “prep fee.” Is this the same thing as a destination fee?

    Talking Cars 450 panel
    “Talking Cars” panelists (from left): Keith Barry, Kelly Funkhouser, and Joe Veselak

    Photo: Consumer Reports Photo: Consumer Reports

    How to Listen

    “Talking Cars With Consumer Reports” episodes are available through Apple Podcasts (audio or video), audio on Spotify (log-in required), video on YouTube, and on CR’s video hub.

    Engage in the Talking Cars community.

    Recent Episodes

    Driving the Toyota Tacoma, episode 449
    Driving the Lincoln Nautilus Hybrid, episode 448
    • Driving the BMW X2, episode 447
    • Driving the Toyota Camry, episode 446
    • Behind the Crash Tests at IIHS, episode 445

    Have a Question?

    Text it to us! Send a text or video message to TalkingCars@iCloud.com. Please include your first name and where you’re from, and we might feature it in a future episode.

    Talking Cars

    Browse the complete podcast archive for past shows.


    Keith Barry

    Keith Barry has been an auto reporter at Consumer Reports since 2018. He focuses on safety, technology, and the environmental impact of cars. Previously, he led home and appliance coverage at Reviewed; reported on cars for USA Today, Wired, and Car & Driver; and wrote for other publications as well. Keith earned a master’s degree in public health from Tufts University. Follow him on BlueSky @itskeithbarry.bsky.social.