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    Talking Cars 465: Driving the Mazda CX-50 Hybrid

    Plus, we address whether the time is ripe to get a good deal on a Nissan and if Lexus’ reliability reputation is slipping

    Main theme: In this podcast episode, we give our first driving impressions of the all-new 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid, which we recently purchased for CR’s auto test program. The CX-50 Hybrid is a collaboration between Mazda and Toyota. On the surface, it’s a CX-50 with a RAV4 Hybrid powertrain, although it’s a little more involved than that, and our panelists delve into all of it, from the pluses and minuses of the powertrain to how this transition affects the handling. We also discuss the bright side of Mazda’s typically terrific cabin quality and the frustrations of the CX-50’s infotainment system controls. 

    Because there are some serious similarities—but also some major differences—between the CX-50 Hybrid and the RAV4 Hybrid, we wrap up the segment with each panelist saying whether they’d choose the Mazda or the Toyota. 

    Read our Mazda CX-50 Hybrid first drive review.

    Audience Questions
    • With Nissan’s recent financial woes, do you think this a good time to try to get a great deal on a Pathfinder
    • After only 20,000 miles, the bushings on my 2023 Lexus NX350h have to be replaced. Does CR’s reliability survey data show that Lexus’ quality is starting to slip? 

    Talking Cars Episode 465 panel
    “Talking Cars” panelists (from left): Mike Monticello, Mike Quincy, and Keith Barry.

    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.

    Have a Question?

    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.


    Mike Monticello

    Mike Monticello is the manager of road tests and reviews for the autos team at Consumer Reports. He has been with CR since 2016. Mike has been evaluating and writing about cars for nearly 25 years, having previously worked at Road & Track magazine and Edmunds.com. On the weekends, he usually switches from four wheels to two, riding one of his mountain bikes or motorcycles. Follow him on X: @MikeMonticello.