Talking Cars 493: Driving the Toyota bZ

Plus, why do so many three-row electric SUVs have reliability problems?

Keith Barry, Consumer Reports Senior Autos Reporter.

By Keith Barry
Senior Autos Reporter

February 11, 2026

Main theme: The panelists discuss their experiences with the 2026 Toyota bZ, which replaces the Toyota bZ4X and shares a design with the Subaru Solterra. The BZ gets a longer range and quicker charging than its predecessor, but can it compete with the latest round of EVs?

Audience question: Why did some reliability scores change? And why aren’t there any reliable three-row EV SUVs? (See how EVs compare with other powertrains for reliability.)

Learn more about how CR tests cars.

Talking Cars episode 493 panel — “Talking Cars” panelists (from left): Keith Barry, Michael Crossen, and Mike Monticello.

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Recent Podcast Episodes

• 10 Top Picks of 2026, episode 492
• Driving the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid, episode 491
• Driving the 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid, episode 490
• Best & Worst Cars of 2025, episode 489
• Driving the 2026 Toyota RAV4 PHEV, episode 488

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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.