Talking Cars 505: What Are the Best Used EVs?

Main theme: Back by popular demand, this episode is devoted entirely to answering video and text questions from our podcast listeners and viewers.

• Why does Consumer Reports consider simulated upshifts in a continuously variable transmission a good thing?

• Why is there such a discrepancy between owner satisfaction and the reliability of Rivian’s EVs? You would think they would go hand in hand.

• My wife wants to get an EV for both her 100-mile round-trip commute and for longer journeys. We’re looking for something with a 300-mile range. A used EV seems to be the best value, and we’re hoping to stay under $40,000. Suggestions?

• Is there a standard for rear turn signal placement? I’ve noticed that several automakers have moved them from the main taillight cluster to the bumper, which makes them difficult to see in traffic and easily damaged in a collision. 

• Do you think supply chain issues will shorten the lifespan of the Chevrolet Equinox EV? That would be a pity, because it seems like quite a good EV.

• My wife and I are planning to rent a car to drive from San Francisco to Malibu on the Pacific Coast Highway for a wedding in June. What do you think is the safest vehicle category to choose when you really don’t know which model you will get?