It’s been two years since we talked about electric vehicles. A lot has changed since then; much of it, for the better.
In this episode: What’s happening in the EV market. We’ll discuss standout models, including some new, less expensive options. Plus, what to consider if you’re thinking about buying a used EV.
More from Checkbook:
How to Save Money on Car Repairs
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If you haven’t purchased a car in a few years, expect to find a market dominated by SUVs. And be prepared for sticker shock: The average price for a new vehicle is at an all-time high, around $50,000! Unfortunately, used cars aren’t the bargain they used to be.
In this episode, we talk with the editors at Consumer Reports about their Top Picks for 2026—these cars, trucks, and SUVs are the cream of the crop. Also, how to choose a vehicle you really like, and what to consider before buying a used car or truck.
More from Consumer Reports:
Best Cars of the Year: 10 Top Picks of 2026
What Car Should You Buy? How to Find the Right Vehicle for You
Safest Car Brands Ranked by Consumer Reports’ Safety Verdict
Car Accessories That Improve Safety, Comfort, and Organization
42 Used Cars to Avoid Buying
More from Checkbook:
Car Dealerships
Car Buying Strategies
Vehicle Service Contract Plans Are Big Hassles and Bad Deals for Most Drivers
Related Consumerpedia Episodes:
#56 – A Crash Course on Auto Insurance
#21 – Auto Glass Class: How to Get Repairs and Replacements
Not a Checkbook member? Sign up for a free 30-day trial to access all of our unbiased ratings.
To celebrate our 100th episode, we’ve asked two veteran Chicago broadcasters to take Checkbook’s College of Consumer Knowledge quiz. Lisa Dent is the popular afternoon host at WGN Radio. Steve Bertrand, her longtime news anchor, came out of retirement to challenge her. Play along with our celebrity contestants to test your consumer IQ. The questions are difficult!
You might also want to play the online version of Checkbook’s College of Knowledge. Topics include auto, food, and your money.
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Whether you’re planning to buy a new or used vehicle, be prepared for sticker shock. According to Kelley Blue Book, the average new car sold for $48,600 in February. The average used car buyer paid $25,100. With so much money on the line, you really need to do your homework before driving off with a new set of wheels.
In this episode: The 10 top picks and the latest reliability ratings from Consumer Reports, advice for anyone considering an electric vehicle, and why used cars are going to cost more this year.
Not a Checkbook member? Sign up for a free 30-day trial to access all of our unbiased ratings.
Americans bought a record 1.2 million electric vehicles last year, and EV sales continued to grow in the first quarter of 2024, although at a slightly slower pace than anticipated.
Buyers have more choices than ever: More than 40 electric cars, trucks, and SUVs from both U.S. and foreign manufacturers. Battery range has improved, and some lower-priced models are now available.
In this episode, how to decide which non-conventional vehicle might be right for you. Do EVs live up to their range promises? Consumer Reports creates a special test to find out. Plus, why are electric vehicles less reliable than conventional cars?
Additional Resources:
From Checkbook:
Consumerpedia Episode 63: The Car Show 2024
Crash Course on Auto Insurance
From Consumer Reports:
CR’s Real-World EV Range Tests Show Which Models Beat EPA Estimates
Electric Vehicles Are Less Reliable Than Conventional Cars
Support our podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/consumerpedia/support
The car market has nearly recovered from the pandemic. Dealers have good supply of both new and used vehicles, and that’s pushing down prices: The average new-car buyer paid $47,000 in March, according to Kelley Blue Book. That’s a two-year low, but still nearly 16% higher than in March 2021. With more cars on the lot, some dealers and manufacturers are offering bigger incentives.
In this episode, the latest new-vehicle reliability ratings from Consumer Reports, the right way to take a test drive, and how to get the best deal on that new car. Plus, should you use a buying service to simplify the process?
Additional Resources:
From Checkbook:
Crash Course on Auto Insurance
From Consumer Reports:
CR’s Best Cars of the Year: 10 Top Picks of 2024
Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars?
Four of the Five Least Expensive Car Brands to Maintain Are American
7 Questions to Ask Before You Buy a Car
Support our podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/consumerpedia/support
Most drivers find a policy, pay the premium, and never think about it again. Big mistake! Checkbook shoppers find huge price differences from company to company. Most drivers will save $500 to $1,000 a year by shopping around and switching if they find a better deal.
In this episode: Which insurance companies have the best prices? Which ones provide the best customer service? Do price comparison websites work? Plus, why do many insurance companies use credit scores to set their rates?
Read Checkbook’s full report on auto insurance.
Support our podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/consumerpedia/support