Talking Carts 8: Buy a Car Like a Pro

Main theme: Consumer Reports has been the destination for unbiased car reviews since 1936. But did you know that we anonymously buy every vehicle we test—some 50 cars, trucks, and SUVs each year?  In this episode, hosts Tanya Christian and Brian Vines get a crash course in car buying from our senior autos reporter, Keith…

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How It Works: FWD vs. RWD vs. AWD vs. 4WD

As the name implies, all-wheel drive (AWD) can feed power to each corner. Depending on the design of the system, AWD can provide maximum forward traction during acceleration. “AWD as found on many small crossover SUVs and some cars is great for those who need increased traction for mild slippery conditions such as snow, ice,…

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Eero Pro 7 Review: Smooth Sailing

Amazon’s Eero mesh range is tough to beat for folks seeking a set-and-forget mesh Wi-Fi system for their home. Simplicity, with a side of smart home support, makes the Eero Pro 7 a compelling prospect. It strikes a nice balance in Eero’s Wi-Fi 7 lineup, offering the faster 6-GHz band and better all-around performance than…

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Yes, Black People Use Self-Tanner, Too

According to Hartman, getting a smooth, even finish is all about the prep. “Exfoliation is one of the most important prep steps for self-tanner,” he says. It gets rid of dead skin so you’re not layering product on top of rough patches, which is how you end up with darker knees and ashy elbows. “Pay…

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Best Bath Towels From Our Tests

Buying bath towels can be surprisingly confusing if you want to know exactly what you’re paying for. There’s a fair amount of terminology; understanding these terms can help you see past the marketing hype and make a more sound purchase. MaterialsYou’ll find bath towels made either with 100 percent cotton, or a mixture of cotton…

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How to Avoid Hidden Damage on a Used Car

Car theft is a serious concern, even among more mainstream models. Vehicle thefts numbered more than a million for 2022 and 2023, but the figures dropped to 850,708 in 2024, according to the NICB, an industry membership organization. California has the highest vehicle theft rate at 463.2 thefts per 100,000 people. Why it matters: The…

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