Talking Cars (MP3)

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531

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Aug 2026

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Join our experts at the Consumer Reports Test Track as they discuss cars, answer buying questions, and share insights on everything automotive.

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September 2, 2026Episode 52243 min

Is the 2026 Toyota bZ Woodland EV the Golden Child of the Toyota-Subaru Marriage?

On this week's episode, we share our first impressions of the 2026 Toyota BZ Woodland, a 375-hp all-wheel-drive EV that promises more space, extra ground clearance, and a little off-road attitude. But is the Woodland really built for the wilderness—or is it better thought of as a quick, practical electric station wagon? We discuss its surprising acceleration, EPA-rated range, cargo area, infotainment and controls, and overly sensitive driver-monitoring system. Plus, we answer an audience question about why cars don't have automatic rain-sensing rear wipers, which turned into a debate over whether cars really need rear windshield wipers at all. Join CR at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization. SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 0:00 - Intro 00:36 Overview: 2026 Toyota bZ Woodland 01:18 What Does "Woodland" Actually Mean? 03:35 Toyota and Subaru's Growing EV Family 04:47 Performance 06:05 Interior Quality, Controls, and Usability 09:24 Driving Position and Storage 12:05 Cargo Space 14:13 Is the bZ Woodland an Electric Subaru Outback? 15:53 Toyota's Infotainment 18:20 Instrument Cluster 21:09 Phone Connectivity 24:40 All-Terrain Tires 25:19 Are "Off-Road" Trims Worth It? 28:14 Safety and Driver Assistance Features 33:41 Audience Question: Why No Rain-Sensing Rear Wipers? ---------------------------------- Test Results: 2026 Toyota bZ Woodland https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/toyota/bz-woodland/2026/overview/ ?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT 2026 Toyota bZ https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/toyota/bz/2026/overview/ ?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Popular Electric Vehicles to Avoid and What to Get Instead https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/electric-vehicles-to-avoid-and-the-evs-to-get-instead-a6654236864/ ?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Best Electric Cars of 2026, According to Consumer Reports' Tests https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/best-electric-vehicles-from-consumer-reports-tests-a3759669425/ ?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Most and Least Satisfying Hybrids, Plug-In Hybrids, and EVs https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/most-and-least-satisfying-electric-vehicles-and-hybrids-a2825600877/ ?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Most Reliable Used Electric Vehicles https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/most-reliable-used-electric-vehicles-a8864540677/ ?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

August 26, 2026Episode 52152 min

I Bought 171 Cars for Consumer Reports. Here's What I Learned.

On this week's episode, after 30 years and roughly $6 million spent buying cars for Consumer Reports, Mike Quincy shares his best car-buying advice, worst dealership experiences, and the tricks and fees buyers should watch out for. Plus, a surprise guest drops in to help send him off before he takes one final ride into retirement. Join CR at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization. SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 0:00 - Intro 00:41 – Mike Quincy's Last Ride 02:08 – 171 Cars and $6 Million: Mike's Car-Buying Career 04:48 – The Most Memorable Cars Mike Bought 08:27 – How Car Buying Has Changed Over the Years 13:28 – What's Better—and Worse—About Buying a Car Today 16:00 – How to Handle the Finance Office 20:27 – Mike's Worst Dealership Experiences 28:02 – The Best Car-Buying Experiences 33:23 – What Car Will Mike Buy for Retirement? 37:15 – Looking Back on 30 Years at Consumer Reports 37:29 – A Surprise Guest Joins the Podcast 43:56 – What Mike Will Miss Most 46:42 – Buying a New Car Should Be Exciting 51:10 – Mike Quincy's Final Sign-Off ---------------------------------- How to Spot and Avoid Unnecessary Car-Buying Fees https://www.consumerreports.org/money/fees-billing/how-to-avoid-car-buying-fees-a7209896255/ ?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT What to Know Before Buying a Car: 7 Questions to Ask at the Dealership https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/buying-a-car/questions-to-ask-before-you-buy-a-car-a6387933582/ ?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT How to Buy a New Car in Today's Challenging, High-Priced Market https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/buying-a-car/how-to-buy-a-car-in-todays-challenging-market-a7648220054/ ?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Which Brands Make the Best Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles-a6159221985/ ?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/ ?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Find an Efficient Vehicle That's Right for You https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/buying-guide/ ?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

August 19, 2026Episode 52044 min

The Ineos Grenadier Might Be the Perfect Backcountry Vehicle

This week w e drive the 2026 Ineos Grenadier on pavement, dirt roads, and CR's challenging Rock Hill to see whether this purpose-built, BMW-powered SUV is worth nearly $90,000. We discuss the driving experience, its unusual steering, noisy cabin, quirky controls, where it excels, and whether we'd actually buy one. Plus, we answer an audience question about what to do with an older BMW whose necessary repairs cost more than the car is worth. Join CR at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization. SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 0:00 - Intro 00:37 Overview: 2026 Ineos Grenadier 02:22 The Story Behind the Grenadier 04:00 Why it SUV Stands Out 07:28 Off-Road Test 10:12 Locking Differentials and Low-Range Gear 12:28 Built to Be Repaired in the Middle of Nowhere 13:40 BMW Power in a Serious Off-Roader 15:33 The Grenadier's Quirky Interior 17:20 Compromises 19:06 The Steering 22:31 Buttons, Switches, and an Airplane-Style Cockpit 27:31 Driving Position and Seat Comfort 30:32 Cabin Noise 32:05 On-Road Handling 33:45 Would We Spend $90,000 on One? 36:22 What It's Really Like to Live With 38:44 How Would the Grenadier Score in CR Testing? 39:36 Audience Question: Should I sell a car that costs more to repair than it's worth? ---------------------------------- Find the Best SUVs https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/ ?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT 10 Best SUVs You Can Buy Right Now https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/10-best-suvs-you-can-buy-right-now-a8518508556/ ?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/ ?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT How It Works: FWD vs. RWD vs. AWD vs. 4WD https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/automotive-technology/2wd-vs-awd-vs-4wd-a5663578720/ ?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Which Brands Make the Best Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles-a6159221985/ ?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT CR Car Value Estimator https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-value-estimator/ ?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

August 12, 2026Episode 51931 min

All-Weather vs. All-Season Tires; Should I Buy My Own Spare?

We answer viewer questions this week, including: the best vehicle for a 14-hour road trip, why automakers have eliminated spare tires, debunk a myth about self-driving cars, and explore the pros and cons of all-weather tires. We also discuss the best ways to learn your vehicle's new features, with or without a dealer's help. Have a question for our experts? Send it to TalkingCars@iCloud.com to be featured on a future episode. 📝 SHOW NOTES: 0:00 - Intro 1:24 - Question #1 - Paul from St.Paul, MN: Which car brands make the best self-driving systems? 8:31 - Question #2 - Paul: Where did all of the spare tires go? 15:25 - Question #3 - Darnley from Yonkers, NY: What's the best car for a 14-hour road trip? 18:30 - Question #4 - Noah from Richmond, VA: Do all-weather tires live up to the hype? 23:57 - Question #5: Steve from TN: What's the best way to learn about the new features on a car, when you don't buy from a dealer? 🌐 LINKS: Car Features to Help You Stay Safe on the Road: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/cars-and-features-to-help-you-stay-safe-on-the-road-a1543711001/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Clearing the Confusion About Advanced Car-Safety Feature Names: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/clearing-confusion-about-advanced-car-safety-feature-names-a1035752654/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Some Newer Cars Are Missing a Spare Tire: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/tires/some-newer-cars-are-missing-a-spare-tire-a9928775934/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Consumer Reports' Tire Selector Tool: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/tires/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

August 5, 2026Episode 51837 min

Lexus Finally Gets Electric Right: 2026 Lexus ES 500e

Is the all-new 2026 Lexus ES EV the luxury electric sedan we've been waiting for? On this week's episode we share our first impressions of the Lexus' newest electric sedan, discussing its whisper-quiet ride, comfort-first philosophy, real-world range, charging performance, interior technology, and whether it delivers a true luxury experience despite a few frustrating tech quirks. Plus, we answer a viewer question: Can you safely extend oil change intervals on a plug-in hybrid if you mostly drive in EV mode? Join CR at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization. SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 0:00 - Intro 00:16 - First Impressions of the 2026 Lexus ES 500e 03:42 - Ride Comfort 08:13 - Interior Design 10:17 - Controls & Tech Quirks 15:07 - Rear Seat Comfort 18:07 - Real-World EV Range & Charging 20:31 - Practicality 22:22 - EV Platform Explained 23:06 - Comfort vs. Performance 26:01 - One-Pedal Driving & EV Experience 28:26 - Everyday Usability 30:40 - Safety Features 33:32 - Audience Question: Oil Changes for Plug-in Hybrids ---------------------------------- Test Results: 2026 Lexus ES https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/lexus/es/2026/overview/ ?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT How to Find the Best Home EV Charger https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/how-to-choose-the-best-home-wall-charger-for-your-electric-vehicle-a6908889697/ EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT How Long Does It Take to Charge These Popular Electric Cars https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/fastest-charging-electric-vehicles-a4112188427/ ?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT 10 Best Deals on Electric Vehicles https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/best-deals-on-electric-vehicles-a1198228201/ ?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Most & Least Satisfying Hybrids, PHEVs, and Electric Vehicles https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/most-and-least-satisfying-electric-vehicles-and-hybrids-a2825600877/ ?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Popular Electric Vehicles to Avoid and What to Get Instead https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/electric-vehicles-to-avoid-and-the-evs-to-get-instead-a6654236864/ ?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Which Brands Make the Best Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles-a6159221985/ ?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT 5 Things to Know About Oil Changes for Your Car https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-maintenance/things-to-know-about-oil-changes-for-your-car-a9532249359// ?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

July 29, 2026Episode 51744 min

Save the Manuals: Driving the New 2026 VW Jetta GLI

Is the 2026 Volkswagen Jetta GLI the last great affordable sports sedan? On this week's episode, we debate whether Volkswagen's final manual-transmission sedan is destined to become a future classic—or if the DSG automatic is actually the better buy. We break down the GLI's turbocharged performance, handling, ride comfort, practicality, and why it may be one of the best cars left to learn stick shift. Plus, we answer audience questions about the best used manual cars for beginners and whether driving a stick can actually make teen drivers safer. Join CR at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization. SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 0:00 - Intro 00:15 2026 Volkswagen Jetta GLI 02:01 Driving Experience 07:29 Performance, Handling, and Ride Quality 16:39 Comfort, Seats, and Interior Features 22:13 Manual vs. DSG Transmission Debate 26:50 Practicality and Interior Drawbacks 30:00 Would We Buy the Jetta GLI? 33:29 Questions #1: Where did Mike Quincy buy his classes? 36:25 Question #2: What is the best used manual transmission cars for teen drivers ---------------------------------- Test Results: Volkswagen Jetta https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/volkswagen/jetta/2026/overview/ ?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/ ?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT How Car Brands Stack Up on Repair Costs https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-maintenance/the-cost-of-car-ownership-a1854979198/ ?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Which Brands Make the Best Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles-a6159221985/ ?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Best used cars under $20,000 for teens https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/teen-driving/best-cars-for-teens-a2115540753/ ?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Car Distractions: How to Stay Focused While Driving https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/car-distractions-how-to-stay-focused-while-driving-a1144545692/ ?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

July 22, 2026Episode 51629 min

Will Your Next Car Come With a 'Kill Switch'? | Talking Cars with Consumer Reports #516

In this episode, we separate fact from fiction about viral claims that a government-mandated "kill switch" for cars is coming in 2027. Our experts explain what the law actually says, how alcohol-impairment detection technology is being developed, and what that means for you when you make your next car purchase. We also answer an audience question about whether newer cars are really safer than older models and how advanced safety systems differ from driver convenience features. SHOW NOTES: 0:00 - Intro 1:10 - The 2027 Car 'Kill Switch' myth 2:05 - What is the HALT Drunk Driving Act? 7:51 - Direct Driver Monitoring Systems (DDMS) 10:30 - Audience Question: Are newer cars really safer? 13:03 - How Advanced Driver Safety Systems help prevent crashes 15:54 - Convenience Features vs. Real Safety Technology 24:03 - Why Modern Safety Features Matter LINKS: No, Your Car Isn't Getting a 'Kill Switch' in 2027: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/2027-car-kill-switch-explained-a2146992793/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Driver Monitoring Systems Can Help You Be Safer on the Road : https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/driver-monitoring-systems-ford-gm-earn-points-in-cr-tests-a6530426322/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Consumer Reports' Car Safety Guide: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/safety-guide/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Find the Safest New Car Using Consumer Reports' Safety Verdict: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/how-to-find-safest-new-car-using-crs-safety-verdict-a3169270635/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

July 15, 2026Episode 51530 min

Why Does Every New Car Feel Like a Smartphone?

In this episode of Talking Cars, we discuss why modern vehicles rely so heavily on software, apps, over-the-air updates, and smartphone integration. We compare the pros and cons of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, discuss the learning curve of built-in infotainment systems, and explore personal data privacy and how you can best protect your information while using a vehicle. Join CR at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization. SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 0:00 - Intro 01:20 - CarPlay vs. Native Infotainment Systems 02:20 - Why Connectivity Still Fails 03:40 - Software Updates, Over-the-Air updates 07:04 - Why EVs Depend on Advanced Software 10:50 - Common Infotainment Frustrations 18:20 - What Makes a Good Infotainment System? 20:25 - Privacy, Data Collection & Connected Cars ---------------------------------- How Do In-Car Infotainment Systems Compare to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?: https://www.consumerreports.org/infotainment-systems/in-car-infotainment-systems-vs-apple-carplay-android-auto/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT How Do Over-the-Air Update Work: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-maintenance/ota-car-software-updates-are-they-safe-how-they-work-a4081157745/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT How Long Does It Take to Charge These Popular Electric Cars?: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/fastest-charging-electric-vehicles-a4112188427/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Get the Most From Your Car's Infotainment System: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/automotive-technology/get-the-most-from-your-cars-infotainment-system-a1056374937/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT How to Clear Your Personal Data From a Car: https://www.consumerreports.org/electronics/personal-information/how-to-clear-your-personal-data-from-a-car-before-selling-a2082502452/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

July 8, 2026Episode 51432 min

Small Trucks Are the Perfect Size for Nobody: 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz

In this episode, we take an in-depth look at the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz, which, ironically, was officially discontinued days after we bought one for testing. We talk about the history and future of small trucks, discuss why Hyundai decided to end production of the Santa Cruz, and answer a question from a Santa Cruz owner about why the Santa Cruz returned low scores in our cargo capacity assessment. SHOW NOTES: 0:00 - Introduction & Why We Bought Another Santa Cruz 1:03 - Why Hyundai discontinued the Santa Cruz 3:03 - Is a small truck enough for most people? 7:05 - What we dislike about the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz 13:35 - Best Small Truck Alternatives 19:50 - Audience Question: How Does CR Score the Bed Size of a truck? 27:15 - Audience Question Follow up: Favorite cars purchased by Ernie from North Carolina LINKS: 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hyundai/santa-cruz/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Test Results: Ford Maverick: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/ford/maverick/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Model History: Honda Ridgeline: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/honda/ridgeline/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Test Results: Ford Maverick Hybrid: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/ford/maverick-hybrid/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Test Results: Ford F-150 Hybrid: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/ford/f-150-hybrid/2026/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT 6 Most Reliable Used Pickup Trucks, According to Consumer Reports' Experts: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/pickup-trucks/most-reliable-used-pickup-trucks-a7737894754/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

July 1, 2026Episode 51358 min

Everything That's Wrong with the American Auto Industry

This week's episode tackles a long-running debate: are American cars inferior to their Asian and European counterparts? We break down the truth about Ford, GM, Stellantis, and Tesla, and how they stack up to Toyota, Honda, and other top automakers, revealing how performance and reliability drive our ratings. Plus: why the American dealership model is still so frustrating, Chinese EV competition, expert tips for negotiating the best price on a new or used car, and how to avoid costly add-ons. We also answer a viewer question about what we think American cars do better than the competition. Join CR at https://CR.org/joinviaYT to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization. SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 00:00 Intro 00:15 Do Consumer Reports Hate American Cars? 00:55 The Myth About American Car Reliability 03:56 What Is an "American-Made" Car? 09:33 Why Consumer Choice Matters 12:37 Chinese EVs and the Future of the Auto Industry 20:26 Why Do Detroit Automakers Struggle With Reliability? 28:05 EVs vs. Hybrids: What's Next? 33:16 Why Buying a Car Is Still So Hard 35:42 Dealership Tips: Avoid Costly Add-Ons 42:06 The Future of the U.S. Auto Market 51:13 Audience Question: What Do American Cars Do Better? ---------------------------------- Best cars, SUVs, and Trucks from American Brands https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-best-american-cars-suvs-trucks-a1034107548/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Best cars made in the USA https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/best-cars-made-in-the-usa-a7966845571/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/ ?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Which Brands Make the Best Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles-a6159221985/ ?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT How to buy a new car in today's high-priced market https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/buying-a-car/how-to-buy-a-car-in-todays-challenging-market-a7648220054/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Chinese-made cars are already here. https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/automotive-industry/chinese-made-cars-in-us-market-a3786571662/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Most and least satisfying hybrids, PHEVs, and EVs https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/most-and-least-satisfying-electric-vehicles-and-hybrids-a2825600877/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT How do hybrid cars work? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/how-do-hybrid-cars-work-a1034181509/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Find an efficient vehicle that's right for you https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/buying-guide/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT What to know when buying a new car https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/new-cars/buying-guide/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Best Cars Under $30K https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/best-new-cars-under-30000-dollars-a6574737993/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Best new-car deals for July Fourth https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/buying-a-car/best-new-car-deals-for-july-4th-a1191663902/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT