On this episode of MIB we recap last month's BreyerMidwest! The mares are joined by Heather Jackson-Lain and Stephanie Blaylock and we all share our different perspectives of the events and roles we played as well as all the fun and food! News and tangents abound as well! Something Elated by Broke For Free is licensed under a Attribution 3.0 United…

Volkswagen gives the 2025 Taos a fresh look and updated tech. We share our first impressions of its performance, redesigned interior, and revamped infotainment system—and whether this update is enough to keep the Taos competitive. We also answer audience questions, including: When is it okay to buy a first model year redesign vehicle? Why are EV ch…

Join us on the floor of the 2025 New York Auto Show. We cover the trends, or lack thereof, among automakers in attendance, the debut of several new Subaru models, and talk about which vehicles have the best chance of success in the market. Plus, we share our favorite vehicles from the show floor. SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 00:00…

The 2025 Nissan Murano gets a bold new look and a revamped powertrain, marking a fresh start for this midsized SUV. In this episode, we share our first impressions of the redesigned Murano, including its refreshed styling, appealing interior, engine performance, and driving dynamics. We also discuss who this SUV is best suited for. We also answer a…

On this episode we are joined by longtime hobbyist Elaine Lindelef in a far ranging interview that touches on hobby history, the founding of NAMHSA, her personal hobby journey and her new model horse discussion board, Ponydom! We also discuss model horse news and go off on plenty of tangents as usual. Something Elated by Broke For Free is licensed …

Toyota is expanding its SUV portfolio by transforming the Crown sedan into a bold new model, the Crown Signia. In this episode, we dive into our first impressions of this reimagined vehicle, exploring its ride quality, hybrid powertrain, design, and functional shape. We also discuss how the Signia differentiates itself from the original Crown. Plus…

In 2017 Volkswagen announced the electrified ID. Buzz at the Detroit Auto Show. Now, seven years later, we’ve driven the real thing. In this episode, we share our first impressions of the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz, diving into its iconic retro-styling, driving dynamics, electric drivetrain, utility, and infotainment system. Plus, we also answer audi…

Our experts reveal CR’s 2025 Top Picks, featuring the best vehicles that stand out in our rigorous tests. Find out which cars, trucks, and SUVs made the list and why some fan favorites didn't. Plus, we answer audience questions about CR member surveys, hybrid brake tests, and SUV cargo measurement tests. See our Top Picks list for free at: http://c…

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. Mazda has partnered with Toyota to create the 2025 CX-50 Hybrid. Although it's branded as a Mazda, the CX-50 Hybrid has the heart of a Toyota. In this episode, we share our first impressio…

Exclusive CR discount for Talking Cars viewers at: https://www.cr.org/jointalkingcars There's been a lot of change in the US recently! And it will likely have a big impact on the automotive market, particularly when it comes to electric vehicles. On this episode of Talking Cars, we discussed the current state of the EV market, taking questions live…

In this special edition of Mares in Black we are joined by Jennifer Buxton and we talk all about NaMoPaiMo 2025! Jenn takes us through the history, philosophy and rules of National Model (horse) Painting Month as well as how to enter and get involved and they also have a shiny (glossy?) new sponsor! We also cover the latest model horse news re: Bre…

Happy New Year from the Mares. This episode we are joined by the fabulous hobby artist, DeeAnn Kjelshus, to talk about her hobby journey, her craft and her upcoming endeavors. We also talk about the first round of BreyerFest releases as well as all the usual MIB shenanigans. Something Elated by Broke For Free is licensed under a Attribution 3.0 Uni…

Nissan redesigned the 2025 Kicks compact SUV--now larger, more powerful, and available with all-wheel drive. We put its driving performance to the test, evaluate its active safety and driver-assistance features, and discuss whether or not its "upscale" design elements deliver on the hype. Plus, we answer questions about our favorite infotainment sy…

Of the dozens of new cars Consumer Reports tested this year, these are the best (and worst) according to the entire staff of CR’s Auto Test Center. This team not only keeps the track up and running, but we’re all part of the evaluation process - see what our Talking Cars crew, as well as those behind the scenes, thought were the best and worst cars…

Chevrolet has expanded its EV lineup with the addition of the 2024 Equinox EV. In this episode, we share our first impressions of the small electric SUV, covering its driving dynamics, power capabilities, key features, and how it stacks up against the Blazer EV and the gas-powered Equinox. We also address audience questions, including whether it's …

Something Elated by Broke For Free is licensed under a Attribution 3.0 United States License.By Jackie Rossi, Heather Malone

Exclusive CR discount for Talking Cars viewers at: https://www.cr.org/jointalkingcars Which brands make the most reliable cars, trucks, and SUVs in 2025? The answer may surprise you! CR surveyed owners about any problems they have experienced with their new and used cars, and we share the results! Find out where brands like Toyota, Tesla, Subaru, B…

This week, we discuss the 2025 Hyundai Sonata. The all-new Sonata gets drastic, updated styling, Hyundai’s latest infotainment system, a ton of standard advanced safety gear, and an improved ride. We also answer audience questions about towing capacity, vehicles with unlabeled controls, and the best type of car for commuting in Utah. SHOW NOTES: 0:…

The Jeep Compass is the brand's only compact or subcompact SUV. We look at changes to the 2025 Compass, notably a new 200-hp powertrain since the next generation isn't slated to arrive in North America until 2026. Do the latest engine and other updates give this Jeep an edge over its competitors? We also answer viewer questions, including whether t…

On episode 124 of Mares in Black, we sit down with hobby icon Lesli Kathman and discuss her wide-ranging hobby journey. Lesli is an accomplished show holder, sculptor, customizer, painter, glazer, mold-maker and a recognized expert and author in the field of equine color genetics. We talk through her career in model horses and how it informed her d…

Exclusive CR discount for Talking Cars viewers at https://www.cr.org/jointalkingcars The Mini Cooper has been the cornerstone of the brand since its inception and has been redesigned for 2025. Our experts share their first impressions of the 2025 Mini Cooper S two-door, discussing its performance and whether this fifth-generation model retains the …

We recently purchased a 2024 Chevrolet Traverse LT AWD for testing. In this episode, we share our first impressions of the four-cylinder turbo engine, infotainment usability, and whether the Traverse works as a family hauler compared to the Kia Telluride, Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, and Hyundai Palisade. And, with recent hurricanes hitting the …

Consumer Reports has finally taken delivery of the long-awaited and much-hyped Tesla Cybertruck. We highlight many of its innovative features, polarizing styling, and driving characteristics. Additionally, we address audience questions, including how CR manages to purchase so many cars each year anonymously without staff being recognized by dealers…

Exclusive CR discount for Talking Cars viewers at https://www.cr.org/jointalkingcars By redesigning the 2024 Land Cruiser, Toyota reinforces its commitment to off-road excellence. In this episode, we share our first impressions of the new Land Cruiser, highlighting its hybrid powertrain, nostalgic design elements, and off-road capabilities. We also…

Join us for the second of our BreyerFest episodes co-hosted with Heather by the amazing Anne Field of Field of Dolls! We walk through some news and catching up, and then get into Anne's first, but hopefully not last, HorseFest odyssey! Something Elated by Broke For Free is licensed under a Attribution 3.0 United States License.…

The redesigned 2025 Subaru Forester continues decades of Forester fan favorites, including its functionality, excellent visibility, roomy cabin, and standard all-wheel drive. Here, we highlight the updates to the sixth-generation Forester, including its refreshed styling, refined ride, and cabin experience. We also answer audience questions about t…

Exclusive CR discount for Talking Cars listeners at cr.org/jointalkingcars Purchasing a used car is an excellent way to save money, with over 36 million pre-owned vehicles sold in the U.S. in 2023 alone, more than doubling new car purchases. Our experts at CR have meticulously analyzed exclusive test and survey data to pinpoint the best pre-owned c…

For episode 122, HMB welcomes Jenn Constantine as co-host while Jackie is at SDCC. They talk through both of their Horsefest (BreyerFest/Equilocity/KHP/KY) and dining adventures for the biggest model horse event of the year. Jenn also shares her experience as a relative newbie to the model horse hobby as well as her inspiring and unique artistic jo…

See our car ratings and reviews at: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT This week, we discuss the 2024 Honda Prologue. It's Honda's first mainstream electric vehicle, made possible through a collaboration between Honda and General Motors. The Prologue shares much of its architecture with the Chevrolet Blazer EV. We cover the dif…

See our car ratings and reviews at: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Mini's largest SUV, the Countryman, has been thoroughly redesigned. For 2025, it's bigger in almost every dimension. This week, we share our first impressions of the Countryman, including its performance, driving characteristics, fashionable interior with un…

This week on Talking Cars, we're talking trucks! We share our first impressions of the 2024 Toyota Tacoma, a perennially popular and traditionally reliable midsized truck. We cover Tacoma's 2024 redesign and discuss how it compares to other pickups in the competitive segment. Plus, we answer questions about sourcing parts for older vehicles and the…

On episode 121 of Mares in Black, we cover more BreyerFest/Equilocity 2024 news, all the other hobby news and Instagram in Progress. We also talk with longtime hobbyist Chris Wallbruch about showing and showholding, volunteering and how the hobby has changed over the years. All the usual nonsense and tangents to enjoy! Something Elated by Broke For…

On this episode of Mares in Black, we cover the onslaught of BreyerFest 2024 news, run down all the other hobby news and Instagram in Progress. We also sit down with the amazing artist Meredith Warren to talk about her hobby journey, her fabulous oil painted creations, her life before models and mental health and physical wellness through lens of a…

Consumer Reports just purchased a 2024 Lincoln Nautilus AWD Reserve II for testing, and we already have strong opinions about the vehicle. The Nautilus is based on the Ford Edge, but a lot is unique to this car, including a panoramic screen that runs the length of the dashboard. We share our first impressions of its touchscreen controls, optional 2…

On Episode 119 of Mares in Black, Anne Field of Field of Dolls is interviewed by the Mares. She talk all about her model horse journey and how she got into making doll clothes and other miniatures. The show also starts covering the inexorable march to BreyerFest 2024, discusses Stone Horse Country Fair and all the news and Instagram in Progress. So…

The redesigned 2024 BMW X2 boasts more cargo room, expanded voice-activated controls, and standard driver assistance features. In this episode, we share our first impressions and discuss the changes, including its powertrain, and we compare the X2 to other BMW models, including its close sibling, the X1. We also answer audience questions, including…

This episode of Mares inBlack is a short newscast covering Breyer and BreyerFest, Stone going ons and Equilocity, NAN, Model Horse University and much more. Also, the usual rambling and nonsense is included! Something Elated by Broke For Free is licensed under a Attribution 3.0 United States License.…

This week, we share our early impressions of the 2025 Toyota Camry. While Toyota didn’t revolutionize the 2025 model, it gets a big powertrain update, as every Camry will only come as a hybrid. We discuss why this change shouldn’t scare longtime Camry lovers and why Toyota’s reliability record should boost buyers’ confidence. Plus, we answer questi…

For decades, Consumer Reports has been at the forefront of advocating for automotive safety, collaborating closely with the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) to continually elevate safety standards in cars. In this episode, we take you behind the scenes of the IIHS auto crash test facility in central Virginia. Our experts talk with Davi…

On MIB episode #117, the Mares or joined by wunderkind painter, Brie Cundiff. We talk through the unusual way she came into the hobby, her artistic techniques and POV we well as her plans for BreyerFest this Summer! All the hobby news, Instagram and plenty of Gen X/video game tangents. Something Elated by Broke For Free is licensed under a Attribut…

Our experts share their first impressions of the 2024 Tesla Model 3. For 2024, the Model 3 gets a major freshening with updated styling, acoustic glass for all of the windows, an 8-inch touchscreen for rear passengers, and a softer ride. While these are all good changes, we also talk about how the controls and updated blind spot warning system leav…

The redesigned 2023 Chevrolet Colorado offers noticeable improvements throughout the truck. We share our first impressions of this midsized pickup truck, exploring its modern convenience features, off-road prowess, improved ride quality, and evaluating if the redesign truly paid off. Additionally, we debate regarding the impact of Toyota's renowned…

The Mares discuss all things BreyerWest 2024. It was Heather's first year to manager the shows and both Jackie attended and volunteered, so plenty of insight and info on all the surrounding happenings and the event itself. The Mares also discuss sales platforms in the hobby as alternatives to MHSP. All the news and Instagram too! Something Elated b…

In this supersized episode, we share our very unusual experience purchasing, receiving, and driving our 2023 Fisker Ocean Ultra; there are so many twists and turns to this story, we can’t summarize them here, you’ll just have to listen to the entire wild experience! We also answer audience questions about how to store an EV for long periods of time…

Are less expensive cars cool again? The prevalence of cars real people can afford is one of the trends we noticed at the 2024 New York Auto Show. We looked closely at the new Nissan Kicks, Subaru Forester, Honda Prologue, Toyota Camry, Volkswagen ID. Buzz, and many more. Our experts also share their favorite car/trend/feature from the show floor. S…

Hyundai brings significant improvements to the Kona EV over the previous-generation model. We share our first impressions of the 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric, the power plant, driving dynamics, controls, and what it has to offer for buyers looking to purchase a sensible electric vehicle. Also, we discuss why it is important for EV owners to pay close…

This episode of Mares in Black is a newscast discussing all the latest model horse happening and events. News, Instagram and off topic rambling, short and sweet! Something Elated by Broke For Free is licensed under a Attribution 3.0 United States License.By Heather Malone, Jackie Rossi

More info on the 10 Top Picks of 2024 here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/best-cars-of-the-year-10-top-picks-of-2024-a4675085257/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT Consumer Reports annual Top Picks list is out. In this episode we clarify what the Top Picks is and how vehicles get awarded this highly regarded designation. Our experts discuss the 10 cars that…

The Mares welcome artist extraordinaire, Jennifer Scott, to episode 114! Jennifer talks through her latest developments, discusses media choices and progression as an artist, her fire plans and even her real horses! News and Instagram in Progress are also in the mix. Something Elated by Broke For Free is licensed under a Attribution 3.0 United Stat…

Kia takes the three-row SUV EV Mainstream with its all-new EV9. We share our first impressions of the 2024 Kia EV9, how it handled around our test track, the third-row seats, controls, and if this newest kia is the best midsized SUV EV or not. And, our experts give advice on what to look for when buying tires to maximize vehicle MPG. We also explai…