Talking Cars (MP3)

Talking Cars (MP3)

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    per episode

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Talking Cars (MP3) episodes

  • #325 2021 Tesla Model S Steering Yoke First impressions

    Consumer Reports recently purchased a 2021 Tesla Model S for our test program, which now features a steering yoke rather than a traditional circular steering wheel. We share our first impressions on what it is like to use this steering input on the highway, in the driveway, and in crowded parking lots. We also discuss the other big changes to this vehicle, including its lack of directional and wiper stalks (now a touch-sensitive button on the yoke), horn placement (also a touch button), and touchscreen/predictive gear shifting mechanism.

    -----------------------------------

    Have a question for our experts? Leave a comment on this episode, or reach out to us directly!

    From your iOS device, iMessage us at [email protected] to send a photo, video, or text directly to the Talking Cars team!

    We love to feature our viewers on the show, so submit video questions at https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-talking-cars/

    Subscribe to Talking Cars on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jr8wJRJyN9v8T6LC1fQQ6

    SHOW NOTES

    -----------------------------------

    00:00 - Introduction

    00:29 - 2021 Tesla Model S Steering Yoke Impressions

    06:17 - Driving Tesla Model S

    12:11 - Steering Wheel Controls

    15:01 - Gear Selector

    18:00 - Safety Pitfalls of Unintuitive Controls

    ----------------------------------

    Why We Think Tesla's New Steering Yoke Shows Little Benefit

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YWtJu0q3sBQ

    Tesla's New Steering Yoke Shows Little Benefit and Potential Safety Pitfalls

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-driving/tesla-steering-yoke-little-benefit-potential-safety-pitfalls-a1034204120/

    4K Review: 2016 Tesla Model S Quick Drive

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t9cT_mIff-Q

    Tesla Model S 2013 quick take

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=458TLFRkAlk

    Guide to Car Safety

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-guide-to-car-safety/

    How to Safely Work on Your Car at Home

    https://www.consumerreports.org/car-repair-maintenance/how-to-safely-work-on-your-car-at-home/

    Coronavirus Resource Hub

    https://www.consumerreports.org/coronavirus/coronavirus-covid-19-updates/

    -----------------------------------

    Check out http://www.ConsumerReports.org for the latest reviews, tips, and recommendations and subscribe to our YouTube Channel: http://bit.ly/1Nlb1Ez

    Follow Us on Social:

    Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1IQ2w5q

    Twitter: http://bit.ly/1Yf5Fh2

    Pinterest: http://bit.ly/1P37mM9

    Instagram: http://bit.ly/1I49Bzo

    Google+: http://bit.ly/1Md3gfQ

    31 min
  • #324 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross; How To Avoid Buying a Flooded Car

    This week we share our first impressions of the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross; how it drove on our track, its long roster of advanced safety features, and who this small SUV might appeal to. With major flooding affecting many parts of the country, we discuss all the ways water can damage a car, and give tips on how to spot and avoid a waterlogged vehicle when buying a used car. Other topics this week include: what is the difference between a vehicle refresh and redesign; if bright LED daytime running lights can cause drivers to not turn on their car's headlights; why EVs seem to have less space for tall drivers; and how Consumer Reports decides which vehicles to buy for our test program, and what happens to our cars after testing is completed.

    -----------------------------------

    Subscribe to Talking Cars on Apple Podcasts!

    Video version: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-cars-hq/id630839767?mt=2

    Audio version: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-cars-mp3/id630831189?mt=2

    Have a question for our experts? Leave a comment on this episode, or reach out to us directly!

    From your iOS device, iMessage us at [email protected] to send a photo, video, or text directly to the Talking Cars team!

    We love to feature our viewers on the show, so submit video questions at https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-talking-cars/

    Subscribe to Talking Cars on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jr8wJRJyN9v8T6LC1fQQ6

    SHOW NOTES

    -----------------------------------

    00:00 - Introduction

    00:35 - How To Avoid Buying a Flooded Car

    08:17 - 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross First Impressions

    17:46 - Question #1: What is the difference between a vehicle refresh and a redesign?

    26:00 - Question #2: Are bright LED daytime running lights causing drivers to not turn on their car's headlights?

    29:24 - Question #3: Why does it seem that new EVs have less space for taller drivers?

    32:59 - Question #4: How does Consumer Reports decide which vehicles to buy for their test program?

    ----------------------------------

    Beware a Flood of Flooded Cars

    https://www.consumerreports.org/buying-a-car/beware-the-flood-of-flood-cars/

    Flooded Cars: How to Spot One Before You Buy

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LT-WtAltmK8

    Car Title Resources:

    National Motor Vehicle Title Information System

    https://vehiclehistory.bja.ojp.gov/

    VinCheck

    https://www.nicb.org/vincheck

    CarFax

    https://www.carfax.com/press/resources/flooded-cars

    First Drive: 2022 Toyota Corolla CROss Is a Sensible SUV

    https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2022-toyota-corolla-cross-suv-review-a9535254586/

    Best Cars for Tall People

    https://www.consumerreports.org/buying-a-car/best-cars-and-suvs-for-tall-people-a7931047074/

    Headlight Testing

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hOr0gqWYIu8

    Guide to Car Safety

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-guide-to-car-safety/

    How to Safely Work on Your Car at Home

    https://www.consumerreports.org/car-repair-maintenance/how-to-safely-work-on-your-car-at-home/

    Coronavirus Resource Hub

    https://www.consumerreports.org/coronavirus/coronavirus-covid-19-updates/

    -----------------------------------

    Check out http://www.ConsumerReports.org for the latest reviews, tips, and recommendations and subscribe to our YouTube Channel: http://bit.ly/1Nlb1Ez

    Follow Us on Social:

    Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1IQ2w5q

    Twitter: http://bit.ly/1Yf5Fh2

    Pinterest: http://bit.ly/1P37mM9

    Instagram: http://bit.ly/1I49Bzo

    Google+: http://bit.ly/1Md3gfQ

    38 min
  • #323 EV Range Anxiety; Are Swivel Seats Safe?

    This week we dive into audience questions and cover what you can do when an electric-vehicle's battery runs out on the road; why rearranging second row seats is a safety risk; how always driving in four-wheel drive can damage your vehicle; and tips on what to do when deer cross the road.

    —

    SHOW NOTES:

    1:04 - Question #1: What can you do if an EV runs out of power while driving?

    5:35 - Question #2: How many miles does the average windshield last?

    8:57 - Question #3: Can you reconfigure the second row seats in the 2022 Kia Carnival and is it safe?

    14:58 - Question #4: In inclement weather, can you drive in 4WD all the time?

    16:07 - Question #5: What are some tips to avoid deer in the road?

    17:52 - Question #6 - Should you use fuel stabilizer to prolong fuel life in the ICE engine of a plug-in hybrid?

    22:26 - Question #7: Is it time to raise the speed limits on highways?

    —

    LINKS:

    Electric Vehicles That Can Go More Than 250 Miles on a Charge: consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/electric-vehicles-that-can-go-more-than-250-miles-on-a-full-charge-a2189661367/

    First Drive: 2022 Kia Carnival Delivers on Comfort and Practicality: https://www.consumerreports.org/minivans/2022-kia-carnival-review-a1152822932/

    How It Works: 2WD vs. AWD vs. 4WD: https://www.consumerreports.org/automotive-technology/2wd-vs-awd-vs-4wd-a5663578720/

    How to Avoid a Deer Strike: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nIuuuZqhOTM

    UN Global Road Safety Week: https://www.unroadsafetyweek.org/en/home

    30 min
  • #322 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee First Impressions; 2023 Nissan Z Preview

    We share our first impressions of the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, discussing its performance on our track, and how it stacks up to competitors like the Toyota Highlander, Kia Telluride, and Honda Pilot. We preview the newly announced 2023 Nissan Z, including its highly anticipated 3.0L Twin Turbo V6 engine. Chevrolet has expanded its battery recall on the Bolt EV and EUV models, and what owners should do to stay safe until a fix is available. We also share audience feedback on their "Forever" car choices; whether the rapid speed of improvements will leave current electric vehicle shoppers with outdated battery technology; if that "new car smell" is toxic (and how to get rid of it if it's not for you); the safest way to change wheel sizes on a car; and which Toyota RAV4 is the best choice for a driving enthusiast.

    -----------------------------------

    Have a question for our experts? Leave a comment on this episode, or reach out to us directly!

    From your iOS device, iMessage us at [email protected] to send a photo, video, or text directly to the Talking Cars team!

    We love to feature our viewers on the show, so submit video questions at https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-talking-cars/

    Subscribe to Talking Cars on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jr8wJRJyN9v8T6LC1fQQ6

    SHOW NOTES

    -----------------------------------

    00:00 - Introduction

    00:29 - Audience choice for the "Forever" car

    06:03 - GM's battery recall for Chevrolet Bolt EV and Bolt EUV

    07:37 - 2023 Nissan Z Preview

    13:45 - 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L First Impressions

    26:33 - Question #1: Will rapid speed of improvements leave current electric vehicle shoppers with outdated battery technology?

    29:40 - Question #2: Can the "new car smell" be toxic, and how to get rid of it?

    32:13 - Question #3: What is the safest way to change wheel sizes on a car?

    37:04 - Question #4: Which Toyota RAV4 is the best choice for a driving enthusiast?

    ----------------------------------

    GM Recalls All Chevrolet Bolts Due to Fire Concerns

    https://www.consumerreports.org/car-recalls-defects/chevrolet-bolt-recalled-again-due-to-fire-concerns-a3566085147/

    First Drive: New 3-Row 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Is Sized for a Growing Family

    https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2021-jeep-grand-cherokee-l-review-a5942817584/

    Preview: All-New 2023 Nissan Z Combines Classic Cues, Modern Performance

    https://www.consumerreports.org/sports-cars/nissan-z-preview-a2145463162/

    When to Replace Your Tires

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n98VF8kb7mQ

    Low-Profile Tires vs. Potholes

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n98VF8kb7mQ

    How Consumer Reports tests ultra performance tires

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cgLbqdDdY-Y

    Guide to Car Safety

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-guide-to-car-safety/

    How to Safely Work on Your Car at Home

    https://www.consumerreports.org/car-repair-maintenance/how-to-safely-work-on-your-car-at-home/

    Coronavirus Resource Hub

    https://www.consumerreports.org/coronavirus/coronavirus-covid-19-updates/

    -----------------------------------

    Check out http://www.ConsumerReports.org for the latest reviews, tips, and recommendations and subscribe to our YouTube Channel: http://bit.ly/1Nlb1Ez

    Follow Us on Social:

    Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1IQ2w5q

    Twitter: http://bit.ly/1Yf5Fh2

    Pinterest: http://bit.ly/1P37mM9

    Instagram: http://bit.ly/1I49Bzo

    Google+: http://bit.ly/1Md3gfQ

    42 min
  • #321 2022 Toyota GR86 First Impressions; What's Your "Forever" Car?

    This week we share our first impressions of the 2022 Toyota GR86, discussing how it performed on our track, and how it compares to the previous generation Scion FR-S, Toyota 86, and Subaru BRZ. If you had to pick one car to drive for the rest of your life, what would you choose? Our experts share their choices! Other topics include: can you replace just two tires, or should you buy four new ones each time; why turn signals can be either amber or red in North America, and which color is proven to be safer; and why some vehicles are not crash tested by IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety).

    -----------------------------------

    Have a question for our experts? Leave a comment on this episode, or reach out to us directly!

    From your iOS device, iMessage us at [email protected] to send a photo, video, or text directly to the Talking Cars team!

    We love to feature our viewers on the show, so submit video questions at https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-talking-cars/

    Subscribe to Talking Cars on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jr8wJRJyN9v8T6LC1fQQ6

    SHOW NOTES

    -----------------------------------

    00:00 - Introduction

    00:33 - 2022 Toyota GR86 First Impressions

    12:26 - The "Forever" Car

    20:57 - Question #1: Do you absolutely need to replace all four tires when getting new ones?

    24:22 - Question #2: Should auto manufacturers be required to only use amber colored turn signals on cars?

    30:07 - Question #3: Why some vehicles are not crash tested by the IIHS?

    31:19 - Question #4: What suitable replacement for a Scion xB under 30K?

    ----------------------------------

    First Drive: The 2022 Toyota GR86 Sports Car Thrills

    https://www.consumerreports.org/sports-cars/2022-toyota-gr86-review/

    Scion FR-S vs Subaru BRZ at Consumer Reports test track

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PWwz7Ybpy1U

    2013 Subaru BRZ first look

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jnSnRgRUopE

    Scion FR-S first drive

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UG2RuRk1R3s

    When to Replace Your Tires

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n98VF8kb7mQ

    Low-Profile Tires vs. Potholes

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n98VF8kb7mQ

    How Consumer Reports tests ultra performance tires

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cgLbqdDdY-Y

    Guide to Car Safety

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-guide-to-car-safety/

    How to Safely Work on Your Car at Home

    https://www.consumerreports.org/car-repair-maintenance/how-to-safely-work-on-your-car-at-home/

    Coronavirus Resource Hub

    https://www.consumerreports.org/coronavirus/coronavirus-covid-19-updates/

    2014 Porsche 911 Review

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Cj6c-YVos0

    2019 Kia Sorento Quick Drive

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K01h_FPkmkQ

    2019 Subaru Forester Quick Drive

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dymKOcVk7Iw

    2019 New York Auto Show: 2020 Hyundai Venue

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vg_FiOaMc0Y

    2020 Kia Soul Quick Drive

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e9mEQcbgync

    4K Review: 2017 Subaru Impreza Quick Drive

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5bze9pGvsiY

    2015 Jeep Renegade preview

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zj9jNoHsZHc

    -----------------------------------

    Check out http://www.ConsumerReports.org for the latest reviews, tips, and recommendations and subscribe to our YouTube Channel: http://bit.ly/1Nlb1Ez

    Follow Us on Social:

    Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1IQ2w5q

    Twitter: http://bit.ly/1Yf5Fh2

    Pinterest: http://bit.ly/1P37mM9

    Instagram: http://bit.ly/1I49Bzo

    Google+: http://bit.ly/1Md3gfQ

    37 min
  • #320 2022 Nissan Frontier & 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz First Impressions

    This week we share our first impressions of the 2022 Nissan Frontier and 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz, and discuss which consumers each might appeal to. We talk about how Consumer Reports testing methods are evolving as electric vehicles become more prominent; if spare tires expire, and when you might want to consider a replacement; if "skateboard-style" EVs weight distribution improves its traction performance; and if the Toyota Prius' shifter design shortcomings are overlooked in CR's ratings.

    -----------------------------------

    Have a question for our experts? Leave a comment on this episode, or reach out to us directly!

    From your iOS device, iMessage us at [email protected] to send a photo, video, or text directly to the Talking Cars team!

    We love to feature our viewers on the show, so submit video questions at https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-talking-cars/

    Subscribe to Talking Cars on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jr8wJRJyN9v8T6LC1fQQ6

    SHOW NOTES

    -----------------------------------

    00:00 - Introduction

    00:29 - New York Auto Show Cancelled

    02:28 - Audience Picks for "Guilty Pleasure Vehicles"

    08:27 - 2022 Nissan Frontier First Impressions

    18:04 - 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz First Impressions

    27:45 - Question #1: When should you replace a spare tire?

    28:58 - Question #2: How will CR's testing methods change when electric vehicles become more prominent?

    30:28 - Question #3: Does the even battery weight distribution on a "skateboard-style" EV improve its traction performance?

    31:26 - Question #4: Does the Prius' efficiency and reliability wash out its unique shifter design shortcomings?

    34:16 - Question #5: How to choose a car with optimal seat comfort?

    ----------------------------------

    First Drive: The 2022 Nissan Frontier Is More Than Just a New Look

    https://www.consumerreports.org/pickup-trucks/2022-nissan-frontier-review/

    First Drive: 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz Pickup Proves Ready for Pint-Sized Adventures

    https://www.consumerreports.org/pickup-trucks/2022-hyundai-santa-cruz-review/

    Electric Cars 101: The Answers to All Your EV Questions

    https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/electric-cars-101-the-answers-to-all-your-ev-questions/

    When It Comes to Gear Selectors, Drivers Prefer the Simplicity of Old-School Shifters

    https://www.consumerreports.org/automotive-technology/car-gear-selector-satisfaction-survey/

    When to Replace Your Tires

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n98VF8kb7mQ

    Low-Profile Tires vs. Potholes

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n98VF8kb7mQ

    2016 Toyota Prius Quick Drive

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6GwUY0-gB0Q

    Guide to Car Safety

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-guide-to-car-safety/

    How to Safely Work on Your Car at Home

    https://www.consumerreports.org/car-repair-maintenance/how-to-safely-work-on-your-car-at-home/

    Coronavirus Resource Hub

    https://www.consumerreports.org/coronavirus/coronavirus-covid-19-updates/

    -----------------------------------

    Check out http://www.ConsumerReports.org for the latest reviews, tips, and recommendations and subscribe to our YouTube Channel: http://bit.ly/1Nlb1Ez

    Follow Us on Social:

    Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1IQ2w5q

    Twitter: http://bit.ly/1Yf5Fh2

    Pinterest: http://bit.ly/1P37mM9

    Instagram: http://bit.ly/1I49Bzo

    Google+: http://bit.ly/1Md3gfQ

    38 min
  • #319 Our 'Guilty Pleasure' Cars; 2021 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid Test Results

    This week we share test results for the 2021 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid and debate its appeal amidst newer, all-electric Hyundais that go by the same name. We also reveal which cars from CR's test program we consider guilty pleasures and we answer audience questions about tire warranties, unique paint colors and what happens to frunk cargo in a crash.

    —

    SHOW NOTES:

    0:30 - Emily tests new rear seat reminders

    2:16 - 2021 Hyundai Ioniq test results

    10:00 - Our guilty pleasure cars

    19:24 - Question #1: How can I get a tire warranty if the shop I bought them from didn't supply one?

    22:53 - Question #2: Why aren't there more green colored vehicles?

    24:33 - Question #3: Would hard objects in a frunk affect crash safety?

    26:36 - Question #4: Why does the U.S. have multiple systems to charge electric vehicles?

    —

    LINKS:

    2021 Hyundai Ioniq: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hyundai/ioniq/

    Preview: Hyundai Ioniq 5 EV Accelerates New Sub-Brand Into the High-Tech Future: https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/2022-hyundai-ioniq-5-review/

    Toyota Avalon 2019-2021 Quick Drive: https://www.consumerreports.org/video/view/cars/auto-test-track/5772126295001/toyota-avalon-2019-2021-quick-drive/

    Honda Passport 2019-2021 Quick Drive: https://www.consumerreports.org/video/view/cars/auto-test-track/5995562998001/honda-passport-2019-2021-quick-drive/

    Volkswagen Tiguan 2018-2021 Quick Drive: https://www.consumerreports.org/video/view/cars/auto-test-track/5530220791001/volkswagen-tiguan-2018-2021-quick-drive/

    Kia Optima 2016-2020 Quick Drive: https://www.consumerreports.org/video/view/cars/auto-test-track/4628343819001/kia-optima-2016-2020-quick-drive/

    2021 Hyundai Elantra: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hyundai/elantra/2021/overview/

    30 min
  • #318 2022 Genesis GV70 First Impressions; OEM Brakes vs. Aftermarket

    On this episode we share our driving impressions of the 2022 Genesis GV70, and how it compares to its larger sibling the GV80, as well as others in the small luxury SUV segment. We also share a story about how a question from a Talking Cars viewer led to a change in the IIHS' ratings for the Mazda CX-5. Other topics include: how you can save money when getting brakes replaced at a dealership; if driving a car in Sport mode will wear out an engine faster; whether vehicle undercoating is worth the investment; and our experts suggest reliable, fun used 4x4 SUVs under 10k that are great for tackling rutted dirt roads.

    -----------------------------------

    Have a question for our experts? Leave a comment on this episode, or reach out to us directly!

    From your iOS device, iMessage us at [email protected] to send a photo, video, or text directly to the Talking Cars team!

    We love to feature our viewers on the show, so submit video questions at https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-talking-cars/

    Subscribe to Talking Cars on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jr8wJRJyN9v8T6LC1fQQ6

    SHOW NOTES

    -----------------------------------

    00:00 - Introduction

    00:31 - IIHS Ratings Adjustment on Mazda CX-5 Active Safety Systems

    02:45 - Future SUV Classic Follow-up

    08:05 - 2022 Genesis GV70 First Impressions

    20:47 - Question #1: Should vehicle brakes be only serviced at the dealer?

    26:30 - Question #2: Will driving in sport mode wear out the car's engine prematurely?

    27:23 - Question #3: Are vehicle undercoatings worth the investment or a waste of money?

    31:05 - Question #4: What reliable, fun used 4x4 SUV under 10K is best suited for tackling rutted dirt roads?

    ----------------------------------

    First Drive: All-New 2022 Genesis GV70 SUV Delivers Comfort, Agility, and Luxury

    https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2022-genesis-gv70-review/

    Talking Cars 303: Driving the 2021 Genesis GV80

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-driving/talking-cars-303-2021-genesis-gv80-driving-comfort/

    IIHS - 2021 Mazda CX-5

    https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/mazda/cx-5-4-door-suv/2021

    Guide to Rear-Seat Reminder Systems

    https://www.consumerreports.org/car-safety/guide-to-rear-seat-reminder-systems/

    Heatstroke Deaths of Children on Vehicles

    https://www.noheatstroke.org/

    How to Protect Your Car From Rodents

    https://www.consumerreports.org/car-maintenance/how-to-protect-your-car-from-rodents/

    Guide to Car Safety

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-guide-to-car-safety/

    How to Safely Work on Your Car at Home

    https://www.consumerreports.org/car-repair-maintenance/how-to-safely-work-on-your-car-at-home/

    Coronavirus Resource Hub

    https://www.consumerreports.org/coronavirus/coronavirus-covid-19-updates/

    -----------------------------------

    Check out http://www.ConsumerReports.org for the latest reviews, tips, and recommendations and subscribe to our YouTube Channel: http://bit.ly/1Nlb1Ez

    Follow Us on Social:

    Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1IQ2w5q

    Twitter: http://bit.ly/1Yf5Fh2

    Pinterest: http://bit.ly/1P37mM9

    Instagram: http://bit.ly/1I49Bzo

    Google+: http://bit.ly/1Md3gfQ

    39 min
  • #317 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Driving Impressions; Chevrolet Bolt Battery Fire Danger

    This week we talk about Jeep's plug-in hybrid version of the Wrangler, the 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe, and share our driving impressions, as well as what it is like to go off-road on pure electric power. We also discuss the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's recall of the 2017 - 2019 Chevrolet Bolt due to the potential of a battery fire, and what you need to know if you own one. Other topics include: whether a Nissan Leaf is a good first car for a teen driver; why you need to be sure your tires aren't inside out when you have them mounted by a professional; if engine braking can damage a vehicle's transmission; and we choose our favorite SUVs that could become classics in the future.

    -----------------------------------

    Have a question for our experts? Leave a comment on this episode, or reach out to us directly!

    From your iOS device, iMessage us at [email protected] to send a photo, video, or text directly to the Talking Cars team!

    We love to feature our viewers on the show, so submit video questions at https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-talking-cars/

    Subscribe to Talking Cars on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jr8wJRJyN9v8T6LC1fQQ6

    SHOW NOTES

    -----------------------------------

    00:00 - Introduction

    00:29 - Chevrolet Bolt EV Recall

    03:37 - 2022 Jeep Wrangler 4xe First Impressions

    16:18 - Future SUV Classics

    22:43 - Question #1: Are soap and water okay to wash your car?

    26:08 - Question #2: Why is it important to make sure your tires aren't inside out 29:19 - Question #3: Does engine braking take a toll on your vehicle's transmission?

    32:45 - Question #4: Is a Nissan Leaf a good used car for a new teen driver?

    ----------------------------------

    Chevrolet Bolt EVs Should Be Parked Outdoors Due to Fire Risk, Government Agency Warns

    https://www.consumerreports.org/car-recalls-defects/chevrolet-bolt-evs-should-be-parked-outdoors-fire-risk-a9383743446/

    Bolt EV Recall

    https://my.chevrolet.com/how-to-support/safety/boltevrecall

    Automakers Are Adding Electric Vehicles to Their Lineups. Here's What's Coming.

    https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/why-electric-cars-may-soon-flood-the-us-market/

    Top Car-Washing Strategies

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HHeAomlE5F4

    How to Wash Your Car

    https://www.consumerreports.org/car-repair-maintenance/how-to-wash-your-car/

    Nissan Leaf review

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E70dfFK0HPI

    Toyota Prius Road Test

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SqWOcQryEUc

    How well does the Toyota Prius hold up

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8DRQEusvNis

    Guide to Car Safety

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-guide-to-car-safety/

    Coronavirus Resource Hub

    https://www.consumerreports.org/coronavirus/coronavirus-covid-19-updates/

    -----------------------------------

    Check out http://www.ConsumerReports.org for the latest reviews, tips, and recommendations and subscribe to our YouTube Channel: http://bit.ly/1Nlb1Ez

    Follow Us on Social:

    Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1IQ2w5q

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    Google+: http://bit.ly/1Md3gfQ

    39 min
  • #316 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness; Vehicles That May Help Survive a Storm

    This week we share our driving impressions of the 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness, and discuss how this all-terrain SUV's off-road credentials compare to the standard Outback. We also talk about NHTSA's (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) new requirements for automakers to report all automated driving related crashes, and how this could benefit drivers. We share news from the Stellantis auto conglomerate (which owns Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Fiat, and Alfa Romeo in the US,) and its plans for the electrification of its fleet, and some interesting slogans to market its new EVs. Other topics include: which vehicles would be best suited for areas with high potential for hurricanes; how to properly maintain a car's A/C unit in the peak of summer; and if you should hold off on purchasing a used vehicle with outstanding recalls.

    -----------------------------------

    Have a question for our experts? Leave a comment on this episode, or reach out to us directly!

    From your iOS device, iMessage us at [email protected] to send a photo, video, or text directly to the Talking Cars team!

    We love to feature our viewers on the show, so submit video questions at https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-talking-cars/

    Subscribe to Talking Cars on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jr8wJRJyN9v8T6LC1fQQ6

    SHOW NOTES

    -----------------------------------

    00:00 - Introduction

    00:32 - NHTSA Requires Automakers to Report Automation-Related Crashes

    03:45 - Stellantis Reveals Plans for Vehicle Electrification

    07:46 - Best Vehicles to Survive a Severe Storm

    19:12 - Question #1: What is the proper way to maintain your car's A/C unit?

    22:11 - Question #2: Is it possible to put the Toyota Supra's transmission into neutral without starting it?

    25:41 - Question #3: Which advanced safety gear is better, camera or radar based?32:05 - Question #4: Is it safe to purchase a vehicle with outstanding recalls?

    ----------------------------------

    2020 Subaru Outback Quick Drive

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ovW5kMBdLB0

    Automakers Now Required to Report Automation-Related Crashes

    https://www.consumerreports.org/car-safety/automakers-now-required-to-report-automation-related-crashes-a3894720173/

    Prepare Now for Hurricanes and Severe Storms

    https://www.consumerreports.org/emergency-preparedness/prepare-now-for-hurricanes-and-storms/

    Why Flooded Roads Are More Dangerous Than They May Appear

    https://www.consumerreports.org/car-safety/why-flooded-roads-are-more-dangerous-than-they-may-appear/

    Automakers Are Adding Electric Vehicles to Their Lineups. Here's What's Coming.

    https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/why-electric-cars-may-soon-flood-the-us-market/

    What's Next in Car Safety

    https://www.consumerreports.org/car-safety/whats-next-in-car-safety/

    Car Recall Guide: Your Questions Answered

    https://www.consumerreports.org/car-recalls-defects/car-recall-guide-questions-answered/

    Car Recall Tracker

    https://www.consumerreports.org/mycr/benefits/car-recall-tracker?searchToken=Car%20recall

    How to Choose the Best Home Wall Charger for Your Electric Vehicle

    https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/how-to-choose-the-best-home-wall-charger-for-your-electric-vehicle/

    Guide to Car Safety

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-guide-to-car-safety/

    Coronavirus Resource Hub

    https://www.consumerreports.org/coronavirus/coronavirus-covid-19-updates/

    -----------------------------------

    Check out http://www.ConsumerReports.org for the latest reviews, tips, and recommendations and subscribe to our YouTube Channel: http://bit.ly/1Nlb1Ez

    Follow Us on Social:

    Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1IQ2w5q

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    Instagram: http://bit.ly/1I49Bzo

    Google+: http://bit.ly/1Md3gfQ

    37 min

About Talking Cars (MP3)

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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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