Talking Cars (MP3)

Talking Cars (MP3)

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    38 min

    per episode

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Talking Cars (MP3) episodes

  • #286 2021 BMW 4 Series First Impressions; Test Drives During The Pandemic

    We recently rented a BMW M440i xDrive, and this week we give our first impressions of how this sporty coupe performed on the highway and at our track. We also offer advice on whether you should skip test drives due to COVID-19, if an Audi Q3 or Volvo XC40 is better for a city-dweller, the performance of winter run-flat tires, why some cars in Canada and Europe never make it to the US, and why importing a foreign car might be prohibitively expensive.

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

    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

    00:22 - 2021 BMW 4 Series First Impressions

    11:06 - Question #1: Is it a good idea to skip the test drive when purchasing a car during the pandemic?

    15:19 - Question #2: Do regular winter tires perform better than run-flat winter tires?

    17:11 - Question #3: Why some cars in Canada and Europe never make it to the US?

    20:35 - Question #4: Does Gabe ever open his college textbooks in his background?

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

    First Drive: 2021 BMW 4 Series Doubles As Sporty Coupe and Highway Cruiser

    https://www.consumerreports.org/sports-cars/2021-bmw-4-series-coupe-review/

    2017 BMW 330i Quick Drive

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D-o99R0RgD8

    2019 BMW Z4 Quick Drive

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t1FVQ49MazE

    Getting your tires ready for winter: Advice from Consumer Reports

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hixD6srMlP0

    Winter Driving Tips

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

    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

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    24 min
  • #285 2020 RAM 1500 Diesel Test Results; New Honda Civic, Subaru BRZ, and Acura MDX

    This week we have the test results of the 2020 RAM 1500 Diesel pickup truck, and discuss its impressive ride, whether it is "diesel enough," and how it stacks up against competitors like the Chevrolet Silverado diesel in the half-ton truck segment. Honda recently unveiled a prototype of its popular Civic, and we talk about its new chassis, exterior styling, and cabin. Subaru also made news, revealing the new BRZ, and we discuss if it can retain its sporty DNA from the previous generation and its sister model Toyota 86? We also share some of the key changes to the new Acura MDX redesign. Can having your key fob in your car drain your car's battery? We answer that, and cover other topics including if cars can have a country of origin anymore, and which off-road vehicle would be a viable replacement for a vintage Land Rover Defender.

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

    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

    00:27 - Preview: 2022 Honda Civic

    04:32 - Preview: 2022 Subaru BRZ

    06:44 - Preview: 2022 Acura MDX

    08:54 - 2020 RAM 1500 Diesel Test Results

    16:10 - Question #1: Could a key fob drain the car's battery?

    18:22 - Question #2: Where are most vehicles manufactured, and do cars have a country of origin anymore?

    23:20 - Question #3: Which off-road vehicle would be a viable replacement for a vintage Land Rover Defender?

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

    Preview: Redesigned 2022 Honda Civic Hides Big Updates Under Conservatively Styled Exterior

    https://www.consumerreports.org/sedans/2022-honda-civic-review/

    Preview: 2022 Subaru BRZ Still Emphasizes Balance Over Brawn

    https://www.consumerreports.org/sports-cars/2022-subaru-brz-review/

    Preview: 2022 Acura MDX Luxury SUV Has More Room and Adds a Performance Powertrain

    https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/acura-mdx-suv-review/

    2019 RAM 1500 Quick Drive

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=coeasX0ZyTk

    2019 RAM 1500 Drops Weight, Adds Luxury Touches, and Keeps Its Smooth Ride

    https://www.consumerreports.org/pickup-trucks/2019-ram-1500-first-drive-review/

    Winter Driving Tips

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

    How to Replace Your Car's Key Fob

    https://www.consumerreports.org/car-maintenance/how-to-replace-your-car-key-fob/

    What Makes a car 'American'?

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/magazine/2015/05/what-makes-a-car-american-made-in-the-usa/index.htm

    Preview: 2021 Ford Bronco Reinvents a 4x4 Classic

    https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2021-ford-bronco-review/

    Toyota 4Runner Review

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nj3jNdDIGeA

    4K Review: 2017 Jeep Compass Quick Drive

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xkPacZUmJ2I

    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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    30 min
  • #284 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA First Impressions; Are Expensive Wiper Blades Worth It?

    This week we discuss our initial impressions of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA, sharing our experience with the controls, ride comfort, and cargo space of this luxury small SUV. We also discuss if expensive wiper blades perform better than cheaper alternatives; the differences between winter and mud terrain tires, and whether mud tires are safe for driving in the ice and snow of wintry weather; if a recall on the Subaru Ascent will affect its CR reliability score; and we share tips on the best way to keep dogs, cats, and any other pets safe in your vehicle.

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

    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

    00:28 - 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA First Impressions

    09:27 - Question #1: Is it possible to buy mud-terrain tires suitable for winter weather driving?

    14:14 - Question #2: Do expensive wiper blades perform better than cheap ones?

    18:19 - Question #3: Would a recall on the Subaru Ascent affect its CR reliability score?

    21:01 - Question #4: What are the best practices for keeping pets safe in your vehicle?

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

    Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

    First Drive: 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA Is an Improvement Over Flawed Predecessor

    https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2021-mercedes-benz-gla-suv-review/

    2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA Quick Drive

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xDLj6lhrUJg

    Choosing the Best Tire

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/tires/buying-guide/index.htm

    Tire Selector

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/tires.htm?searchToken=Tires

    Wiper Blade Buying Guide

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/wiper-blades/buying-guide/index.htm

    2019 Subaru Ascent Quick Drive

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

    How to Keep Your Pets Safe in a Car

    https://www.consumerreports.org/car-safety/keep-pets-safe-in-the-car/

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

    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:

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    26 min
  • #283 2021 Toyota Venza first Impressions; Ballooning Cost of Ownership for BMWs

    We recently purchased an all-new 2021 Toyota Venza for our test program, and we share our first impressions on the driving dynamics, hybrid powertrain, and standard advanced safety features of this midsized SUV. For some car brands, maintenance expenses can skyrocket once warranty and free-maintenance periods are over; we discuss why this can affect some brands more than others, particularly German automaker BMW. We also answer questions about matrix LED headlights and why they aren't yet available in the US, whether a convertible should be stored with its top up or down, and we share what we are thankful for, both personally and in the automotive world, in the crazy year that is 2020.

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

    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 - 2021 Toyota Venza First Drive

    10:34 - Question #1: Why do BMWs skyrocket in ownership cost over a long period of time?

    13:48 - Question #2: Why Matrix LED headlights are not allowed in the US?

    17:01 - Question #3: What is the best practice for storing a convertible in a garage?

    18:16 - Question #4: Which 3-row SUV is best suited for hauling 3 grandchildren?

    21:58 - Things we are most grateful for this Thanksgiving.

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

    Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

    Car Care During Coronavirus

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=53CdG_7nDcU

    First Drive: 2021 Toyota Venza Strikes an SUV Sweet Spot

    https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/2021-toyota-venza-hybrid-review/

    Toyota Venza review

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VAV6MdAv8LQ

    The Cost of Car Ownership Over Time

    https://www.consumerreports.org/car-maintenance/the-cost-of-car-ownership/

    2020 Kia Telluride Quick Drive

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eBNhy1Putrs

    4K Review: 2016 Mazda CX-9 Quick Drive

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5UigcJd7PVY

    2019 Subaru Ascent Quick Drive

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

    4K Review: 2017 Toyota Highlander Quick Drive

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ic5Obebxcv8

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

    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:

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    30 min
  • #282 2020 Land Rover Defender First Impressions; CR's Annual Auto Reliability Survey

    Every year, Consumer Reports releases the results of its auto reliability survey, collecting data from hundreds of thousands of our members. We share the process of collecting this data, as well as some highlights from this year's results. The 2020 Land Rover Defender is a recent addition to our test program, and we share our first impressions on this resurrected and rugged luxury off-roader SUV. We also answer questions about NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) shields on cars, possible solutions to end a burdensome car lease, and at what point a child can safely ride in a vehicle without a booster seat.

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

    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

    00:37 - Consumer Reports Auto Reliability Survey Results

    09:25 - 2020 Land Rover Defender First Impressions

    19:13 - Question #1: Do NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) shield help with preventing rust and corrosion on a vehicle?

    21:27 - Question #2: Which vehicle would be a competent replacement for a 2003 Toyota Highlander?

    25:25 - Question #3: Is there a possible solution to ending a burdensome car lease?

    27:09 - Question #4: At what point a child can safely ride in a vehicle without a booster seat?

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

    CR Auto Reliability

    https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-car-reliability-guide/

    Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

    Car Care During Coronavirus

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=53CdG_7nDcU

    Booster Sets: Why Your Big Kid May Still Need a Booster

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R5h6kzWEyTU

    2020 Subaru Outback Quick Drive

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

    2017 Honda Ridgeline Quick Drive

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

    4K Review: 2017 Toyota Highlander Quick Drive

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ic5Obebxcv8

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

    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

    30 min
  • #281 Toyota RAV4 Fuel Issues; Are Crash Tests Too Perfect?

    We discuss a number of topics this week, including an issue with Toyota RAV4 hybrids not able to fully fill their gas tanks, why some recall fixes can leave you without your car for months, if the positioning of occupant dummies in crash tests is not applicable to real-world conditions, why automaker Mitsubishi isn't as popular in the US market as it once was, the methodology behind CR's driving impressions and our Overall Score, why your next new car might be a tight fit in your garage, whether a Kia Stinger or Volkswagen Arteon is a better choice for a Canadian driver, and why luxury sports cars aren't required to be crash tested.

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

    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

    01:28 - Question #1: Why some Toyota RAV4 hybrids have an issue with not being able to fully fill their gas tanks?

    06:34 - Question #2: Why some car recalls take a long time to get fixed?

    11:33 - Question #3: Why is the positioning of occupant dummies in crash test are not applicable to real-world conditions?

    16:13 - Question #4: Why Mitsubishi vehicles aren't as popular in the US as they are in other parts of the world?

    18:31 - Question #5: What methodology is behind CR's driving impressions and overall score?

    20:24 - Question #6: Why does it seem like the cars are getting bigger, but garages are not?

    23:01 - Question #7: Which Sportback is a better choice for a Canadian driver, a Kia Stinger or the Volkswagen Arteon?

    26:17 - Question #8: Why some luxury sports cars are not required to be crash tested?

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

    Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

    New Toyota Highlander SUVs Recalled for Stall Risk

    https://www.consumerreports.org/car-recalls-defects/new-toyota-highlander-suvs-recalled-for-stall-risk/

    Some Cars Will Never Be Crash-Tested, Leaving Consumers in the Dark

    https://www.consumerreports.org/car-safety/some-cars-will-never-be-crash-tested-crash-test-ratings/

    The Crash Test Bias: How Male-Focused Testing Puts Female Drivers at Risk

    https://www.consumerreports.org/car-safety/crash-test-bias-how-male-focused-testing-puts-female-drivers-at-risk/

    Federal Car Crash Testing Needs Major Overhaul, Safety Advocates Say

    https://www.consumerreports.org/car-safety/federal-car-crash-testing-needs-major-overhaul-safety-advocates-say/

    2019 Volkswagen Arteon Quick Drive

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gKYkg3Jw8HQ

    4K Review: 2018 Kia Stinger Quick Drive

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z23ztuujxfA

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

    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:

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    30 min
  • #280 2021 Chevrolet Suburban First Impressions; Subscription Fees for Auto Safety?

    The 2021 Chevy Suburban is one of the latest additions to our testing fleet, and we give our first impressions on what it's like to drive this big SUV, both on the open road, as well as in urban environments. The subscription model is common with many services these days, yet is still fairly uncommon in the automotive world. However, recent announcements by Tesla and GM may change this, and could introduce the concept of charging a monthly fee for access to important safety features. We talk about how these programs will work, and why they might not be in the best interest of consumers. We also discuss the long-term reliability of turbos and direct-injection vehicles, the best way to store your winter or summer tires, and if a dealership might allow you to learn to drive a manual transmission with one of their vehicles (spoiler alert: probably not.)

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

    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 - Monthly Subscription Fees for Vehicle Safety Features

    05:53 - 2021 Chevrolet Suburban First Impressions

    13:36 - Question #1: Are turbocharged engines less reliable than non-turbos?

    16:35 - Question #2: Which Toyota vehicle would have the best resale value?

    19:41 - Question #3: What is the best practice for storing a set of tires?

    22:24 - Question #4: Would a car dealer allow an inexperienced operator test drive a manual transmission vehicle?

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

    Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

    Why You Might Need to Subscribe to Get Certain Features on Your Next Car

    https://www.consumerreports.org/automotive-industry/why-you-might-need-to-subscribe-to-get-certain-features-on-your-next-car/

    2021 Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban Grow in Size and Features

    https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2021-chevrolet-tahoe-suburban-preview/

    Prep Your Car for Winter

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U3rczMZsN0g

    Getting your tires ready for winter: Advice from Consumer Reports

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hixD6srMlP0

    2016 Toyota Tacoma Quick Drive

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vHnpNycnJ1s

    2017 Honda CR-V Quick Drive

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CwN2Tl1A5Z4

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

    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:

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    27 min
  • #279 2021 Genesis G80 First Impressions; Nitrogen in Your Tires: Is It Worth the Cost?

    We recently got a chance to drive the 2021 Genesis G80 at our test track, and we share our impressions on how the sedan from Hyundai's luxury brand performed, as well as how it compares to other vehicles in its class, like the Audi A6, BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and Volvo S90. Filling your tires with nitrogen is an option offered by many dealerships and mechanics these days, usually for an added expense. We talk about whether this is something to consider, as well as if it's safe to put regular air into a tire filled with nitrogen. Winter weather is on its way (if it hasn't already arrived where you are!), so we discuss the best way to prep your car for hitting the road when there's ice and snow. We also give advice about replacing a Hyundai Elantra with an Audi A4 (or other alternatives like the Mazda3, Honda Civic Sport, or Toyota Camry?!) And with an increasing number of cars on the road having the ability to update their software, how is Consumer Reports adjusting its testing program to stay on top of the latest versions and features? Do the scores change when a car with GM's Super Cruise or vehicles from Tesla receive a new update? We discuss how we are adapting our testing to account for these new technologies, and more.

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

    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 - Vehicle Winter Prep and Winter Driving Tips

    06:53 - 2021 Genesis G80 First Impressions

    13:30 - Question #1: Is an Audi A4 a good replacement for a Hyundai Elantra ?

    19:41 - Question #2: What are the advantages of filling up tires with nitrogen instead of air?

    23:42 - Question #3: How is CR adapting its test to account for new technologies?

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

    Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

    Winter Driving Tips

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

    Essential Winter Driving Tips

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HIWVRbr15ek

    Prep Your Car for Winter

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U3rczMZsN0g

    6 Safety Sensors to Clean on Your Car This Winter

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

    Getting your tires ready for winter: Advice from Consumer Reports

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hixD6srMlP0

    First Drive: 2021 Genesis G80 Ramps Up Styling and Tech

    https://www.consumerreports.org/luxury-cars/2021-genesis-g80-review/

    2017 Audi A4 Quick Drive

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=khXQj4tCxxI

    2018 Hyundai Elantra GT Quick Drive

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

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

    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

    28 min
  • #278 2021 Lexus IS First Impressions; 2022 GMC Hummer EV Preview

    This week we give our first impressions of the 2021 Lexus IS, discuss what has changed from the previous model and if the redesign is adequate to make this compact sports sedan stand out against rivals like the BMW 3 series, Audi A4, and Mercedes-Benz C class. GMC revealed its all-new fully electric 2022 Hummer EV, we discuss some of its glamorous features and if it's enticing enough to steal the spotlight from the Tesla Cybertruck and Rivian R1T. Also we breakdown CR's new study on EV wall chargers and provide tips on how to improve the charging experience.

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

    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

    00:34 - 2022 GMC Hummer EV Preview

    03:05 - CR's Wall-mounted Car Charger Study

    08:56 - 2021 Lexus IS First Impressions

    15:43 - Question #1: Is now a good time to sell an unneeded vehicle?

    19:02 - Question #2: Is the Toyota Avalon Hybrid as reliable as the regular Avalon?

    23:05 - Question #3: Is leasing a Subaru Crosstrek, Hyundai Venue, or Kia Seltos a good idea?

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

    Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

    Preview: 2022 GMC Hummer EV Turns an Off-Road Legend Into a Green Machine

    https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/2022-gmc-hummer-ev-review/

    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/

    EVs Offer Big Savings Over Traditional Gas-Powered Cars

    https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/evs-offer-big-savings-over-traditional-gas-powered-cars/

    First Drive: 2021 Lexus IS Makes Evolutionary Improvements

    https://www.consumerreports.org/sedans/2021-lexus-is-review/

    2016 Lexus IS300 Quick Drive

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

    2019 Toyota Avalon Quick Drive

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

    4K Review: 2018 Subaru Crosstrek Quick Drive

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4J005E_TMeY

    2019 LA Auto Show: 2021 Kia Seltos

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DzEQGzQ1WwM

    2019 New York Auto Show: 2020 Hyundai Venue

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

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

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

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    28 min
  • #277 2021 Genesis GV80 First Impressions; 2022 Volkswagen Taos Preview

    This week we share our first impressions of the 2021 Genesis GV80, we go through the specs and talk about whether this luxury SUV has what it takes to challenge some of the highly established competitors like the Audi Q7, BMW X5, Volvo XC90, and Cadillac XT6. Also Volkswagen recently announced the all-new Taos for 2022, our experts discuss where it fits within the Volkswagen SUV lineup and if the automotive industry needs another small SUV. We also answer audience questions about whether or not it's possible to purchase a vehicle directly from the manufacturer and bypass the dealer, how to prepare a car for a long trip after its been sitting in a garage for half a year, as well as how maintenance costs compare between plug-in hybrid, pure electric, and gas-only vehicles.

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

    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

    00:41 - 2022 Volkswagen Taos Preview

    05:55 - 2021 Genesis GV80 First Impressions

    14:53 - Question #1: Is it possible to purchase a car directly from the manufacturer?

    19:43 - Question #2: Does CR data suggest that after sorting out big issues on an unreliable vehicle that the car will last for some time after?

    21:00 - Question #3: How to prepare a car for a long trip after it has been sitting in a garage for half a year?

    22:26 - Question #4: How does maintenance cost compare between plug-in hybrid, pure electric, and gas-only vehicles.

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

    Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

    Preview: 2022 Volkswagen Taos SUV Squeezes Signature Bond Features Into a Small Package

    https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2022-volkswagen-taos-review/

    Preview: Sleek and Sporty 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 Electric SUV Revealed

    https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/2021-volkswagen-id4-review/

    New 2021 Genesis GV80 Is a Stylish 3-Row Luxury SUV

    https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2021-genesis-gv80-is-stylish-three-row-luxury-suv/

    First Drive: Freshened, Swanky Audi Q7 Is Brimming With Technology

    https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2020-audi-q7-review/

    2019 BMW X5 Quick Drive

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X3jBWOUPsfA

    2016 Volvo XC90 Quick Drive

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jyQWKK3nUlw

    2019 Detroit Auto Show: 2020 Cadillac XT6

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YL0Z8wAgBkY

    2019 Detroit Auto Show: 2020 Lincoln Aviator

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

    2018 Lexus RX350L Quick Drive

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pTrmC8jw57o

    Prep Your Car for Winter

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U3rczMZsN0g

    2018 Mazda6 Quick Drive

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

    2017 Audi A4 Quick Drive

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=khXQj4tCxxI

    2018 LA Auto Show: 2019 Mazda3

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iRfZ-oO3qpM

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

    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

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

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

    26 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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