Talking Cars (MP3)

With winter on its way, many people are asking: what are the benefits of winter tires vs. a set of all-seasons? The popularity of online, no-haggle car services like Carvana, CarMax, and CarSense has grown in recent months, but can you really get a good deal without visiting a car dealership and negotiating on price? We discuss using these services to buy a new or used car, as well as the high cost of replacement key fobs; the benefits of using premium fuel over regular in cars like the Volkswagen GTI and Mazda CX-9; the emergence of sometimes confusing electronic shifters from carmakers like BMW, Volvo, and Genesis; how CR awards points for standard advanced safety features, and if a Mazda6 is a good replacement for a dad who is losing his Acura TL to his teenage drivers.

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

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

00:47 - Question #1: What are the benefits of winter tires vs. all-seasons?

05:45 - Question #2: Why key fobs are so expensive to replace?

10:08 - Question #3: Is it possible to get a good deal with no-haggle service like CarSense and CarMax?

13:57 - Question #4: What are the benefits of using premium fuel over regular?

16:26 - Question #5: Why car manufacturers are moving towards push-button shifters?

20:57 - Question #6: How does CR award points for safety features to various car models?

23:41 - Question #7: Is Mazda6 a good replacement for an Acura TL?

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

Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

New All-Weather Tires Outperform Some Snow Tires

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0JfEcVZvQEA

Consumer Reports 2016 Tire Top Picks

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ofmriTaWL8

Getting your tires ready for winter

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

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

How to Replace Your Car's Key Fob

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

Does Car Buying Make Your Head Spin?

https://www.consumerreports.org/buying-a-car/does-car-buying-make-your-head-spin/

Regular Gas vs. Premium Gas

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TdcPEk3ldzc

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/

Best Car Safety Features

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=46trYHfg5-k

Two Advanced Safety Features Every Cr Should Have

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8H5s6WvOUeo

2018 Mazda6 Quick Drive

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

2017 Audi A4 Quick Drive

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

2017 Honda Civic Si

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JyKF6jsVIug

2018 LA Auto Show: 2019 Mazda3

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

2015 Volkswagen GTI first drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PVL-IczHyl8

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

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

This week we share our first impressions of the 2021 Acura TLX sports sedan, and discuss whether it's size and performance gives it an edge over competitors like the BMW 3 and 5 Series (or even a Toyota Camry?!) We also provide options for exchanging out the all-season tires that come on a new car for something better suited to cold climates, like all-weather or winter tires. Our experts give advice on why a Ford Mustang GT might not be the best car for a new driver, and share some RWD alternatives; why bright DLRs (daytime running lights) might keep someone from turning on their headlights at night; and give a primer on everything you wanted to know about motor oil (but were afraid to ask!)

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

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 - Motor Oil 101

07:53 - 2021 Acura TLX First Impressions

15:09 - Question #1: Are drivers forgetting to turn on their headlights more and more these days?

17:36 - Question #2: What are the options for replacing OEM all-season tires for winter or all-weather tires?

21:01 - Question #3: Which AWD vehicles behave more like a rear-wheel drive?

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

Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

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/

First Drive: 2021 Acura TLX Reborn With Performance in Mind

https://www.consumerreports.org/sedans/2021-acura-tlx-review/

2015 Acura TLX Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cmWBctJ08w0

2017 BMW 330i Quick Drive

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

4K Review: 2017 BMW 5 Series Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TiwxPdHQU0M

First Drive: 2021 Kia K5 Is Packed With Plenty of Tech and Turbo Power

https://www.consumerreports.org/sedans/2021-kia-k5-review/

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

2020 Kia Telluride Quick Drive

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

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

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

We recently purchased a 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid for our test program, and our experts discuss how it compares to the regular Sonata, as well as competitors like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord hybrids. Ford has announced an EV F-150 pickup, and we talk about whether truck buyers are ready to embrace electric trucks like the Rivian R1T and Tesla Cybertruck, and if they can meet towing needs. Volkswagen and Electrify America announced an agreement providing unlimited charging for owners of the all-new 2021 ID.4 electric SUV. We touch on a new line of electric vehicles from Hyundai called i-oniq: the i-oniq 5 crossover, i-oniq 6 sedan, and the i-oniq 7 SUV. We also answer questions about prepping a Miata (or any car) for track days, and why it might be difficult to pre-order a new Kia K5 GT to your exact specifications.

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

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 - 2021 Ford F-150 Electric

05:51 - Electrify America and Volkswagen Free Charging Agreement for ID.4

07:52 - Hyundai's New I-oniq Line of Electric Vehicles

08:45 - 2020 Hyundai Santa Hybrid First Impressions

15:49 - Question #1: How to prepare a Mazda Mita (or any other car) for track day?

20:45 - Question #2: What could the strange noise and tire rubbing sensation when turning be in a AWD vehicle?

22:46 - Question #3: Why it might be difficult to pre-order a new Kia K5 GT to your exact specs?

25:04 - Question #4: What is a suitable replacement for a 2004 Toyota Prius with 260 miles?

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

Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

Preview: All-New 2021 Ford F-150 Is a High-Tech Workhorse

https://www.consumerreports.org/pickup-trucks/2021-ford-f-150-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/

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

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

2019 New York Auto Show: 2020 Hyundai Sonata

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-CL_zbxHhs

First Drive: 2021 Kia K5 Is Packed With Plenty of Tech and Turbo Power

https://www.consumerreports.org/sedans/2021-kia-k5-review/

2018 LA Auto Show: 2019 Toyota Prius AWD

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_uuYO8OIjl8

2019 Toyota RAV4 Quick Drive

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

4K Review: 2018 Subaru Crosstrek Quick Drive

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

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

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

This week we share our first impressions of the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe SUV, how it measures up to competitors like the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade, and whether it is suited for towing and hauling a lot of cargo and people. CR has completed its review of Tesla's Full Self-Driving Capability package in our Model 3 and Model Y; we share what we found, and how CR is adapting testing at the Auto Test track to evaluate autonomous driving features now and in the future. We also answer questions about the proper way to break-in a new vehicle, what is covered under Volkswagen's PZEV (Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle) warranty, and why a car's air conditioner can develop a musty smell, and how to make the AC fresh once again!

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

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

00:30 - Tesla Full Self-Driving Capability Package Review

08:47 - 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe First Impressions

16:37 - Question #1: How to properly break-in a new vehicle?

20:02 - Question #2: What is covered under Volkswagen's PZEV warranty?

22:41 - Question #3: What is the best way to get rid of a musty smell from a car's AC?

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

Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

Tesla's 'Full Self-Driving Capability' Falls Short of Its Name

https://www.consumerreports.org/autonomous-driving/tesla-full-self-driving-capability-review-falls-short-of-its-name/

Tesla Full Self-Driving Review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IQOf_F6hibk

2018 Tesla Model 3 Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S0VlwLRJFAo

2015 Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XmTXLmKoYP4

2018 LA Auto Show: 2020 Hyundai Palisade

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

2020 Kia Telluride Quick Drive

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

How to Cool Your Car Like a Pro

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_4XnoSRtSAo

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/

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

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

We wrapped up testing on our 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport and share the results. Jeep has resurrected an iconic name plate with its newly unveiled Wagoneer, we talk about the nostalgia associated with this large SUV and go through the specs. Also Mercedes-Benz has redesigned its flagship S-Class sedan for 2021, and we discuss some of the new technology that the luxury sedan will feature. And we tackle a few audience questions about electric vehicles including one about how EVs' high performance affects tire wear.

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

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

01:39 - Jeep unveils the 2021 Wagoneer

06:25 - 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

9:35 - 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport Test Results

13:57 - Question #1: Is the Mini Cooper SE a viable electric vehicle?

17:04 - Question #2: Is it a good idea to import the Hyundai Ioniq Electric to Iowa from a different state?

20:14 - Question #3: Do high performance vehicles have a shorter tire life than regular gas powered cars?

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

Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

2019 LA Auto Show: 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Niy-WZzl3zQ

4K Review: 2018 Volkswagen Atlas Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CYG_5qJZXqw

Jeep Unveils New Plug-In Hybrid SUVs and Grand Wagoneer Concept

https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/jeep-plug-in-hybrid-suvs-grand-wagoneer-concept/

Preview: High-Tech 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Ultra-Luxury Sedan

https://www.consumerreports.org/luxury-cars/2021-mercedes-benz-s-class-review/

2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ojfBQEZ8jo

10 Things You Didn't Know About The Tesla Model S

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QJXPBKr4gvA

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/

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

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

We touch on a number of topics this week, including if a used Subaru Ascent is a good replacement for an Audi A4, why your infotainment system might not play nice with your Apple iPhone or Android phone, the right way to tie down an object to your roof, and how Consumer Reports headlight testing differs from that of IIHS. We also discuss routine maintenance that is unique to EVs, why an automatic emergency braking system might give a driver false positives, how car designs might be affected with a move to "skateboard" or modular architectures, using a child seat with an inflatable seat belt, and why you might not be able to tow a hybrid vehicle behind your RV.

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

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

01:45 - Question #1: Is a Subaru Ascent a good replacement for an Audi A4?

06:02 - Question #2: Which automatic emergency braking system works best: camera-based or radar?

9:34 - Question #3: Why are there connectivity issues between phones and car infotainment systems?

11:46 - Question #4: What is the proper way to secure cargo to a car's roof?

14:22 - Question #5: What is the difference between CR's and IIHS' headlight test?

17:23 - Question #6: What are the required maintenance items from the latest EVs?

20:08 - Question #7: Why does the forward-collision warning activate when there is nothing on the road?

22:50 - Question #8: What common parts are shared between "modular architectures" or "shared platform" on vehicles?

25:14 - Question #9: Is it potentially dangerous to install a forward facing child seat using an inflatable seat belt?

27:14 - Question #10: What small car is best suited for flat towing with a RV?

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

Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

2017 Audi A4 Quick Drive

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

2019 Subaru Ascent Quick Drive

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

Self-Driving System Ranking

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X06tXpg7yiA

The Myth of the "Self-Driving" Car

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TpHdq7S65Io

How to Transport a Christmas Tree Safely

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-driving/how-to-transport-a-christmas-tree-safely/

Headlight Testing

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

Headlight Cleaning Tips

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

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/

Consumer Reports' Car Reliability FAQ

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/consumer-reports-car-reliability-faq/

How to Avoid Common Car-Seat Installation Mistakes

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-seats/how-to-avoid-common-car-seat-installation-mistakes/

Autos Tips: Child-Seat Installation

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-I4UvS9Ob1Y

Is Now the Right Time to Buy a Car?

https://www.consumerreports.org/buying-a-car/is-now-the-right-time-to-buy-a-car/

How to Buy Your First New or Used Car

https://www.consumerreports.org/buying-a-car/how-to-buy-your-first-new-or-used-car/

Tips for Buying a New Car

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8XR-_rhLzeY

Tips for Buying a Used Car

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

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

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

We recently purchased the 2020 Audi Q7, so this week we discuss what's new in the freshening of this 3-row midsize SUV, give our take on the new dual screen infotainment system, and how it compares to competitors like the Mercedes-Benz GLS and the BMW X7. Also, with hurricane season in full swing, we talk about precautions drivers should consider when driving in heavy rain, what to do if you encounter flooded roads, and share some telltale signs a car might have been previously flooded when shopping for a used car. We also consider which sportback would be the best fit for a family vehicle, if shifting into neutral at traffic lights can save on gas (or potentially harm your vehicle,) and options for a fuel efficient subcompact SUV or a compact pickup truck to serve as a daily driver.

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

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

01:34 - Driving in heavy rain and how to avoid buying a flood damaged used car

06:51 - 2020 Audi Q7 First Impressions

14:09 - Question #1: Which Sportback would be the best fit for a family vehicle?

18:50 - Question #2: Could shifting into neutral at traffic lights save fuel?

23:24 - Question #3: What is the best subcompact SUV or compact pickup truck for a daily commuter?

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

Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

How to Prepare for a Weather Emergency

https://www.consumerreports.org/emergency-preparedness/preparing-for-a-weather-emergency/

How to Prepare Your Home for a Storm

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zYJnWkQ4aC0&feature=youtu.be

Flooded Cars: How to Spot One Before You Buy

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

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

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

2017 Audi Q7 Quick Drive

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

2019 New York Auto Show: 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p8AkZXtyxcI

4K Review: 2018 Kia Stinger Quick Drive

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

2019 Volkswagen Arteon Quick Drive

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

2018 Buick Regal Sportback Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2K7SsXtZs98

2015 Volvo V60 review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ggj4-63VrXM

2017 Honda Ridgeline Quick Drive

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

2019 Ford Ranger Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VQ09demkO_E

2015 Chevrolet Colorado/GMC Canyon at the Detroit Auto Show

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UK1BZTEt3fc

2019 Toyota RAV4 Quick Drive

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

2019 New York Auto Show: 2020 Ford Escape

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

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

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

This week we give our first impressions of the 2020 BMW 228i xDrive Gran Coupe, discuss its driving characteristics, and how it compares to its competitors, like the Genesis G70. CR has released a new study which finds that on many vehicles important advanced safety features like AEB (Automatic Emergency Braking) and FCW (Forward Collision Warning) are only available in expensive optional packages, and paired with less crucial amenities (such as sunroofs and heated seats.) We talk about the importance of these life saving systems, and why they should be standard on every car. We also answer questions about the safety of Tesla's chargers and other home EV chargers in wet, rainy conditions; why tires could become noisy after they are rotated; and suggest a fun, manual transmission car for a teen driver under $15k.

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

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

01:33 - CR's Vehicle Safety Features Study

05:58 - 2020 BMW 228i xDrive Gran Coupe First Impressions

11:39 - Question #1: How safe are EV home chargers in wet weather?

14:10 - Question #2: Why tires might become noisy after a rotation?

16:49 - Question #3: What is a cool and fun, but also safe and reliable, manual transmission car for teen?

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

Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

New Consumer Reports Study Finds Automakers Charging Premium for Safety

https://advocacy.consumerreports.org/press_release/cr-study-finds-automakers-charging-premium-for-safety/

First Drive: 2020 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe Makes Luxury More Affordable

https://www.consumerreports.org/luxury-cars/2020-bmw-2-series-gran-coupe-228xi-review/

2019 Genesis G70 Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UDrN5_R3Bu0

2014 Mazda3 first Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QAqcc5ykuKY

2014 Toyota Corolla first drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uu6QfFB7fDY

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

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

We recently completed testing on the 2020 Cadillac CT4 luxury sedan, and we discuss how it compares to the Audi A4, Genesis G70, and its sister sedan, the Cadillac CT5. Staying with the Cadillac, the GM's luxury brand recently made headlines with the unveiling of its all-electric Lyriq concept SUV; we talk about the rocky history of electric cars at General Motors, the interesting platform the Lyriq will be based on, and how this car will compete with Tesla's offerings. We also answer questions about fun alternatives to the Hyundai Palisade, how electric truck maker Rivian is stepping up the battery game, tips for snowbirds to maintain their Mazda Miata and Mazda3, and whether it is a good idea to use a padded seat belt cover.

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

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

01:41 - 2023 Cadillac Lyriq First Look

06:15 - 2020 Cadillac CT5 Test Results

13:48 - Question #1: Is Rivian moving towards the 800 volt battery technology and is it worth the wait?

17:23 - Question #2: Are padded set belt covers safe?

19:55 - Question #3: Is it bad for cars to be garaged for long periods of time and how should they be maintained?

24:51 - Questions #4: What are some fun alternatives to the Hyundai Palisade?

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

Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

Preview: Cadillac Lyriq Shows GM's Commitment to Electric Cars

https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/cadillac-lyriq-review/

First Drive: 2020 Cadillac CT4 Both Thrills and Disappoints

https://www.consumerreports.org/luxury-cars/2020-cadillac-ct4-review/

First Drive: 2020 Cadillac CT5 Blends Comfort and Sport

https://www.consumerreports.org/luxury-cars/2020-cadillac-ct5-review/

All-Electric Rivian Pickup and SUV Take Charge

https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/all-electric-rivian-r1t-pickup-truck-and-r1s-suv-debut/

4K Review: 2016 Mazda CX-9 Quick Drive

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

2017 Audi A4 Quick Drive

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

2019 Genesis G70 Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UDrN5_R3Bu0

4K Review: 2018 Kia Stinger

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

2019 New York Auto Show: 2020 Cadillac CT5

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

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

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

On this episode we share our test results of the all-electric 2020 Nissan Leaf Plus. While it was one of the first mainstream EVs on the market, we discuss if it has kept up with its competitors in this growing market. Our experts give tips on the best way to research, negotiate, and secure the best financing when buying a car. And, we answer questions about how CR decides which models to buy for our testing program, the potential hazards of folding rear seats, and finding the right vehicle for towing a small camper.

Check out https://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

SHOW NOTES:

00:00 - Introduction

01:48 - How to negotiate the best car loan

08:56 - 2020 Nissan Leaf Plus Test Results

15:49 - Audicence Questions

16:07 - Question #1: How does CR determine which vehicle to purchase from a model lineup?

20:22 - Question #2: Are there potential hazards for kids getting trapped under third-row folding seats?

24:20 - Question #3: What is the best CUV/SUV under $30K to tow a small camping trailer?

LINKS:

What Minority Car Buyers Can Do to Avoid Discrimination: https://www.consumerreports.org/federal-laws-regulations/what-minority-car-buyers-can-do-to-avoid-discrimination/

2020 Nissan Leaf Overview: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/nissan/leaf/2020/overview/

Beginner's Guide to RV Trailers: https://www.consumerreports.org/other-motor-vehicles/beginners-guide-to-rv-trailers/