Talking Cars (MP3)

This week we share our test results of the 2020 Buick Encore GX and compare how this 3-cylinder SUV stacks up to its competitors in the Luxury segment. We talk about the virtual unveiling of the 2021 Toyota Sienna and Venza, both of which will only be available with a hybrid powertrain. Also, we discuss the rebates some car insurers are offering due to the reduced number of drivers on the road during the coronavirus pandemic, and wrap up the episode with audience questions.

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

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

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00:46 - Car Insurance Rebates During Coronavirus Crisis

07:12 - 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid Unveiled

13:24 - 2021 Toyota Venza Hybrid Unveiled

17:19 - 2020 Buick Encore GX Test Results

23:52 - Question #1: Why did the 2017 Buick Regal's reliability drop and what are the issues?

26:39 - Question #2: Are automakers phasing out built in navigation systems?

32:17 - Question #3: Why two virtually identical vehicles, Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade, have different frontal crash test scores?

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Car Insurers Are Giving Customers Breaks Due to Coronavirus. We Got the Details for You

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-insurance/car-insurance-rebates-payment-deferrals-during-coronavirus-pandemic/

Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

Preview: 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid Is Versatile and Curvaceous

https://www.consumerreports.org/minivans/2021-toyota-sienna-review/

Preview: 2021 Toyota Venza Hybrid Packs Safety and Convenience Tech

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

2019 LA Auto Show: 2020 Buick Encore GX

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QqCbD4SRB9Q

2013 Buick Encore first drive

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

Toyota Venza review

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

2014 Buick Regal Review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tD3uqAl_MBY

2020 Kia Telluride Quick Drive

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

2018 LA Auto Show: 2020 Hyundai Palisade

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

NHTSA Crash Calculator

https://www.regulations.gov/document?D=NHTSA-2019-0088-0021

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

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This week we talk about the test results of the 2020 Nissan Sentra and the progression of this compact sedan throughout its existence. We share what precautions CR is taking in order to continue its auto test program during the COVID-19 pandemic. Also, we answer questions about swapping your car's stock infotainment system for an aftermarket in order to gain Apple CarPlay, and whether there are any advantages to summer tires.

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

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

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

00:30 - How CR is continuing to test cars during the coronavirus pandemic

06:46 - 2020 Nissan Sentra Test Results

11:57 - Question #1: Why did the Jeep Grand Cherokee go from unrecommended to CR recommended?

14:34 - Question #2: What is a good, fun to drive, manual stick shift car under 5K?

17:57 - Question #3: Is it possible to upgrade the original infotainment system with an after market unit in order to gain Apple CarPlay?

23:20 - Question #4: Which car would be a good replacement for the Forester's all-wheel drive and the fuel economy of the Toyota Prius?

26:27 - Question #5: What are the advantages to summer tires on an economy vehicle?

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Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

2019 LA Auto Show: 2020 Nissan Sentra

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

2016 Nissan Sentra

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q68KKwGabLY

2019 Jeep Cherokee Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FG5cR-Twhns

2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee first drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EH_XMu6QVLc

Mazda MX-5 Miata Review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kRYTex1fo20

2014 Mazda3 first drive

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

4K Review: 2018 Audi Q5 Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dRuYN4SQx4s

4K Review: 2018 BMW X3 Quick Drive

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

4K Review: 2017 Mazda CX-5 Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KmTVgcuD2V4

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

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On this week's episode we discuss the results of CR's new survey which asked drivers nationwide what improvements they would desire on their vehicles. We share our full road test results of the all-new 2021 Kia Seltos. We also answer audience questions about whether or not there is a difference in build quality of a specific vehicle model built in different countries, and if drivers are being more reckless because there are fewer drivers on the road.

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

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

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

00:40 - CR's Fuel Economy Study Results

05:11 - 2021 Kia Seltos Road Test Results

11:58 - Question #1: Is it possible to upgrade the UConnect infotainment system on the 2018 Jeep Cherokee to get Apple CarPlay?

16:07 - Question #2: Is there a difference in build quality depending on which plant or country a car was manufactured in?

18:25 - Question #3: What is a good car for a new grad under 12K?

23:48 - Question #4: Does it seem that people are driving much faster with fewer cars on the road during the coronavirus lockdown?

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Drivers Have a Strong Interest in Fuel Economy, Despite Low Gas Prices

https://www.consumerreports.org/fuel-economy-efficiency/drivers-still-have-a-strong-interest-in-fuel-economy-despite-low-gas-prices/

Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

2019 LA Auto Show: 2021 Kia Seltos

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

2018 Hyundai Kona Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2YcFRHiHP2E

2020 Kia Soul Quick Drive

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

4K Review: 2017 Nissan Rogue Sport Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5bXt8xd8H5Y

4K Review: 2018 Subaru Crosstrek Quick Drive

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

Volkswagen Golf Review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rB1n2IgAtT0

2014 Mazda3 first drive

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

2013 Mazda CX-5 review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BtIXKw4tvSo

2006-2012 Toyota RAV4 review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z5G5tAKz_94

2009-2014 Honda Fit review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z7W-Ba5Vm3U

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

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This week we share our test results of the all-new 2020 Mazda CX-30, and talk about where this compact SUV fits in the Mazda lineup. Jen Stockburger shares her personal experience purchasing a new vehicle and how the process is different due to social distancing. Also, we discuss vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication and what the future might look like for vehicle communication. We wrap up with audience questions including whether adding fuel stabilizer might affect your car's emissions, and whether or not all the new advanced safety systems might drive down insurance premiums due to less accidents.

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

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

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

00:30 - Jen Stockburger Car Buying Experience

05:28 - V2X (Vehicle-to-evedrything) Communication Update

11:45 - 2020 Mazda CX-30 Test Results

19:56 - Question #1: What is a good, sporty, and under 10k replacement for a Subaru Legacy?

25:29 - Question #2: Can adding fuel stabilizer to your vehicles gas tank affect its emissions?

26:34 - Question #3: How well did the Hyundai Sonata's headlights perform in CR's tests?

29:06 - Question #4: Could advanced safety gear on new vehicles reduce car crashes by such amount that it might drive down the cost of insurance premiums?

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Auto Industry Pledges V2X Expansion, but Only If FCC Protects Airwaves

https://www.consumerreports.org/automotive-technology/auto-industry-pledges-v2x-expansion-but-only-if-fcc-protects-airwaves/

Vehicle-to-vehicle communication can prevent crashes

https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/magazine/2012/04/vehicle-to-vehicle-communication-can-prevent-crashes/index.htm

Coronavirus Is Pushing Car Dealerships Into Online Sales and Home Delivery

https://www.consumerreports.org/buying-a-car/coronavirus-pushing-car-dealerships-into-online-sales-and-home-delivery/

How to Buy a Car From Home and Spend Less Time at the Dealership

https://www.consumerreports.org/buying-a-car/buy-a-car-without-leaving-home-or-going-to-a-dealership/

Some Automakers Are Offering Car Lease Extensions Amid Coronavirus Pandemic

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-financing/some-automakers-are-offering-car-lease-extensions-amid-coronavirus-pandemic/

Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

First Drive: Small, Seductive 2020 Mazda CX-30 SUV

https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2020-mazda-cx-30-review/

Mazda CX-3 Brings Premium Feel to Subcompact SUVs

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

4K Review: 2017 Mazda CX-5 Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KmTVgcuD2V4

2018 LA Auto Show: 2019 Mazda3

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

2018 Mazda6 Quick Drive

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

Infiniti G37 Review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tOpuKjX96wk

2009-2010 Audi A4 Review

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

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

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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We finished testing on the 2020 Hyundai Venue and discuss our test results, and which car category this compact people mover slots into. We talk about how the car purchasing experience has changed during these strange times, and share some of the options that we've encountered buying a car while social distancing. We also answer audience questions about the accuracy of the EPA estimated fuel economy numbers, why some electric vehicles have an additional 12 volt car battery, and whether or not tires are government regulated.

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

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

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

00:56 - Car Buying Options During the Coronavirus Pandemic

16:16 - 2020 Hyundai Venue Test Results

23:03 - Question #1: Why are my fuel economy numbers different from the EPA's estimated numbers?

27:19 - Question #2: Why some electric vehicles have an additional 12-volt car battery?

30:43 - Question #3: Are all tires regulated by the government?

35:20 - Question #4: Why is the inventory on the Kia Telluride low and the price higher than the MSRP?

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First Drive: Small, Affordable 2020 Hyundai Venue SUV

https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2020-hyundai-venue-review/

Coronavirus Is Pushing Car Dealerships Into Online Sales and Home Delivery

https://www.consumerreports.org/buying-a-car/coronavirus-pushing-car-dealerships-into-online-sales-and-home-delivery/

How to Buy a Car From Home and Spend Less Time at the Dealership

https://www.consumerreports.org/buying-a-car/buy-a-car-without-leaving-home-or-going-to-a-dealership/

Some Automakers Are Offering Car Lease Extensions Amid Coronavirus Pandemic

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-financing/some-automakers-are-offering-car-lease-extensions-amid-coronavirus-pandemic/

Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

2019 New York Auto Show: 2020 Hyundai Venue

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

2020 Kia Telluride Quick Drive

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

2019 New York Auto Show: 2020 Toyota Highlander

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hfQ7Kq-pflc

2018 LA Auto Show: 2020 Hyundai Palisade

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

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

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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The gang's all here! This week, our CR auto experts answer your questions from the comfort of their homes. We reach out to the entire Talking Cars team to see what they have been doing to keep busy during the quarantine, and answer your questions about maintaining your car during the coronavirus crisis, why Toyota isn't building electric vehicles, whether a white or yellow fog light is more effective, a fun replacement for a Toyota Celica GT-S, and more.

SHOW NOTES

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1:51 - how to properly exercise your car during the coronavirus crisis

5:34 - does the color of fog lights affect performance?

7:49 - best small hybrid for an adult buying their first car

9:50 - what's a fuel-efficient vehicle with good lumbar support?

11:35 - is poor ride a symptom of a defective tire?

14:30 - what's the next advanced safety innovation coming to cars?

16:00 - why isn't Toyota building electric cars?

18:54 - can a child seat be safely installed in a two-seater?

21:57 - how does the world dispose of old cars?

25:50 - best car to replace a Toyota Celica GT-S

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Car Care and Maintenance During the Coronavirus Pandemic: https://www.consumerreports.org/car-maintenance/car-care-and-maintenance-during-the-coronavirus-covid-19/

How to Protect Yourself Against Coronavirus When Pumping Gas: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-how-to-protect-yourself-against-coronavirus-when-pumping-gas/

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

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

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

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!

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

This week we discuss our test results of the 2020 Volkswagen Passat, and how it stacks up against its competitors in the midsized segment. We share tips on how to keep your car's fuel fresh while it is (likely) being driven fewer miles during the coronavirus pandemic. We also discuss if a plug-in hybrid version of the Jeep Gladiator is on the horizon, how effective a load leg is on a child seat, and whether the tachometer is still necessary in modern 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

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

00:41 - Keep Gasoline in your Tank From Going Stale-

07:31 - 2020 Volkswagen Passat Test Results

15:35 - Question #1: Is a plug-in hybrid version of the Jeep Gladiator on the horizon?

22:01 - Question #2: Are tachometers still necessary in modern vehicles?

26:51 - Question #3: Will hybrid vehicles drop in price due to low cost of gasoline?

29:41 - Question #4: Why aren't load legs more common on rear-facing infant seat in the US?

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How to Keep the Gas Fresh and Protect Your Car During the Coronavirus Pandemic

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-maintenance/how-to-keep-gas-fresh-and-protect-car-during-coronavirus/

Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

How to Protect Yourself Against Coronavirus When Pumping Gas

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-how-to-protect-yourself-against-coronavirus-when-pumping-gas/

2019 Detroit Auto Show: 2020 Volkswagen Passat

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z1him5f54QQ

2014 Volkswagen Passat Review

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

2019 Volkswagen Arteon Quick Drive

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

2019 Detroit Auto Show: 2020 Jeep Gladiator

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6RMnHRUBHOg

2018 Jeep Wrangler Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CgzS0ubSgPM

4K Review: 2018 Toyota Camry Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SpOUrt8sLGE

4K Review: 2018 Honda Accord Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZRFEpKCeM9w

2020 Subaru Legacy Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oosO1qbA7uw

Load Legs Show Promise for Safer Child Seats

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wDRW8IGQhEA

Load Legs Give Child Car Seats Improved Safety in a Crash

https://www.consumerreports.org/infant-car-seats/load-leg-gives-car-seats-an-additional-margin-of-safety-in-a-crash/

Best Infant Car Seats of 2020

https://www.consumerreports.org/infant-car-seats/best-infant-car-seats-of-the-year/

• 249: Coronavirus Car Seat Care and Cleaning

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HEKkUp_5Z7I

• 248: Pumping Gas in the Age of Coronavirus

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9mm9un45-js

• 247: Your Favorite Automotive Podcast Goes Remote

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

• 246: Answering Audience Questions on EVs, Tires, Car Seats, and More

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DW128R6wtjk

• 245: How the Coronavirus is Affecting Auto Shows

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JRa8d7tLY5g

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

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We discuss the digital debut of the 2120 Genesis G80. Find out how we think the sedan will stack up against its more established luxury competitors. We also cover the best way to clean your child seat during the COVID-19 pandemic and answer questions.

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:

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SHOW NOTES:

1:05 - Emily makes an announcement

2:40 - Cleaning car seats during the COVID-19 outbreak

11:47 - 2021 Genesis G80 Digital Debut

19:50 - Send us your questions at [email protected]

20:04 - Video Question #1: Did the dealer bamboozle me into buying ethanol fuel treatment?

22:30 - Question #2: I was recently driving on Interstate 66 near Washington, D.C., on a night with great visibility, and was using my high beams. Suddenly an 8-point deer jumps in front of my car! The airbags go off, the hood wraps around the windshield, and my 2004 Infiniti is totaled. Would modern pre-collision braking or pedestrian detection have prevented this accident? Are these systems designed to respond to large animals in the same way they would respond to a person?

25:33 - Question #3: How frequently does IIHS test for existing model year automobiles? Some cars haven't been updated in years, and I wonder if manufacturers improve crash safety for existing models.

This week, we discuss how to protect yourself against the coronavirus when pumping gas. Plus, we share test results on our 2020 Hyundai Sonata, looking at how it stacks up against the heavyweights in the category such as Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and the Subaru Legacy. We finish the episode with audience questions about whether car buying incentives get better during an economic shakeup (like the coronavirus pandemic), and whether CR engineers use decibel meters when evaluating cabin noise.

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

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

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

00:56 - How to Stay Safe at the Pump

08:02 - 2020 Hyundai Sonata Test Results

17:49 - Question #1: How to disinfect your car?

18:48 - Question #2: Do car buying incentives get better during an economic shakeup?

24:27 - Question #3: Would it be better to use a decibel meter for cabin noise evaluation?

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

Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

How to Protect Yourself Against Coronavirus When Pumping Gas

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-how-to-protect-yourself-against-coronavirus-when-pumping-gas/

2019 New York Auto Show: 2020 Hyundai Sonata

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

2018 Hyundai Sonata Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ivwv3EonvPc

4K Review: 2018 Toyota Camry Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SpOUrt8sLGE

4K Review: 2018 Honda Accord Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZRFEpKCeM9w

2020 Subaru Legacy Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oosO1qbA7uw

2017 Hyundai Elantra Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m1hxLaQO1Gg

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

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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This week we cover tips on how to keep your car clean during the Coronavirus outbreak. Find out which cleaners work best to kill the virus while preserving the interior of your car. Plus, we discuss our test results of the 2020 Toyota Highlander and answer audience questions about CR Top Picks and the reliability of American made cars.

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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Vine: http://bit.ly/1Nlbkz7

Periscope: http://bit.ly/1OrsKrs

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SHOW NOTES:

1:05 - Disinfecting the interior of your car

6:45 - 2020 Toyota Highlander test results

13:37 - Send us your questions at [email protected]

13:47 - Question #1: Pierre | Québec, QC; I agree with 90% of your Top Picks cars this year. (The only car I would not buy is the Supra.) But why did you not choose at least one Porsche, Genesis or Mazda in your Top Picks? I personally believe the Genesis G80 and Mazda 3 are really good buys.

18:18 - Question #2: Steve | West Chester, PA; I'd love to buy a car from an American brand, like Ford or Chevrolet. However, my own experience, and your reliability rankings tell me that these cars will typically be much less reliable. Reliability and longevity are the top criteria for me. How can American nameplates have such poor reliability year after year? Why aren't they learning how to do this? They are keeping away those of us who don't want to spend money on repairs or spend our time at the dealership.

20:39 - Question #3: Ray | Henderson, NV; Many of the newest cars, including my Audi A6, have a sport or dynamic drive mode. This seems to increase the RPMs in the vehicle, and I was wondering if it's safe to keep the car in this mode at all times. Does it affect engine or transmission reliability? Thanks for the service you provide, and shout out to the crew, especially the 2 Mikes!

LINKS:

How to Kill Coronavirus in Your Car Without Damaging Interior Surfaces: https://www.consumerreports.org/tires-car-care/how-to-kill-coronavirus-in-your-car-without-damaging-interior-surfaces/

2020 Toyota Highlander: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/toyota/highlander/2020/overview/

10 Top Picks: Bets Cars of the Year: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-best-cars-top-picks-2020/

2020 Autos Spotlight: https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/cars/best-cars-suvs-autos-spotlight/index.htm