Talking Cars (MP3)

This week we look at in-car convenience with the new GM Marketplace, give our take on Lamborghini's super SUV and find out why no one wants to drive our 2018 Kia Rio. We also talk about our GMC Terrain and the tough competition it faces among small SUVs and the new Buick Enclave that's been added to our test fleet. Plus, we answer a viewer question about engine trouble with the Mazda CX-9 and invite you to be a part of the show!

Our experts are on the West Coast for the 2017 LA Auto Show, and give their first impressions on the 3-row Subaru Ascent and Lexus RX 350L, subcompact Hyundai Kona and Nissan Kicks, as well as the redesigned Jeep Wrangler and Infiniti QX50.

The world seems to be speeding toward a future of autonomous vehicles. But will the reality match the visions of the automakers and innovators? In this Talking Cars special, we assembled an expert panel at our annual meeting at the CR Auto Test Center to discuss the prospect of autonomous driving.

Which cars are the most reliable? And which brands have the best track record for quality? We go deep into our 2018 reliability survey to discuss who's up, who's down, and a few surprises from the over 640,000 vehicles included in our data.

SHOW NOTES

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:50 - How we gather our reliability data

2:50 - current reliability trends

7:14 - 2018 reliability survey highlights

15:35 - Tesla Model 3 reliability announcement

Video submission link: CR.org/TalkingCars

We got our hands on the all-new 2018 Honda Accord, and give our first impressions on its driving dynamics, updated infotainment system, and styling. Did you know October is a great time to find a deal on cars and trucks? We tell you why, and show you some of the big bargains out there. Finally, buying a car from a dealer can be a high pressure experience, so we share some of our tips for buying a car without all the hassle.

Too many people still use car seats incorrectly. That's why we're talking car seats with our two experts on the subject on this edition of the podcast. You'll learn some key facts that could help you, or let you help someone you know with children.

The gang is back from their summer vacations all over the globe! They discuss how the cars they saw are different from models at home. They also talk about test results on the Toyota C-HR, and a question from the audience gets us out on our track to do some myth busting.

Teen driving takes center stage on this episode. We talk about the cars that we learned to drive in, the best new and used cars for teens and a hands-on program that educates young drivers.

Volkswagen takes aim at the SUV market in the U.S. with two new three-row vehicles. We also answer viewer questions about Jeeps, bikes and the Toyota Camry.

This week's episode is entirely dedicated to viewer and listener questions. We discuss heavy duty trucks, active safety equipment, used cars and more.