Talking Cars (SD)

With the cold season just around the corner, we share vital tips on preparing your vehicle for driving in wintry conditions, including checking and maintaining the proper tire pressure, the state of your car's battery charge, and topping off appropriate fluids. Also, we inspire a young mechanical engineering student with personal stories of how we advanced in our own automotive careers and give advice regarding future opportunities. And we welcome a special guest to the show this week, Consumer Reports' President and CEO Marta Tellado, as she shares the insights and inspiration contained in her new book, "Buyer Aware," available in stores on September 20th.

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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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00:00 - Introduction

00:15 - Preparing Your Car For The Winter Season

10:02 - Question: What career opportunities are available for a mechanical engineer in the automotive industry?

16:44 - Special Guest: Consumer Reports’  President and CEO Marta Tellado

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Winter Driving Tips

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

6 Safety Sensors to Clean on Your Car

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

Essential Winter Driving Tips

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

Prep Your Car for Winter

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

Safe Winter Driving

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Svc0BCK8ToM

If You have to Drive in the Winter, Follow These 9 Safety Steps

https://www.consumerreports.org/winter-driving/if-you-have-to-drive-in-winter-follow-these-safety-steps-a7843645782/

What to Pack in a Car Emergency Kit for Your Holiday Road Trips

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-car-emergency-kits-for-winter-holiday-road-trips/

Buyer Aware

https://buyeraware.consumerreports.org/

Guide to Car Safety

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

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To find out how products scored in CR’s rigorous lab tests—and to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day—become a member. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization. Join now at https://www.CR.org/join

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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Is Buick Enclave the hidden gem of the large 3-row SUV world? With a resume that includes simple controls, a comfortable ride, and a responsive non-turbo powertrain, there's a case to be made that it deserves serious consideration. We discuss the recent updates to its steering wheel controls, gear selector, and infotainment system for the 2022 model year, and how it performs against competitors like the Infiniti QX60, Jeep Grand Cherokee L, Acura MDX, and Hyundai Palisade. Also, what happens when you try to turn off a vehicle while driving? Does it make a difference if it's a traditional key, or a push button start? After being asked the question from a member of our audience, our experts head out onto our test track to find out!

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

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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00:00 - Introduction

00:15 - First Impressions: 2022 Buick Enclave

15:51 - Question: What happens when you try to turn off a vehicle while driving?

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2022 Buick Enclave

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/buick/enclave/2022/overview/

2018 Buick Enclave Review: Room for Improvement

https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2018-buick-enclave-review-room-for-improvement/

Guide to Car Safety

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

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

To find out how products scored in CR’s rigorous lab tests—and to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day—become a member. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization. Join now at https://www.CR.org/join

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:

TikTok: https://bit.ly/3BVzGR9

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

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

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

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is a sporty, driver-focused luxury sedan, relying on its aggressive, low-slung exterior and improved powertrain to stand out against rivals like the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, and Genesis G70. We share our first impressions of our C300 test car, discussing its handling, redesigned interior, problematic controls, and why you might want to skip the AMG sport suspension option. We also share insight into CR's testing protocols, and why we might sometimes disagree with car evaluations from other mainstream publications.

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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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00:00 - Introduction

00:14 - First Impressions: 2022 Mercedes-Benz C300

18:38 - Question: Why are there discrepancies in review results between CR and other mainstream publications?

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New 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Is a Standout, With a Few Drawbacks

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/sedans/2022-mercedes-benz-c-class-review-a1057221647/

2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/mercedes-benz/c-class/2022/overview/

Guide to Car Safety

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

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

To find out how products scored in CR’s rigorous lab tests—and to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day—become a member. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization. Join now at https://www.CR.org/join

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:

TikTok: https://bit.ly/3BVzGR9

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

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

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

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

Bike racks are a lot like cars, with new styles and brands available to consumers each year. And while we love cars at CR, we're also avid cycling enthusiasts, and recently performed evaluations on hitch-mounted bike racks, as well as pickup-truck tailgate pads, from brands like Kuat, Yakima, Thule, Bell, Allen, and Race Face. We discuss which ones performed best, how they compare to roof and trunk mounted racks, and what to look for if you need to transport an electric bike (e-bike).

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

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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00:00 - Introduction

00:14 - Our biking background.

03:47 - Bike rack evaluations  

20:37 - Question: If continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) provide so many benefits to a vehicle, why are they so reviled by many?

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Best Bike Racks

https://www.consumerreports.org/bike-racks-carriers/best-bike-racks-a8073136271/

How to Choose and Use the Right Bike Rack

https://www.consumerreports.org/bike-racks-carriers/how-to-choose-and-use-the-right-bike-rack-a1180679643/

How Bike Racks Affect a Car’s Fuel Economy

https://www.consumerreports.org/fuel-economy-efficiency/how-bike-racks-affect-car-fuel-economy/

How Rooftop Carriers Affect Fuel Economy for Cars and SUVs

https://www.consumerreports.org/fuel-economy-efficiency/how-rooftop-carriers-affect-fuel-economy/

Best Electric Bikes From Consumer Reports’ Test

https://www.consumerreports.org/electric-bikes/best-electric-bikes-e-bike-review-a2596703950/

Guide to Car Safety

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

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

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

Follow Us on Social:

Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1IQ2w5q

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Instagram: http://bit.ly/1I49Bzo

Google+: http://bit.ly/1Md3gfQ

Is the all-new 2023 Toyota Sequoia just a Tundra with a cap on the back? We share our first impressions of Toyota's largest SUV, how it compares to competitors like the Chevrolet Tahoe and Cadillac Escalade (or even the 4Runner!), and if it can carry the torch for the dearly departed Land Cruiser. We also discuss whether using a different octane gas, for example 87 vs. 88 octane, can harm your car's engine.

SHOW NOTES:

0:00: 2023 Toyota Sequoia first impressions

15:59: Can using a higher octane gas than is recommended in your owner’s manual harm your engine?

LINKS:

Toyota Sequoia - https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2023-toyota-sequoia-review-a6124360768/

Toyota Land Cruiser - https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/toyota/land-cruiser/2021/overview/

Toyota Tundra - https://www.consumerreports.org/pickup-trucks/2022-toyota-tundra-review-a1706208187/

Chevrolet Tahoe - https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/chevrolet/tahoe/2022/overview/

Toyota 4Runner - https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/toyota/4runner/2022/overview/

Cadillac Escalade - https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cadillac/escalade/2022/overview/

Gas octane - https://www.consumerreports.org/fuel-economy-efficiency/why-you-might-not-actually-need-premium-gas-a6382185831/

To find out how products scored in CR’s rigorous lab tests—and to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day—become a member. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization. Join now at https://www.CR.org/join

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:

TikTok: https://bit.ly/3BVzGR9

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

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

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

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

This week we share our first impressions of the 2023 Honda HR-V. We discuss how the HR-V improved over the first generation model and why it feels more robust in comparison to competing small SUVs. Plus, we answer an audience question that compares an all-wheel drive Mazda 3 to the new Acura Integra. 

SHOW NOTES:

0:00-10:39: 2023 Honda HR-V

10:39-18:08: Question: Which would you choose; the Mazda 3 AWD or the new Acura Integra? 

LINKS:

Redesigned 2023 Honda HR-V Grows in Size and Sophistication: https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2023-honda-hr-v-review-a5649305775/

2022 Mazda 3: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/mazda/3/2022/overview/

2023 Acura Integra Tries to Recapture ‘80s and ‘90s Magic With Help of Civic Si: https://www.consumerreports.org/small-cars/2023-acura-integra-review-a1115778934/

On this episode, we discuss the 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid. Find out how the Sportage Hybrid compares to the gasoline Sportage we tested and why hybrid versions of small SUVs often improve a model overall. We also answer a question about all-wheel drive and determine whether it can be considered a safety feature or convenience feature.

SHOW NOTES:

0:00 - 11:48 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid

11:50 - 20:34 Question: Is all-wheel drive a safety feature, a nice-to-have-perk, or over-hyped?

LINKS:

2023 Kia Sportage Is Long on Style and Room, Short on Verve: https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2023-kia-sportage-review-a1593140021/

This week, we share our impressions of the all-electric Mazda MX-30, the automaker’s first EV to hit the market. Find out why we think the MX-30 is behind the times and why only 560 vehicles are planned to be sold in the US. We also answer an audience question about the legality of LED replacement headlights.

SHOW NOTES:

0:00-12:22 - 2022 Mazda MX-30

12:22-19:27 - Video Question: Are LED replacement bulbs legal? 

LINKS:

Frustrating Mazda MX-30 Can’t Match Other Modern EVs: https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/2022-mazda-mx-30-review-a1201295576/

Smart Adaptive Headlights Will Soon Brighten U.S. Roads: https://www.consumerreports.org/car-safety/smart-adaptive-headlights-will-soon-brighten-us-roads-a8128257819/

The all-electric 2022 Mercedes EQS becomes the automaker's new flagship alongside the S-Class lines. We share our first impressions of this ultra-luxury sedan, whether or not it can compete with the Tesla Model S, some of the next-generation safety features, and wild luxury comfort options.

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

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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00:00 - Introduction

00:14 - First Impressions: 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQS

19:06 - Question: Are dealers bound to the agreed price when the car was ordered, or they can change the price upon delivery of the vehicle?

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Futuristic EQS Proves Mercedes-Benz’s Commitment to EVs

https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/2022-mercedes-benz-eqs-review-a2271854355/

Mercedes-Benz Is the Latest Automaker to Go All Electric

https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/mercedes-benz-is-the-latest-automaker-to-go-all-electric-a2034098392/

2022 Mercedes-Benz EQS

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/mercedes-benz/eqs/2022/overview

First Drive: 2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Wows With Advanced Technology

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

Guide to Car Safety

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

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

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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Google+: http://bit.ly/1Md3gfQ

The Slingshot, a three-wheeled street vehicle made by ATV, snowmobile, and side-by-side manufacturer Polaris, blurs the lines between a motorcycle and car. With its single rear drive wheel and an open-air cabin lacking both a roof and doors, the Slingshot positions itself to be an action-packed alternative to weekend cruisers like the Mazda Miata, traditional motorcycles, or any number of classic cars (think Plymouth Barracuda, Road Runner, and Chevrolet Nova). But does the fun factor make up for the price, inconvenience, and lack of safety features?

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

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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00:00 - Introduction

00:14 - First Impressions: 2022 Polaris Slingshot

18:26 - Question: Are engineering emissions test programs that offer monetary incentives by car manufacturers legitimate?

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Radical Polaris Slingshot is part car, part motorcycle, all excitement

https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/news/2014/07/radical-polaris-slingshot-three-wheeler-is-part-car-part-motorcycle/index.htm

Redesigned Mazda MX-5 Keeps Miata Magic Going

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O908JUXgiwk

Guide to Car Safety

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

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

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