Talking Cars (SD)

Talking Cars (SD)

By Consumer ReportsLeisureAutomotive
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Talking Cars (SD) episodes

  • #290 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime Test Results; How Big Tech is Influencing the Auto Industry

    We've completed testing of our 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime, and discuss how this plug-in hybrid performed, and why it might outshine the Subaru Crosstrek Plug-in Hybrid. Apple made automotive news recently concerning the potential development of an Apple-branded car produced by Hyundai; we discuss these reports, and consider the many ways the auto industry and big tech companies are converging to impact the car market. Other topics include the Toyota Yaris GR, if a hitch-mounted bike rack could prematurely age your car's springs, and whether adaptive cruise control has an impact on fuel efficiency.

     

     

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

    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 - News of potential Apple-branded car produced by Hyundai.

    09:19 - 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime Test Results

    19:41 - Question #1: Why is the Toyota Yaris GR AWD not available in the US?

    25:17 - Question #2: Does adaptive cruise control have an effect on fuel efficiency?

    26:37 - Question #3: Could having a hitch mounted bike rack over an extended period of time have negative impact on the car’s springs?

     

     

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

    First Drive: 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime Is Powerful and Luxurious

    https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2021-toyota-rav4-prime-review/

     

    2019 LA Auto Show: 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VyucrV_maH8

     

    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

     

    2020 Toyota Yaris Hatchback Gets Bigger and Adds Features

    https://www.consumerreports.org/small-cars/2020-toyota-yaris-hatchback-preview/

     

    Cadillac’s Super Cruise Outperforms Other Driving Assistance Systems

    https://www.consumerreports.org/car-safety/cadillac-super-cruise-outperforms-other-active-driving-assistance-systems/

     

    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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    30 min
  • #289 Car Shopping Etiquette; Pricey Pickups; Can Dash Cams Save on Insurance?

    Are there rules of etiquette you should follow when test driving or purchasing a car? Can installing a dash cam in your vehicle save you money on car insurance? This week, we answer these questions, and discuss other topics, including the rising prices on pickup trucks; why a car recall might show up on services like CARFAX but not on NHTSA.gov; why an auto manufacturer would design a car with tail lights in its bumper. We also suggest a replacement car for a teenager currently driving a Tesla Model Y.

     

     

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

    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

    00:53 - Question #1: What is the proper dealership etiquette when shopping for a car?

    04:45 - Question #2: How do dash cams benefit drivers interns of safety and insurance premium savings?

    08:56 - Question #3: Why a car recall might show up on services like CARFAX but not on NHTSA.gov?

    12:38 - Question #4: Are the high price tags on trucks due to COVID closures and stock shortages?

    17:45 - Question #5: Why auto makers design cars with tail lights built into the bumper where small impacts can damage them?

    21:28 - Question #6: What is a good car for a teen driver under $30K?

     

     

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

    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/

     

    Dash Cams Can Be Silent Witnesses During Police Traffic Stops and Other Incidents

    https://www.consumerreports.org/law-enforcement/dash-cams-can-be-silent-witnesses-during-police-traffic-stops-and-other-incidents/

     

    Car Recall Guide: Your Questions Answered

    https://www.consumerreports.org/car-recalls-defects/car-recall-guide-questions-answered/

     

    Best New Cars for Teens

    https://www.consumerreports.org/new-cars/best-new-cars-for-teens/

     

    4K Review: 2017 Mazda CX-5 Quick Drive

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

     

    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

     

    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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    30 min
  • #288 Our Favorite Cars and the Ones That Disappointed Us in 2020

    This week we take time to revisit some of the cars we tested in 2020, and we discuss the ones we most enjoyed driving this year, and the ones that left something to be desired. We also talk about the vehicles and trends we're interested in seeing in 2021. Autos discussed include the Ford Bronco, Ram 1500 Diesel and TRX, Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Nissan Sentra, Porsche Taycan, Volkswagen Passat, Cadillac CT5, Tesla, and Chevrolet Corvette.

     

     

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

    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 - The Best and Worst Cars of 2020

    01:33 - Mike Monticello’s Best and Worst Cars

    07:37 - Mike Quincy’s Best and Worst Cars

    13:08 - Jennifer Stockburger’s Best and Worst Cars

    19:10 - Vehicles and trends for 2021 

     

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

    2019 RAM 1500 Quick Drive

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

     

    2019 Detroit Auto Show: 2020 Volkswagen Passat

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

     

    2019 New York Auto Show: 2020 Cadillac CT5

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

     

    First Drive: 2020 Porsche Taycan Is a High-Priced Alternative to the Tesla Model S

    https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/2020-porsche-taycan-electric-vehicle-review/

     

    2019 LA Auto Show: 2020 Nissan Sentra

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

     

    2019 Toyota RAV4 Quick Drive

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

     

    2019 LA Auto Show: 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VyucrV_maH8

     

    2019 New York Auto Show: 2020 Toyota Highlander

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

     

    Preview: 2021 Ford Bronco Reinvents a 4x4 Classic

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

     

    Hot New Electric Cars Are Coming Soon

    https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/hot-new-electric-cars-are-coming-soon/

     

    2019 LA Auto Show: 2020 Ford Mustang Mach-E

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CQ30yGjf7sU

     

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

    30 min
  • #287 2020 Tesla Model Y Test Results

    We dedicate this entire episode to sharing our test results of the Tesla Model Y, the all-electric SUV based on the Model 3. We discuss our findings on the Model Y's handling, off-the-line performance, and charging experience compared to other EVs. We also talk about our experience with the Model Y's cargo space compared to the Model 3, overall build quality, and whether it is a reliable vehicle, based on our comprehensive reliability survey of CR members.

     

     

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

    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

    00:20 - 2020 Tesla Model Y Test Results

    12:50 - Tesla Autopilot

    18:34 - Question #1: Has the CR Model Y had any common issues with fit and finish, panel alignment, and paint quality?

    21:25 - Question #2: Are Uber credits a viable substitute for a loaner when having your Tesla repaired?

    23:50 - Question #3: What SUV would be a good substitute for a Model Y, with good ride height, ease of entry, and quiet interior?

     

     

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

    5 Things You Need to Know About the New Tesla Model Y

    https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/tesla-model-y-things-to-know/

     

    Tesla Full Self-Driving Review

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

     

    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/

     

    Cadillac’s Super Cruise Outperforms Other Driving Assistance Systems

    https://www.consumerreports.org/car-safety/cadillac-super-cruise-outperforms-other-active-driving-assistance-systems/

     

    2018 Tesla Model 3 Quick Drive

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

     

    4K Review: 2016 Tesla Model S Quick Drive

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t9cT_mIff-Q

     

    2016 Tesla Model X Quick Drive

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7GhvTUDuEds

     

    Hot New Electric Cars Are Coming Soon

    https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/hot-new-electric-cars-are-coming-soon/

     

    2018 LA Auto Show: 2019 Audi E-Tron

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uBV9nrd6_mo

     

    2019 LA Auto Show: 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VyucrV_maH8

     

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

    27 min
  • #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 

     

    Follow Us on Social:

    Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1IQ2w5q

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    Google+: http://bit.ly/1Md3gfQ

    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 

     

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    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 your 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 

     

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    Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1IQ2w5q

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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 

     

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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:

    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

    30 min

About Talking Cars (SD)

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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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