On this episode, we drive the 2022 Volkswagen GTI. We discuss how this classic hatchback has evolved since the 1980s, where it fits in Volkswagen’s SUV focused lineup and the one thing that holds the GTI back from being a great all-around vehicle. We also answer a question about the safety of paddle shifters. 

SHOW NOTES:

0:00 - Volkswagen GTI discussion

12:20 - Question: Does CR consider paddle shifters a safety hazard?

LINKS:

Perview: 2022 Volkswagen GTI and Golf R Gain Power, Tech, and Sophistication: https://www.consumerreports.org/sporty-cars/2022-volkswagen-gti-gains-power-tech-sophistication-review/

Volkswagen GTI: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/volkswagen/gti/

Talking Cars with Consumer Reports #38: Volkswagen GTI: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N1uGj5Cv6oY

VW Golf R vs. Golf GTI: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2uLwY-A35ko

This week we discuss our test results of the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV. We explain what EUV means and talk about how this all-new EV compares to the original Bolt. Plus, find out why we, and other Bolt owners, have to park the vehicle outside, far away from any buildings. We also answer a question for a skier who’s looking to buy a new car.

SHOW NOTES:

0:00 - Chevrolet Bolt EUV Discussion

17:18 - Question: What’s the best type of vehicle to buy for an avid skier? How does ground clearance play a role in snow traction?

LINKS:

Chevrolet Bolt EUV: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/chevrolet/bolt-euv/

GM Announces Fix for Chevrolet Bolt EVs to Address Fire Risk: https://www.consumerreports.org/car-recalls-defects/chevrolet-bolt-recalled-again-due-to-fire-concerns-a3566085147/

2017 Chevrolet Bolt Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tIYG0NR42LU

General Motors Introduces ‘Ultra-Cruise,’ an Expanded Hands-Free Driver Assistance System: https://www.consumerreports.org/driver-assistance-systems/gm-ultra-cruise-hands-free-driver-assistance-system-a4904409015/

Tire Ratings: https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/tires.htm?searchToken=tires

On this episode, we share our first impressions of the 2021 Honda Ridgeline. We discuss whether or not the Ridgeline has improved and if its trucky-enough compared to its competitors. We also choose and outfit the perfect pickup and learn about Mike Monticello's "rules of trucking.” Plus, we answer an audience question about commuting in an electric-vehicle in Alaska.

SHOW NOTES:

0:00 - 2021 Honda Ridgeline First Impressions

16:21 - Question #1: What’s the best type of EV to drive in Alaska?

LINKS:

Honda Ridgeline: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/honda/ridgeline/

2017 Honda Ridgeline Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eJJeNbqaQAM

What’s New in Small Pickup Trucks: https://www.consumerreports.org/pickup-trucks/whats-new-in-small-pickup-trucks/

Preview: 2022 Ford Maverick Priced Under $20,000 With Standard Hybrid: https://www.consumerreports.org/pickup-trucks/2022-ford-maverick-review-a1068008639/

First Drive: 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz Pickup Proves Ready for Pint-Sized Adventures: https://www.consumerreports.org/pickup-trucks/2022-hyundai-santa-cruz-review-a1110360813/

2016 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nhZafWI1d4E

This week we take a first look at the 2022 Infiniti QX60. We discuss how the three-row luxury SUV has evolved over the years and how some elements of the redesign made the controls less user-friendly. We also share some buying advice for a viewer who wants to drive a convertible, all-year round in Canada.

SHOW NOTES:

0:00-18:23 - 2022 Infiniti QX60 First Impressions

18:25-21:35  - Question #1: What’s the best advice on driving a rear-drive convertible in the winter months?

LINKS:

Preview: 2022 Infiniti QX60 Transforms the Luxury SUV: https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2022-infiniti-qx60-review-a1137839766/

First Drive: Redesigned 2022 Nissan Pathfinder Is a Modern Take on the Original Truck: https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2022-nissan-pathfinder-review-a6941815821/

2019 BMW Z4 Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t1FVQ49MazE

2016 Audi TT Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ORjmK_4svA0

Best Winter/Snow Tires From Consumer Reports’ Tests: https://www.consumerreports.org/winter-snow-tire/best-winter-snow-tires-a1191260310/

This week we share the test results of the 2021 Chevrolet Corvette. We talk about how the drastic redesign of this American icon has propelled the Corvette into supercar territory, putting it on par with European competitors that cost double the price. We also answer an audience question about tire pressure.

SHOW NOTES:

0:00 - 2021 Chevrolet Corvette discussion

17:25 - Question #1: When replacing OEM tires, do you still follow the tire pressure on the placard located on the door jamb?

LINKS:

2021 Chevrolet Corvette: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/chevrolet/corvette/

2021 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray First Impressions; Talking Cars #306: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HJELAAnxnDo

This week we discuss the test results of the Hyundai Elantra Hybrid. We also discuss the Hyundai Tucson and Santa Fe and debate whether the hybrid versions of these SUVs make them better vehicles overall. The IIHS has updated crash test standards for small SUVs; find out why few vehicles performed well in the new test and what that means for consumers. Plus, we share our worst car buying experiences and answer questions on electric vehicle prices, and how CR evaluates new vehicles.

SHOW NOTES:

0:37 - New IIHS Crash Standards

6:56 - 2021 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid. Tucson Hybrid & Santa Fe Hybrid

16:25 - Our Worst Car Buying Experiences

27:24 - Question #1: Has CR ever changed positions on a vehicle after initial impressions?

31:40 - Question #2: Should I be concerned about parts shortages and the reliability of vehicles be manufactured now?

35:27 - Question #3: Why do EV prices seem to fluctuate at random?

LINKS:

2 Small SUVs Earn Poor Score in Tough New IIHS Side Crash Test: https://www.consumerreports.org/car-safety/iihs-small-suv-side-crash-test-a1228339113/

2021 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hyundai/elantra/2021/overview/

2022 Hyundai Tucson: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hyundai/tucson/2022/overview/

2021 Hyundai Santa Fe: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hyundai/santa-fe/2021/overview/

2017 Chevrolet Bolt Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tIYG0NR42LU

2018 Nissan Leaf Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PBAB7sZj0Fo

2020 Ford Escape: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/ford/escape/2020/overview/

This week we share our first impressions of the 2022 Lexus NX, discuss its available powertrains including a plug-in hybrid, completely redesigned infotainment, and our experience using its unique gear selector. Hertz "shocked" the rental car market by ordering 100,000 Tesla Model 3s for its fleet, and we talk about the possible pros and cons of renting an electric vehicle for a first-time EV driver, and how it might impact the industry. Also, Halloween night can have a high risk of pedestrian fatalities, so we provide helpful tips to be safe on this holiday. Other topics include: whether a wildfire can be caused by a vehicle; if a car needs to be warmed up before driving; and why most pickup trucks and SUVs don't automatically adjust headlight aim when carrying full loads.

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

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

00:38 - Hertz adds Tesla Model 3 to the rental fleet

07:06 - Halloween Safety Tips

11:26 - Our trick or treats in the automotive industry

14:45 - First Impressions

23:28 - Question #1: Can a car cause a wildfire?

26:49 - Question #2: Is it recommended to warm up the car’s engine before driving?

30:13 - Question #3: Is removing rust on a vehicle worth it?

33:22 - Question #4: Why most pickup trucks and SUVs don’t have auto leveling headlights?

----------------------------------  

Preview: All-New 2022 Lexus NX Gains New Engines, Efficiency, Space, and Tech

https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2022-lexus-nx-review-a1195449775/

Smart Road Trips for Halloween Safety

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-safety/smart-road-tips-for-halloween-safety-a6980048187/

How to Protect Your Car on Halloween

https://www.consumerreports.org/tires-auto-parts/how-to-protect-your-car-on-halloween-a4821620837/

New & Used Car Buying Guide

https://www.consumerreports.org/buying-a-car/car-buying-guide/

Guide to Car Safety

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

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/

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:

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Google+: http://bit.ly/1Md3gfQ

This week is an all questions episode. We discuss if electric vehicles will depreciate quicker than gas powered cars; why newer transmissions have so many gears; what makes a good retirement vehicle; the difference between all-season and all-weather tires; and our choice for the best do-it-all vehicle under $35K.

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

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

00:51 - Question #1: How is brand loyalty reflected in CR’s owner satisfaction rating?

03:47 - Question #2: How will some low range EVs fare on the resale market in a few years?

07:19 - Question #3: Which used SUV is best suited for a young family?

11:14 - Question #4: What us the difference between all-season and all-weather tires?

14:40 - Question #5: Why some European cars are not sold in the USA?

18:03 - Question #6: Is the Alfa Romeo Giulia Ti a good retirement vehicle?

23:11 - Question #7: What is the advantage of newer transmissions having so many gears?

25:45 - Question #8: What is the ultimate do-it-all vehicle for under $35K?

----------------------------------  

Automakers Are Adding Electric Vehicles to Their Lineups. Here’s What’s Coming

https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/why-electric-cars-may-soon-flood-the-us-market-a9006292675/

Lucid Dethrones Tesla as Electric Vehicle Range King

https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/lucid-dethrones-tesla-as-electric-vehicle-range-king-a6640734780/

4K Review: 2017 Alfa Romeo Giulia Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=02_2JeLZEHY

First Drive: 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe Gets New Styling and Updated Technology

https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2021-hyundai-santa-fe-review-a9539318353/

CR Tire Ratings

https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/tires.htm

New & Used Car Buying Guide

https://www.consumerreports.org/buying-a-car/car-buying-guide/

Guide to Car Safety

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

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/

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

This week, we share our first impressions of the 2022 Subaru BRZ. We discuss the BRZ's performance and handling capabilities, and how it's fun-to-drive character rivals sports cars like the Chevrolet Corvette. We also talk about General Motors' new driver assistance system, Ultra Cruise, which will debut on some 2023 Cadillacs. And, we answer audience questions about CR's fuel economy score for hybrid vehicles; whether panoramic sunroofs are safe in a rollover crash; and what buying strategies to use when new car inventory is low.

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

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 - Preview: GM Ultra Cruise

09:30 - 2022 Subaru BRZ First Impressions

17:1 7 - Question #1: What buying strategies should you use when new car inventory is low?

21:56 - Question #2: Why is CR’s fuel economy score for hybrid vehicles different from the EPA’s Score?

25:03 - Question #3: Are panoramic sunroofs safe in a rollover crash?

----------------------------------  

General Motors Introduces ‘Ultra Cruise,’ an Expanded Hands-Free Driver Assistance System

https://www.consumerreports.org/driver-assistance-systems/gm-ultra-cruise-hands-free-driver-assistance-system-a4904409015/

Self-Driving System Rankings

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

Preview: 2022 Subaru BRZ Still Emphasizes Balance Over Brawn

https://www.consumerreports.org/sports-cars/2022-subaru-brz-review-a6225692747/

New & Used Car Buying Guide

https://www.consumerreports.org/buying-a-car/car-buying-guide/

Guide to Car Safety

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

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/

Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

Exploding Sunroofs Cases Head to Court

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-safety/exploding-sunroof-cases-head-to-court/

Which Automakers Use Laminated Glass to Reduce the Risk of Exploding Sunroofs

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-safety/laminated-glass-reduce-risk-exploding-sunroofs/

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

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

This week, we share our test results of the 2021 Ford F-150 and F-150 hybrid pickup trucks, comparing the performance of the two different powertrains and some of their more interesting features. We also talk about the all-electric 2023 Genesis GV60, including its eye-catching styling, motor options, and predicted electric range. A dealer told someone in our Talking Cars audience, "You can't rustproof an EV." Is that true? We do some mythbusting, and share tips on how to avoid falling into sales traps at the dealer. Other topics include: Whether some lane keeping assist systems can be overly aggressive; what safety features electronic shifters offer; and we pick which classic vehicles we'd like to see brought back as an EV.

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

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

00:29 - Preview: 2023 Genesis GV60

07:52 - Which Classic Car Should Be Brought Back as an EV

12:16 - Test Results: 2021 Ford F-150 and F-150 Hybrid

24:14 - Question #1: Is the longer reach distance to the car’s touch screen a safety precaution?

28:28 - Question #2: What features do electronic shifters have to make them safer?

32:29 - Question #3: Is “you can’t rustproof and EV’ statement true?

35:20 - Question #4: Why are some Lane Keeping Assist systems overly aggressive?

----------------------------------  

Preview: Electric 2023 Genesis GV60 Charges to Production

https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/genesis-gv60-review-a2697188686/

First Drive: Redesigned 2021 Ford F-150 Now Offers Hybrid Power and Tons of Tech

https://www.consumerreports.org/pickup-trucks/2021-ford-f-150-review-a9428956949/

New & Used Car Buying Guide

https://www.consumerreports.org/buying-a-car/car-buying-guide/

Guide to Car Safety

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

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/

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

Twitter: http://bit.ly/1Yf5Fh2

Pinterest: http://bit.ly/1P37mM9

Instagram: http://bit.ly/1I49Bzo

Google+: http://bit.ly/1Md3gfQ