Talking Cars (MP3)

Latest Episodes:

#287 2020 Tesla Model Y Test Results Dec 25, 2020

Show notes

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.

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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 TalkingCars@icloud.com 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

00:20 - 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?

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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/

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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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#286 2021 BMW 4 Series First Impressions; Test Drives During The Pandemic Dec 18, 2020

Show notes

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.

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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 TalkingCars@icloud.com 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

00:22 - 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?

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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/

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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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#285 2020 RAM 1500 Diesel Test Results; New Honda Civic, Subaru BRZ, and Acura MDX Dec 11, 2020

Show notes

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.

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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 TalkingCars@icloud.com 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

00:27 - 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?

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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/

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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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#284 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA First Impressions; Are Expensive Wiper Blades Worth It? Dec 04, 2020

Show notes

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.

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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 TalkingCars@icloud.com 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

00:28 - 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 pets safe in your vehicle?

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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/

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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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#283 2021 Toyota Venza first Impressions; Ballooning Cost of Ownership for BMWs Nov 27, 2020

Show notes

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.

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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 TalkingCars@icloud.com 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

00:31 - 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.

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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

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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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#282 2020 Land Rover Defender First Impressions; CR's Annual Auto Reliability Survey Nov 20, 2020

Show notes

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.

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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 TalkingCars@icloud.com 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

00:37 - 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?

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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

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

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

#281 Toyota RAV4 Fuel Issues; Are Crash Tests Too Perfect? Nov 14, 2020

Show notes

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.

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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 TalkingCars@icloud.com 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

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?

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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

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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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#280 2021 Chevrolet Suburban First Impressions; Subscription Fees for Auto Safety? Nov 07, 2020

Show notes

The 2021 Chevy Suburban is one of the latest additions to our testing fleet, and we give our first impressions on what it's like to drive this big SUV, both on the open road, as well as in urban environments. The subscription model is common with many services these days, yet is still fairly uncommon in the automotive world. However, recent announcements by Tesla and GM may change this, and could introduce the concept of charging a monthly fee for access to important safety features. We talk about how these programs will work, and why they might not be in the best interest of consumers. We also discuss the long-term reliability of turbos and direct-injection vehicles, the best way to store your winter or summer tires, and if a dealership might allow you to learn to drive a manual transmission with one of their vehicles (spoiler alert: probably not.)

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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 TalkingCars@icloud.com 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

00:29 - Monthly Subscription Fees for Vehicle Safety Features

05:53 - 2021 Chevrolet Suburban First Impressions

13:36 - Question #1: Are turbocharged engines less reliable than non-turbos?

16:35 - Question #2: Which Toyota vehicle would have the best resale value?

19:41 - Question #3: What is the best practice for storing a set of tires?

22:24 - Question #4: Would a car dealer allow an inexperienced operator test drive a manual transmission vehicle?

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Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

Why You Might Need to Subscribe to Get Certain Features on Your Next Car

https://www.consumerreports.org/automotive-industry/why-you-might-need-to-subscribe-to-get-certain-features-on-your-next-car/

2021 Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban Grow in Size and Features

https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2021-chevrolet-tahoe-suburban-preview/

Prep Your Car for Winter

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

Getting your tires ready for winter: Advice from Consumer Reports

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hixD6srMlP0

2016 Toyota Tacoma Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vHnpNycnJ1s

2017 Honda CR-V Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CwN2Tl1A5Z4

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

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

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

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

#279 2021 Genesis G80 First Impressions; Nitrogen in Your Tires: Is It Worth the Cost? Oct 30, 2020

Show notes

We recently got a chance to drive the 2021 Genesis G80 at our test track, and we share our impressions on how the sedan from Hyundai's luxury brand performed, as well as how it compares to other vehicles in its class, like the Audi A6, BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and Volvo S90. Filling your tires with nitrogen is an option offered by many dealerships and mechanics these days, usually for an added expense. We talk about whether this is something to consider, as well as if it's safe to put regular air into a tire filled with nitrogen. Winter weather is on its way (if it hasn't already arrived where you are!), so we discuss the best way to prep your car for hitting the road when there's ice and snow. We also give advice about replacing a Hyundai Elantra with an Audi A4 (or other alternatives like the Mazda3, Honda Civic Sport, or Toyota Camry?!) And with an increasing number of cars on the road having the ability to update their software, how is Consumer Reports adjusting its testing program to stay on top of the latest versions and features? Do the scores change when a car with GM's Super Cruise or vehicles from Tesla receive a new update? We discuss how we are adapting our testing to account for these new technologies, and more.

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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 TalkingCars@icloud.com 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

00:33 - Vehicle Winter Prep and Winter Driving Tips

06:53 - 2021 Genesis G80 First Impressions

13:30 - Question #1: Is an Audi A4 a good replacement for a Hyundai Elantra ?

19:41 - Question #2: What are the advantages of filling up tires with nitrogen instead of air?

23:42 - Question #3: How is CR adapting its test to account for new technologies?

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Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

Winter Driving Tips

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

Essential Winter Driving Tips

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

Prep Your Car for Winter

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

6 Safety Sensors to Clean on Your Car This Winter

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

Getting your tires ready for winter: Advice from Consumer Reports

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hixD6srMlP0

First Drive: 2021 Genesis G80 Ramps Up Styling and Tech

https://www.consumerreports.org/luxury-cars/2021-genesis-g80-review/

2017 Audi A4 Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=khXQj4tCxxI

2018 Hyundai Elantra GT Quick Drive

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

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#278 2021 Lexus IS First Impressions; 2022 GMC Hummer EV Preview Oct 23, 2020

Show notes

This week we give our first impressions of the 2021 Lexus IS, discuss what has changed from the previous model and if the redesign is adequate to make this compact sports sedan stand out against rivals like the BMW 3 series, Audi A4, and Mercedes-Benz C class. GMC revealed its all-new fully electric 2022 Hummer EV, we discuss some of its glamorous features and if it's enticing enough to steal the spotlight from the Tesla Cybertruck and Rivian R1T. Also we breakdown CR's new study on EV wall chargers and provide tips on how to improve the charging experience.

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SHOW NOTES

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00:00 - Introduction

00:34 - 2022 GMC Hummer EV Preview

03:05 - CR's Wall-mounted Car Charger Study

08:56 - 2021 Lexus IS First Impressions

15:43 - Question #1: Is now a good time to sell an unneeded vehicle?

19:02 - Question #2: Is the Toyota Avalon Hybrid as reliable as the regular Avalon?

23:05 - Question #3: Is leasing a Subaru Crosstrek, Hyundai Venue, or Kia Seltos a good idea?

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Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

Preview: 2022 GMC Hummer EV Turns an Off-Road Legend Into a Green Machine

https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/2022-gmc-hummer-ev-review/

How to Choose the Best Home Wall Charger for Your Electric Vehicle

https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/how-to-choose-the-best-home-wall-charger-for-your-electric-vehicle/

EVs Offer Big Savings Over Traditional Gas-Powered Cars

https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/evs-offer-big-savings-over-traditional-gas-powered-cars/

First Drive: 2021 Lexus IS Makes Evolutionary Improvements

https://www.consumerreports.org/sedans/2021-lexus-is-review/

2016 Lexus IS300 Quick Drive

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

2019 Toyota Avalon Quick Drive

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

4K Review: 2018 Subaru Crosstrek Quick Drive

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

2019 LA Auto Show: 2021 Kia Seltos

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

2019 New York Auto Show: 2020 Hyundai Venue

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

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

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

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