Talking Cars (MP3)

Latest Episodes:

#187 2019 BMW X5 Test Results; Which Cars Should Be Brought Back From the Dead? Jan 25, 2019

Show notes

This week we discuss the recent trend of automakers resurrecting discontinued car models, and the nostalgia (or lack thereof) that such a move might ignite in a car buyer. We've completed testing on the 2019 BMW X5 SUV, and talk about how it performed in our tests. Finally, we wrap with viewer questions, including one about the first car for a teenage driver under $5,000, and how cold temperatures affect electric vehicle batteries.

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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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00:41 - Car Manufacturers Resurrecting Discontinued Car Models

04:16 - What Cars Would We Like to See Brought Back From the Dead

07:30 - 2019 BMW X5 Test Results

13:27 - Question 1: Electric Vehicle's Battery Performance in Extreme Temperatures?

17:01 - Question 2: When to Change Oil in a Car?

18:43 - Question 3: First Car Under $5K?

22:30 - Question 4: Toyota Highlander vs. Volvo XC90

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4K Review: 2017 Toyota Highlander Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ic5Obebxcv8

2016 Volvo XC90 Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jyQWKK3nUlw

2019 Detroit Auto Show: 2020 Toyota Supra

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MdtL8brC3Bw

8 Best Cars for Teen Drivers

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lE6pLbbt428

2009-2014 Honda Fit Review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z7W-Ba5Vm3U

Hyundai Tucson Review

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

Mazda3 Road Test

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AWo0PJbbpic

2014 Toyota Corolla First Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uu6QfFB7fDY

2011-2012 Honda Accord Review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XSobCS6qeZM

2012 Toyota Camry Review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fTaFXI-oQxU

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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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2019 Detroit Auto Show Jan 17, 2019

Show notes

We're on location in Detroit for the 2019 North American International Auto Show! We discuss vehicles announced at the show, including the all-new Toyota Supra, Kia Telluride, Volkswagen Passat, and more. We also geek out over the enthusiast cars announced, including the Ford Mustang Shelby GT 500 and Subaru STI S209.

SHOW NOTES

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:40 - importance of Detroit Auto Show in automotive industry

3:00 - Kia Telluride

4:59 - Toyota Supra

6:29 - Lexus RC

8:30 - Volkswagen Passat

10:21 - Ford Explorer

12:19 - Cadillac XT6

14:44 - Ram 2500 HD

17:15 - Ford Mustang Shelby GT 500

20:37 - Subaru STI S209

22:58 - North American International Auto Show moving to June

Kia Telluride: https://youtu.be/yDr5uu7QheQ

Toyota Supra: https://youtu.be/MdtL8brC3Bw

Volkswagen Passat: https://youtu.be/Z1him5f54QQ

Ford Explorer: https://youtu.be/RNWQ_JQjc7k

Cadillac XT6: https://youtu.be/YL0Z8wAgBkY

Ram 2500: https://youtu.be/q8XOsnHrC90

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Subscribe to Talking Cars on Apple Podcasts!

Video version: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-cars-hq/id630839767?mt=2

Audio version: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-cars-mp3/id630831189?mt=2

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

#185 2019 Jaguar I-PACE; CES Auto Innovations Jan 11, 2019

Show notes

We just purchased Jaguar's answer to Tesla's all-electric fleet - the 2019 I-PACE. We discuss our first impressions on how it drives, differences in interior quality to Tesla's offerings, and where we think the electric car market is heading with more established automakers entering the segment. We also discuss the automotive technology on display at CES in Las Vegas and wrap by answering viewer questions.

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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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00:26 - Automotive Technology at CES

05:48 - 2019 Jaguar i-Pace

13:02 - Question 1: Electric Vehicle Battery Wear, and Future of the Car Market

16:45 - Question 2: Do Tire Sealants Work?

20:34 - Question 3: Safe Family Vehicle for Wintery Roads?

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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

2018 LA Auto Show: 2019 Audi E-Tron

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

2015 Subaru Outback and Legacy

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

4K Review: 2017 Toyota Highlander Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ic5Obebxcv8

2018 New York Auto Show: 2019 Toyota RAV4

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N9MJ-sMDdsc

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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

2019 Porsche Cayenne Test Results; Tire Wear vs. Wet Weather Performance Jan 04, 2019

Show notes

Porsche has finally redesigned its Cayenne SUV, and we discuss our overall impressions, and how it performed in our tests. Wet weather can have a significant impact on how tires perform, and the problem only gets worse as a tire ages. CR recently conducted a test on how tires with low tread depth handled in our wet braking and hydroplaning courses, and why a tire from Michelin impressed us. We also answer audience questions about the 2019 Toyota RAV4, how long it takes us to fully test a vehicle, and whether changing a new car's tires and shocks is a good idea.

SHOW NOTES

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:45 - worn tire testing in wet conditions & Michelin claim check

7:21 - winter tire care tips

10:01 - Porsche Cayenne Road Test results

16:24 - audience question #1: replacing brakes and shocks

20:06 - audience question #2: duration of CR's auto testing protocol

23:33 - audience question #3: replacement for 2010 Toyota RAV4?

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Subscribe to Talking Cars on Apple Podcasts!

Video version: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-cars-hq/id630839767?mt=2

Audio version: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-cars-mp3/id630831189?mt=2

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

Year in Review: The Cars We Loved (and Hated) in 2018 Dec 27, 2018

Show notes

We close out 2018 by taking a look back at the cars we tested this year, and which ones we thought were the most, and least, satisfying to drive. We eulogize those vehicles we love that won't be coming back next year, and give our thoughts on what we're looking forward to most in 2019.

#181 2019 Audi A8 First Impressions; The Best EV Charging Network Dec 13, 2018

Show notes

Winter brings shorter days and more people driving in the dark. On this episode, we discuss headlight effectiveness and how to keep them clean. The 2019 Audi A8 L joins our test fleet and we give our first impressions. Plus, we answer your questions about the best EV charging network, replacing the discontinued Chevy Volt and cars suited for commuting in Maine winters.

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Subscribe to Talking Cars on Apple Podcasts!

Video version: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-cars-hq/id630839767?mt=2

Audio version: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-cars-mp3/id630831189?mt=2

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

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

SHOW NOTES

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00:28 - Cleaning Cloudy Headlights

04:33 - 2019 Audi A8 L First Impressions

10:34 - If I Had $100K to spend on a car

14:09 - Question #1: Suitable Replacement for Chevrolet Volt?

18:14 - Question #2: What Is The Best Car Charging Network?

22:49 - Question #3: Is There Anything Better Than The Subaru Outback?

LINKS

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Old Headlights Can Be Dangerously Dim, Study Finds: https://www.consumerreports.org/car-repair-maintenance/old-headlights-can-be-dangerously-dim/

Headlight Restoration Kits: https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/headlight-restoration-kits/buying-guide/index.htm

2017 LA Auto Show: 2019 Audi A8: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iX7OpaYHmQI

4K Review: 2018 Lexus LS Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JOALhUeztwQ

Audi A8 Review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j6WQBF-WLHw

2016 BMW 7 Series Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CyL8s6BosIc

2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ojfBQEZ8jo

2016 Chevrolet Volt Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D3sa7OT3PhU

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

2017 Toyota Prius Prime Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EQt6L1celr4

2017 Volkswagen Alltrack Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nFwfm63Ts1k

Face-Off: Subaru Outback vs. Volkswagen Alltrack: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ylXqZce8XQ

2015 Subaru Outback and Legacy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omeYWjqBJRQ

#180 2019 Hyundai Veloster Test Results; GM Drops Sedans Dec 07, 2018

Show notes

The new Hyundai Veloster has a record-setting performance in one of our tests. We discuss how the hatchback has improved and where it slots among competitors. GM is dropping six sedans from its lineup; we talk about how it will affect consumers. Plus, we answer your questions on used car buying and if it's safe to drive your car until the tank is almost empty.

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Subscribe to Talking Cars on Apple Podcasts!

Video version: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-cars-hq/id630839767?mt=2

Audio version: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-cars-mp3/id630831189?mt=2

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

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

SHOW NOTES

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0:39 - General Motors drops 6 sedans

5:50 - 2019 Hyundai Veloster Test Results

12:02 - Send us your questions, TalkingCars@icloud.com

12:17 - Question #1: Replacing a hybrid battery on a Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

15:40 - Question #2: Oil change frequency vs. tire rotation frequency

19:12 - Question #3: Can you damage your car by driving with extremely low fuel?

22:10 - Question #4: Shopping to replace a 2001 Chevrolet Prizm for a college student

LINKS

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GM Becomes Latest Car Company to Drop Some Sedans: https://www.consumerreports.org/general-motors/gm-to-drop-some-sedans/

2018 Detroit Auto Show: 2019 Hyundai Veloster: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I88Kd-GKvc8

Hyundai Veloster First Look: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jN7fzifIIvY

2016 Chevrolet Cruze Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pvkgXCFO4wM

2016 Chevrolet Volt Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D3sa7OT3PhU

2014 Chevrolet Impala Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RzsS1Z4zKiU

2017 Buick LaCrosse Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eAYrZGJ0t3k

Cadillac XTS First Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F3MgKGVVv38

2016 Cadillac CT6 Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G6dTwFJnkRU

Self-Driving System Rankings: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X06tXpg7yiA

2016 Toyota RAV4 Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gEnMo_G7eM8

2018 LA Auto Show: 2019 Toyota Prius AWD: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_uuYO8OIjl8

2014 Toyota Corolla First Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uu6QfFB7fDY

#179 2018 LA Auto Show Nov 30, 2018

Show notes

We're on the West Coast for the 2018 Los Angeles Auto Show, and discussing the big SUVs that debuted at the show, as well as the EVs and sedans that were announced. Some of the highlights from the show this year include the all-wheel drive Toyota Prius, the redesigned Toyota Corolla, the three-row Hyundai Palisade, and the rugged Honda Passport.

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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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01:01 2019 Toyota Prius

03:08 2019 Toyota Corolla

04:37 2019 Mazda 3

07:06 2020 Kia Soul

08:50 Hyundai Palisade

10:42 Lincoln Aviator

12:20 Honda Passport

13:46 Jeep Gladiator

15:44 BMW 3 Series

16:57 Porsche 911

19:00 Audi e-Tron GT

20:46 Our Favorites from the Show

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2018 LA Auto Show: 2020 Kia Soul

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fb_zoX4V6r8

2018 LA Auto Show: 2019 Toyota Prius AWD

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_uuYO8OIjl8

2018 LA Auto Show: 2019 Audi E-Tron

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

2018 LA Auto Show: 2020 Toyota Corolla

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_jdM7sVsfi4

2018 LA Auto Show: 2019 Honda Passport

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aU9DfC2zpNQ

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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

#178 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe Test Results; Automotive Trends We're Thankful For Nov 21, 2018

Show notes

With the Thanksgiving weekend upon us we thought it would be the perfect time to talk about all the things we are thankful for in the auto industry this year. We've also finished testing the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe, and discuss how it compares to the rest of its competitive SUV class, as well as the previous generation Santa Fe.

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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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01:08 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe Test Results

05:48 Auto Trends We're Thankful For

16:36 What Are Our Co-workers Thankful For

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2018 New York Auto Show: 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m3ilxcZv1rw

2016 Kia Sorento Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q9cvIuyLOGE

Best Black Friday Car Deals for 2018

https://www.consumerreports.org/buying-a-car/best-black-friday-car-deals/

Automotive Turkeys of 20189

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-automotive-turkeys-disappointing-cars-and-tires/

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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

#177 Ask Us Anything... About Cars! Nov 16, 2018

Show notes

This week, we dedicate the entire episode to answering your questions! We tackle everything from car buying advice for new parents, whether or not 'no haggle' policies help consumers when negotiating prices, the evolution of the Honda Ridgeline and the pros and cons of buying a new or used Tesla.

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Subscribe to Talking Cars on Apple Podcasts!

Video version: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-cars-hq/id630839767?mt=2

Audio version: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-cars-mp3/id630831189?mt=2

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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1:08 Video Question #1 - How and why do CR Reliability Ratings change?