Talking Cars (Video)

Latest Episodes:

#322 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee First Impressions; 2023 Nissan Z Preview Aug 30, 2021

Show notes

We share our first impressions of the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, discussing its performance on our track, and how it stacks up to competitors like the Toyota Highlander, Kia Telluride, and Honda Pilot. We preview the newly announced 2023 Nissan Z, including its highly anticipated 3.0L Twin Turbo V6 engine. Chevrolet has expanded its battery recall on the Bolt EV and EUV models, and what owners should do to stay safe until a fix is available. We also share audience feedback on their "Forever" car choices; whether the rapid speed of improvements will leave current electric vehicle shoppers with outdated battery technology; if that "new car smell" is toxic (and how to get rid of it if it's not for you); the safest way to change wheel sizes on a car; and which Toyota RAV4 is the best choice for a driving enthusiast.

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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 - Audience choice for the "Forever" car

06:03 - GM's battery recall for Chevrolet Bolt EV and Bolt EUV

07:37 - 2023 Nissan Z Preview

13:45 - 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L First Impressions

26:33 - Question #1: Will rapid speed of improvements leave current electric vehicle shoppers with outdated battery technology?

29:40 - Question #2: Can the "new car smell" be toxic, and how to get rid of it?

32:13 - Question #3: What is the safest way to change wheel sizes on a car?

37:04 - Question #4: Which Toyota RAV4 is the best choice for a driving enthusiast?

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GM Recalls All Chevrolet Bolts Due to Fire Concerns

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-recalls-defects/chevrolet-bolt-recalled-again-due-to-fire-concerns-a3566085147/

First Drive: New 3-Row 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L Is Sized for a Growing Family

https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2021-jeep-grand-cherokee-l-review-a5942817584/

Preview: All-New 2023 Nissan Z Combines Classic Cues, Modern Performance

https://www.consumerreports.org/sports-cars/nissan-z-preview-a2145463162/

When to Replace Your Tires

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n98VF8kb7mQ

Low-Profile Tires vs. Potholes

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n98VF8kb7mQ

How Consumer Reports tests ultra performance tires

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cgLbqdDdY-Y

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/

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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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#321 2022 Toyota GR86 First Impressions; What's Your "Forever" Car? Aug 20, 2021

Show notes

This week we share our first impressions of the 2022 Toyota GR86, discussing how it performed on our track, and how it compares to the previous generation Scion FR-S, Toyota 86, and Subaru BRZ. If you had to pick one car to drive for the rest of your life, what would you choose? Our experts share their choices! Other topics include: can you replace just two tires, or should you buy four new ones each time; why turn signals can be either amber or red in North America, and which color is proven to be safer; and why some vehicles are not crash tested by IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety).

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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 - 2022 Toyota GR86 First Impressions

12:26 - The "Forever" Car

20:57 - Question #1: Do you absolutely need to replace all four tires when getting new ones?

24:22 - Question #2: Should auto manufacturers be required to only use amber colored turn signals on cars?

30:07 - Question #3: Why some vehicles are not crash tested by the IIHS?

31:19 - Question #4: What suitable replacement for a Scion xB under 30K?

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First Drive: The 2022 Toyota GR86 Sports Car Thrills

https://www.consumerreports.org/sports-cars/2022-toyota-gr86-review/

Scion FR-S vs Subaru BRZ at Consumer Reports test track

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PWwz7Ybpy1U

2013 Subaru BRZ first look

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

Scion FR-S first drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UG2RuRk1R3s

When to Replace Your Tires

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n98VF8kb7mQ

Low-Profile Tires vs. Potholes

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n98VF8kb7mQ

How Consumer Reports tests ultra performance tires

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cgLbqdDdY-Y

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/

2014 Porsche 911 Review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Cj6c-YVos0

2019 Kia Sorento Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K01h_FPkmkQ

2019 Subaru Forester Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dymKOcVk7Iw

2019 New York Auto Show: 2020 Hyundai Venue

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

2020 Kia Soul Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e9mEQcbgync

4K Review: 2017 Subaru Impreza Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5bze9pGvsiY

2015 Jeep Renegade preview

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zj9jNoHsZHc

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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

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#320 2022 Nissan Frontier & 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz First Impressions Aug 13, 2021

Show notes

This week we share our first impressions of the 2022 Nissan Frontier and 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz, and discuss which consumers each might appeal to. We talk about how Consumer Reports testing methods are evolving as electric vehicles become more prominent; if spare tires expire, and when you might want to consider a replacement; if "skateboard-style" EVs weight distribution improves its traction performance; and if the Toyota Prius' shifter design shortcomings are overlooked in CR's ratings.

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

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 - New York Auto Show Cancelled

02:28 - Audience Picks for "Guilty Pleasure Vehicles"

08:27 - 2022 Nissan Frontier First Impressions

18:04 - 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz First Impressions

27:45 - Question #1: When should you replace a spare tire?

28:58 - Question #2: How will CR's testing methods change when electric vehicles become more prominent?

30:28 - Question #3: Does the even battery weight distribution on a "skateboard-style" EV improve its traction performance?

31:26 - Question #4: Does the Prius' efficiency and reliability wash out its unique shifter design shortcomings?

34:16 - Question #5: How to choose a car with optimal seat comfort?

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First Drive: The 2022 Nissan Frontier Is More Than Just a New Look

https://www.consumerreports.org/pickup-trucks/2022-nissan-frontier-review/

First Drive: 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz Pickup Proves Ready for Pint-Sized Adventures

https://www.consumerreports.org/pickup-trucks/2022-hyundai-santa-cruz-review/

Electric Cars 101: The Answers to All Your EV Questions

https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/electric-cars-101-the-answers-to-all-your-ev-questions/

When It Comes to Gear Selectors, Drivers Prefer the Simplicity of Old-School Shifters

https://www.consumerreports.org/automotive-technology/car-gear-selector-satisfaction-survey/

When to Replace Your Tires

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n98VF8kb7mQ

Low-Profile Tires vs. Potholes

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n98VF8kb7mQ

2016 Toyota Prius Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6GwUY0-gB0Q

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

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

#319 Our 'Guilty Pleasure' Cars; 2021 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid Test Results Aug 06, 2021

Show notes

This week we share test results for the 2021 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid and debate its appeal amidst newer, all-electric Hyundais that go by the same name. We also reveal which cars from CR's test program we consider guilty pleasures and we answer audience questions about tire warranties, unique paint colors and what happens to frunk cargo in a crash.

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SHOW NOTES:

0:30 - Emily tests new rear seat reminders

2:16 - 2021 Hyundai Ioniq test results

10:00 - Our guilty pleasure cars

19:24 - Question #1: How can I get a tire warranty if the shop I bought them from didn't supply one?

22:53 - Question #2: Why aren't there more green colored vehicles?

24:33 - Question #3: Would hard objects in a frunk affect crash safety?

26:36 - Question #4: Why does the U.S. have multiple systems to charge electric vehicles?

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LINKS:

2021 Hyundai Ioniq: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hyundai/ioniq/

Preview: Hyundai Ioniq 5 EV Accelerates New Sub-Brand Into the High-Tech Future: https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/2022-hyundai-ioniq-5-review/

Toyota Avalon 2019-2021 Quick Drive: https://www.consumerreports.org/video/view/cars/auto-test-track/5772126295001/toyota-avalon-2019-2021-quick-drive/

Honda Passport 2019-2021 Quick Drive: https://www.consumerreports.org/video/view/cars/auto-test-track/5995562998001/honda-passport-2019-2021-quick-drive/

Volkswagen Tiguan 2018-2021 Quick Drive: https://www.consumerreports.org/video/view/cars/auto-test-track/5530220791001/volkswagen-tiguan-2018-2021-quick-drive/

Kia Optima 2016-2020 Quick Drive: https://www.consumerreports.org/video/view/cars/auto-test-track/4628343819001/kia-optima-2016-2020-quick-drive/

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

#318 2022 Genesis GV70 First Impressions; OEM Brakes vs. Aftermarket Jul 30, 2021

Show notes

On this episode we share our driving impressions of the 2022 Genesis GV70, and how it compares to its larger sibling the GV80, as well as others in the small luxury SUV segment. We also share a story about how a question from a Talking Cars viewer led to a change in the IIHS' ratings for the Mazda CX-5. Other topics include: how you can save money when getting brakes replaced at a dealership; if driving a car in Sport mode will wear out an engine faster; whether vehicle undercoating is worth the investment; and our experts suggest reliable, fun used 4x4 SUVs under 10k that are great for tackling rutted dirt roads.

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

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 - IIHS Ratings Adjustment on Mazda CX-5 Active Safety Systems

02:45 - Future SUV Classic Follow-up

08:05 - 2022 Genesis GV70 First Impressions

20:47 - Question #1: Should vehicle brakes be only serviced at the dealer?

26:30 - Question #2: Will driving in sport mode wear out the car's engine prematurely?

27:23 - Question #3: Are vehicle undercoatings worth the investment or a waste of money?

31:05 - Question #4: What reliable, fun used 4x4 SUV under 10K is best suited for tackling rutted dirt roads?

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First Drive: All-New 2022 Genesis GV70 SUV Delivers Comfort, Agility, and Luxury

https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2022-genesis-gv70-review/

Talking Cars 303: Driving the 2021 Genesis GV80

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-driving/talking-cars-303-2021-genesis-gv80-driving-comfort/

IIHS - 2021 Mazda CX-5

https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/mazda/cx-5-4-door-suv/2021

Guide to Rear-Seat Reminder Systems

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-safety/guide-to-rear-seat-reminder-systems/

Heatstroke Deaths of Children on Vehicles

https://www.noheatstroke.org/

How to Protect Your Car From Rodents

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-maintenance/how-to-protect-your-car-from-rodents/

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

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

#317 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Driving Impressions; Chevrolet Bolt Battery Fire Danger Jul 23, 2021

Show notes

This week we talk about Jeep's plug-in hybrid version of the Wrangler, the 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe, and share our driving impressions, as well as what it is like to go off-road on pure electric power. We also discuss the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's recall of the 2017 - 2019 Chevrolet Bolt due to the potential of a battery fire, and what you need to know if you own one. Other topics include: whether a Nissan Leaf is a good first car for a teen driver; why you need to be sure your tires aren't inside out when you have them mounted by a professional; if engine braking can damage a vehicle's transmission; and we choose our favorite SUVs that could become classics in the future.

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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

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

00:00 - Introduction

00:29 - Chevrolet Bolt EV Recall

03:37 - 2022 Jeep Wrangler 4xe First Impressions

16:18 - Future SUV Classics

22:43 - Question #1: Are soap and water okay to wash your car?

26:08 - Question #2: Why is it important to make sure your tires aren't inside out 29:19 - Question #3: Does engine braking take a toll on your vehicle's transmission?

32:45 - Question #4: Is a Nissan Leaf a good used car for a new teen driver?

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Chevrolet Bolt EVs Should Be Parked Outdoors Due to Fire Risk, Government Agency Warns

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-recalls-defects/chevrolet-bolt-evs-should-be-parked-outdoors-fire-risk-a9383743446/

Bolt EV Recall

https://my.chevrolet.com/how-to-support/safety/boltevrecall

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/

Top Car-Washing Strategies

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HHeAomlE5F4

How to Wash Your Car

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-repair-maintenance/how-to-wash-your-car/

Nissan Leaf review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E70dfFK0HPI

Toyota Prius Road Test

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

How well does the Toyota Prius hold up

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8DRQEusvNis

Guide to Car Safety

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

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

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

#316 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness; Vehicles That May Help Survive a Storm Jul 16, 2021

Show notes

This week we share our driving impressions of the 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness, and discuss how this all-terrain SUV's off-road credentials compare to the standard Outback. We also talk about NHTSA's (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) new requirements for automakers to report all automated driving related crashes, and how this could benefit drivers. We share news from the Stellantis auto conglomerate (which owns Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Fiat, and Alfa Romeo in the US,) and its plans for the electrification of its fleet, and some interesting slogans to market its new EVs. Other topics include: which vehicles would be best suited for areas with high potential for hurricanes; how to properly maintain a car's A/C unit in the peak of summer; and if you should hold off on purchasing a used vehicle with outstanding recalls.

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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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00:00 - Introduction

00:32 - NHTSA Requires Automakers to Report Automation-Related Crashes

03:45 - Stellantis Reveals Plans for Vehicle Electrification

07:46 - Best Vehicles to Survive a Severe Storm

19:12 - Question #1: What is the proper way to maintain your car's A/C unit?

22:11 - Question #2: Is it possible to put the Toyota Supra's transmission into neutral without starting it?

25:41 - Question #3: Which advanced safety gear is better, camera or radar based?32:05 - Question #4: Is it safe to purchase a vehicle with outstanding recalls?

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2020 Subaru Outback Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ovW5kMBdLB0

Automakers Now Required to Report Automation-Related Crashes

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-safety/automakers-now-required-to-report-automation-related-crashes-a3894720173/

Prepare Now for Hurricanes and Severe Storms

https://www.consumerreports.org/emergency-preparedness/prepare-now-for-hurricanes-and-storms/

Why Flooded Roads Are More Dangerous Than They May Appear

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-safety/why-flooded-roads-are-more-dangerous-than-they-may-appear/

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/

What's Next in Car Safety

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-safety/whats-next-in-car-safety/

Car Recall Guide: Your Questions Answered

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

Car Recall Tracker

https://www.consumerreports.org/mycr/benefits/car-recall-tracker?searchToken=Car%20recall

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/

Guide to Car Safety

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

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

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

#315 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV First Impressions; Our Favorite 'American' Cars Jul 09, 2021

Show notes

The 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV joins our test fleet and we share our first impressions. Find out how the all-electric EUV compares to the original Bolt and if the inclusion of GM's Super Cruise system makes or breaks this all-new vehicle. We also debate what makes a vehicle 'American' and answer audience questions about EV battery life, tire degradation and predicted reliability.

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SHOW NOTES:

0:24 - Favorite 'American' car

6:22 - 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV

15:55 - Super Cruise

18:35 - Question #1: Do high temperatures hurt turbo powered engines?

20:58 - Question #2: Can hot temperatures reduce the range of battery-powered cars?

23:22 - Question #3: What scientifically happens to tires when they age?

25:50 - Question #4: Does CR consider the Toyota Venza a new production vehicle since it has been built in Japan for four years? What does that mean for its predicted reliability?

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LINKS:

Talking Cars 306: Our first Impression of the 2021 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Coupe: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-driving/talking-cars-306-our-first-impressions-of-the-2021-chevrolet-a1148941883/

Best American Cars, SUVs, and Trucks: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-best-american-cars-suvs-trucks/

2017 Acura NSX Hybrid Is the Friendly Supercar: https://www.consumerreports.org/sports-cars/2017-acura-nsx-first-drive-review-video/

First Drive: Big, Burly 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD and GMC Sierra 2500HD: https://www.consumerreports.org/pickup-trucks/2020-chevrolet-silverado-gmc-sierra-2500-hd-review/

Preview: Chevrolet Introduces a Freshened Electric Bolt and Bolt EUV: https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/2022-chevrolet-bolt-euv-and-bolt-review/

#314 2022 Volkswagen Taos First Impressions; Tesla Model 3 Advanced Safety Update Jul 02, 2021

Show notes

This week we share our first impressions of the 2022 Volkswagen Taos small SUV; its variety of powertrains, driving characteristics, and quality of cabin materials. NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) updated its recommendations regarding the Tesla Model 3's camera-based AEB system, and we provide an update on CR's scoring of the vehicle. Other topics include: the best new or used cars for under $25k; how to diagnose your car battery's health; and what (if anything) consumers can do about rising destination fees.

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

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 - Tesla Model 3 Advanced Safety Update

02:21 - Best Used and New Cars For Under 25K

10:35 - 2022 Volkswagen Taos First Impressions

17:25 - Question #1: How can you tell your car's battery needs to be replaced?

20:30 - Question #2: Does CR intend to test how EVs perform on long trips?

24:40 - Question #3: Why are car destination and delivery charges going through the roof?27:32 - Question #4: Do vinyl wraps and ceramic coating work, or are they just another gimmick?

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Preview: 2022 Volkswagen Taos SUV Squeezes Signature Brand Features Into a Small Package

https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2022-volkswagen-taos-review/

Tesla Model 3 Regains CR Top Pick Status and IIHS Safety Award

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-safety/tesla-model-3-regains-cr-top-pick-status-iihs-safety-award-a1085318072/

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/

Sticker Shock: The Truth About Destination Fees

https://www.consumerreports.org/buying-a-car/the-truth-about-destination-fees/

CR's Guide to Vacation and Travel

https://www.consumerreports.org/travel/guide-to-vacation-travel/

Guide to Car Safety

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

Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

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#313 GM Enhanced Super Cruise Review; Tips to Survive a Road Trip with Kids Jun 25, 2021

Show notes

This week we review GM's automated driving enhanced Super Cruise system, tested on the 2021 Cadillac Escalade we purchased for our test program, and discuss how it compares to the previous version, as well as competitors like Tesla's Autopilot. With the arrival of summer and temperatures rising across the US, we share tips on how to keep your family safe and cool your car quickly. We also share how to keep kids occupied during long road trips; whether older, rare cars like the Chevrolet SSR could lack replacement parts as it gets older; what to do to prevent dirt, bugs, and other debris from disabling your car's camera-based safety systems; and how the massive chip shortage might affect the build quality of 2022 model year vehicles.

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SHOW NOTES

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00:00 - Introduction

00:28 - Kids in Hot Cars

06:19 - Road Trips with Kids

13:31 - GM's Enhanced Super Cruise

20:11 - Question #1: Could older, rare cars lack replacement parts as they get older?

22:02 - Question #2: How to prevent dirt, bugs, and other debris from disabling vehicle safety systems?

24:23 - Question #3: Could the massive chip shortage affect the build quality of 2022 model year vehicles?

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Self-Driving System Ranking

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

Auto Industry and Lawmakers Call for Driver Monitoring Systems to Improve Safety

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-safety/call-for-driver-monitoring-to-improve-car-safety/

First Drive: 2021 Cadillac Escalade Proves Powerful, High-Tech, and Truly Luxurious

https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2021-cadillac-escalade-review/

Tesla Full Self-Driving Review

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

Hot Car Fatalities Are a Year-Round Threat to Children and Pets

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-safety/hot-car-fatalities-year-round-threat-to-children-pets-heat-stroke/

Research Shows That Anyone Could Forget Kids in Hot Cars

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-safety/anyone-could-forget-kids-in-hot-car-forgotten-baby-syndrome/

CR's Guide to Vacation and Travel

https://www.consumerreports.org/travel/guide-to-vacation-travel/

Global Chip Shortage Makes It Tough to Buy Certain Cars

https://www.consumerreports.org/buying-a-car/global-chip-shortage-makes-it-tough-to-buy-certain-cars-a8160576456/

Guide to Car Safety

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

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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