Talking Cars (Video)

Latest Episodes:

#292 2021 Toyota Sienna First Impressions; Finding Parts for Classic Vehicles Jan 29, 2021

Show notes

This week we share our first impressions of the 2021 Toyota Sienna, and discuss the livability of this all-new minivan, the driving characteristics of the standard hybrid powertrain, and how it stacks up against competitors like the Chrysler Pacifica and Honda Odyssey. We also discuss tips for keeping LED headlights clear of ice and snow in winter weather, the best way to track down parts for classic cars, decipher all the acronyms and initials on the trim lines from various manufacturers, and how driving positions play a role in crash 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 - 2021 Toyota Sienna First Impressions

11:41 - Question #1: How to track down pmts for a classic vehicle?

14:48 - Question #2: How to keep LED headlights clear of snow and ice in the winter?

17:31 - Question #3: What do all the trim line initials and acronyms mean from different manufactures?

21:39 - Question #4: How do driving positions play a role in crash safety?

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First Drive: 2021 Toyota Sienna Proves a Compelling, Efficient SUV Alternative

https://www.consumerreports.org/minivans/2021-toyota-sienna-review/

4K Review: 2017 Toyota Sienna Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=165J4dCwUGU

4K Review: 2018 Honda Odyssey Quick Drive

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

Chrysler Pacifica Redefines the Minivan

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ACuDfSHfh2I

2020 Kia Soul Quick Drive

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

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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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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#291 2021 Hyundai Elantra First Impressions; Why a Fender Bender Can Be So Expensive Jan 22, 2021

Show notes

We recently purchased a new 2021 Hyundai Elantra for the Consumer Reports auto testing program, and we share our first impressions on the performance, infotainment, and styling of this small sedan. We also discuss why many modern cars seem to lack a traditional bumper, and why the cost of minor dings and fender benders can be surprisingly expensive. We also discuss the role a tire's sidewall can play in ride comfort, recent government reports regarding booster seat weight limits and how they impact CR's testing, and if a car from Alaska could have any issues at its new home in Florida.

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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 - 2021 Hyundai Elantra First Impressions

14:00 - Question #1: Why many modern cars seem to lack a traditional bumper?

16:55 - Question #2: How recent government reports regarding booster seat weight limits impact CR's testing?

22:53 - Question #3: What role does a tire's sidewall play in the car's ride comfort?

25:01 - Question #4: What issues could a car from Alaska have at its new home in Florida?

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Redesigned 2021 Hyundai Elantra Goes High-Tech and Hybrid

https://www.consumerreports.org/small-cars/2021-hyundai-elantra-review/

2017 Hyundai Elantra Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m1hxLaQO1Gg

When Is the Right Time for a Booster Seat?

https://www.consumerreports.org/booster-seats/when-is-the-right-time-for-a-booster-seat

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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#290 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime Test Results; How Big Tech is Influencing the Auto Industry Jan 15, 2021

Show notes

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

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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

00:34 - News of potential Apple-branded car produced by Hyundai.

09:19 - 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime Test Results

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

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

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

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First Drive: 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime Is Powerful and Luxurious

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

2019 LA Auto Show: 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime

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

2019 Toyota RAV4 Quick Drive

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

4K Review: 2018 Subaru Crosstrek Quick Drive

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

2020 Toyota Yaris Hatchback Gets Bigger and Adds Features

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

Cadillac's Super Cruise Outperforms Other Driving Assistance Systems

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

Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

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

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

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#289 Car Shopping Etiquette; Pricey Pickups; Can Dash Cams Save on Insurance? Jan 08, 2021

Show notes

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

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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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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How to Buy Your First New or Used Car

https://www.consumerreports.org/buying-a-car/how-to-buy-your-first-new-or-used-car/

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

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

Car Recall Guide: Your Questions Answered

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

Best New Cars for Teens

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

4K Review: 2017 Mazda CX-5 Quick Drive

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

4K Review: 2018 Honda Accord Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZRFEpKCeM9w

2020 Subaru Legacy Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oosO1qbA7uw

Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

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

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

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#288 Our Favorite Cars and the Ones That Disappointed Us in 2020 Dec 30, 2020

Show notes

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

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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 - The Best and Worst Cars of 2020

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

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

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

19:10 - Vehicles and trends for 2021

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2019 RAM 1500 Quick Drive

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

2019 Detroit Auto Show: 2020 Volkswagen Passat

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

2019 New York Auto Show: 2020 Cadillac CT5

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

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

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

2019 LA Auto Show: 2020 Nissan Sentra

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

2019 Toyota RAV4 Quick Drive

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

2019 LA Auto Show: 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime

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

2019 New York Auto Show: 2020 Toyota Highlander

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

Preview: 2021 Ford Bronco Reinvents a 4x4 Classic

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

Hot New Electric Cars Are Coming Soon

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

2019 LA Auto Show: 2020 Ford Mustang Mach-E

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

Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

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

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

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

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

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

#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.

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

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/

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

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.

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

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/

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

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.

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

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/

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

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

#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.

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

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 your 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/

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

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.

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

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/

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SHOW NOTES

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

00:00 - Introduction

00:31 - 2021 Toyota Venza First Drive

10:34 - Question #1: Why do BMWs skyrocket in ownership cost over a long period of time?

13:48 - Question #2: Why Matrix LED headlights are not allowed in the US?

17:01 - Question #3: What is the best practice for storing a convertible in a garage?

18:16 - Question #4: Which 3-row SUV is best suited for hauling 3 grandchildren?

21:58 - Things we are most grateful for this Thanksgiving.

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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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