Talking Cars (Video)

Latest Episodes:

#242 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB First Impressions; Replacing Run-Flats with Standard Tires | Talking Cars #242 Feb 14, 2020

Show notes

We just purchased the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB250 for our test program, and discuss its driving characteristics, controls, and where this compact SUV fits into the Mercedes lineup. We also dip into our mail bag and answer questions about replacing run-flats with regular tires, recommend a compact luxury sport sedan for city driving in Canada, and suggest a CUV (crossover utility vehicle) that is capable of fitting 3 child seats in the second row.

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Take our survey here: CR.org/TalkingCarsSurvey

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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01:00 - 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB First Impressions

11:39 - Question #1: What to know when switching from run-flats to regular tires?

15:31 - Question #2: What is a good luxury compact sport sedan for city driving?

19:00 - Question #3: Which CUV is capable of fitting 3 child seats across in the second row?

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First Drive: 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB Delivers Practical Luxury

https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2020-mercedes-benz-glb-review/

2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o255jI5MTf0

2013 Mercedes-Benz GLk350 quick take

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7eZWQzM6mQE

2014 BMW 2 Series Review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5d2y06Kh5LQ

2019 Genesis G70 Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UDrN5_R3Bu0

2015 Audi A3 Review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0fy_kUWXpi0

2017 Audi A4 Quick Drive

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

2020 Kia Telluride Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eBNhy1Putrs

2020 Subaru Legacy Quick Drive

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

2018 LA Auto Show: 2020 Hyundai Palisade

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

2020 Subaru Outback Quick Drive

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

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#241 2020 Cadillac CT5 First Impressions; 'Super' Car Ads Feb 07, 2020

Show notes

We bought the all-new Cadillac CT5 for our test program and share our first impressions. Find out if we think this sports sedan has what it takes to challenge European competitors. Plus, we recap Super Bowl car ads that caught our attention and answer audience questions about traveling with pets and how vehicles earn a CR Recommendation.

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

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SHOW NOTES:

0:52 - Super Bowl Car commercials

1:13 - Genesis GV80 commercial

4:26 - Hyundai Sonata Smart Park Commercial

7:28 - GMC Hummer Commercial

10:38 - Cadillac CT5 First Impressions

18:50 - Question #1: Why does CR recommend all-new/redesigned model vehicles?

21:40 - Question #2: Will updating an Audi Q5 TDI (VW settlement) introduce problems to an otherwise 'perfect' car?

23:39 - Question #3: What are the pros/cons of buying a used EV (specifically, BMW i3)?

25:46 - Question #4: What's the best practice for safely traveling with pets?

LINKS:

Track Science: Tesla P85D vs. Challenger Hellcat: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CCbEAttZTtA

2019 New York Auto Show: 2020 Cadillac CT5: https://www.consumerreports.org/video/view/cars/news/6027187340001/2019-new-york-auto-show--2020-cadillac-ct5/

Which Car Brands Make the Best Vehicles?: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles/

https://www.centerforpetsafety.org/

#240 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS Test Results; Captain's Chairs vs Bench Seats Jan 31, 2020

Show notes

This week, we discuss the test results of the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS450, and we share how this luxurious 3-row SUV performed at our track. We also answer questions about the likelihood of LED headlights getting covered by snow and ice (and what to do about it,) why the captain's chairs on higher trim level 3-row CUVs and SUVs might not be preferable to a standard bench seat, and if the new Honda Accord's 4-cylinder turbo engine is reliable.

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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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00:58 - 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS Test Results

09:03 - Question 1: Are new LED headlights less capable to melt snow and ice off the lens than the old halogens?

13:22 - Question 2: Captain's chairs vs.bench seats

18:23- Question 3: Is the Honda Accord 4-cylinder turbo engine reliable?

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2019 New York Auto Show: 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p8AkZXtyxcI

2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/mercedes-benz/gls/

First Drive: Polished 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS Expands Tech and Luxury

https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2020-mercedes-benz-gls-review/

How to Keep Your Car's Safety Sensors Clean When Snow and Ice Attack

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-safety/how-to-keep-your-car-sensors-clean-in-winter/

Honda Extends Warranty on Troubled Turbo Engines

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-recalls-defects/honda-extends-warranty-on-troubled-turbo-engines/

4K Review: 2018 Honda Accord Quick Drive

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

4K Review: 2018 Toyota Camry Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SpOUrt8sLGE

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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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#239 2020 Chevrolet Silverado Diesel Test Results; Do Tires Ever Expire? Jan 27, 2020

Show notes

This week, we reveal the test results of the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado Diesel, which leads us to ask what does the future of the pickup truck look like? We also talk about the legality, drivability, and safety concerns surrounding lifted pickup trucks, if tires can expire with age rather than wear, and why Consumer Reports' fuel test results differ from the EPA's numbers.

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

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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00:15 - 2020 Chevrolet Silverado Diesel Test Results

06:21 - Future of Pickup Trucks

09:49 - Question #1: Should Modified Pickup Trucks be Legal?

11:43 - Question #2: How Does Extra Weight of the Fuel Impact a Car's Road Test Score?

13:23 - Question #3: Do Tire Ever Expire?

16:18 - Question #4: Why Consumer Reports' Fuel Test Results Differ From the EPA's

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2019 Chevrolet Silverado Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dRUg91k93Xw /

2019 Chevrolet Silverado; Mercedes-Benz Goes Electric | Talking Cars with Consumer Reports #167

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

The hidden dangers of old tires

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vc1fNbbYNgM

Talking Cars with Consumer Reports #19: All About Tires

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZXG1ikVgL-M

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

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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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#238 2020 Hyundai Sonata First Impressions; Audience Questions Jan 17, 2020

Show notes

The 2020 Hyundai Sonata joins our test fleet and we discuss the redesigned car's bold new styling, the role sedans play in a market dominated by SUVs and how Hyundai packed the latest safety and convenience technology into an affordable vehicle. Plus, we answer your questions about run-flat tire tread wear, CR's stance on hard buttons versus touchscreens and how seats that lack lumbar adjustment can be a dealbreaker.

Check out https://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

SHOW NOTES:

0:30 - 2020 Hyundai Sonata First Impressions

10:42 - Send us your questions at TalkingCars@icloud.com

10:52 - Question #1: Does CR rate run-flat tires and are they usually noisier than regular tires?

13:37 - Question #2: Why does CR lament about the lack hard buttons on modern infotainment systems?

17:52 - Question #3: Is integrated adjustable lumbar better than using a separate lumbar cushion to enhance seat comfort?

20:38 - Question #4: Do you have to recalibrate a vehicles advanced safety systems if you change the wheel/tire size for winter driving?

LINKS:

2020 Hyundai Sonata Is a Big Step Forward: https://www.consumerreports.org/hyundai-sonata/2020-hyundai-sonata-review/

Autos Tips: Checking Tire Tread: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lu2gEB18bwk

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

#237 2020 Nissan Sentra; CES Concept Cars; Are Re-Tread Tires a Good Option? Jan 10, 2020

Show notes

This week, we rented the 2020 Nissan Sentra, and give our first impressions on how this compact sedan drives, handles, and has evolved since it was introduced way back in 2013. We also discuss some of the concept cars that were unveiled at CES (including a car from Sony??) We also talk about whether re-tread tires are a good choice when shopping for a new set of wheels for your vehicle, as well as the viability of street parking (and only occasionally charging) a Tesla Model 3 in Boston, what we do with our cars after we've completed testing, and how Consumer Reports' avoidance maneuver evaluation compares to Europe's famous "moose test."

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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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00:27 - 2020 Consumer Electronics Show-

06:40 - 2020 Nissan Sentra First Impressions

12:55 - Question #1: Are re-treaded tires a viable options?

16:04 - Question #2: How does the "Moose Test" compare to CR's Avoidance Maneuver Test?

20:49 - Question #3: Is buying a Tesla Model 3 a good idea for a city life style?

25:56 - Question #4: What CR does with their test cars after they complete the test cycle?

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Insider's Guide to CES

https://www.consumerreports.org/consumer-electronics-show/ces-guide/

2020 Nissan Sentra Overview

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/nissan/sentra/2020/overview

2019 LA Auto Show: 2020 Nissan Sentra

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

2016 Nissan Sentra Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q68KKwGabLY

2018 Tesla Model 3 Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S0VlwLRJFAo

2019 Toyota RAV4 Quick Drive

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

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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

Best Autos Moments of the Decade Dec 30, 2019

Show notes

As we wrap up the final days of the decade, we look back on our favorite moments of the last ten years: our favorite vehicles of the 2010s, the most important innovations in the automotive space, and how Consumer Reports has adapted to this rapidly changing industry. We also discuss our predictions and wishes for what's to come in 2020 and beyond!

SHOW NOTES

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0:43 - how testing has changed at CR in the last ten years

3:15 - the cars CR was testing in 2010

9:13 - favorite automotive innovation of the 2010s

13:39 - most important innovation of the 2010s

23:23 - our predictions for the next decade

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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

2020 Mercedes-Benz CLA Test Results; 2019 Automotive Naughty & Nice List Dec 27, 2019

Show notes

We have completed testing on Mercedes' 4-door coupe (or is it a sedan?), the 2020 CLA, and discuss whether its lower price makes it worthy of being a "gateway Benz." We celebrate this festive season and the end of 2019 with our own naughty and nice lists, and share our personal highlights and lowlights from the past year. We also talk about the nuances of finding the right adaptive cruise control system, how CR awards points for advanced safety gear across model lines, and the benefits of all-season tires over their summer and winter counterparts.

SHOW NOTES

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0:28 - our 2019 naughty & nice lists

10:06 - Mercedes-Benz CLA test results

15:49 - all-seasons tires, or a winter/summer tire combo?

18:08 - how CR factors in all available advanced safety gear for a model into its ratings

20:02 - the differences between various adaptive cruise control systems

23:50 - drivetrains differences in CR's testing methodology

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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

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

2020 Toyota Highlander First Impressions; Studded Tires & Rustproofing for Winter Driving Dec 20, 2019

Show notes

We rented the all-new 2020 Toyota Highlander SUV this week, and give you our first impressions after taking it for a spin at the Consumer Reports test track. We also discuss whether underbody rustproofing and studded tires (or lack thereof) are must-have equipment for driving in the snow and ice this winter. Other topics include how manufacturers determine their original equipment tires, the importance of proper child seat fitment, and what is one car we would love, if not for a critical misstep.

SHOW NOTES

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:29 - importance of proper child seat installation

3:25 - 2020 Toyota Highlander First Impressions

9:05 - relationship between tires and car in CR's braking tests

11:58 - is underbelly rustproofing worth purchasing for winter driving

14:42 - can studdable tires be used without installing studs?

16:25 - cars that would be great except for one major issue

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2020 Toyota Highlander Review: https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2020-toyota-highlander-review/

How to Avoid Common Car-Seat Installation Mistakes: https://www.consumerreports.org/car-seats/how-to-avoid-common-car-seat-installation-mistakes/

Consumer Reports Tire Selector: https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/tires.htm

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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

Subscribe to Talking Cars on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jr8wJRJyN9v8T6LC1fQQ6

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!

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

2020 Mazda CX-30 & 2020 Hyundai Venue; Is It Smart to Buy a Used Car Online? Dec 13, 2019

Show notes

Consumer Reports recently rented a 2020 Mazda CX-30, the carmaker's latest small SUV, and purchased the all-new 2020 Hyundai Venue small SUV, and we give our first impressions on what it's like to be behind the wheel of these new cars in this growing segment. We also discuss used car buying sites like Carvana and Vroom, and what you can do to protect yourself when purchasing a car online. In addition, we answer audience questions about the scarcity of the Volkswagen eGolf in the US, how to properly store a car during cold winter months, and the right approach to tire buying when your current set consists of different brands.

SHOW NOTES

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0:30 - 2020 Mazda CX-5 First Impressions

7:42 - 2020 Hyundai Venue First Impressions

17:34 - Is it smart to buy a used car online using services like Carvana?

18:21 - Why is it so difficult to find a late model Volkwagen e-Golf in the US?

21:45 - Dunlops and Kinda tires on my car, should I get a matching set?

24:56 - what's the best way to store a car during the winter months?

LINKS

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First Drive: 2020 Hyundai Venue: https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2020-hyundai-venue-review/

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

What to Look for When Purchasing a Used Electric Vehicle: https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/great-time-to-buy-a-used-electric-vehicle/

How to Save Money When Buying Replacement Tires: https://www.consumerreports.org/tire-buying-maintenance/how-to-save-money-when-buying-replacement-tires/

Tire Ratings: https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/tires.htm?searchToken=winter%20tires

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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

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

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