Talking Cars (Video)
452 episodes - English - Latest episode: 19 days ago - ★★★★ - 6 ratingsJoin our experts at the Consumer Reports Test Track as they discuss cars, answer buying questions, and share insights on everything automotive.
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Episodes
#301 2022 KIA Carnival First Impressions; What Is Driving Up New Car Prices?
April 02, 2021 18:00 - 28 minutes - 469 MB VideoThis week we rented the 2022 Kia Carnival, and share our first impressions on its unique styling, utility, driving dynamics, and how it compares to the Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, and Chrysler Pacifica. We also examine why people are spending more on new vehicles, and what is driving the average car prices so high. We also discuss whether it is wise to sell an older vehicle and purchase a brand new one; if panoramic sunroofs are less safe in a rollover crash; when to consider purchasing an...
#300 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe; the Future of Infrastructure, Self-Driving, and EVs
March 29, 2021 20:01 - 45 minutes - 431 MB VideoThis week we give our first impressions of the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe, sharing how it performed on our track, interior comfort and quality, and where it fits into Hyundai's crowded SUV family. We also share how recent testing at the Consumer Reports test track discovered issues with the 2021 Hyundai Elantra and 2021 Toyota Sienna, and how each automaker responded to our findings to fix these vehicles. And our humble podcast has been on the road for over 8 years, beginning in March 2013, so to...
#299 2021 Buick Envision First Impressions; The Rise of Destination Fees
March 20, 2021 02:27 - 29 minutes - 469 MB VideoThis week we share our first impressions of the 2021 Buick Envision, and discuss where it’s built and how that affects its driving dynamics in comparison to other luxury compact SUVs like the Audi Q5, BMW X3, and Mercedes-Benz GLC. We also examine vehicle destination fees, discuss why these ballooning delivery charges may add to the cost of your new car, and point out which manufacturers are the biggest offenders of driving up the cost. Other topics include: the discrepancy between a tire pr...
#298 Car Lease Negotiation Tips; Is Buying A High Mileage Used Vehicle Sensible?
March 12, 2021 21:41 - 29 minutes - 473 MB VideoThis week we discuss whether you should always trust a dealer's advice on maintenance intervals; if seat protector mats are safe to use with child seats; if purchasing a used CR recommended vehicle with high mileage is a wise choice; tips for negotiating a car lease, and if asking to have an independent mechanic check a certified pre-owned car is an automotive faux pas. ----------------------------------- Have a question for our experts? Leave a comment on this episode, or reach ...
#297: 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 First Impressions; Kia Carnival
March 05, 2021 22:18 - 29 minutes - 481 MB VideoThis week, we give our first impressions on Volkswagen's all-electric ID.4 small SUV. We discuss the ID.4's unique styling, how it compares to the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Tesla Model 3 and Y, and how VW's Electrify America charging network will need to make improvements to compete with other EV charging infrastructures. We also discuss the predicted reliability of the recently announced Kia Carnival minivan, that replaces the Sedona in Kia's lineup. We also discuss the recall of Tesla's touc...
#296 2021 Ford F-150 Hybrid First Impressions; CR's New Green Choice Program
February 26, 2021 17:12 - 29 minutes - 474 MB VideoThis week we share our first impressions of the redesigned 2021 Ford F-150 Hybrid. We talk about all the new features that the F-150 has to offer, including the built-in generator, hybrid powertrain performance, and the sizable touch screen. Consumer Reports recently released a new auto designation called Green Choice, which spotlights the more environmentally friendly vehicles on the market. We explain the purpose of the Green Choice designation, and which criteria vehicles need to meet to ...
#295 2021 Ford Bronco Sport First Impressions; New Chevrolet Bolt EUV
February 19, 2021 22:00 - 26 minutes - 470 MB VideoThe Bronco name is back, and this week we share our first impressions on the all-new 2021 Ford Bronco Sport, catering to those looking for a rugged, off-road capable vehicle. We discuss how the small SUV, sibling of the larger Bronco, handles rocks and mud, as well as its engine performance and interior comfort. Chevrolet announced an updated version of its all-electric Bolt and an all-new Bolt EUV. We discuss the key changes for the Bolt EV, and how the inclusion of GM's Super Cruise active...
#294 2021 Polestar 2 First Impressions; New Nissan Frontier & Pathfinder
February 13, 2021 02:00 - 29 minutes - 474 MB VideoCR recently bought the very first car released by Polestar, the performance brand from parent company Volvo. The Polestar 2 is an all-electric hatchback built to compete with other luxury EVs like the Tesla Model 3 and Audi e-tron, and we share our first impressions on what we found taking it on the open road, as well as our test track. Nissan recently announced a redesigned Frontier pickup truck and Pathfinder SUV, and we ask the big question: what took so long?! Other topics this week incl...
#293 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E First Impressions; Redesigned Tesla Model S
February 06, 2021 01:21 - 28 minutes - 476 MB VideoThis week we discuss the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E all-electric SUV, sharing our first impressions on the driving dynamics, the screen-dominated interior, and if we think it is worthy of the Mustang badge. Tesla recently unveiled big changes to its Model S sedan and Model X SUV, introducing a yoke-style steering wheel, and foregoing turn signal and gear selector stalks in favor of touch capacitive buttons and screen controls. We speculate what these changes will mean for drivers, and touch on...
#292 2021 Toyota Sienna First Impressions; Finding Parts for Classic Vehicles
January 29, 2021 20:00 - 26 minutes - 444 MB VideoThis 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, a...
#291 2021 Hyundai Elantra First Impressions; Why a Fender Bender Can Be So Expensive
January 22, 2021 23:00 - 28 minutes - 476 MB VideoWe 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...
#290 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime Test Results; How Big Tech is Influencing the Auto Industry
January 15, 2021 23:00 - 29 minutes - 488 MB VideoWe'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 p...
#289 Car Shopping Etiquette; Pricey Pickups; Can Dash Cams Save on Insurance?
January 08, 2021 22:00 - 29 minutes - 399 MB VideoAre 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 Tes...
#288 Our Favorite Cars and the Ones That Disappointed Us in 2020
December 30, 2020 17:00 - 29 minutes - 476 MB VideoThis 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. ----------------------------------- Have a ques...
#287 2020 Tesla Model Y Test Results
December 25, 2020 17:00 - 26 minutes - 485 MB VideoWe 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. -------------------------...
#286 2021 BMW 4 Series First Impressions; Test Drives During The Pandemic
December 18, 2020 22:58 - 23 minutes - 365 MB VideoWe 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. --------------------------------...
#285 2020 RAM 1500 Diesel Test Results; New Honda Civic, Subaru BRZ, and Acura MDX
December 11, 2020 22:00 - 29 minutes - 410 MB VideoThis 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 an...
#284 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA First Impressions; Are Expensive Wiper Blades Worth It?
December 04, 2020 20:00 - 25 minutes - 492 MB VideoThis 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 w...
#283 2021 Toyota Venza first Impressions; Ballooning Cost of Ownership for BMWs
November 27, 2020 17:00 - 29 minutes - 490 MB VideoWe 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 av...
#282 2020 Land Rover Defender First Impressions; CR's Annual Auto Reliability Survey
November 20, 2020 22:00 - 29 minutes - 497 MB VideoEvery year, Consumer Reports releases the results of its auto reliability survey, collecting data from hundreds of thousands of our members. We share the process of collecting this data, as well as some highlights from this year's results. The 2020 Land Rover Defender is a recent addition to our test program, and we share our first impressions on this resurrected and rugged luxury off-roader SUV. We also answer questions about NVH (noise, vibration, and harshness) shields on cars, possible s...
#281 Toyota RAV4 Fuel Issues; Are Crash Tests Too Perfect?
November 14, 2020 06:37 - 29 minutes - 492 MB VideoWe discuss a number of topics this week, including an issue with Toyota RAV4 hybrids not able to fully fill their gas tanks, why some recall fixes can leave you without your car for months, if the positioning of occupant dummies in crash tests is not applicable to real-world conditions, why automaker Mitsubishi isn't as popular in the US market as it once was, the methodology behind CR's driving impressions and our Overall Score, why your next new car might be a tight fit in your garage, whe...
#280 2021 Chevrolet Suburban First Impressions; Subscription Fees for Auto Safety?
November 07, 2020 01:00 - 26 minutes - 480 MB VideoThe 2021 Chevy Suburban is one of the latest additions to our testing fleet, and we give our first impressions on what it’s like to drive this big SUV, both on the open road, as well as in urban environments. The subscription model is common with many services these days, yet is still fairly uncommon in the automotive world. However, recent announcements by Tesla and GM may change this, and could introduce the concept of charging a monthly fee for access to important safety features. We talk...
#279 2021 Genesis G80 First Impressions; Nitrogen in Your Tires: Is It Worth the Cost?
October 30, 2020 21:00 - 27 minutes - 482 MB VideoWe recently got a chance to drive the 2021 Genesis G80 at our test track, and we share our impressions on how the sedan from Hyundai's luxury brand performed, as well as how it compares to other vehicles in its class, like the Audi A6, BMW 5 Series, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and Volvo S90. Filling your tires with nitrogen is an option offered by many dealerships and mechanics these days, usually for an added expense. We talk about whether this is something to consider, as well as if it's safe t...
#278 2021 Lexus IS First Impressions; 2022 GMC Hummer EV Preview
October 23, 2020 16:00 - 27 minutes - 458 MB VideoThis week we give our first impressions of the 2021 Lexus IS, discuss what has changed from the previous model and if the redesign is adequate to make this compact sports sedan stand out against rivals like the BMW 3 series, Audi A4, and Mercedes-Benz C class. GMC revealed its all-new fully electric 2022 Hummer EV, we discuss some of its glamorous features and if it's enticing enough to steal the spotlight from the Tesla Cybertruck and Rivian R1T. Also we breakdown CR's new study on EV wall ...
#277 2021 Genesis GV80 First Impressions; 2022 Volkswagen Taos Preview
October 19, 2020 10:00 - 25 minutes - 428 MB VideoThis week we share our first impressions of the 2021 Genesis GV80, we go through the specs and talk about whether this luxury SUV has what it takes to challenge some of the highly established competitors like the Audi Q7, BMW X5, Volvo XC90, and Cadillac XT6. Also Volkswagen recently announced the all-new Taos for 2022, our experts discuss where it fits within the Volkswagen SUV lineup and if the automotive industry needs another small SUV. We also answer audience questions about whether or...
#276 Winter Tire Performance; Are Online No-Haggle Car Services a Good Deal?
October 09, 2020 16:00 - 28 minutes - 469 MB VideoWith winter on its way, many people are asking: what are the benefits of winter tires vs. a set of all-seasons? The popularity of online, no-haggle car services like Carvana, CarMax, and CarSense has grown in recent months, but can you really get a good deal without visiting a car dealership and negotiating on price? We discuss using these services to buy a new or used car, as well as the high cost of replacement key fobs; the benefits of using premium fuel over regular in cars like the Volk...
#275 2021 Acura TLX First Impressions; Winter Tires; Motor Oil 101
October 03, 2020 02:00 - 23 minutes - 474 MB VideoThis week we share our first impressions of the 2021 Acura TLX sports sedan, and discuss whether it's size and performance gives it an edge over competitors like the BMW 3 and 5 Series (or even a Toyota Camry?!) We also provide options for exchanging out the all-season tires that come on a new car for something better suited to cold climates, like all-weather or winter tires. Our experts give advice on why a Ford Mustang GT might not be the best car for a new driver, and share some RWD alter...
#274 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid; EV Pickup Trucks; Volkswagen ID.4
September 25, 2020 16:00 - 28 minutes - 467 MB VideoWe recently purchased a 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid for our test program, and our experts discuss how it compares to the regular Sonata, as well as competitors like the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord hybrids. Ford has announced an EV F-150 pickup, and we talk about whether truck buyers are ready to embrace electric trucks like the Rivian R1T and Tesla Cybertruck, and if they can meet towing needs. Volkswagen and Electrify America announced an agreement providing unlimited charging for owners o...
#273 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe First Impressions; Tesla Full Self-Driving Review
September 21, 2020 16:30 - 25 minutes - 428 MB VideoThis week we share our first impressions of the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe SUV, how it measures up to competitors like the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade, and whether it is suited for towing and hauling a lot of cargo and people. CR has completed its review of Tesla's Full Self-Driving Capability package in our Model 3 and Model Y; we share what we found, and how CR is adapting testing at the Auto Test track to evaluate autonomous driving features now and in the future. We also answer question...
#272 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport Test Results; New Vehicle Announcements From Mercedes and Jeep
September 14, 2020 21:00 - 23 minutes - 470 MB VideoWe wrapped up testing on our 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport and share the results. Jeep has resurrected an iconic name plate with its newly unveiled Wagoneer, we talk about the nostalgia associated with this large SUV and go through the specs. Also Mercedes-Benz has redesigned its flagship S-Class sedan for 2021, and we discuss some of the new technology that the luxury sedan will feature. And we tackle a few audience questions about electric vehicles including one about how EVs' high p...
#271 Best Time to Buy a Used Car, Radar vs. Camera-Based Safety Sensors, and More
September 05, 2020 10:00 - 31 minutes - 489 MB VideoWe touch on a number of topics this week, including if a used Subaru Ascent is a good replacement for an Audi A4, why your infotainment system might not play nice with your Apple iPhone or Android phone, the right way to tie down an object to your roof, and how Consumer Reports headlight testing differs from that of IIHS. We also discuss routine maintenance that is unique to EVs, why an automatic emergency braking system might give a driver false positives, how car designs might be affected ...
#270 2020 Audi Q7 First Impressions; How to Avoid Buying a Flood Damaged Used Car
August 28, 2020 16:00 - 28 minutes - 476 MB VideoWe recently purchased the 2020 Audi Q7, so this week we discuss what's new in the freshening of this 3-row midsize SUV, give our take on the new dual screen infotainment system, and how it compares to competitors like the Mercedes-Benz GLS and the BMW X7. Also, with hurricane season in full swing, we talk about precautions drivers should consider when driving in heavy rain, what to do if you encounter flooded roads, and share some telltale signs a car might have been previously flooded when ...
#269 2020 BMW 2 Series First Impressions; Why Manufacturers Shouldn't Charge a Premium for Safety Features
August 21, 2020 02:49 - 21 minutes - 490 MB VideoThis week we give our first impressions of the 2020 BMW 228i xDrive Gran Coupe, discuss its driving characteristics, and how it compares to its competitors, like the Genesis G70. CR has released a new study which finds that on many vehicles important advanced safety features like AEB (Automatic Emergency Braking) and FCW (Forward Collision Warning) are only available in expensive optional packages, and paired with less crucial amenities (such as sunroofs and heated seats.) We talk about the ...
#268 2020 Cadillac CT4 Test Results; Cadillac Lyriq First Look
August 15, 2020 00:26 - 29 minutes - 483 MB VideoWe recently completed testing on the 2020 Cadillac CT4 luxury sedan, and we discuss how it compares to the Audi A4, Genesis G70, and its sister sedan, the Cadillac CT5. Staying with the Cadillac, the GM’s luxury brand recently made headlines with the unveiling of its all-electric Lyriq concept SUV; we talk about the rocky history of electric cars at General Motors, the interesting platform the Lyriq will be based on, and how this car will compete with Tesla's offerings. We also answer questi...
#267 How To Get the Best Car Loan; 2020 Nissan Leaf Plus Test Results
August 10, 2020 10:00 - 29 minutes - 492 MB VideoOn this episode we share our test results of the all-electric 2020 Nissan Leaf Plus. While it was one of the first mainstream EVs on the market, we discuss if it has kept up with its competitors in this growing market. Our experts give tips on the best way to research, negotiate, and secure the best financing when buying a car. And, we answer questions about how CR decides which models to buy for our testing program, the potential hazards of folding rear seats, and finding the right vehicle ...
#266 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer First Impressions; Best Used Cars for Teens Under $20,000
July 31, 2020 20:18 - 29 minutes - 496 MB VideoThis week we give our first impressions of the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer, and talk about how it compares to the last outgoing model, and why this small SUV might have created a new size category for Chevy. Consumer Reports has teamed up with the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (or IIHS for short) to recommend safe, reliable used cars and SUVs that are well-suited for teenage drivers, and cost $20k or less; our panel explains why this is an important market for buyers today, and which ...
#265 2021 Kia K5 and 2020 Porsche Taycan First Impressions
July 24, 2020 23:04 - 28 minutes - 474 MB VideoWe spent time behind the wheel of the all-new 2021 Kia K5 sedan, and give our first impressions on the new styling, driving characteristics, comfort, and controls. Consumer Reports recently purchased the all-electric 2020 Porsche Taycan, and we talk about how this luxury EV stacks up against its main competitor, the Tesla Model S. We also talk about advancements in electric car battery technology, how to store a set of winter tires that only gets used a few times a year, and define what it m...
#264 2020 Range Rover Evoque Test Results; 2021 Ford Bronco Debut
July 18, 2020 02:00 - 29 minutes - 474 MB VideoThis week we share our test results of the 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque, and discuss if the compact luxury SUV retains the swagger the brand is known for. Also, Ford has unveiled its brand new Bronco for 2021! We run through all the specs, pricing, the numerous trim levels (with names like Black Diamond, Badlands, and Sasquatch!) and talk about the nostalgia that the Bronco name plate brings. We wrap up with audience questions about retrofitting your vehicle with wireless Apple CarPlay...
#263 2020 Tesla Model Y First Impressions
July 13, 2020 15:48 - 27 minutes - 464 MB VideoThe Tesla Model Y makes its debut at our test track. We share our first impressions on driving, styling and the suite of technology that's packed into this all-electric SUV. We discuss some safety concerns with Tesla's optional, Full Self-Driving Capability package, and how rolling changes to the beta software can alter how the Model Y behaves on the road. Check out https://www.ConsumerReports.org for the latest reviews, tips, and recommendations and subscribe to our YouTube Channel: http:...
#262 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime First Impressions; Ford's Unveiling of the 2021 F-150
July 03, 2020 16:00 - 27 minutes - 463 MB VideoThis week we share our first impressions of the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime, a plug-in version of the hybrid, and talk about the ups and downs of the electrification of the RAV. We discuss the newly unveiled 2021 Ford F-150 and all the changes, including a hybrid powertrain. Also, we answer audience questions about which factor is most important (mileage or age) when purchasing a used car, the mechanics of heating and cooling in electric cars, and could obstructing the A-pillar (with a dash cam p...
#261 2020 Audi Q3 Test Results; Ford's All-new (Handsfree) Active Drive Assist System
June 26, 2020 21:00 - 30 minutes - 491 MB VideoThis week we share our test results of the 2020 Audi Q3. We also talk about Ford's new Co-Pilot360 and the active drive assist feature, and discuss how it compares to Tesla's Autopilot and Cadillac's Super Cruise. Also, we answer audience questions about the best way to purchase a vehicle at the end of a lease, if covering a car in rhinestones is a good idea, and choosing a first car for a 17-year-old 'car addict' under 20K. ----------------------------------- Have a question...
#260 2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid First Impressions; Why Small Car Fuel Economy Isn't Improving
June 19, 2020 21:00 - 28 minutes - 475 MB VideoThis week we share our first impressions of the 2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid, and how it stacks up against the standard version. We also discuss why fuel economy numbers in small and compact cars don't seem to be improving at the rate of larger vehicles, whether someone entering the auto industry should forego an education in conventional cars in favor of electric vehicle (EV) specialization, and learn all about Jake's abundant tomato garden in his remote workplace. --------------...
#259 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid First Impressions; Can Lower Octane Fuel Damage Your Car?
June 13, 2020 11:00 - 31 minutes - 484 MB VideoThis week at the track we have the 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid, we share our first impressions and discuss whether or not hybridizing the CR-V improved the model. Also we dip into the mailbag and answer audience questions about why Subarus are so popular with car reviewers and enthusiasts, whether filling up your car with lower octane fuel than recommended by the manufacturer could damage your vehicle or void the warranty, and how to make a long road trip as pleasant and comfortable as possible. ...
#258 2020 Lincoln Corsair Test Results; Is It The Right Time to Buy an Electric or Hybrid Vehicle?
June 08, 2020 21:10 - 43 minutes - 473 MB VideoThis week we share our test results of the 2020 Lincoln Corsair. We discuss the effects of the coronavirus pandemic on the electric vehicle market, and whether or not it is the right time to buy an EV or a hybrid. Also we answer audience questions including whether window tint potentially reduces the heating effect of sunlight, could the summer's high heat kill off the COVID-19 virus in your vehicle, and if a Ford Fusion is a smart choice in terms of long term reliability and ride comfort. ...
#257 2020 Nissan Versa Test Results; How Ride Height Affects Crash Safety
May 30, 2020 16:00 - 34 minutes - 572 MB VideoThis week we discuss our test results of the 2020 Nissan Versa subcompact sedan. We also share feedback from our audience about preferences for in-car navigation: do more drivers like built-in nav systems, or mobile phone apps for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, like Waze and Google Maps? And we discuss whether a vehicle's ride height can affect passenger safety, reliability differences between the Kia Telluride and Toyota Highlander, and do older airbags have an expiration date. -----...
#256 2020 Buick Encore GX Test Results; Toyota Unveils a New Hybrid Sienna and Venza
May 22, 2020 21:00 - 35 minutes - 596 MB VideoThis week we share our test results of the 2020 Buick Encore GX and compare how this 3-cylinder SUV stacks up to its competitors in the Luxury segment. We talk about the virtual unveiling of the 2021 Toyota Sienna and Venza, both of which will only be available with a hybrid powertrain. Also, we discuss the rebates some car insurers are offering due to the reduced number of drivers on the road during the coronavirus pandemic, and wrap up the episode with audience questions. -----------...
#255 2020 Nissan Sentra Test Results; CR's Car Testing Amid the Coronavirus Pandemic
May 19, 2020 00:00 - 31 minutes - 529 MB VideoThis week we talk about the test results of the 2020 Nissan Sentra and the progression of this compact sedan throughout its existence. We share what precautions CR is taking in order to continue its auto test program during the COVID-19 pandemic. Also, we answer questions about swapping your car's stock infotainment system for an aftermarket in order to gain Apple CarPlay, and whether there are any advantages to summer tires. ----------------------------------- Have a questi...
#254 2021 Kia Seltos Test Results; CR’s Fuel Economy Study Results
May 08, 2020 19:00 - 29 minutes - 491 MB VideoOn this week's episode we discuss the results of CR's new survey which asked drivers nationwide what improvements they would desire on their vehicles. We share our full road test results of the all-new 2021 Kia Seltos. We also answer audience questions about whether or not there is a difference in build quality of a specific vehicle model built in different countries, and if drivers are being more reckless because there are fewer drivers on the road. -------------------------------...
#253 2020 Mazda CX-30 Test Results; The Future of Vehicle Communication
May 01, 2020 17:46 - 35 minutes - 596 MB VideoThis week we share our test results of the all-new 2020 Mazda CX-30, and talk about where this compact SUV fits in the Mazda lineup. Jen Stockburger shares her personal experience purchasing a new vehicle and how the process is different due to social distancing. Also, we discuss vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication and what the future might look like for vehicle communication. We wrap up with audience questions including whether adding fuel stabilizer might affect your car's emissions,...
#252 2020 Hyundai Venue Test Results; Buying a Car During the Coronavirus Pandemic
April 25, 2020 00:00 - 39 minutes - 655 MB VideoWe finished testing on the 2020 Hyundai Venue and discuss our test results, and which car category this compact people mover slots into. We talk about how the car purchasing experience has changed during these strange times, and share some of the options that we've encountered buying a car while social distancing. We also answer audience questions about the accuracy of the EPA estimated fuel economy numbers, why some electric vehicles have an additional 12 volt car battery, and whether or no...