Fri, 26 February 2021
This 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 earn the distinction. Other topics include why headlight or taillight warnings are virtually nonexistent, if renting a car only when needed makes more financial sense than owning, and why you should pay attention to your license plate when using a hitch-mounted bike rack.
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SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 00:00 - Introduction 01:24 - CR’s Green Choice Designation 06:04 - 2021 Ford F-150 Hybrid First Impressions 18:18 - Question #1: Why automakers don’t put a headlight or taillight failure warning light in cars? 20:19 - Question #2: Is renting a car when you need one makes more financial sense than owning one? 23:05 - Question #3: Would seat covers on heated seats have any negative impact? 25:20 - Question #4: Can you get pulled over by the police for obstructing your car’s license plate with a hitch-mounted bike rack?
---------------------------------- How Your Car Can Make the Air Cleaner https://www.consumerreports.org/emissions/how-your-car-can-make-the-air-cleaner/
7 Reasons the New Ford F-150 Is the Most Advanced Version Ever https://www.consumerreports.org/pickup-trucks/new-ford-150-is-the-most-advanced-version-of-this-pickup-truck-ever/
Preview: All-New 2021 Ford F-150 Is a High-Tech Workhorse https://www.consumerreports.org/pickup-trucks/2021-ford-f-150-review/
How to Avoid Sneaky Car-Rental Fees https://www.consumerreports.org/fees-billing/how-to-avoid-sneaky-car-rental-fees/
How to Stay Safe From Coronavirus in an Uber, a Lyft, or a Rental Car https://www.consumerreports.org/ride-hailing/stay-safe-from-coronavirus-in-an-uber-lyft-rental-car/
How Bike Racks Affect a Car’s Fuel Economy https://www.consumerreports.org/fuel-economy-efficiency/how-bike-racks-affect-car-fuel-economy/
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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Fri, 19 February 2021
The 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 driving assistance system might appeal to those interested in Tesla's Autopilot system. We also talk about the right time to cut your losses on a vehicle that needs constant repairs, if Consumer Reports is considering testing 3-wheeled BEVs (Battery Electric Vehicle) like Arcimoto and Aptera, why all-weather tires are not as popular as all-seasons, and we wonder which of our neighbors lost their emu.
----------------------------------- 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 01:19 - 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV Preview 06:47 - 2021 Ford Bronco Sport First Impressions 15:48 - Question #1: When is the right time to cut your losses on a vehicle that needs constant repairs? 18:22 - Question #2: Why all-weather tire are not as popular as all-seasons? 21:13 - Question #3: Would Consumer Reports consider testing 3-wheeled BEVs? 23:09 - Question #4: What is the strangest wild life we have come across at our test track?
---------------------------------- Preview: Chevrolet Introduces a Freshened Electric Bolt and New Bolt SUV https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/2022-chevrolet-bolt-euv-and-bolt-review/
Preview: 2021 Ford Bronco Sport Looks Rugged and Ready for Action https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2021-ford-bronco-sport-review/
Preview: 2021 Ford Bronco Reinvents a 4x4 Classic https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2021-ford-bronco-review/
2017 Chevrolet Bolt Quick Drive https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tIYG0NR42LU
New All-Weather Tires Outperform Some Snow Tires https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0JfEcVZvQEA
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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Fri, 12 February 2021
CR 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 include why a dealership might offer you above market value for your used car or leased vehicle, if it's wise to purchase a vehicle that was recently discontinued, a fun-to-drive car that can accommodate two child seats, and if an imported Kei car would make a sensible car for driving around town.
----------------------------------- 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 - Intro 00:50 - 2022 Nissan Frontier Preview 06:02 - 2021 Polestar 2 First Impressions 14:05 - Question #1: Would it be wise to purchase the recently discontinued Lexus GS 350? 15:45 - Question #2: Why are dealerships offering above market value for used and leased vehicles? 20:12 - Question #3: Which fun-to-drive vehicle can comfortably fit two child seats? 24:06 - Question #4: Is it a good idea to import a 25 year old Kei car from Japan for around town driving?
---------------------------------- Preview: For 2022, the Nissan Frontier Finally Gets a New Look https://www.consumerreports.org/pickup-trucks/2022-nissan-frontier-review/
New 2021 Polestar 2 to Compete With Tesla’s Model 3 https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/volvo-polestar-2-preview/
Hot New Electric Cars Are Coming Soon https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/hot-new-electric-cars-are-coming-soon/
Rear-Seat Safety for All Ages https://www.consumerreports.org/car-safety/rear-seat-safety-for-all-ages/
First Drive: Redesigned 2021 Nissan Rogue Edges Upscale https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2021-nissan-rogue-review/
Detroit Auto Show: 2013 Lexus GS 350 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r4MOAPdpZM8
2017 Honda CR-V Quick Drive https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CwN2Tl1A5Z4
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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Fri, 5 February 2021
This 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 other EV-related topics, including maintaining electric vehicle battery health, if electric cars wear out tires faster than a traditional vehicle, and what all this new technology means for auto reliability.
----------------------------------- 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 00:31 - Redesigned Tesla Model S 07:50 - 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E First Impressions 21:15 - Question #1: Could EV technology improve overall reliability of cars in the future? 23:39 - Question #2: Do Teslas and other EVs wear out tires more than regular cars? 25:54 - Question #3: What is the proper way of maintaining an electric vehicle’s battery health?
---------------------------------- First Drive: 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E Is a Thrilling New Breed https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2021-ford-mustang-mach-e-review/
2019 LA Auto Show: 2020 Ford Mustang Mach-E https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CQ30yGjf7sU
First Look: Update Tesla Model S Gains Range, Power, and Radical Interior Changes https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/updated-tesla-model-s-gains-range-power-and-radical-interior-changes/
Tesla Full Self-Driving Review https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IQOf_F6hibk
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
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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Fri, 29 January 2021
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.
----------------------------------- 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 00:33 - 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?
---------------------------------- 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/
----------------------------------- 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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Fri, 22 January 2021
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.
----------------------------------- 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 - 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?
---------------------------------- 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/
----------------------------------- 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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Fri, 15 January 2021
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.
----------------------------------- 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 00:34 - 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?
---------------------------------- 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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Fri, 8 January 2021
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.
----------------------------------- 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 00:53 - 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?
---------------------------------- 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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