Talking Cars (Video)

This 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 pressure gauge and the car's TPMS (tire pressure monitoring system); differences between CR's brand report card and J.D. Power's brand rankings, and how to interpret all that data; and we explain how CR compensates for rain, air, and ground temperatures during brake-distance testing. 

 

 

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

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

01:23 - Rise of Destination Fees

09:04 - 2021 Buick Envision First Impressions

17:47 - Question #1: What is the the difference between CR’s Brand Report Card and J.D. Power’s Brand Ranking?

20:45 - Question #2: Why is there a discrepancy between a tire pressure gauge and the car’s TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System)

23:27 - Question #3: How does CR compensate for rain, air, and ground temperatures during brake-distance testing?

26:01 - Question #4: Which small SUV would be a suitable replacement for a Mazda6 in order to improve driving in wintery weather conditions?

 

 

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Sticker Shock: The Truth About Destination Fees

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

 

2021 Buick Envision

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/buick/envision/

 

2016 Buick Envision Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i1ffB9ZA4GU

 

Which Car Brands Make the Best Vehicles?

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles/

 

10 Top Picks of 2021: Best Cars of the Year

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-best-cars-top-picks-2021/

 

Winter Driving Tips

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

 

Car Maintenance and Repair Guide

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-maintenance/car-maintenance-and-repair-guide/

 

Wet Tire Testing at CR’s Track

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

 

4K Review: 2017 Mazda CX-5 Quick Drive

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

 

Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

 

 

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

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Direct download: 2103CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_299_HQ.mp4
Category:general -- posted at: 10:27pm EDT

This 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 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

01:29 - Question #1: Should you always trust dealer’s advice on car maintenance schedule?

06:12 - Question #2: Is it safe to use seat protector mats with child seats?

09:10 - Question #3: Is purchasing a used CR recommenced vehicle with high mileage a wise choice?

11:45 - Question #4: What are some of the caveats to look out for when negotiating on a car lease?

17:48 - Question #5: Why don’t car makers build cars with replaceable stereo head units?

23:56 - Question #6: Is having an independent mechanic inspect a certified pre-owned car an automotive faux pas?

 

 

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Car Maintenance and Repair Guide

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-maintenance/car-maintenance-and-repair-guide/

 

Rear-Seat Safety for All Ages

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-safety/rear-seat-safety-for-all-ages/

 

10 Cars Proven to Get to 200,000 Miles and Beyond

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/10-best-cars-to-get-to-200000-miles-and-beyond/

 

What it will cost to get your car to 200,000 miles

https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/magazine/2015/06/what-it-will-cost-to-get-your-car-to-200-000-miles/index.htm

 

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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Direct download: 2103CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_298_HQ.mp4
Category:general -- posted at: 4:41pm EDT

This 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 touchscreens, and whether these components have a short lifespan; how Consumer Reports calculates electric vehicle range; and advice on how to manage a lease when you REALLY want to be driving a different car.

SHOW NOTES

1:20 - Volkswagen ID.4 first impressions

13:55 - Electrify America charging network

15:43 - Question #1: Ozzie from Los Angeles | How do online car reservations work?

19:09 - Question #2: Thomas | What’s CR’s predicted reliability for the new Kia Carnival minivan?

21:45 - Question #3: Chris | Will electric component wear become a problem on vehicles in the future?

23:58 - Question #4: Kevin from Cincinnati | How does CR test EV range?

25:20 - Question#5: Lamar from Chicago | Is it a good idea to trade in a 2011 Toyota Camry for a new lease on a  2021 Toyota Venza?

LINKS:

Preview: Sleek and Sporty 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 Electric SUV Revealed: https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/2021-volkswagen-id4-review/

First Drive: 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E Is a Thrilling New Breed: https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2021-ford-mustang-mach-e-review/

Tesla Recalls Over 134,000 Vehicles for Faulty Screens: https://www.consumerreports.org/car-recalls-defects/tesla-recalls-model-s-model-x-for-faulty-screens/

Direct download: 2102CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_297_HQ.mp4
Category:general -- posted at: 5:18pm EDT

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.

 

 

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

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

01:24 - 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?

 

 

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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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Direct download: 2102CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_296_HQ.mp4
Category: -- posted at: 12:12pm EDT

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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Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1IQ2w5q

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Google+: http://bit.ly/1Md3gfQ

Direct download: 2102CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_295_HQ.mp4
Category:general -- posted at: 5:00pm EDT

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 

 

Follow Us on Social:

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Google+: http://bit.ly/1Md3gfQ

Direct download: 2102CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_294_HQ.mp4
Category:general -- posted at: 9:00pm EDT

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?

 

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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 

 

Follow Us on Social:

Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1IQ2w5q

Twitter: http://bit.ly/1Yf5Fh2

Pinterest: http://bit.ly/1P37mM9

Instagram: http://bit.ly/1I49Bzo

Google+: http://bit.ly/1Md3gfQ

Direct download: 2102CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_293_HQ.mp4
Category: -- posted at: 8:21pm EDT

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 

 

Follow Us on Social:

Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1IQ2w5q

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Google+: http://bit.ly/1Md3gfQ

Direct download: 2021CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_292_HQ.mp4
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00pm EDT

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 

 

Follow Us on Social:

Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1IQ2w5q

Twitter: http://bit.ly/1Yf5Fh2

Pinterest: http://bit.ly/1P37mM9

Instagram: http://bit.ly/1I49Bzo

Google+: http://bit.ly/1Md3gfQ

Direct download: 2101CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_291_HQ.mp4
Category: -- posted at: 6:00pm EDT

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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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/

 

 

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Direct download: 2101CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_290_HQ.mp4
Category:general -- posted at: 6:00pm EDT