Talking Cars (Video)

This week we discuss our test results of the 2020 Volkswagen Passat, and how it stacks up against its competitors in the midsized segment. We share tips on how to keep your car’s fuel fresh while it is (likely) being driven fewer miles during the coronavirus pandemic. We also discuss if a plug-in hybrid version of the Jeep Gladiator is on the horizon, how effective a load leg is on a child seat, and whether the tachometer is still necessary in modern vehicles.

 

 

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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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00:41 - Keep Gasoline in your Tank From Going Stale-

07:31 - 2020 Volkswagen Passat Test Results

15:35 - Question #1: Is a plug-in hybrid version of the Jeep Gladiator on the horizon?

22:01 - Question #2: Are tachometers still necessary in modern vehicles?

26:51 - Question #3: Will hybrid vehicles drop in price due to low cost of gasoline?

29:41 - Question #4: Why aren’t load legs more common on rear-facing infant seat in the US?

 

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How to Keep the Gas Fresh and Protect Your Car During the Coronavirus Pandemic

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-maintenance/how-to-keep-gas-fresh-and-protect-car-during-coronavirus/

 

Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

 

How to Protect Yourself Against Coronavirus When Pumping Gas

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-how-to-protect-yourself-against-coronavirus-when-pumping-gas/

 

2019 Detroit Auto Show: 2020 Volkswagen Passat

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

 

2014 Volkswagen Passat Review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2AETDQOcdwE

 

2019 Volkswagen Arteon Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gKYkg3Jw8HQ

 

2019 Detroit Auto Show: 2020 Jeep Gladiator

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6RMnHRUBHOg

 

2018 Jeep Wrangler Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CgzS0ubSgPM

 

4K Review: 2018 Toyota Camry Quick Drive

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

 

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

 

Load Legs Show Promise for Safer Child Seats

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wDRW8IGQhEA

 

Load Legs Give Child Car Seats Improved Safety in a Crash

https://www.consumerreports.org/infant-car-seats/load-leg-gives-car-seats-an-additional-margin-of-safety-in-a-crash/

 

Best Infant Car Seats of 2020

https://www.consumerreports.org/infant-car-seats/best-infant-car-seats-of-the-year/

 

• 249: Coronavirus Car Seat Care and Cleaning

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HEKkUp_5Z7I

 

• 248: Pumping Gas in the Age of Coronavirus

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9mm9un45-js

 

• 247: Your Favorite Automotive Podcast Goes Remote

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=muUJxFGr-Vk

 

• 246: Answering Audience Questions on EVs, Tires, Car Seats, and More

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DW128R6wtjk

 

• 245: How the Coronavirus is Affecting Auto Shows

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JRa8d7tLY5g

 

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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 

 

Follow Us on Social:

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Google+: http://bit.ly/1Md3gfQ

Direct download: 2004CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_250_HQ.mp4
Category:general -- posted at: 11:29pm EDT

We discuss the digital debut of the 2120 Genesis G80. Find out how we think the sedan will stack up against its more established luxury competitors. We also cover the best way to clean your child seat during the COVID-19 pandemic and answer questions.

Check out https://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

SHOW NOTES:

1:05 - Emily makes an announcement

2:40 - Cleaning car seats during  the COVID-19 outbreak

11:47 - 2021 Genesis G80 Digital Debut

19:50 - Send us your questions at TalkingCars@iColoud.com

20:04 - Video Question #1: Did the dealer bamboozle me into buying ethanol fuel treatment?

22:30 - Question #2: I was recently driving on Interstate 66 near Washington, D.C., on a night with great visibility, and was using my high beams. Suddenly an 8-point deer jumps in front of my car! The airbags go off, the hood wraps around the windshield, and my 2004 Infiniti is totaled. Would modern pre-collision braking or pedestrian detection have prevented this accident? Are these systems designed to respond to large animals in the same way they would respond to a person?

25:33 - Question #3: How frequently does IIHS test for existing model year automobiles? Some cars haven't been updated in years, and I wonder if manufacturers improve crash safety for existing models.

Direct download: 2004CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_249_HQ.mp4
Category:general -- posted at: 8:32pm EDT

This week, we discuss how to protect yourself against the coronavirus when pumping gas. Plus, we share test results on our 2020 Hyundai Sonata, looking at how it stacks up against the heavyweights in the category such as Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, and the Subaru Legacy. We finish the episode with audience questions about whether car buying incentives get better during an economic shakeup (like the coronavirus pandemic), and whether CR engineers use decibel meters when evaluating cabin noise.

 

 

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

 

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

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

 

00:56 - How to Stay Safe at the Pump

08:02 - 2020 Hyundai Sonata Test Results

17:49 - Question #1: How to disinfect your car?

18:48 - Question #2: Do car buying incentives get better during an economic shakeup?

24:27 - Question #3: Would it be better to use a decibel meter for cabin noise evaluation?

 

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Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

 

How to Protect Yourself Against Coronavirus When Pumping Gas

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-how-to-protect-yourself-against-coronavirus-when-pumping-gas/

 

2019 New York Auto Show: 2020 Hyundai Sonata

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-CL_zbxHhs

 

2018 Hyundai Sonata Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ivwv3EonvPc

 

4K Review: 2018 Toyota Camry Quick Drive

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

 

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

 

2017 Hyundai Elantra Quick Drive

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

 

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

 

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: 2003CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_248_HQ.mp4
Category:general -- posted at: 5:00pm EDT

This week we cover tips on how to keep your car clean during the Coronavirus outbreak. Find out which cleaners work best to kill the virus while preserving the interior of your car. Plus, we discuss our test results of the 2020 Toyota Highlander and answer audience questions about CR Top Picks and the reliability of American made cars.

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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Vine: http://bit.ly/1Nlbkz7

Periscope: http://bit.ly/1OrsKrs

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

SHOW NOTES:

1:05 - Disinfecting the interior of your car

6:45 - 2020 Toyota Highlander test results

13:37 - Send us your questions at TalkingCars@iCloud.com

13:47 - Question #1: Pierre | Québec, QC; I agree with 90% of your Top Picks cars this year. (The only car I would not buy is the Supra.) But why did you not choose at least one Porsche, Genesis or Mazda in your Top Picks? I personally believe the Genesis G80 and Mazda 3 are really good buys.

18:18 - Question #2: Steve | West Chester, PA; I'd love to buy a car from an American brand, like Ford or Chevrolet. However, my own experience, and your reliability rankings tell me that these cars will typically be much less reliable. Reliability and longevity are the top criteria for me. How can American nameplates have such poor reliability year after year? Why aren't they learning how to do this? They are keeping away those of us who don't want to spend money on repairs or spend our time at the dealership.

20:39 - Question #3: Ray | Henderson, NV; Many of the newest cars, including my Audi A6, have a sport or dynamic drive mode. This seems to increase the RPMs in the vehicle, and I was wondering if it’s safe to keep the car in this mode at all times. Does it affect engine or transmission reliability? Thanks for the service you provide, and shout out to the crew, especially the 2 Mikes!

LINKS:

How to Kill Coronavirus in Your Car Without Damaging Interior Surfaces: https://www.consumerreports.org/tires-car-care/how-to-kill-coronavirus-in-your-car-without-damaging-interior-surfaces/

2020 Toyota Highlander: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/toyota/highlander/2020/overview/

10 Top Picks: Bets Cars of the Year: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-best-cars-top-picks-2020/

2020 Autos Spotlight: https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/cars/best-cars-suvs-autos-spotlight/index.htm

Direct download: 2003CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_247_HQ.mp4
Category:general -- posted at: 3:48pm EDT

This week we cover a wide range of topics, including comparing Consumer Reports’ ratings across car categories; installing a front-facing child seat in the rear seat of a sports car; why higher-level trim cars come with larger wheels and low profile tires; how CR tests the subject aspects of a tire’s performance, and which would be a better 3-row SUV for a growing family: the Acura MDX, or Mazda CX-9.

 

 

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

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

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

00:39 - Question #1: Are CR’s car ratings comparable across categories?

1:32 - Question #2: Can a from-facing child car seat be installed in the middle seat of a Camaro or a Mustang?

05:25 -  Question #3: Why do higher trim cars come with large wheels and low profile tires?

08:04 - Question #4: Why does CR give higher ratings for cars with advanced safety features?

13:12 - Question #5: Please help a growing family choose a 3-row crossover, Mazda CX-9 or Acura MDX

16:32 - Question #6: How does CR grade the more subjective aspects of a tire?

20:00 - Question #7: Is it better to buy or lease an electric vehicle?

23:16 - Question #8: Please recommend an EV or plug-in hybrid with advanced safety features?

30:39 - Question #9: Is a 2014 Lexus ES300h a reliable replacement for a 2014 Toyota Camry and provide a bump in luxury?

 

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Electric Cars 101: The Answers to All Your EV Questions

https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/electric-cars-101-the-answers-to-all-your-ev-questions/

 

How Consumer Reports Tests Cars

https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-how-consumer-reports-tests-cars/

 

Cars With Advanced Safety Systems

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-safety/cars-with-advanced-safety-systems/

 

2016 BMW 7 Series Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CyL8s6BosIc

 

4K Review: 2018 Honda Accord Quick Drive

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

 

Proper Top-Tether Installation Helps Keep Kids Safer in Child Car Seats

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-seats/proper-top-tether-installation-helps-keep-kids-safer-in-child-car-seats/

 

4K Review: 2017 Acura MDX Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XFD-X6g9erM

 

2018 LA Auto Show: 2019 Audi E-Tron

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uBV9nrd6_mo

 

2016 Chevrolet Camaro Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i9-XNq6f88M

 

What You Need to Know About Installing a Child Car Seat in the Rear Center Seat

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-seats/car-seats-and-rear-center-seat-installations/

 

4K Review: 2018 Subaru Crosstrek Quick Drive

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

 

2018 Hyundai Kona Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2YcFRHiHP2E

 

2019 Lexus ES Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8j-HUfjUwEI

 

4K Review: 2016 Mazda CX-9 Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5UigcJd7PVY

 

2017 Kia Niro Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UA7DkF_I0jA

 

2018 Nissan Leaf Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PBAB7sZj0Fo

 

2017 Toyota Prius Prime Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EQt6L1celr4

 

2015 Ford Mustang Review

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

 

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

 

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: 2003CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_246_HQ.mp4
Category: -- posted at: 10:44pm EDT

Consumer Reports has rented a 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport, and we give our first impressions on this 2-row midsize SUV, compare it to the regular Atlas, as well as other 5-seat SUVs. With the cancellation of the Geneva Auto Show due to the outbreak of the coronavirus, we discuss the future of auto shows worldwide, and whether they make practical sense for manufacturers anymore. We also answer audience questions about how CR car experts are able to retain information to compare different vehicle generations, if a manufacturer's warranty will transfer with the sale of a used car, and why the world of LED, HID, and halogen headlights seems more confusing than ever.

 

 

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

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

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

00:58 - Coronavirus Affecting Auto Shows

06:12 - 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport First Impressions

13:00 - Question #1: How are CR car experts able to retain information to compare different vehicle generations?

16:58 - Question #2: Does the manufacturer's warranty transfer with the sale of a used car?

20:58 - Question #3: What is a safe driving position?

23:41 - Question #4: why the world of LED, HID, and halogen headlights seems more confusing than ever?

 

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Highlights From the 2020 Geneva Motor Show

https://www.consumerreports.org/automotive-industry/geneva-motor-show-highlights/

 

2019 LA Auto Show: 2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Niy-WZzl3zQ

 

4K Review: 2018 Volkswagen Atlas Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CYG_5qJZXqw

 

2019 Volkswagen Arteon Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gKYkg3Jw8HQ

 

2019 Honda Passport Quick Drive

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

 

ADB Headlights Could Make Roads Safer, But Only If They’re Approved for U.S. Cars

https://www.consumerreports.org/headlights/adaptive-driving-beam-adb-smart-headlights-could-make-roads-safer/

 

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

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: 2003CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_245_HQ.mp4
Category: -- posted at: 5:00pm EDT

This week is an all-questions episode, where we answer as many audience questions as possible. Topics include recommending a vehicle to a first-time car buyer moving to the U.S. from Switzerland; what is the future of tire-pressure monitoring systems; can the higher price tag of a Corolla Hybrid be made back pretty quickly with fuel savings vs. the regular Corolla; why fender-benders are getting pricier to repair; and we end by giving advice about which vehicles are best-suited to elderly drivers. 

 

 

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


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

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

01:07 - Question #1: What are some tips for buying a car for the first time?

06:22 - Question #2: What is the future of TPMS?

10:42 - Question #3: Is Mazda Miata a viable option for a daily commuter car?

13:10 - Question #4: can the higher price tag of a Corolla Hybrid be made back pretty quickly with fuel savings vs. the regular Corolla?

15:55 - Question #5: Is it smart to wait a year on purchasing a newly redesign model?

18:05 - Question #6: Why do newer cars have a higher repair price?

19:50 - Question #7: Which 3-row hybrid or electric luxury SUV is best suited for a family?

23:44 - Question #8: Which tires are best suited for climates with fluctuating temperatures?

25:42 - Question #9: What are the top rated vehicles for senior drivers?

 

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The Hidden Cost of Car Safety Features

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-repair/the-hidden-cost-of-car-safety-features/

 

The 25 New Cars for Senior Drivers

https://www.consumerreports.org/elderly-driving/top-25-new-cars-for-senior-drivers/

 

2015 Lexus NX Review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BtJ-m-rI3K8

 

2018 Lexus RX350L Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pTrmC8jw57o

 

4K Review: 2018 Audi Q5 Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dRuYN4SQx4s

 

4K Review: 2018 BMW X3 Quick Drive

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

 

2014 Honda Accord Hybrid review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TywnfIheZ-k

 

2019 Kia Sorento Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K01h_FPkmkQ

 

2020 Kia Soul Quick Drive

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

 

Redesigned Mazda MX-5 Keeps Miata Magic Going

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O908JUXgiwk

 

4K Review: 2017 Mazda CX-5 Quick Drive

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

 

2016 Volvo XC90 Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jyQWKK3nUlw

 

Chrysler Pacifica Redefines the Minivan

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

 

2013 Subaru BRZ first look

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

 

2019 Subaru Forester Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dymKOcVk7Iw

 

2016 Tesla Model X Quick Drive

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

 

2019 Toyota Avalon Quick Drive

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

 

2019 Toyota Corolla Hatchback Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pV_57znwZsA

 

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

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: 2002CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_244_HQ.mp4
Category: -- posted at: 5:00pm EDT

We’ve completed testing the 2020 Ford Escape Hybrid. Find out how this version of the small SUV tops the traditionally powered Escape in our tests. We also break down how we rate the best and worst vehicles and brands for CR’s 2020 Autos Spotlight, clear up some confusion about EV ownership and answer your questions.

Check out https://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

SHOW NOTES:

0:57 - CR Autos Spotlight

6:37 - Common questions about EV ownership

11:37 - 2020 Ford Escape Hybrid test results

14:34 - Send us your questions at TalkingCars@icloud.com

14:40 - Question #1: Are CR’s testing methods biased when it comes to non-conventional gear selectors?

19:06 - Question #2: How will trademarks affect CR’s push to standardize the naming conventions of standard advanced safety equipment?

20:38 - Question #3: How much should passenger side impact test results affect a decision to buy a vehicle?

22:44 - We’re hiring an Automotive Engineer at our Test Track! Apply here: https://jobs-consumers.icims.com/jobs/3265/automotive-engineer/job

LINKS:

2020 CR Autos Spotlight: https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/cars/best-cars-suvs-autos-spotlight/index.htm

Hybrid/EV Buying Guide: https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/cars/hybrids-evs/buying-guide/index.htm

Electric Car FAQs: https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/2010/10/electric-car-faqs/index.htm

2020 Ford Escape: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/ford/escape/2020/overview

Ford Escape Vehicle Page: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/ford/escape/

We’re hiring an Automotive Engineer at our Test Track! Apply here: https://jobs-consumers.icims.com/jobs/3265/automotive-engineer/job

Direct download: 2002CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_243_HQ.mp4
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

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.

 

 

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

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

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

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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Direct download: 2002CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_242_HQ.mp4
Category: -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

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

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

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/

Direct download: 2002CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_241_HQ.mp4
Category: -- posted at: 1:37pm EDT