Talking Cars (Video)

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

 

 

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Have a question for our experts? Leave a comment on this episode, or reach out to us directly!

 

From your iOS device, iMessage us at TalkingCars@icloud.com to send a photo, video, or text directly to the Talking Cars team!

 

We love to feature our viewers on the show, so submit video questions at https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-talking-cars/

 

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

 

 

SHOW NOTES

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00:58 - 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS Test Results

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

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

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

 

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2019 New York Auto Show: 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS

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

 

2020 Mercedes-Benz GLS

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

 

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

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

 

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

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

 

Honda Extends Warranty on Troubled Turbo Engines

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

 

4K Review: 2018 Honda Accord Quick Drive

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

 

4K Review: 2018 Toyota Camry Quick Drive

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

 

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

 

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Direct download: 2001CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_240_HQ.mp4
Category: -- posted at: 5:17pm EDT

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

 

 

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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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00:15 - 2020 Chevrolet Silverado Diesel Test Results

06:21 - Future of Pickup Trucks

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

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

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

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

 

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2019 Chevrolet Silverado Quick Drive

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

 

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

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

 

The hidden dangers of old tires

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

 

Talking Cars with Consumer Reports #19: All About Tires

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

 

Toyota Prius Road Test

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

 

How well does the Toyota Prius hold up

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8DRQEusvNis

 

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

 

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Direct download: 2001CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_239_NO_TESLA_HQ.mp4
Category: -- posted at: 5:00pm EDT

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

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

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:

0:30 - 2020 Hyundai Sonata First Impressions

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

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

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

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

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

LINKS:

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

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

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

Direct download: 2001CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_238_HQ.mp4
Category: -- posted at: 11:50am EDT

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

 

 

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Have a question for our experts? Leave a comment on this episode, or reach out to us directly!

 

From your iOS device, iMessage us at TalkingCars@icloud.com to send a photo, video, or text directly to the Talking Cars team!

 

We love to feature our viewers on the show, so submit video questions at https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-talking-cars/

 

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

 

 

SHOW NOTES

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00:27 - 2020 Consumer Electronics Show-

06:40 - 2020 Nissan Sentra First Impressions

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

16:04 - Question #2: How does the “Moose Test” compare to CR’s Avoidance Maneuver Test?

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

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

 

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Insider’s Guide to CES

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

 

2020 Nissan Sentra Overview

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

 

2019 LA Auto Show: 2020 Nissan Sentra

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

 

2016 Nissan Sentra Quick Drive

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

 

2018 Tesla Model 3 Quick Drive

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

 

2019 Toyota RAV4 Quick Drive

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

 

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

 

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: 2001CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_237_HQ.mp4
Category: -- posted at: 2:34pm EDT

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

SHOW NOTES

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

3:15 - the cars CR was testing in 2010

9:13 - favorite automotive innovation of the 2010s

13:39 - most important innovation of the 2010s

23:23 - our predictions for the next decade

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Subscribe to Talking Cars on Apple Podcasts!

Video version: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-cars-hq/id630839767?mt=2

Audio version: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-cars-mp3/id630831189?mt=2

Have a question for our experts? Leave a comment on this episode, or reach out to us directly! From your iOS device, iMessage us at TalkingCars@icloud.com to send a photo, video, or text directly to the Talking Cars team!

We love to feature our viewers on the show, so submit video questions at https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-talking-cars/

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

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

Direct download: 1912CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_236_HQ.mp4
Category: -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

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

SHOW NOTES

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0:28 - our 2019 naughty & nice lists

10:06 - Mercedes-Benz CLA test results

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

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

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

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

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

Subscribe to Talking Cars on Apple Podcasts!

Video version: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-cars-hq/id630839767?mt=2

Audio version: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-cars-mp3/id630831189?mt=2

Have a question for our experts? Leave a comment on this episode, or reach out to us directly! From your iOS device, iMessage us at TalkingCars@icloud.com to send a photo, video, or text directly to the Talking Cars team!

We love to feature our viewers on the show, so submit video questions at https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-talking-cars/

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

Direct download: 1912CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_235_HQ.mp4
Category: -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

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

SHOW NOTES

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:29 - importance of proper child seat installation

3:25 - 2020 Toyota Highlander First Impressions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Subscribe to Talking Cars on Apple Podcasts!

Video version: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-cars-hq/id630839767?mt=2

Audio version: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-cars-mp3/id630831189?mt=2

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

Have a question for our experts? Leave a comment on this episode, or reach out to us directly!

From your iOS device, iMessage us at TalkingCars@icloud.com to send a photo, video, or text directly to the Talking Cars team!

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

Direct download: 1912CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_234_HQ.mp4
Category:general -- posted at: 1:10pm EDT

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

SHOW NOTES

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0:30 - 2020 Mazda CX-5 First Impressions

7:42 - 2020 Hyundai Venue First Impressions

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

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

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

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

LINKS

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

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

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

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

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

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

Subscribe to Talking Cars on Apple Podcasts!

Video version: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-cars-hq/id630839767?mt=2

Audio version: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-cars-mp3/id630831189?mt=2

Have a question for our experts? Leave a comment on this episode, or reach out to us directly! From your iOS device, iMessage us at TalkingCars@icloud.com to send a photo, video, or text directly to the Talking Cars team!

 

We love to feature our viewers on the show, so submit video questions at https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-talking-cars/

 

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

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

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

Direct download: 1912CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_233_HQ.mp4
Category: -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

We’ve completed testing of the 2020 Toyota Supra. Find out how it performed and if its BMW-based platform lives up to the hype. We also talk about CR’s joint effort with AAA, J.D. Power, and the National Safety Council to develop common terms for advanced driver safety systems. Plus, we answer audience questions about crash tests, the performance of different size winter tires, and if leaving a sunroof cracked open will help keep a car cool.

—————————————————

Subscribe to Talking Cars on Apple Podcasts!

Video version: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-cars-hq/id630839767?mt=2

Audio version: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-cars-mp3/id630831189?mt=2

Have a question for our experts? Leave a comment on this episode, or reach out to us directly!

From your iOS device, iMessage us at TalkingCars@icloud.com to send a photo, video, or text directly to the Talking Cars team!

We love to feature our viewers on the show, so submit video questions at https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-talking-cars/

Subscribe to Talking Cars on

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jr8wJRJyN9v8T6LC1fQQ6

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

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 

SHOW NOTES

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0:22 - CR partners with J.D. Power, AAA and the National Safety Council to create common names for advanced vehicle safety systems

7:55 - 2020 Toyota Supra Test Results

17:22 - Audience Questions

17:34 - Question #1: Are different crash tests weighted differently and how should they influence a buying decision?

21:22 - Question #2: Are hybrid engines designed differently than traditional internal combustion engines? Does the on/off cycle of a hybrid engine affect its longevity?

24:35 - Question #3: If you leave the sunroof of your car cracked open, will hotter air escape and lower the interior temperature?

27:27 - Question #4: Will different sized winter tires (17”/18”) perform differently on a vehicle?

LINKS

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2020 Toyota Supra Makes Thrilling Return: https://www.consumerreports.org/sports-cars/2020-toyota-supra-first-drive-review/

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

Advanced Car Safety Features Need Less Confusing Names, Consumer Reports Says: https://www.consumerreports.org/car-safety/advanced-car-safety-features-need-less-confusing-names/

The Sobering Reality of Hot Car Deaths: https://www.consumerreports.org/car-safety/sobering-reality-of-hot-car-deaths/

How to Cool Your Car Like a Pro: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_4XnoSRtSAo&list=PLVTmjoBWXeFNE0M8qwM0yScDhtGd_VqcO&index=2&t=0s

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

Direct download: 1912CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_232_HQ.mp4
Category:general -- posted at: 6:06am EDT

When it comes to cars, what happens in California doesn't stay in California. In fact, the most populated state in the US has a history of affecting changes in car culture and trends around the rest of the country (if not the world!) We speak to CA residents in person during this live recording of Talking Cars from the LA Auto Show, and discuss how issues like emissions regulations, fuel economy legislation, and alternative fuel adoption began here, and have had an impact around the rest of the world.

 

 

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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

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

 

00:35 - Who is David Friedman?

01:34 - California Car Culture

05:17 - Electric and Alternative Fuel Vehicles

15:46-  California Car Regulations and CARB (California Air Resources Board)

17:31 - Silicon Valley Influencing The Auto Industry

23:02 - Smart Regulation

29:12 - Question #1: What should you consider when purchasing your first EV?

33:22 - Question #2: Why Automakers are Not Fully Embracing EVs?

38:08 - Question #3: Why EV Infrastructure is Not Driven by Car Manufacturers?

43:46 - Question #4: Should Other Manufacturers Follow Tesla’s Example of Super Charger Network Infrastructure?

48:24 - Question #5: Why Auto Manufacturers Starting to Charge Fees For Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?

52:48 - Question #6: What Happens to a Vehicles’ CR Rating When its Reliability Drops Over Time

55:17 - Question #7: How Can States Recoup Lost Fuel Taxes?

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2019 LA Auto Show: 2020 Ford Mustang Mach-E

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CQ30yGjf7sU

 

2019 LA Auto Show: 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VyucrV_maH8

 

4K Review: 2017 Honda Clarity Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e0bUhEmXgNo

 

2016 Toyota Mirai Quick Drive

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

 

2017 Kia Niro Quick Drive

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

 

2018 Tesla Model 3 Quick Drive

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

 

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

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: 1911CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_231_HQ.mp4
Category: -- posted at: 12:30pm EDT