Thu, 27 December 2018
We close out 2018 by taking a look back at the cars we tested this year, and which ones we thought were the most, and least, satisfying to drive. We eulogize those vehicles we love that won't be coming back next year, and give our thoughts on what we're looking forward to most in 2019. |
Fri, 21 December 2018
The IIHS releases its list of the Safest Cars to Drive. We discuss the new tests that affect the cars on the list and how CR’s tests compliment crash ratings. Plus, we share test results of the 2019 Hyundai Tucson and answer questions on headlights, hybrids, and the most comfortable budget sports car. ————————————————— 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 ----------------------------------- 0:43 - IIHS Top Safety Picks 6:18 - 2019 Hyundai Tucson Test Results 10:28 - Send us your questions! 10:45 - Video Question #1: Upgrading headlights 13:33 - Video Question #2: Which car is the most comfortable for tall drivers? Subaru BRZ, Mazda MX-5, Hyundai Veloster. 18:17 - Question #3: Is there any financial gain by leasing a 2019 Toyota RAV4 hybrid? LINKS ----------------------------------- 2016 Hyundai Tucson Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X2jcWdRN168 2017 Honda CR-V Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CwN2Tl1A5Z4 2018 New York Auto Show: 2019 Toyota RAV4: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N9MJ-sMDdsc Redesigned Mazda MX-5 Keeps Miata Magic Going: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O908JUXgiwk Scion FR-S vs Subaru BRZ: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PWwz7Ybpy1U 2019 Hyundai Veloster Test Results; Talking Cars #180: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yE7WQ43AODo VW Golf R vs. Golf GTI: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2uLwY-A35ko
Direct download: 1812CRO_Talking_Cars_Epiosde_182_HQ2.mp4
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT |
Thu, 13 December 2018
Winter brings shorter days and more people driving in the dark. On this episode, we discuss headlight effectiveness and how to keep them clean. The 2019 Audi A8 L joins our test fleet and we give our first impressions. Plus, we answer your questions about the best EV charging network, replacing the discontinued Chevy Volt and cars suited for commuting in Maine winters. ————————————————— 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 ----------------------------------- 00:28 - Cleaning Cloudy Headlights 04:33 - 2019 Audi A8 L First Impressions 10:34 - If I Had $100K to spend on a car 14:09 - Question #1: Suitable Replacement for Chevrolet Volt? 18:14 - Question #2: What Is The Best Car Charging Network? 22:49 - Question #3: Is There Anything Better Than The Subaru Outback?
LINKS ----------------------------------- Old Headlights Can Be Dangerously Dim, Study Finds: https://www.consumerreports.org/car-repair-maintenance/old-headlights-can-be-dangerously-dim/ Headlight Restoration Kits: https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/headlight-restoration-kits/buying-guide/index.htm 2017 LA Auto Show: 2019 Audi A8: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iX7OpaYHmQI 4K Review: 2018 Lexus LS Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JOALhUeztwQ Audi A8 Review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j6WQBF-WLHw 2016 BMW 7 Series Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CyL8s6BosIc 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ojfBQEZ8jo 2016 Chevrolet Volt Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D3sa7OT3PhU 2017 Chevrolet Bolt Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tIYG0NR42LU 2017 Toyota Prius Prime Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EQt6L1celr4 2017 Volkswagen Alltrack Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nFwfm63Ts1k Face-Off: Subaru Outback vs. Volkswagen Alltrack: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ylXqZce8XQ 2015 Subaru Outback and Legacy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omeYWjqBJRQ |
Fri, 7 December 2018
The new Hyundai Veloster has a record-setting performance in one of our tests. We discuss how the hatchback has improved and where it slots among competitors. GM is dropping six sedans from its lineup; we talk about how it will affect consumers. Plus, we answer your questions on used car buying and if it’s safe to drive your car until the tank is almost empty. ————————————————— Subscribe to Talking Cars on Apple Podcasts!
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 ----------------------------------- 0:39 - General Motors drops 6 sedans 5:50 - 2019 Hyundai Veloster Test Results 12:02 - Send us your questions, TalkingCars@icloud.com 12:17 - Question #1: Replacing a hybrid battery on a Toyota RAV4 Hybrid 15:40 - Question #2: Oil change frequency vs. tire rotation frequency 19:12 - Question #3: Can you damage your car by driving with extremely low fuel? 22:10 - Question #4: Shopping to replace a 2001 Chevrolet Prizm for a college student LINKS ----------------------------------- GM Becomes Latest Car Company to Drop Some Sedans: https://www.consumerreports.org/general-motors/gm-to-drop-some-sedans/ 2018 Detroit Auto Show: 2019 Hyundai Veloster: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I88Kd-GKvc8 Hyundai Veloster First Look: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jN7fzifIIvY 2016 Chevrolet Cruze Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pvkgXCFO4wM 2016 Chevrolet Volt Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D3sa7OT3PhU 2014 Chevrolet Impala Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RzsS1Z4zKiU 2017 Buick LaCrosse Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eAYrZGJ0t3k Cadillac XTS First Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F3MgKGVVv38 2016 Cadillac CT6 Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G6dTwFJnkRU Self-Driving System Rankings: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X06tXpg7yiA 2016 Toyota RAV4 Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gEnMo_G7eM8 2018 LA Auto Show: 2019 Toyota Prius AWD: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_uuYO8OIjl8 2014 Toyota Corolla First Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uu6QfFB7fDY |
Fri, 30 November 2018
We're on the West Coast for the 2018 Los Angeles Auto Show, and discussing the big SUVs that debuted at the show, as well as the EVs and sedans that were announced. Some of the highlights from the show this year include the all-wheel drive Toyota Prius, the redesigned Toyota Corolla, the three-row Hyundai Palisade, and the rugged Honda Passport.
-------------------------------------- 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 ----------------------------------- 01:01 2019 Toyota Prius
03:08 2019 Toyota Corolla
04:37 2019 Mazda 3
07:06 2020 Kia Soul
08:50 Hyundai Palisade
10:42 Lincoln Aviator
12:20 Honda Passport
13:46 Jeep Gladiator
15:44 BMW 3 Series
16:57 Porsche 911
19:00 Audi e-Tron GT
20:46 Our Favorites from the Show
----------------------------------- 2018 LA Auto Show: 2020 Kia Soul https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fb_zoX4V6r8
2018 LA Auto Show: 2019 Toyota Prius AWD https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_uuYO8OIjl8
2018 LA Auto Show: 2019 Audi E-Tron https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uBV9nrd6_mo
2018 LA Auto Show: 2020 Toyota Corolla https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_jdM7sVsfi4
2018 LA Auto Show: 2019 Honda Passport https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aU9DfC2zpNQ ----------------------------------- 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 |
Wed, 21 November 2018
With the Thanksgiving weekend upon us we thought it would be the perfect time to talk about all the things we are thankful for in the auto industry this year. We've also finished testing the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe, and discuss how it compares to the rest of its competitive SUV class, as well as the previous generation Santa Fe.
---------------------------- 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 -----------------------------------
05:48 Auto Trends We’re Thankful For
16:36 What Are Our Co-workers Thankful For
----------------------------------- 2018 New York Auto Show: 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m3ilxcZv1rw
2016 Kia Sorento Quick Drive https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q9cvIuyLOGE
Best Black Friday Car Deals for 2018 https://www.consumerreports.org/buying-a-car/best-black-friday-car-deals/
Automotive Turkeys of 20189 https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-automotive-turkeys-disappointing-cars-and-tires/
----------------------------------- 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 |
Fri, 16 November 2018
This week, we dedicate the entire episode to answering your questions! We tackle everything from car buying advice for new parents, whether or not 'no haggle' policies help consumers when negotiating prices, the evolution of the Honda Ridgeline and the pros and cons of buying a new or used Tesla. ----------------------------------- Subscribe to Talking Cars on Apple Podcasts!
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 SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 1:08 Video Question #1 - How and why do CR Reliability Ratings change? 3:49 Video Question #2 - Do new cars come with faulty batteries? 7:02 Video Question #3 - How do you get a prorated tread wear warranty? 10:18 Question #4 - New family car recommendations? 13:15 Question #5 - How do heavily tinted windows affect visibility at night? 14:40 Question #6 - Are 'no haggle' policies helpful to consumers? 16:46 Question #7 - What's a better buy, a new Tesla Model 3 or a used Model S? 18:00 Question #8 - Is the Subaru WRX a good choice for a fun car in Chicago? 20:00 Question #9 - Am I supposed to like the new Honda Ridgeline body style? 21:45 Question #10 - How important are break-in periods on new cars? 23:07 Question #11 - What's the deal with 3-spoke steering wheels? 24:19 Question #12 - Does CR like when cars have a heads up display? 26:11 Question #13 - Looking for a manual hatchback or wagon for $12K 27:34 Question #14 - Why has the Toyota Tacoma become unreliable? VIDEO LINKS ----------------------------------- 2015 Ford Mustang Review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lKpFSLHLmdM 2016 Honda Civic Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R1hAWTiNz8M New All-Weather Tires Outperform Some Snow Tires: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0JfEcVZvQEA 2017 Volkswagen Alltrack Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nFwfm63Ts1k 2018 Buick Regal Sportback Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2K7SsXtZs98 2018 Buick Regal TourX Preview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d6Pni8Mo4dk 2017 Mazda CX-5 Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KmTVgcuD2V4 2015 Honda Fit Review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tJwKgKunkAQ 2013 Ford Fusion First Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XlfE7BNeA4s 2018 Tesla Model 3 Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S0VlwLRJFAo 2016 Tesla Model S Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t9cT_mIff-Q Toyota Prius Gets Record-Setting 52 MPG: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ii9oBcRCoLU 2015 Subaru WRX Review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hksUMXuW3VM 2014 Mini Cooper Review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AMrZHnLKoGI 2017 Honda Ridgeline Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eJJeNbqaQAM 2014 Mazda3 First Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QAqcc5ykuKY 2016 Toyota Tacoma Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vHnpNycnJ1s |
Thu, 8 November 2018
We just took delivery of the 2019 Cadillac XT4 at the track. We share our first impressions on the luxury subcompact, how it stacks up to others in the class, and wonder who this segment is really trying to appeal to! We also discuss recent engine recalls by Subaru and Toyota, give a not-so-teary eulogy for GM's Book car subscription service, and answer audience questions, including one about dealership business model and high pressure situations with car salespeople.
---------------------------------------------- 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 - Subaru and Toyota Recalls
08:11 - 2019 Cadillac XT4
13:02 - Question 1: Choosing Between Scion xB and Mazda3
15:17 - Question 2: Using FCW and AEB in Wintery Conditions
17:49 - Question 3: High Pressure Situations with Salespeople
21:48 - Question 4: Is Blind-Spot Warning Necessary?
----------------------------------- 2018 New York Auto Show: 2019 Cadillac XT4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VeqN7zuP344
Subaru and Toyota to Recall 165,000 Vehicles for Engine Issues https://www.consumerreports.org/car-recalls-defects/subaru-and-toyota-recall-engine-issues-stalling/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lE6pLbbt428
6 Safety Sensors to Clean on Your Car This Winter https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MDpdorEOeUc
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QAqcc5ykuKY
----------------------------------- 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 |
Thu, 1 November 2018
The all-new Toyota RAV4 is at the track; we share our impressions and discuss how it's stayed on top of the small SUV market. We also talk about CR's push to standardize the terms used to describe safety gear, and how we're including blind-spot warning into our overall score of vehicles. Don't worry, we squeezed in some audience questions too! ----------------------------------- Subscribe to Talking Cars on Apple Podcasts!
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 SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 0:36 - CR's push to standardize safety gear terms 4:40 - Including blind-spot warning in CR car ratings 7:30 - 2019 Toyota RAV4 13:35 - Send us your questions! 14:23 - Question #1: Leasing as a long term test drive? 16:33 - Question #2: Genesis G70 availability 19:00 - Question #3: Is the Mazda CX-9 a reliable choice this year? 19:44 - Question #4: What PHEV should I buy? VIDEO LINKS ----------------------------------- 2018 New York Auto Show: 2019 Toyota RAV4: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N9MJ-sMDdsc 2016 Toyota RAV4 Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gEnMo_G7eM8 2017 Honda CR-V Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CwN2Tl1A5Z4 2018 Toyota Camry Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SpOUrt8sLGE 2019 Genesis G70 Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UDrN5_R3Bu0 2018 Kia Stinger Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z23ztuujxfA 2016 Mazda CX-9 Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5UigcJd7PVY 2017 Mazda CX-5 Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KmTVgcuD2V4 2013 Ford C-MAX First Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z9Mw4bC6WZo 2017 Kia Niro Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UA7DkF_I0jA 2017 Hyundai Ioniq Quick Drive: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DeYnvaqVHV0 |
Wed, 24 October 2018
This week's episode is all about reliability! Each year, Consumer Reports surveys its members about their vehicles to find out how their cars are performing in day to day, real world use. From major engine issues to frustrating infotainment problems, data is collected to find out how vehicles perform over the years. Once we crunch the numbers, we are able to determine which cars and brands are running smoothly, or giving owners constant issues. We go over some of the worst performing cars in our survey, and answer viewer questions about reliability issues they are currently experiencing. 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 For our full reliability coverage, visit CR.org/reliability SHOW NOTES 4:50 - least reliable new cars 9:35 - Tesla Model S reliability 16:50 - Question #1: Reliable vehicle for towing & family 20:10 - Question #2: Replacement for Toyota Camry Hybrid Honda Clarity Quick Drive: https://youtu.be/e0bUhEmXgNo Cadillac ATS Quick Drive: https://youtu.be/_WzeCnXgUn4 Tesla Model X Quick Drive: https://youtu.be/7GhvTUDuEds Honda Odyssey Quick Drive: https://youtu.be/ViCmxjDDLIM Tesla Model S Quick Drive: https://youtu.be/t9cT_mIff-Q Tesla Model 3 Quick Drive: https://youtu.be/S0VlwLRJFAo |