New to our test fleet this week is the 2020 Toyota Corolla Hybrid we purchased for testing at our track. With the same hybrid system as the Prius, and built on the same platform as the well-performing Corolla Hatchback, is Toyota's new offering the best of both worlds? We also discuss IIHS' latest study on speeding's role in fatal auto accidents, and answer audience questions, including the difference between summer and all-season tires, and whether modern HID and LED headlights cause too much g...
Apr 12, 2019•24 min•Ep 198•Transcript available on Metacast We just purchased the all-new 2019 Mazda3 for our testing program, and we share our first impressions on the sedan - can it retain the fun driving dynamics of the last generation? We also discuss the recently unveiled 2020 Toyota Yaris Hatchback and Ford Escape's chances of becoming bigger players in their respective segments. We also answer questions from our audience, including whether premium fuel will make a Ford F-150 run more efficiently, how to choose the right size tires, and how you kno...
Apr 04, 2019•31 min•Ep 197•Transcript available on Metacast The Kia Telluride makes its debut at our test track and we give our first impressions of the three-row SUV. We also talk about mandatory safety gear coming to European cars in 2022 and the possible implications of speed limiters in cars. Plus, we answer your questions! ————————————————— 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 C...
Mar 29, 2019•27 min•Transcript available on Metacast Lots of electric car news to get charged up about this week, as Tesla unveiled its Model 3-based crossover Model Y, and Henrik Fisker's new automotive venture announced a $40,000 all-electric SUV. We recently bought an electric vehicle of our own for our test program, the 2019 Hyundai Kona EV, and give our first impressions on how it compares to the top rated gas version. We also answer audience questions this week about Jeep reliability vs. owner satisfaction, replacement high-performance tires...
Mar 22, 2019•30 min•Ep 195•Transcript available on Metacast Tesla has been in the news a lot recently, with announcements about price drops and increases, new Autopilot functionality, stores closing (or not,) and the availability of the long-promised $35,000 Model 3. What should a consumer make of all this? Our experts give advice on what to do if you're questioning whether a Tesla makes sense for you. We recently purchased the new 2019 BMW 3 Series, and we give our first impressions of what it's like behind the wheel. We end this episode with audience q...
Mar 16, 2019•32 min•Transcript available on Metacast This week, we discuss the Road Test results of our 2019 Cadillac XT4, and the nuances of competing in the entry-level luxury SUV segment. Volvo announced that it will be limiting the maximum speed on its vehicles, and we talk about the decision’s impact on safety. As always, we wrap the episode with audience questions, this week about proper steering wheel position, used car maintenance practices, and the evolution (or lack thereof) of car door hinges. --------------------------------------- Hav...
Mar 08, 2019•24 min•Ep 193•Transcript available on Metacast We just took delivery of our very own 2019 Ford Ranger, and give our first impressions of what it’s like to drive this resurrected small pickup truck. We answer audience questions about the AWD system in the Toyota RAV4 hybrid, if an electric is the right choice for a snowy, mountainous climate, and what to do about a car’s safety sensors that get obstructed by snow, salt, and ice. Finally, ever wonder what happens to CR’s cars once the final test is complete? We go behind the scenes and tell yo...
Mar 06, 2019•26 min•Transcript available on Metacast This week we release our list of the top cars for 2019, and we discuss what it takes to be a Consumer Reports Top Pick vehicle. Reliability is very important when shopping for a vehicle, and we discuss how we determine which cars will keep running for the long haul, as well as give an update on the the reliability score for the Tesla Model 3. Finally, we discuss which brands make the best (or worst) vehicles. SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- :38 - how we determine our Top Picks 7:1...
Feb 21, 2019•20 min•Transcript available on Metacast Chevrolet has revived the Blazer nameplate, and we discuss if it can compete in the saturated 2-row SUV market. Love is in the air this week, and we share stories about the cars that broke our hearts. We also share some highlights from the 2019 Chicago Auto Show, including details on the 2020 Subaru Legacy sedan. We wrap the episode with audience questions about the importance of washing your car's undercarriage, myths about automatic emergency braking, and how we test cargo space. -------------...
Feb 14, 2019•28 min•Transcript available on Metacast This week, it’s another all questions episode! We talk about everything from tires, crash tests, the all-wheel drive myth and the most baby-worthy car for a dad-to-be. And don't forget that you can send us your questions at TalkingCars@icloud.com! ————————————————— 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 ...
Feb 08, 2019•23 min•Ep 189•Transcript available on Metacast This week we discuss Ford's new rewards program, and whether or not such programs really benefit car owners. At the track, we've rented the new Honda Passport, and give our thoughts on how it stacks up among the multitudes of SUVs. As always, we wrap with audience questions, including one about how manufacturer’s all-wheel drive systems differ. ------------------------------- Have a question for our experts? Leave a comment on this episode, or reach out to us directly! From your iOS device, iMes...
Jan 31, 2019•27 min•Transcript available on Metacast This week we discuss the recent trend of automakers resurrecting discontinued car models, and the nostalgia (or lack thereof) that such a move might ignite in a car buyer. We've completed testing on the 2019 BMW X5 SUV, and talk about how it performed in our tests. Finally, we wrap with viewer questions, including one about the first car for a teenage driver under $5,000, and how cold temperatures affect electric vehicle batteries. ------------------------------------------- Have a question for ...
Jan 25, 2019•27 min•Transcript available on Metacast We're on location in Detroit for the 2019 North American International Auto Show! We discuss vehicles announced at the show, including the all-new Toyota Supra, Kia Telluride, Volkswagen Passat, and more. We also geek out over the enthusiast cars announced, including the Ford Mustang Shelby GT 500 and Subaru STI S209. SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- :40 - importance of Detroit Auto Show in automotive industry 3:00 - Kia Telluride 4:59 - Toyota Supra 6:29 - Lexus RC 8:30 - Volkswag...
Jan 17, 2019•25 min•Transcript available on Metacast We just purchased Jaguar's answer to Tesla's all-electric fleet - the 2019 I-PACE. We discuss our first impressions on how it drives, differences in interior quality to Tesla's offerings, and where we think the electric car market is heading with more established automakers entering the segment. We also discuss the automotive technology on display at CES in Las Vegas and wrap by answering viewer questions. ------------------------------------ Have a question for our experts? Leave a comment on t...
Jan 11, 2019•24 min•Transcript available on Metacast Porsche has finally redesigned its Cayenne SUV, and we discuss our overall impressions, and how it performed in our tests. Wet weather can have a significant impact on how tires perform, and the problem only gets worse as a tire ages. CR recently conducted a test on how tires with low tread depth handled in our wet braking and hydroplaning courses, and why a tire from Michelin impressed us. We also answer audience questions about the 2019 Toyota RAV4, how long it takes us to fully test a vehicle...
Jan 04, 2019•27 min•Ep 184•Transcript available on Metacast 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.
Dec 27, 2018•30 min•Ep 183•Transcript available on Metacast 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...
Dec 21, 2018•22 min•Transcript available on Metacast 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-h...
Dec 13, 2018•27 min•Ep 181•Transcript available on Metacast 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! Video version: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-cars-hq/id63083...
Dec 07, 2018•24 min•Transcript available on Metacast 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 devi...
Nov 30, 2018•23 min•Ep 179•Transcript available on Metacast 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 TalkingCar...
Nov 21, 2018•20 min•Transcript available on Metacast 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! Video version: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-cars-hq/id630839767?mt=2 Audio version: https://itunes.apple.c...
Nov 16, 2018•29 min•Ep 177•Transcript available on Metacast 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. ---------------------------...
Nov 08, 2018•27 min•Transcript available on Metacast 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! Video version: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/talking-cars-hq/id6308...
Nov 01, 2018•22 min•Transcript available on Metacast 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...
Oct 24, 2018•23 min•Transcript available on Metacast This week we dig through the backlog of questions from our audience (submitted to TalkingCars@iCloud.com.) We give advice on making smart car buying decisions, whether it's a good idea to change your transmission oil, what kind of car to use when learning to drive a manual, and more! ----------------------------- 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 tex...
Oct 19, 2018•26 min•Transcript available on Metacast This week we discuss our findings regarding the recent reports of Honda CR-V drivers experiencing gasoline leaking into and diluting the engine oil, and what you should do if you are having the same problem. Next, we give our first impressions of the all-new 2019 Nissan Altima, and how it stacks up in the already declining compact sedan segment. We also answer audience questions about automatic transmission driving habits, and safety concerns of over-the-air vehicle software updates. -----------...
Oct 12, 2018•20 min•Transcript available on Metacast We explain why General Motor's Super Cruise, Tesla's Autopilot, Nissan's ProPILOT Assist, and Volvo's Pilot Assist are not self-driving systems, but how each can be used safely, and which ones Consumer Reports finds perform best. We also answer questions about transmissions system additives, and whether the Subaru Forester is the best choice for people with an active lifestyle. ------------------------------- Have a question for our experts? Leave a comment on this episode, or reach out to us di...
Oct 05, 2018•23 min•Transcript available on Metacast This week, we give our first impressions of the new Subaru Outback - does it maintain the legacy of the high utility (but low excitement) SUV? We also discuss the recent announcements of mobile map apps Waze and Google Maps debuting on Apple CarPlay, as well as Amazon's new Alexa Auto device. Lastly, we answer audience questions about our test results on the Acura RDX, why all dashboards are black these days, and which we would choose as a work truck: the Chevrolet Colorado or the Toyota Tacoma....
Sep 28, 2018•27 min•Transcript available on Metacast We've finished testing the 2019 Subaru Ascent, and let you know how it stacks up against competitors like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, and Mazda CX-9. We also discuss the unveiling of the all-electric Audi E-Tron SUV, as well as startup automaker Lucid securing $1 billion in funding. And as always, we answer your questions, this week about CR buying and testing unpopular cars, our most coveted advanced safety gear, and what car you should buy once you pay off your student loans! ---------...
Sep 20, 2018•27 min•Transcript available on Metacast 
