Talking Cars (MP3)

This week we discuss our test results of the 2020 Nissan Versa subcompact sedan. We also share feedback from our audience about preferences for in-car navigation: do more drivers like built-in nav systems, or mobile phone apps for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, like Waze and Google Maps? And we discuss whether a vehicle's ride height can affect passenger safety, reliability differences between the Kia Telluride and Toyota Highlander, and do older airbags have an expiration date.

 

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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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00:33 - Audience Feedback on In-car Navigation System Preference

09:32 - 2020 Nissan Versa Test Results

16:13 - Question #1: What is a good, comfortable, 4-seat convertible?

22:12 - Question #2: Do older car airbags expire and do they need any special inspection or maintenance?

23:47 - Question #3: Between the Toyota Highlander and Kia Telluride which SUV has better reliability?

25:48 - Question #4: Does the vehicle's ride height affect passenger safety?

 

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Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

 

2020 Nissan Versa

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

 

2014 Nissan Versa Note quick take

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

 

2019 LA Auto Show: 2020 Nissan Sentra

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

 

2019 New York Auto Show: 2020 Hyundai Venue

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vg_FiOaMc0Y

 

Audi A5 Convertible: Review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZtIubiEiv2w

 

2018 Jeep Wrangler Quick Drive

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

 

2015 Ford Mustang Review

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

 

2019 New York Auto Show: 2020 Toyota Highlander

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hfQ7Kq-pflc

 

2020 Kia Telluride Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eBNhy1Putrs

 

2018 LA Auto Show: 2020 Hyundai Palisade

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

 

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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: 2005RT_Talking_Cars_Episode_257.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 12:00pm EDT

This week we share our test results of the 2020 Buick Encore GX and compare how this 3-cylinder SUV stacks up to its competitors in the Luxury segment. We talk about the virtual unveiling of the 2021 Toyota Sienna and Venza, both of which will only be available with a hybrid powertrain. Also, we discuss the rebates some car insurers are offering due to the reduced number of drivers on the road during the coronavirus pandemic, and wrap up the episode with audience questions.

 

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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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00:46 - Car Insurance Rebates During Coronavirus Crisis

07:12 - 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid Unveiled

13:24 - 2021 Toyota Venza Hybrid Unveiled

17:19 - 2020 Buick Encore GX Test Results

23:52 - Question #1: Why did the 2017 Buick Regal’s reliability drop and what are the issues?

26:39 - Question #2: Are automakers phasing out built in navigation systems?

32:17 - Question #3: Why two virtually identical vehicles, Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade, have different frontal crash test scores?

 

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Car Insurers Are Giving Customers Breaks Due to Coronavirus. We Got the Details for You

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-insurance/car-insurance-rebates-payment-deferrals-during-coronavirus-pandemic/

 

Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

 

Preview: 2021 Toyota Sienna Hybrid Is Versatile and Curvaceous

https://www.consumerreports.org/minivans/2021-toyota-sienna-review/

 

Preview: 2021 Toyota Venza Hybrid Packs Safety and Convenience Tech

https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/2021-toyota-venza-hybrid-review/

 

2019 LA Auto Show: 2020 Buick Encore GX

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QqCbD4SRB9Q

 

2013 Buick Encore first drive

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

 

Toyota Venza review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VAV6MdAv8LQ

 

2014 Buick Regal Review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tD3uqAl_MBY

 

2020 Kia Telluride Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eBNhy1Putrs

 

2018 LA Auto Show: 2020 Hyundai Palisade

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

 

NHTSA Crash Calculator

https://www.regulations.gov/document?D=NHTSA-2019-0088-0021

 

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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:

Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1IQ2w5q

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Google+: http://bit.ly/1Md3gfQ

Direct download: 2005CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_256.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 5:00pm EDT

This week we talk about the test results of the 2020 Nissan Sentra and the progression of this compact sedan throughout its existence.  We share what precautions CR is taking in order to continue its auto test program during the COVID-19 pandemic. Also, we answer questions about swapping your car's stock infotainment system for an aftermarket in order to gain Apple CarPlay, and whether there are any advantages to summer tires.

 

 

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

 

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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00:30 - How CR is continuing to test cars during the coronavirus pandemic

06:46 - 2020 Nissan Sentra Test Results

11:57 - Question #1: Why did the Jeep Grand Cherokee go from unrecommended to CR recommended?

14:34 - Question #2: What is a good, fun to drive, manual stick shift car under 5K? 

17:57 - Question #3: Is it possible to upgrade the original infotainment system with an after market unit in order to gain Apple CarPlay?

23:20 - Question #4: Which car would be a good replacement for the Forester’s all-wheel drive and the fuel economy of the Toyota Prius?

26:27 - Question #5: What are the advantages to summer tires on an economy vehicle?

 

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Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

 

2019 LA Auto Show: 2020 Nissan Sentra

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

 

2016 Nissan Sentra

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

 

2019 Jeep Cherokee Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FG5cR-Twhns

 

2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee first drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EH_XMu6QVLc

 

Mazda MX-5 Miata Review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kRYTex1fo20

 

2014 Mazda3 first drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QAqcc5ykuKY

 

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

 

4K Review: 2017 Mazda CX-5 Quick Drive

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

 

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

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

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Google+: http://bit.ly/1Md3gfQ

Direct download: 2005CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_255.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 8:00pm EDT

On this week's episode we discuss the results of CR's new survey which asked drivers nationwide what improvements they would desire on their vehicles. We share our full road test results of the all-new 2021 Kia Seltos. We also answer audience questions about whether or not there is a difference in build quality of a specific vehicle model built in different countries, and if drivers are being more reckless because there are fewer drivers on the road.

 

 

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

 

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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00:40 - CR’s Fuel Economy Study Results

05:11 - 2021 Kia Seltos Road Test Results

11:58 - Question #1: Is it possible to upgrade the UConnect infotainment system on the 2018 Jeep Cherokee to get Apple CarPlay?

16:07 - Question #2: Is there a difference in build quality depending on which plant or country a car was manufactured in? 

18:25 - Question #3: What is a good car for a new grad under 12K?

23:48 - Question #4: Does it seem that people are driving much faster with fewer cars on the road during the coronavirus lockdown?

 

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Drivers Have a Strong Interest in Fuel Economy, Despite Low Gas Prices

https://www.consumerreports.org/fuel-economy-efficiency/drivers-still-have-a-strong-interest-in-fuel-economy-despite-low-gas-prices/

 

Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

 

2019 LA Auto Show: 2021 Kia Seltos

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DzEQGzQ1WwM

 

2018 Hyundai Kona Quick Drive

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

 

2020 Kia Soul Quick Drive

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

 

4K Review: 2017 Nissan Rogue Sport Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5bXt8xd8H5Y

 

4K Review: 2018 Subaru Crosstrek Quick Drive

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

 

Volkswagen Golf Review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rB1n2IgAtT0

 

2014 Mazda3 first drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QAqcc5ykuKY

 

2013 Mazda CX-5 review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BtIXKw4tvSo

 

2006-2012 Toyota RAV4 review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z5G5tAKz_94

 

2009-2014 Honda Fit review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z7W-Ba5Vm3U

 

 

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

 

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: 2005CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_254.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 3:00pm EDT

This week we share our test results of the all-new 2020 Mazda CX-30, and talk about where this compact SUV fits in the Mazda lineup. Jen Stockburger shares her personal experience purchasing a new vehicle and how the process is different due to social distancing. Also, we discuss vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication and what the future might look like for vehicle communication. We wrap up with audience questions including whether adding fuel stabilizer might affect your car's emissions, and whether or not all the new advanced safety systems might drive down insurance premiums due to less accidents.

 

 

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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

 

 

SHOW NOTES

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00:30 - Jen Stockburger Car Buying Experience

05:28 - V2X (Vehicle-to-evedrything) Communication Update

11:45 - 2020 Mazda CX-30 Test Results

19:56 - Question #1: What is a good, sporty, and under 10k replacement for a Subaru Legacy?

25:29 - Question #2: Can adding fuel stabilizer to your vehicles gas tank affect its emissions?

26:34 - Question #3: How well did the Hyundai Sonata’s headlights perform in CR’s tests?

29:06 - Question #4: Could advanced safety gear on new vehicles reduce car crashes by such amount that it might drive down the cost of  insurance premiums?

 

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Auto Industry Pledges V2X Expansion, but Only If FCC Protects Airwaves

https://www.consumerreports.org/automotive-technology/auto-industry-pledges-v2x-expansion-but-only-if-fcc-protects-airwaves/

 

Vehicle-to-vehicle communication can prevent crashes

https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/magazine/2012/04/vehicle-to-vehicle-communication-can-prevent-crashes/index.htm

 

Coronavirus Is Pushing Car Dealerships Into Online Sales and Home Delivery

https://www.consumerreports.org/buying-a-car/coronavirus-pushing-car-dealerships-into-online-sales-and-home-delivery/

 

How to Buy a Car From Home and Spend Less Time at the Dealership

https://www.consumerreports.org/buying-a-car/buy-a-car-without-leaving-home-or-going-to-a-dealership/

 

Some Automakers Are Offering Car Lease Extensions Amid Coronavirus Pandemic

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-financing/some-automakers-are-offering-car-lease-extensions-amid-coronavirus-pandemic/

 

Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

 

First Drive: Small, Seductive 2020 Mazda CX-30 SUV

https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2020-mazda-cx-30-review/

 

Mazda CX-3 Brings Premium Feel to Subcompact SUVs

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

 

4K Review: 2017 Mazda CX-5 Quick Drive

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

 

2018 LA Auto Show: 2019 Mazda3

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iRfZ-oO3qpM

 

2018 Mazda6 Quick Drive

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

 

Infiniti G37 Review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tOpuKjX96wk

 

2009-2010 Audi A4 Review

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

 

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

 

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: 2004RT_Talking_Cars_Episode_253.mp3
Category: -- posted at: 1:48pm EDT

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