Talking Cars (HQ)
Talking Cars (HQ)
Consumer Reports
Join our experts at the Consumer Reports Test Track as they discuss cars, answer buying questions, and share insights on everything automotive.
#307 2021 Kia Sorento; Gas Shortage; RV & Camper Tire Dangers
This week we talk about our test results of the 2021 Kia Sorento: how it handled on our track, as a family car, and how it compares to others in its class, such as the Toyota Highlander and Kia Telluride. We also talk to CR investigative reporter Ryan Felton about his findings regarding an RV and camper tire made by Goodyear that has been linked to numerous crashes and deaths, and offers advice on how to identify an old tire, and when they must be replaced.
May 14, 2021
32 min
Video
#306 2021 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray First Impressions; Why is This Smart Car Trying to Tow Anything?
We recently welcomed the 2021 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray into our test fleet, and we share our first impressions on its driving dynamics, styling, and interior drawbacks. Also, with Corvette always giving buyers more performance per dollar than other automakers, we compare how this first ever mid-engine Corvette compares to other, more exotic sports cars, like Ferraris and Lamborghinis.
May 7, 2021
37 min
Video
#305 We Answer Questions About Our Recent Tesla Coverage; 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Test Results
This week, we address some of the comments posted online about our experiment to see if a Tesla would drive with no one in the driver's seat. We also share our test results of the 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid, discuss the scarcity of the Kia Telluride, if owners are able to replace LED daytime running lights on their own, a smart maintenance schedule for a car driven 4 miles a day in an urban environment, and why new cars aren't as inexpensive as the Ford Model T was in the 1920s.
Apr 30, 2021
43 min
Video
#304 2022 Hyundai Tucson; 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz Preview
We share our first impressions of the 2022 Hyundai Tucson, discussing how much this 4th-generation compact SUV has evolved, and if it is a worthy competitor to the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. Also, Hyundai has unveiled its all-new compact pickup-truck this week, the 2022 Santa Cruz, and we discuss where this tiny truck fits within the pickup segment, and which demographic Hyundai is targeting.
Apr 23, 2021
29 min
Video
#303 2021 Genesis GV80 Test Results; EV Danger in Standing Water; Comfort Pet Peeves
We recently completed testing on the 2021 Genesis GV80, and this week we share how this all-new SUV from Hyundai's luxury brand performed. What keeps you comfortable when you're behind the wheel? This week we discuss our comfort must-haves when driving, as well as our personal pet peeves that drive us crazy!
Apr 16, 2021
28 min
Video
#302 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander; Rivian Adventure Network
This week we drove the all-new 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander, and we share our first impressions on the interior styling, and how it handled on our track. Rivian, the fledgling electric truck and SUV nameplate, just announced a plan to install EV chargers at places known for outdoor recreation: state parks and campsites. We talk about how this plan differentiates it from other automakers, and whether it's enough to stand out in a market dominated by Tesla.
Apr 9, 2021
27 min
Video
#301 2022 KIA Carnival First Impressions; What Is Driving Up New Car Prices?
This week we rented the 2022 Kia Carnival, and share our first impressions on its unique styling, utility, driving dynamics, and how it compares to the Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, and Chrysler Pacifica. We also examine why people are spending more on new vehicles, and what is driving the average car prices so high.
Apr 2, 2021
28 min
Video
#300 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe; the Future of Infrastructure, Self-Driving, and EVs
This week we give our first impressions of the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe. We also share how recent testing at the Consumer Reports test track discovered issues with the 2021 Hyundai Elantra and 2021 Toyota Sienna. And our humble podcast has been on the road for over 8 years, so to celebrate our 300th episode, we feature predictions from the Talking Cars audience about what we'll be discussing 8 years from now, covering the future of electric vehicles, infrastructure, self-driving and autonomous cars, and more!
Mar 29, 2021
45 min
Video
#299 2021 Buick Envision First Impressions; The Rise of Destination Fees
This week we share our first impressions of the 2021 Buick Envision, and discuss where it’s built and how that affects its driving dynamics in comparison to other luxury compact SUVs like the Audi Q5, BMW X3, and Mercedes-Benz GLC. We also examine vehicle destination fees, discuss why these ballooning delivery charges may add to the cost of your new car, and point out which manufacturers are the biggest offenders of driving up the cost.
Mar 19, 2021
29 min
Video
#298 Car Lease Negotiation Tips; Is Buying A High Mileage Used Vehicle Sensible?
This week we discuss whether you should always trust a dealer's advice on maintenance intervals; if seat protector mats are safe to use with child seats; if purchasing a used CR recommended vehicle with high mileage is a wise choice; tips for negotiating a car lease, and if asking to have an independent mechanic check a certified pre-owned car is an automotive faux pas.
Mar 12, 2021
29 min
Video
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