Talking Cars (MP3‪)‬ Consumer Reports

For all the warnings on today's modern vehicles, why don't cars have an alert that a headlight or taillight is out? In the new 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander with a Max powertrain, is there risk of the hybrid battery depleting when carrying a large payload? And if it seems like your EV tires wear much faster than you'd expect, you're not alone. We give expert insight into these questions, as well as the availability of active head restraints, a replacement vehicle for an Audi A3 convertible, and if the days of the local gas station are numbered.
How CR Tests Headlights: https://www.consumerreports.org/video/view/cars/car-safety/6060466527001/headlight-testing/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Early Review: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2024-toyota-grand-highlander-review-a7963942236/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
When to Replace Your Tires: https://www.consumerreports.org/video/view/cars/car-care/6258106759001/when-to-replace-your-tires/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Audi A3 Road Test Results: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/audi/a3/2023/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
EVs vs. Gasoline: Which is Right for Your Life: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Ratings and test results on every car CR purchases and tests: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Subscribe to Talking Cars on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@consumerreports/podcasts
Have a question for our experts? Leave a comment on this episode, or reach out to us directly! Send us a text at TalkingCars@icloud.com to send a photo, video, or text directly to the Talking Cars team!
:47 - are gas stations in danger of disappearing?
6:20 - why do EV tires seem to wear out so fast?
12:34 - why is there no head light/tail light out warning?
17:50 - are active head restraints still available on new cars?
21:07 - what's a good replacement for a 2015 Audi A3 convertible?
28:00 - what happens if you drain the hybrid battery on a Toyota Grand Highlander Max while towing a heavy load uphill?

CR is known for its extensive testing of child seats. But did you know we also perform a crash test on each seat we review? We visit our secret crash lab to give you a behind-the-scenes look at how we go beyond the government standards to test each child seat, why our tests better reflect the circumstances of a real world car crash than what is currently required, and share the top 5 tips for making sure your car seat is installed safely and correctly.
Consumer Reports all-new baby experience: https://www.consumerreports.org/babies/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Ratings and test results on every car CR purchases and tests: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
Subscribe to Talking Cars on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@consumerreports/podcasts
Have a question for our experts? Leave a comment on this episode, or reach out to us directly!
Send us a text at TalkingCars@icloud.com to send a photo, video, or text directly to the Talking Cars team!

See our car ratings and reviews at: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
 
We drove the new 2024 Kona 2.0 and 1.6T at our test track, and share our first impressions on the driving dynamics of the standard and turbo versions, redesigned infotainment system, and how it stacks up against its predecessor. How does it stack up against leaders in the subcompact SUV segment like the Subaru Crosstrek and Honda HR-V? Will the EV version fill the affordable electric car void? Later, we talk about why some driving positions feel "off", and the importance of a symmetrical driving position for a vehicle's driving comfort.
 
 
SHOW NOTES
-----------------------------------
00:00 - Introduction
00:15 - First Impressions: 2024 Hyundai Kona
01:06 - The Subcompact Segment
03:19 - The Version to Buy
07:17 - Hyundai’s New Design
07:54 - The Competition
10:02 - Electric Version
12:16 - Question: How does CR assess the driving position and vehicle comfort?
 
 
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2024 Hyundai Kona Breaks Cover as an EV
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2024-hyundai-kona-review-a8558776955/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
 
2024 Hyundai Kona
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hyundai/kona/2024/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
 
Electric Cars and Plug-In Hybrids That Qualify for Federal Tax Credits
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/electric-cars-plug-in-hybrids-that-qualify-for-tax-credits-a7820795671/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
 
Vehicles With the Best Combination of Fuel Economy and Acceleration
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/fuel-economy-efficiency/vehicle-fuel-economy-vs-performance-a2066683994/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
 
Car Safety Guide
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/car-safety-guide-a6462424223/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
 
 
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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
 
 
-----------------------------------
To find out how products scored in CR’s rigorous lab tests—and to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day—become a member. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization. Join now at https://CR.org/joinviaYT
 
Check out https://www.ConsumerReports.org for the latest reviews, tips, and recommendations and subscribe to our YouTube Channel: http://bit.ly/1Nlb1Ez
 
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See our car ratings and reviews at: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
 
2024 Grand Highlander is all-new for Toyota, as the name suggests it's bigger than the Highlander and slots beneath the larger Sequoia. The Grand Highlander shares powertrains with its namesake while borrowing a performance-oriented turbocharged hybrid from the Lexus RX and Toyota Crown. We share our first impressions of the Grand Highlander, its driving dynamics, the HybridMAX engine, controls, and if the bigger size will help Toyota to stave off competition from the redesigned Honda Pilot and the new Mazda CX-90, as well as against current formidable competition from the Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride. Also, we discuss whether removing doors on a Jeep Wrangler or the Ford Bronco is safe.
 
SHOW NOTES
-----------------------------------
00:00 - Introduction
00:16 - First Impressions: 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander
01:16 - Engine Options
03:28 - Highlander vs. The Grand Highlander
06:44 - The Size
09:36 - Interior Styling
11:46 - Controls
13:06 - Driving Characteristics
16:25 - Toyota’s 3-row SUV lineup
19:42 - Question: Is it safe to drive a Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco without any doors?
 
 
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Longer 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Boasts Big Power
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2024-toyota-grand-highlander-review-a7963942236/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
 
2023 Toyota Grand Highlander
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/toyota/grand-highlander/2024/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
 
Many Popular SUVs Lag Behind in Rear Seat Safety, New Crash Tests Show
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/many-popular-suvs-lag-behind-in-rear-seat-safety-a6607362245/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
 
SUV and Truck Buyers May Pay Thousands More for Life-Saving Feature, CR Study Shows
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/consumers-may-pay-thousands-more-for-life-saving-feature-cr-a8886263392/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
 
Car Safety Guide
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/car-safety-guide-a6462424223/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
 
 
-----------------------------------
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
 
 
-----------------------------------
To find out how products scored in CR’s rigorous lab tests—and to access our comprehensive ratings for items you use every day—become a member. CR is a mission-driven, independent, nonprofit organization. Join now at https://CR.org/joinviaYT
 
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:
TikTok: https://bit.ly/3BVzGR9
Instagram: http://bit.ly/1I49Bzo
Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1IQ2w5q
Twitter: http://bit.ly/1Yf5Fh2
Pinterest: http://bit.ly/1P37mM9

More info on the 2023 Dodge Hornet here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2023-dodge-hornet-review-a4944342068/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
 
Ratings and test results on every car CR purchases and tests: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
 
With the new 2023 Hornet, Dodge has released its first small SUV since the unimpressive Caliber almost a decade ago. The new Hornet shares most of its body, powertrain, and interior with the Alfa Romeo Tonale, which are both manufactured by Stellantis in Italy. We discuss how the Hornet drives, including its power, design, and how it compares to the Alfa. We also consider how the Hornet stacks up against rivals like Ford Bronco Sport, Hyundai Tucson Hybrid, Kia Sportage, and Toyota RAV4 Prime. Also, we debate whether or not used car buyers should be concerned when purchasing a discontinued vehicle and if car parts will be available years down the road.
 
 
SHOW NOTES
-----------------------------------
00:00 - Introduction
00:15 - First Impressions: 2023 Dodge Hornet
02:32 - Hornet vs. Tonale
06:07 - Powertrain
06:43 - Power Delivery
08:23 - The Controls
10:44 - Driving Position
12:49 - Fit and Finish
14:31 - Competitors
17:47 - Exterior Styling
18:53 - Question: When purchasing a discontinued used car should buyers be concerned for the lack of available parts years down the road?
 
 
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2023 Dodge Hornet SUV Promises Power and Efficiency
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2023-dodge-hornet-review-a4944342068/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
 
2023 Dodge Hornet
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/dodge/hornet/2023/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
 
First Drive: 2024 Alfa Romeo Tonale is a Disappointing Effort
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/2024-alfa-romeo-tonale-review-a1132347197/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
 
Is Age or Mileage More Important When Buying a Used Car
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/buying-a-car/is-age-or-mileage-more-important-when-buying-a-used-vehicle-a2126797074/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
 
Car Safety Guide
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/car-safety-guide-a6462424223/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
 
 
-----------------------------------
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

More info on the 2024 Subaru Impreza here: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/small-cars/2024-subaru-impreza-review-a8590029622/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
 
Ratings and test results on every car CR purchases and tests: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
 
The redesigned sixth-generation 2024 Impreza remains true to the established Subaru formula. Subaru has simplified the trim range to Base, Sport and RS, and no longer offers a sedan version of the Impreza. We discuss the minimal changes to the exterior styling, driving characteristics, controls, and the powertrain. Also, we provide some tips that car owners can do to help their vehicles last longer and potentially reach the 200K mile range.
 
 
SHOW NOTES
-----------------------------------
00:00 - Introduction
00:34 - First Impressions: 2024 Subaru Impreza
02:21 - Updates
04:19 - Controls
05:17 - Driving Position
05:59 - The Touch Screen
07:48 - Fit and Finish
09:43 - Ride Comfort
12:18 - Powertrain
14:52 - No Sedan Version
15:57 - Question: What maintenance should car owners perform to help their vehicles last longer?
 
 
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First Drive: 2024 Subaru Impreza RS Boasts Fresh Styling, More Power
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/small-cars/2024-subaru-impreza-review-a8590029622/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
 
2024 Subaru Impreza
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/subaru/impreza/2024/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
 
First Drive: 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Benefits from Subtle Updates
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2024-subaru-crosstrek-review-a4045387800/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
 
How to Make Your Car Last 200,000 Miles and More
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-repair-maintenance/make-your-car-last-200-000-miles-a8010293375/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
 
Car Safety Guide
https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/car-safety-guide-a6462424223/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT
 
 
-----------------------------------
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