Some days at the Consumer Reports Automotive Test Center are better than others. Flogging a new F80 BMW M3 around the test track definitely counts as a good day. But as capable as the car is in that environment, the jury's out about how much fun it is on the street. Episode 41 of “Talking Cars with Consumer Reports” spends a good deal of time discussing the latest M car.
Complaining about newfangled Lexus control systems, whether a miniature mouse or a trying touchpad, seems to be a common Talking Cars topic. An offended Lexus owner takes a few potshots about “older” CR testers who supposedly just don’t get it. Watch closely: One wrong inadvertent swipe of Tom’s iPad shows the dangers of complex controls when recording a podcast, never mind actually driving a car down the road.
Small crossovers are a growing segment, with upcoming entry-level models like the Honda HR-V joining more expensive models from Audi and Mercedes-Benz. A viewer asks if buying one from an upscale brand is worth it to him, in effect answering his own question. Finally, a young viewer has the chance to get a free Land Rover Range Rover for his first car, but his dad is worried about repair bills. Our advice might surprise you. (The operative word: free.)
Check out the discussion in the video above.
As with the other shows, this episode is also available free through the iTunes store. Subscribe to the video or audio. You'll also find the video on YouTube.
Also view:
"Talking Cars" Episode 40: Lexus NX is grilled
"Talking Cars" Episode 39: More Volkswagen GTI, Ford Mustang
"Talking Cars" Episode 38: Volkswagen GTI
"Talking Cars" Episode 37: Hyundai Genesis, Sonata
"Talking Cars" Episode 36: Video podcast gets recalled, talks GM
"Talking Cars" Episode 35: Chevrolet Corvette vs. Porsche 911
—Tom Mutchler
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