{"version":"1.0.0","episode":{"title":"New Car Reliability, Swapping Wheel Sizes, & Is Undercoating Worth It?","url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/new-car-reliability-swapping-wheel-sizes-is-undercoating-worth-it","audioUrl":"https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/talkingcarsmp3/2510CRO_Talking_Cars_Episode_486.mp3?dest-id=212382","description":"This episode is dedicated to all audience questions! Keith, Emily, and Mike tackle everything from the most reliable new vehicles, whether you should pay extra for rustproofing, why Americans buy and drive large vehicles, and if keeping a 22-year-old vehicle may be better for your wallet despite the inherent repair costs. Plus, we explain how CR determines a vehicle's predicted reliability and whether you can fit your vehicle with smaller wheels and tires to save money and improve ride comfort. &nbsp; Exclusive CR discount for Talking Cars viewers:  https://www.consumerreports.org/jointalkingcars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YTT4?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT &nbsp; Submit a Question to Talking Cars:  https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/talking-cars-podcast-archive-a1439738009/?EXTKEW=YSOCIAL_YT &nbsp; Safest New Cars of 2025:  https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/safest-new-cars-of-2025-according-to-iihs-a3325666134/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT &nbsp; Test Results: Honda HR-V:  https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/honda/hr-v/2025/overview/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT &nbsp; &nbsp; 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid:  https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/2026-subaru-crosstrek-hybrid-review-a6801644233/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT &nbsp; &nbsp; The Hidden Danger of Big Pickup Trucks:  https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-safety/the-hidden-danger-of-big-pickup-trucks-a9662450602/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT &nbsp; Skip These Car Dealership Extras:  https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/buying-a-car/just-say-no-to-these-car-dealership-extras-a9471188276/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT &nbsp; &nbsp; Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars?:  https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT &nbsp; SHOW NOTES: 0:00 - Intro &nbsp; 0:30 - Question #1: Should I keep my super basic, 22-year-old Honda CR-V or look for a newer, reliable model car? &nbsp; 04:43 - Question #2: Is the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid a safe bet in terms of reliability? &nbsp; 6:58 - Question #3: What are the pros and cons to decreasing the wheel and tires size on a 2025 Toyota Camry XSE? &nbsp; 10:24 - Question #4: How can CR give large vehicles like the Ford Expedition a positive review? &nbsp; 15:15 - Question #5: Is $1,000 for undercoating on a 2023 Kia Sportage worth it? &nbsp; 18:22 - Question #6: What's a good replacement for a 2017 Mazda 6? &nbsp; 22:51 - Question #7: How does CR come up with new model year predicted reliability? &nbsp; 25:32 - Question #8: What about one pedal driving do CR experts not understand?"},"annotations":[{"startTime":29.76,"endTime":35.16,"type":"car","title":"Honda Crv","url":"/cars/honda/cr-v","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/c3/2018_Honda_CR-V_%28RW_MY18%29_%2BSport_2WD_wagon_%282018-10-22%29_01.jpg","quote":"Susan says, I have a 2003 Honda CR-V that was my mother's car before she passed.","canonicalId":"car:honda:cr-v","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Honda CR-V is a compact crossover SUV that has been popular for its reliability and practicality. The 2003 model is part of the first generation of CR-Vs, known for its spacious interior and good fuel efficiency.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Honda CR-V is a small SUV that is known for being reliable and practical. The 2003 version was one of the first models and is appreciated for its roomy interior and good gas mileage.","imageAttribution":"EurovisionNim (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":150.1,"endTime":155.8,"type":"term","title":"electronic stability control","url":"/glossary/electronic-stability-control","quote":"So even things like electronic stability control and anti-lock brakes were only standard with the 2012 model here in the United States.","canonicalId":"term:electronic-stability-control","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Electronic stability control (ESC) is a safety feature that helps prevent skidding and loss of control in slippery conditions by automatically applying brakes to individual wheels. It enhances vehicle stability during sudden maneuvers or on slippery surfaces.","simplifiedExplanation":"Electronic stability control is a system in cars that helps keep them from sliding or losing control, especially in bad weather. It works by applying brakes to specific wheels when needed to help the driver stay safe."}},{"startTime":150.1,"endTime":155.8,"type":"term","title":"anti-lock brakes","url":"/glossary/anti-lock-brakes","quote":"So even things like electronic stability control and anti-lock brakes were only standard with the 2012 model here in the United States.","canonicalId":"term:anti-lock-brakes","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Anti-lock braking system (ABS) prevents the wheels from locking up during braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control. It is especially useful in emergency braking situations and on slippery surfaces.","simplifiedExplanation":"Anti-lock brakes are a safety feature that stops your wheels from locking up when you brake hard. This helps you keep steering control and avoid skidding."}},{"startTime":163.4,"endTime":169.8,"type":"term","title":"automatic emergency braking","url":"/glossary/automatic-emergency-braking","quote":"Now pretty much every new car comes with standard automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection.","canonicalId":"term:automatic-emergency-braking","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Automatic emergency braking (AEB) is a safety feature that detects an impending collision and automatically applies the brakes to prevent or mitigate the impact. It often includes pedestrian detection to enhance safety for all road users.","simplifiedExplanation":"Automatic emergency braking is a system that can stop your car automatically if it senses that you're about to crash into something. It helps keep drivers and pedestrians safe."}},{"startTime":221.6,"endTime":225.32,"type":"car","title":"Honda Hrv","url":"/cars/honda/hr-v","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/da/2015_Honda_HR-V.jpg","quote":"Susan, guess what I found for you? 2023 or newer Honda HR-V.","canonicalId":"car:honda:hr-v","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Honda HR-V is a subcompact crossover SUV that offers versatility and practicality for urban driving. The 2023 model features updated styling and technology, making it a popular choice among consumers looking for a small SUV.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Honda HR-V is a small SUV that is great for city driving. The 2023 version has some new features and a fresh look, making it a good option for people who need a compact vehicle.","imageAttribution":"Jacek Halicki (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":246.4,"endTime":247.6,"type":"term","title":"AEB","url":"/glossary/aeb","quote":"These are, you know, things like AEB, things like electronic stability control.","canonicalId":"term:aeb","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"AEB stands for Automatic Emergency Braking, a safety feature that detects an impending collision and automatically applies the brakes to prevent or mitigate the impact.","simplifiedExplanation":"AEB means Automatic Emergency Braking, which helps stop the car if it thinks a crash is about to happen."}},{"startTime":266.1,"endTime":268.3,"type":"term","title":"drag races","url":"/glossary/drag-race","quote":"It's not going to win any drag races. But compared to your 2003, it's going to feel like a sports car.","canonicalId":"term:drag-race","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Drag racing is a type of motor racing in which cars compete to be the first to cross a finish line over a short distance, typically a quarter-mile. It emphasizes acceleration and speed over a straight track.","simplifiedExplanation":"Drag races are competitions where cars race in a straight line to see which one can go the fastest over a short distance. It's all about speed and quick acceleration."}},{"startTime":290.72,"endTime":296.8,"type":"car","title":"Subaru Crosstrek","url":"/cars/subaru/crosstrek","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/6e/Subaru_Crosstrek_%28GT%29_Washington_DC_Metro_Area%2C_USA.jpg","quote":"Naturally, the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek appears to check all my boxes. But with that said, this will be the first year for the hybrid Crosstrek with a reintroduced hybrid system.","canonicalId":"car:subaru:crosstrek","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Subaru Crosstrek is a compact SUV known for its all-wheel drive capabilities and hybrid options. The 2026 model marks the introduction of a new hybrid system, which may raise questions about its reliability.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Subaru Crosstrek is a small SUV that can handle different types of weather because it has all-wheel drive. The 2026 version will have a new hybrid engine, which is a combination of gas and electric power.","imageAttribution":"OWS Photography (CC BY 4.0)"}},{"startTime":299.3,"endTime":304.8,"type":"term","title":"hybrid system","url":"/glossary/hybrid-system","quote":"But with that said, this will be the first year for the hybrid Crosstrek with a reintroduced hybrid system.","canonicalId":"term:hybrid-system","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A hybrid system combines a traditional internal combustion engine with an electric motor, allowing for improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. The reliability of new hybrid systems can vary, especially in their first year.","simplifiedExplanation":"A hybrid system uses both a gas engine and an electric motor to help the car use less fuel and produce fewer emissions. New versions can sometimes have problems because they are just starting out."}},{"startTime":301.9,"endTime":308.5,"type":"concept","title":"reliability risk","url":"/glossary/reliability-risk","quote":"And I am curious about your thoughts and the reliability risk I might be accepting with going for the 2026 model and not waiting for a future year.","canonicalId":"concept:reliability-risk","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Reliability risk refers to the potential for a vehicle to experience issues or failures, particularly when it is newly introduced or has undergone significant changes. New models or systems may not have a proven track record.","simplifiedExplanation":"Reliability risk means there might be problems with a new car or its parts, especially if they haven't been tested for long. It's important to think about this when buying a new model."}},{"startTime":316.72,"endTime":321.5,"type":"term","title":"first year model","url":"/glossary/first-year-model","quote":"So is this less risk than a typical first year model not being a full redesign? Just kind of give a little background there.","canonicalId":"term:first-year-model","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A first year model refers to a vehicle that is newly introduced to the market, often following a redesign. These models can experience issues or 'bugs' as manufacturers work out the kinks in new designs and technologies.","simplifiedExplanation":"A first year model is a car that just came out and hasn't been tested much. Sometimes, these cars can have problems that need to be fixed later on."}},{"startTime":335.4,"endTime":339.7,"type":"concept","title":"powertrain","url":"/glossary/powertrain","quote":"it's adding a new powertrain to an existing vehicle. I believe you had some thoughts on this.","canonicalId":"concept:powertrain","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A powertrain refers to the components that generate power and deliver it to the road, including the engine, transmission, and drivetrain. Changes to the powertrain can significantly affect a vehicle's performance and efficiency.","simplifiedExplanation":"The powertrain is what makes the car move. It includes the engine and parts that help it drive. When a car gets a new powertrain, it can change how well it works."}},{"startTime":379.1,"endTime":381.7,"type":"car","title":"Toyota hybrid powertrains","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/13/Geneva_Motor_Show_2011_-_Peugeot_Hybrid4_%285573519993%29.jpg","quote":"...about Toyota hybrid powertrains that last 500,000 miles. And, you know, so I, yeah, I would agree.","canonicalId":"car:toyota-hybrid-powertrains","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Toyota is known for its reliable hybrid powertrains, which combine a gasoline engine with an electric motor to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. These powertrains are designed for longevity, with some owners reporting them lasting up to 500,000 miles.","simplifiedExplanation":"Toyota hybrid powertrains use both a gas engine and an electric motor to save fuel and reduce pollution. They are known for being very reliable and can last a long time, sometimes even reaching 500,000 miles.","imageAttribution":"Cedric Ramirez from Gibraltar, Gibraltar (CC BY-SA 2.0)"}},{"startTime":390.36,"endTime":394.16,"type":"car","title":"Mazda Cx50","url":"/cars/mazda/cx-50","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/4b/2023_Mazda_CX-50_GT_in_Zircon_Sand_Metallic%2C_Front_Left%2C_06-18-2022.jpg","quote":"...I think even our CX-50 hybrid.","canonicalId":"car:mazda:cx-50","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Mazda CX-50 is a compact crossover SUV that offers a hybrid variant, combining fuel efficiency with the brand's sporty driving dynamics. It aims to provide a balance of performance and practicality.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Mazda CX-50 is a small SUV that comes with a hybrid option, meaning it uses both gas and electric power to save fuel. It's designed to be fun to drive while also being practical for everyday use.","imageAttribution":"Elise240SX (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":405.7,"endTime":406.1,"type":"term","title":"fuel economy","url":"/glossary/fuel-economy","quote":"And you'll have great fuel economy for sure.","canonicalId":"term:fuel-economy","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Fuel economy refers to the distance a vehicle can travel per unit of fuel, typically measured in miles per gallon (MPG). Better fuel economy means lower fuel costs and reduced environmental impact.","simplifiedExplanation":"Fuel economy tells you how far a car can go on a certain amount of gas. Better fuel economy means you spend less on fuel."}},{"startTime":409.2,"endTime":409.6,"type":"term","title":"all-wheel drive","url":"/glossary/all-wheel-drive","quote":"And that all-wheel drive system that's only in the Subaru.","canonicalId":"term:all-wheel-drive","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"All-wheel drive (AWD) is a drivetrain system that provides power to all four wheels of a vehicle simultaneously, improving traction and stability in various driving conditions.","simplifiedExplanation":"All-wheel drive means that all four wheels of a car get power from the engine, which helps the car grip the road better, especially in rain or snow."}},{"startTime":419.96,"endTime":424.6,"type":"car","title":"Toyota Camry","url":"/cars/toyota/camry","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/bc/%28USA-Massachusetts%29_Private_Toyota_Camry_NJ-Z22UKZ_rear_2024-06-06.jpg","quote":"I own a 2025 Toyota Camry XSE with all-wheel drive.","canonicalId":"car:toyota:camry","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Toyota Camry XSE is a trim level of the popular midsize sedan known for its blend of comfort, technology, and performance. The XSE trim typically features sportier styling and additional features compared to the base models.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Toyota Camry XSE is a version of the Camry sedan that has a sportier look and more features. It's known for being comfortable and efficient.","imageAttribution":"S5A-0043 (CC BY 2.0)"}},{"startTime":433.1,"endTime":435.3,"type":"term","title":"19 inch wheels","url":"/glossary/19-inch-wheels","quote":"As good as the 19 inch wheels look, the tires don't absorb the rough roads in Michigan well...","canonicalId":"term:19-inch-wheels","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"19 inch wheels refer to the diameter of the wheel, which can affect the ride quality and handling of a vehicle. Larger wheels often look sportier but may result in a harsher ride due to less tire sidewall to absorb bumps.","simplifiedExplanation":"19 inch wheels are the size of the wheels on the car. Bigger wheels can make a car look nicer, but they might make the ride bumpier because there's less rubber to cushion the bumps in the road."}},{"startTime":442.9,"endTime":444.8,"type":"term","title":"higher profile tires","url":"/glossary/higher-profile-tires","quote":"I'm considering reducing the wheel size to allow for higher profile tires.","canonicalId":"term:higher-profile-tires","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Higher profile tires have a taller sidewall compared to lower profile tires. This can improve ride comfort as the taller sidewall can absorb more road imperfections, making for a smoother ride.","simplifiedExplanation":"Higher profile tires have more rubber on the side, which helps make the ride smoother. They can absorb bumps better than tires with shorter sides."}},{"startTime":472.6,"endTime":474.3,"type":"term","title":"ride quality","url":"/glossary/ride-quality","quote":"...I've read several comments, complaints, actually, about the ride quality. You know, the Camry is not exactly a sports car.","canonicalId":"term:ride-quality","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Ride quality refers to how comfortable a vehicle feels while driving over different types of surfaces. It can be influenced by factors like suspension design and wheel size.","simplifiedExplanation":"Ride quality is how smooth or bumpy a car feels when you're driving. It depends on things like the car's suspension and the size of the wheels."}},{"startTime":493.2,"endTime":495.4,"type":"term","title":"19 inch tires","url":"/glossary/19-inch-tires","quote":"The 19 inch tires are expensive, as you probably know. 17 inch tires will be a little cheaper.","canonicalId":"term:19-inch-tires","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"19 inch tires refer to the diameter of the tire, which can affect the ride quality, handling, and cost. Larger tires often provide better performance but can be more expensive.","simplifiedExplanation":"19 inch tires are tires that have a diameter of 19 inches. Bigger tires can help with handling but usually cost more."}},{"startTime":495.4,"endTime":497.0,"type":"term","title":"17 inch tires","url":"/glossary/17-inch-tires","quote":"17 inch tires will be a little cheaper. I looked at, you know, the General Ultimac RT45, for instance.","canonicalId":"term:17-inch-tires","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"17 inch tires are smaller in diameter compared to 19 inch tires, which generally makes them less expensive. They can also provide a different driving experience.","simplifiedExplanation":"17 inch tires are tires that have a diameter of 17 inches. They are usually cheaper than larger tires and can change how a car drives."}},{"startTime":497.0,"endTime":500.2,"type":"company","title":"General Tire","url":"/glossary/general-tire","quote":"I looked at, you know, the General Ultimac RT45, for instance, it was almost $50 cheaper per tire from going from the 19 down to the 17.","canonicalId":"company:general-tire","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"General Tire is a brand known for producing a variety of tires for different vehicles, including performance and all-terrain options. The Ultimac RT45 is one of their tire models.","simplifiedExplanation":"General Tire is a company that makes tires for cars and trucks. The Ultimac RT45 is a specific type of tire they offer."}},{"startTime":524.4,"endTime":525.2,"type":"term","title":"sidewall","url":"/glossary/sidewall","quote":"...a little more compliance there in the sidewall. Other than looks, your steering feel,...","canonicalId":"term:sidewall","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The sidewall is the part of a tire that connects the tread to the rim. A taller sidewall can provide more flexibility and comfort, improving ride quality by absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road.","simplifiedExplanation":"The sidewall is the side part of a tire. If it's taller, it can make the ride smoother because it can flex more when you hit bumps."}},{"startTime":526.8,"endTime":528.8,"type":"term","title":"steering feel","url":"/glossary/steering-feel","quote":"...your steering feel, you might lose a little bit of that sportiness in the steering,...","canonicalId":"term:steering-feel","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Steering feel refers to the feedback and responsiveness a driver experiences through the steering wheel. It can be influenced by tire choice, suspension setup, and vehicle dynamics, affecting how connected the driver feels to the road.","simplifiedExplanation":"Steering feel is how the car responds when you turn the steering wheel. It tells you how much control you have and how the car feels while driving."}},{"startTime":538.6,"endTime":540.4,"type":"term","title":"V-speed rated tires","url":"/glossary/v-speed-rated-tires","quote":"...the tires that came on your car were V-speed rated, so you want to obviously keep the same speed rating. You don't want to go lower than that...","canonicalId":"term:v-speed-rated-tires","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"V-speed rated tires are designed to safely handle speeds up to 149 mph (240 km/h). It's important to match or exceed the speed rating of the original tires to maintain performance and safety.","simplifiedExplanation":"V-speed rated tires can go up to 149 mph. If you change your tires, make sure the new ones can handle at least that speed for safety."}},{"startTime":570.3,"endTime":572.6,"type":"term","title":"OEM wheels","url":"/glossary/oem-wheels","quote":"...what Toyota offers in terms of wheels because I really like OEM wheels. I feel like they're just of a better quality...","canonicalId":"term:oem-wheels","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"OEM wheels refer to Original Equipment Manufacturer wheels, which are the wheels that come standard with a vehicle from the manufacturer. They are typically designed to meet specific performance and safety standards for that vehicle.","simplifiedExplanation":"OEM wheels are the original wheels that a car comes with when you buy it. They are made by the same company that makes the car and are usually designed to fit perfectly and perform well."}},{"startTime":606.2,"endTime":608.0,"type":"term","title":"aftermarket wheels","url":"/glossary/aftermarket-wheels","quote":"And then Michael may want to actually explore aftermarket wheels as well.","canonicalId":"term:aftermarket-wheels","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Aftermarket wheels are wheels that are not made by the original manufacturer of the vehicle. They are often chosen for aesthetic reasons, performance improvements, or to customize the look of a car.","simplifiedExplanation":"Aftermarket wheels are wheels you can buy that are not from the car's original maker. People often get them to change the style or improve how the car drives."}},{"startTime":632.6,"endTime":635.68,"type":"car","title":"Ford Expedition","url":"/cars/ford/expedition","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/23/Bureau_of_Land_Management_Ford_Expedition_Front.jpg","quote":"...how can CR give a behemoth like the Ford Expedition or any other lumbering hulk a positive review? The very size of the beast...","canonicalId":"car:ford:expedition","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Ford Expedition is a full-size SUV known for its spacious interior and strong towing capabilities. It's often used for family transport and off-road adventures, but its large size can pose challenges in urban environments.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Ford Expedition is a big SUV that can carry many people and is good for towing things. However, because it's so large, it can be hard to drive in cities and may be dangerous for pedestrians.","imageAttribution":"Noah Wulf (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":921.28,"endTime":926.2,"type":"car","title":"Kia Sportage EX Hybrid","url":"/cars/kia/sportage","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/aa/2018_Kia_Sportage_GT-Line_ISG_1.6.jpg","quote":"Kia Sportage EX hybrid all-wheel drive with 40,000 miles.","canonicalId":"car:kia:sportage","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Kia Sportage EX Hybrid is a compact SUV that combines hybrid technology with all-wheel drive capabilities, making it suitable for various driving conditions, including snowy and muddy terrains.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Kia Sportage EX Hybrid is a type of SUV that uses a hybrid engine, which means it combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor for better fuel efficiency. It's designed to handle different weather conditions.","imageAttribution":"Vauxford (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":939.6,"endTime":942.0,"type":"term","title":"rust","url":"/glossary/rust","quote":"I know something about rust. OK. I think we all fortunately know something about rust.","canonicalId":"term:rust","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Rust is a form of corrosion that occurs when iron or steel reacts with moisture and oxygen, leading to deterioration of metal parts on vehicles.","simplifiedExplanation":"Rust is what happens to metal when it gets wet and starts to break down. It's a common problem for cars, especially in places with a lot of snow and salt."}},{"startTime":1241.04,"endTime":1243.12,"type":"car","title":"Toyota Crown","url":"/cars/toyota/crown","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/7f/2025_Toyota_Crown_Signia_Hybrid_Limited_%28United_States%29_front_view.png","quote":"...id pick another Toyota. So I went with the Toyota Crown. However, I have a caveat of the Crown, the regul...","canonicalId":"car:toyota:crown","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Toyota Crown is a luxury sedan that has been a staple in the Japanese automotive market since 1955. Known for its comfort, advanced technology, and reliability, it has recently made a return to the U.S. market, appealing to those looking for a premium experience from a brand renowned for durability. The Crown is often discussed for its blend of luxury and practicality.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Toyota Crown is a fancy car that Toyota has been making for a long time, especially in Japan. It's known for being very comfortable and reliable, making it a good choice for people who want a nice ride. Recently, it's come back to the U.S., which is why people are talking about it.","imageAttribution":"Autosdeprimera (CC BY 3.0)"}},{"startTime":1299.04,"endTime":1304.08,"type":"car","title":"Lexus Es","url":"/cars/lexus/es","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/27/2022_Lexus_ES_350_%28GSZ10%29_1X7A0296.jpg","quote":"...nto a nice comfy car at the end of the day, I say Lexus ES Hybrid. You get almost the same fuel economy as t...","canonicalId":"car:lexus:es","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Lexus ES 350 is a midsize luxury sedan that combines comfort, technology, and reliability, making it a popular choice for those seeking a smooth and quiet ride. It features a spacious interior and is known for its fuel efficiency, particularly in its hybrid variant. The ES 350 is often discussed for its balance of luxury and practicality, appealing to a wide range of drivers.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Lexus ES 350 is a comfortable and stylish car that is great for people who want a nice ride without too much hassle. It has a lot of space inside and is known for being good on gas, especially the hybrid version. Many people like it because it feels luxurious but is still easy to drive.","imageAttribution":"Alexander Migl (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":1365.56,"endTime":1368.04,"type":"car","title":"Chevrolet Corvette","url":"/cars/chevrolet/corvette","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/e6/Chevrolet_Corvette%2C_BAS_24%2C_Brussels_%28P1170389-RR%29.jpg","quote":"...iously, and you went and got something. You got a Corvette, you know, whatever, like the short. All right, w...","canonicalId":"car:chevrolet:corvette","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Chevrolet Corvette is an iconic American sports car known for its performance, sleek design, and rich history since its introduction in 1953. It represents a blend of power and style, making it a popular choice among car enthusiasts and collectors. The Corvette is often discussed for its advancements in technology and engineering, particularly in its latest iterations.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Chevrolet Corvette is a famous sports car from America that many people love because it's fast and looks really cool. It's been around for a long time and is known for being a fun car to drive. People often talk about it because it's a symbol of American car culture.","imageAttribution":"Matti Blume (CC BY-SA)"}}],"speakers":[{"id":"s1","name":"Consumer Reports","role":"host"}],"transcripts":[{"url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/new-car-reliability-swapping-wheel-sizes-is-undercoating-worth-it/transcript.vtt","type":"text/vtt"}]}