#269 2020 BMW 2 Series First Impressions; Why Manufacturers Shouldn't Charge a Premium for Safety Features

This week we give our first impressions of the 2020 BMW 228i xDrive Gran Coupe, discuss its driving characteristics, and how it compares to its competitors, like the Genesis G70. CR has released a new study which finds that on many vehicles important advanced safety features like AEB (Automatic Emergency Braking) and FCW (Forward Collision Warning) are only available in expensive optional packages, and paired with less crucial amenities (such as sunroofs and heated seats.) We talk about the importance of these life saving systems, and why they should be standard on every car. We also answer questions about the safety of Tesla’s chargers and other home EV chargers in wet, rainy conditions; why tires could become noisy after they are rotated; and suggest a fun, manual transmission car for a teen driver under $15k.

 

 

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SHOW NOTES

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00:00 - Introduction

01:33 - CR’s Vehicle Safety Features Study

05:58 - 2020 BMW 228i xDrive Gran Coupe First Impressions

11:39 - Question #1: How safe are EV home chargers in wet weather?

14:10 - Question #2: Why tires might become noisy after a rotation?

16:49 - Question #3: What is a cool and fun, but also safe and reliable, manual transmission car for teen?

 

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Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

 

New Consumer Reports Study Finds Automakers Charging Premium for Safety

https://advocacy.consumerreports.org/press_release/cr-study-finds-automakers-charging-premium-for-safety/

 

First Drive: 2020 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe Makes Luxury More Affordable

https://www.consumerreports.org/luxury-cars/2020-bmw-2-series-gran-coupe-228xi-review/

 

2019 Genesis G70 Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UDrN5_R3Bu0

 

2014 Mazda3 first Drive

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

 

2014 Toyota Corolla first drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uu6QfFB7fDY

 

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