#283 2021 Toyota Venza first Impressions; Ballooning Cost of Ownership for BMWs

We recently purchased an all-new 2021 Toyota Venza for our test program, and we share our first impressions on the driving dynamics, hybrid powertrain, and standard advanced safety features of this midsized SUV. For some car brands, maintenance expenses can skyrocket once warranty and free-maintenance periods are over; we discuss why this can affect some brands more than others, particularly German automaker BMW. We also answer questions about matrix LED headlights and why they aren't yet available in the US, whether a convertible should be stored with its top up or down, and we share what we are thankful for, both personally and in the automotive world, in the crazy year that is 2020.

 

 

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SHOW NOTES

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00:00 - Introduction

00:31 - 2021 Toyota Venza First Drive

10:34 - Question #1: Why do BMWs skyrocket in ownership cost over a long period of time?

13:48 - Question #2: Why Matrix LED headlights are not allowed in the US?

17:01 - Question #3: What is the best practice for storing a convertible in a garage?

18:16 - Question #4: Which 3-row SUV is best suited for hauling 3 grandchildren?

21:58 - Things we are most grateful for this Thanksgiving.

 

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Coronavirus Resource Hub

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

 

Car Care During Coronavirus

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=53CdG_7nDcU

 

First Drive: 2021 Toyota Venza Strikes an SUV Sweet Spot

https://www.consumerreports.org/hybrids-evs/2021-toyota-venza-hybrid-review/

 

Toyota Venza review

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VAV6MdAv8LQ

 

The Cost of Car Ownership Over Time

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-maintenance/the-cost-of-car-ownership/

 

2020 Kia Telluride Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eBNhy1Putrs

 

4K Review: 2016 Mazda CX-9 Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5UigcJd7PVY

 

2019 Subaru Ascent Quick Drive

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

 

4K Review: 2017 Toyota Highlander Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ic5Obebxcv8

 

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