This week we cover a wide range of topics, including comparing Consumer Reports’ ratings across car categories; installing a front-facing child seat in the rear seat of a sports car; why higher-level trim cars come with larger wheels and low profile tires; how CR tests the subject aspects of a tire’s performance, and which would be a better 3-row SUV for a growing family: the Acura MDX, or Mazda CX-9.     ----------------------------------- 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    Subscribe to Talking Cars on Spotify:      SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 00:39 - Question #1: Are CR’s car ratings comparable across categories? 1:32 - Question #2: Can a from-facing child car seat be installed in the middle seat of a Camaro or a Mustang? 05:25 -  Question #3: Why do higher trim cars come with large wheels and low profile tires? 08:04 - Question #4: Why does CR give higher ratings for cars with advanced safety features? 13:12 - Question #5: Please help a growing family choose a 3-row crossover, Mazda CX-9 or Acura MDX 16:32 - Question #6: How does CR grade the more subjective aspects of a tire? 20:00 - Question #7: Is it better to buy or lease an electric vehicle? 23:16 - Question #8: Please recommend an EV or plug-in hybrid with advanced safety features? 30:39 - Question #9: Is a 2014 Lexus ES300h a reliable replacement for a 2014 Toyota Camry and provide a bump in luxury?   ----------------------------------     Electric Cars 101: The Answers to All Your EV Questions   How Consumer Reports Tests Cars   Cars With Advanced Safety Systems   2016 BMW 7 Series Quick Drive   4K Review: 2018 Honda Accord Quick Drive   Proper Top-Tether Installation Helps Keep Kids Safer in Child Car Seats   4K Review: 2017 Acura MDX Quick Drive   2018 LA Auto Show: 2019 Audi E-Tron   2016 Chevrolet Camaro Quick Drive   What You Need to Know About Installing a Child Car Seat in the Rear Center Seat   4K Review: 2018 Subaru Crosstrek Quick Drive   2018 Hyundai Kona Quick Drive   2019 Lexus ES Quick Drive   4K Review: 2016 Mazda CX-9 Quick Drive   2017 Kia Niro Quick Drive   2018 Nissan Leaf Quick Drive   2017 Toyota Prius Prime Quick Drive   2015 Ford Mustang Review   -----------------------------------   Check out   for the latest reviews, tips, and recommendations and subscribe to our YouTube Channel: