#284 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA First Impressions; Are Expensive Wiper Blades Worth It?

This week we discuss our initial impressions of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA, sharing our experience with the controls, ride comfort, and cargo space of this luxury small SUV. We also discuss if expensive wiper blades perform better than cheaper alternatives; the differences between winter and mud terrain tires, and whether mud tires are safe for driving in the ice and snow of wintry weather; if a recall on the Subaru Ascent will affect its CR reliability score; and we share tips on the best way to keep dogs, cats, and any other pets safe in your vehicle.     ----------------------------------- 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 [email protected] 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 https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-talking-cars/   Subscribe to Talking Cars on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Jr8wJRJyN9v8T6LC1fQQ6     SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 00:00 - Introduction 00:28 - 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA First Impressions 09:27 - Question #1: Is it possible to buy mud-terrain tires suitable for winter weather driving? 14:14 - Question #2: Do expensive wiper blades perform better than cheap ones? 18:19 - Question #3: Would a recall on the Subaru Ascent affect its CR reliability score? 21:01 - Question #4: What are the best practices for keeping pets safe in your vehicle?     ----------------------------------  Coronavirus Resource Hub https://www.consumerreports.org/coronavirus/coronavirus-covid-19-updates/   First Drive: 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA Is an Improvement Over Flawed Predecessor https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2021-mercedes-benz-gla-suv-review/   2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA Quick Drive https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xDLj6lhrUJg   Choosing the Best Tire https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/tires/buying-guide/index.htm   Tire Selector https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/tires.htm?searchToken=Tires   Wiper Blade Buying Guide https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/wiper-blades/buying-guide/index.htm   2019 Subaru Ascent Quick Drive https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tCgPso_jBDk   How to Keep Your Pets Safe in a Car https://www.consumerreports.org/car-safety/keep-pets-safe-in-the-car/     ----------------------------------- Check out http://www.ConsumerReports.org for the latest reviews, tips, and recommendations and subscribe to our YouTube Channel: http://bit.ly/1Nlb1Ez    Follow Us on Social: Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1IQ2w5q Twitter: http://bit.ly/1Yf5Fh2 Pinterest: http://bit.ly/1P37mM9 Instagram: http://bit.ly/1I49Bzo Google+: http://bit.ly/1Md3gfQ