#331 2022 Lexus NX First Impressions; Tesla Model 3 as a Rental Car

This week we share our first impressions of the 2022 Lexus NX, discuss its available powertrains including a plug-in hybrid, completely redesigned infotainment, and our experience using its unique gear selector. Hertz "shocked" the rental car market by ordering 100,000 Tesla Model 3s for its fleet, and we talk about the possible pros and cons of renting an electric vehicle for a first-time EV driver, and how it might impact the industry. Also, Halloween night can have a high risk of pedestrian fatalities, so we provide helpful tips to be safe on this holiday. Other topics include: whether a wildfire can be caused by a vehicle; if a car needs to be warmed up before driving; and why most pickup trucks and SUVs don't automatically adjust headlight aim when carrying full loads.     ----------------------------------- 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 00:38 - Hertz adds Tesla Model 3 to the rental fleet 07:06 - Halloween Safety Tips 11:26 - Our trick or treats in the automotive industry 14:45 - First Impressions 23:28 - Question #1: Can a car cause a wildfire? 26:49 - Question #2: Is it recommended to warm up the car's engine before driving? 30:13 - Question #3: Is removing rust on a vehicle worth it? 33:22 - Question #4: Why most pickup trucks and SUVs don't have auto leveling headlights?     ----------------------------------   Preview: All-New 2022 Lexus NX Gains New Engines, Efficiency, Space, and Tech https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2022-lexus-nx-review-a1195449775/   Smart Road Trips for Halloween Safety https://www.consumerreports.org/car-safety/smart-road-tips-for-halloween-safety-a6980048187/   How to Protect Your Car on Halloween https://www.consumerreports.org/tires-auto-parts/how-to-protect-your-car-on-halloween-a4821620837/   New & Used Car Buying Guide https://www.consumerreports.org/buying-a-car/car-buying-guide/   Guide to Car Safety https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-guide-to-car-safety/ How to Safely Work on Your Car at Home https://www.consumerreports.org/car-repair-maintenance/how-to-safely-work-on-your-car-at-home/   Coronavirus Resource Hub https://www.consumerreports.org/coronavirus/coronavirus-covid-19-updates/     ----------------------------------- 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