Advertisement
Canada markets closed
  • S&P/TSX

    22,167.03
    +59.95 (+0.27%)
     
  • S&P 500

    5,254.35
    +5.86 (+0.11%)
     
  • DOW

    39,807.40
    +47.29 (+0.12%)
     
  • CAD/USD

    0.7383
    -0.0003 (-0.05%)
     
  • CRUDE OIL

    83.11
    -0.06 (-0.07%)
     
  • Bitcoin CAD

    95,420.37
    -581.50 (-0.61%)
     
  • CMC Crypto 200

    885.54
    0.00 (0.00%)
     
  • GOLD FUTURES

    2,254.80
    +16.40 (+0.73%)
     
  • RUSSELL 2000

    2,124.55
    +10.20 (+0.48%)
     
  • 10-Yr Bond

    4.2060
    +0.0100 (+0.24%)
     
  • NASDAQ

    16,379.46
    -20.06 (-0.12%)
     
  • VOLATILITY

    13.01
    0.00 (0.00%)
     
  • FTSE

    7,952.62
    +20.64 (+0.26%)
     
  • NIKKEI 225

    40,369.44
    +201.37 (+0.50%)
     
  • CAD/EUR

    0.6834
    -0.0009 (-0.13%)
     

'Talking Cars' Video Podcast Looks at Tesla Model X, 2017 GMC Acadia

'Talking Cars' Video Podcast Looks at Tesla Model X, 2017 GMC Acadia

With so much attention shifting to Tesla's future "affordable" Model 3, it's easy to forget that the company recently introduced its second mass-produced model, the Model X SUV. Consumer Reports has our own test car (anonymously) on order; until that one arrives, we got a chance to try out a Model X P90D that we rented from Tesla.

It's natural to compare and contrast the Model X with the Model S, especially given that both cars share the same basic platform and electric powertrain. Comparatively austere and purposeful in design, the Model S earned the highest road test score ever in Consumer Reports' testing. Below-average reliability lowers its Overall Score, however, and keeps it from being recommended.

To its credit, the Model X drives very similarly to the Model S, only with a higher seating position, making it one of the sportiest-driving SUVs available.

ADVERTISEMENT

But the Model X is also one of the most gimmicky SUVs you can buy, with many features seemingly designed to maximize show-off-to-your-neighbors potential. Chief among them are the falcon-wing rear doors; while they provide an enormous opening, these complex portals require some patience and can cause plenty of frustration. Same goes for the front doors, which don't work like normal doors either.

Interior utility is limited by second-row seatbacks that don't fold, unlike basically every other SUV on the market. And an enormous windshield makes for a road-going observation deck, but can't provide much respite on a bright sunny day.

Bad News, Good News from GM

In another case of an automaker misstating fuel-economy figures, General Motors recalculated Environmental Protection Agency fuel economy estimates for its large crossover SUVs, the Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse, and GMC Acadia. Owners will be compensated for the change, because they won't get the fuel economy they were promised on the window sticker.

But this move raises more questions than it answers: The adjustment and compensation is only for the 2016 model year, despite no major changes to these vehicles. Also, these models have a long-running history of underperforming when it comes to fuel economy.

Improving fuel economy was one of GM's goals when it redesigned the GMC Acadia for 2017. Considerably smaller and lighter, the new Acadia has lost its minivan-like interior space but now better matches other mid-sized SUV rivals. Our first impressions are that GM met its goal, but the Acadia doesn't stand out in a crowded field.

As with the other "Talking Cars," this episode on popular cars is also available free through the iTunes Store. Subscribe to the video or audio. You'll also find the video on YouTube.

Share your comments on this show below, and let us know if you need any advice for choosing a car.

Kia Sportage & Jaguar XF, episode 94
Corporate Responsibility, episode 93
Do Compact Trucks Need to Be Refined?, episode 92
Tesla Model 3, episode 91
2016 New York Auto Show Reveals Surprises, episode 90



More from Consumer Reports:
5 least reliable cars from Consumer Reports' survey
Best Used Cars for $25,000 and Less
Which Car Brands make the Best Vehicles

Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers on this website. Copyright © 2006-2016 Consumers Union of U.S.