Talking Cars 316: Driving the 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness

Main themes: We discuss a variety of news topics, including a recent announcement by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that will require automakers to report the details of crashes in which autonomous or semi-autonomous features are active. This comes on the heels of a number of high-profile crashes. The data from this reporting will be key to determining whether certain features bring safety benefits or added risk.  

The podcast panel also discusses the recent announcement from Stellantis—the parent company for names like Dodge, Jeep, and Ram in the U.S.—committing to a number of electric vehicles by 2024. And we put on our public relations hats to have some fun with some of their new slogans and to add our own. 

This summer has brought weather extremes. We answer some related questions, as well as discuss some tips for managing your car and your travel in the midst of heat, floods, and other concerns Mother Nature throws our way. 

Driven this week: 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness

Audience Questions
• What does a person need to do to maintain their car’s AC system?
• Why does a new vehicle not allow you to put it into Neutral when the car isn’t running?
• Which crash avoidance features are best for a vehicle being shared with a young driver?
• Is it a good idea to buy a car with an open recall even if it’s a great deal?