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This week we\xa0discuss 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\xa0better 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.

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Have a question for our experts? Leave a comment on this episode, or reach out to us directly!

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We love to feature our viewers on the show, so submit video questions at\xa0https://www.consumerreports.org/cars-talking-cars/

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SHOW NOTES

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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?

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Coronavirus Resource Hub

https://www.consumerreports.org/coronavirus/coronavirus-covid-19-updates/

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First Drive: 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA Is an Improvement Over Flawed Predecessor

https://www.consumerreports.org/suvs/2021-mercedes-benz-gla-suv-review/

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2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xDLj6lhrUJg

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Choosing the Best Tire

https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/tires/buying-guide/index.htm

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Tire Selector

https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/tires.htm?searchToken=Tires

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Wiper Blade Buying Guide

https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/wiper-blades/buying-guide/index.htm

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2019 Subaru Ascent Quick Drive

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tCgPso_jBDk

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How to Keep Your Pets Safe in a Car

https://www.consumerreports.org/car-safety/keep-pets-safe-in-the-car/

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