#077 - The Internet VS The Xterra, F1 Edition CT5-V Blackwing, More Recalls, Cancelled EVs & More

“Nissan America” refers to Nissan’s regional organization for the U.S. market. In the segment, it’s tied to a CEO comment about pricing, which is part of the broader debate about how automakers present starting prices versus what’s included.

“Starting price” is the lowest advertised price for a vehicle, typically for the base trim with minimal options. The hosts argue that buyers shouldn’t assume the starting price includes popular features—options and higher trims usually cost extra.

“Caniscus” appears to be a misspelling or mis-transcription of a person’s name tied to the automotive world, referenced alongside Jim Farley. The segment’s theme is leadership messaging changing over time, but the exact identity is unclear from the transcript.

The host is contrasting “internet car culture” with traditional car culture. In this context, it refers to online creators and media ecosystems that profit from car content rather than people who work in the automotive industry directly.

The speaker is criticizing how online opinions can diverge from real-world pricing and product reality. The underlying idea is that social media and forums can create “massive opinions” that don’t match what the vehicles actually cost or how they compare.

Regional service centers are centralized facilities that handle vehicle maintenance and repairs for a larger area. In a dealership-free or DTC setup, these centers often replace the service role dealerships traditionally provide.

Direct-to-consumer (DTC) is a sales model where a brand sells cars straight to customers instead of going through traditional dealership networks. In the transcript, it’s discussed alongside service centers, implying a shift in who handles sales and after-sales support.

Wholesale refers to the price at which a vehicle is sold through the supply chain—typically between businesses rather than directly to the end customer. In the context here, it’s used to show that the “real” transaction numbers can differ from retail pricing.

The speaker is talking about the role of a car dealer in the sales process—how cars are priced, sold, and financed through a dealership network. They argue dealers are being squeezed by manufacturers, which affects how much profit dealers can make on each sale.

Here “math” refers to the pricing calculations people make online about how much dealers and manufacturers should be making. The speaker argues there’s no real disagreement—people are just using incorrect assumptions about invoice, wholesale, and dealer profit.

“Warranties” in this context refers to add-on coverage sold at the dealership, often in the finance office. The host is calling them “BS” to criticize how they’re marketed and how they may not be as valuable as buyers expect.

The “finance office” is where dealerships handle paperwork and sell optional products like extended warranties, vehicle service contracts, and financing terms. It’s also where the dealership can earn additional profit beyond the car’s base price.

A PPI (pre-purchase inspection) is a professional inspection done before buying a used car. “Independent” means it’s performed by a shop not tied to the seller, so the findings are less likely to be influenced by the dealership’s interests.

A pre-purchase inspection (PPI) is a detailed check of a used vehicle’s condition—often including a visual inspection, scan for trouble codes, and evaluation of wear items. It’s meant to uncover issues that aren’t obvious during a quick test drive.

In dealership talk, “margin” is the profit spread between what the dealer pays for a vehicle (or item) and what they sell it for. The speaker contrasts typical dealership markup with how some brands or sellers may structure pricing differently.

Floor planning is how dealerships finance their vehicle inventory. A lender typically provides money so the dealer can buy cars, and the dealer pays interest while those cars sit on the lot.

“Back end deals” are additional compensation or profit that can come to a dealership after the sale, often tied to financing terms, warranties, or other add-ons. It’s a way dealers can earn money beyond the sticker price.

Interest rates determine how much extra you pay when financing a vehicle. Even small changes in the rate can noticeably affect the monthly payment and total cost over the loan term.

A markup is when a dealer sells a car for more than its reference price (often MSRP). Markups can be used to capture profit when demand is high or inventory is limited.

MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price) is the price a carmaker recommends dealers sell the vehicle for. It’s commonly used as a reference point when discussing markups or discounts.

This is a discussion about how car sales and pricing have worked historically, contrasted with recent years. The hosts use it to argue about whether markups are “new” or actually common over time.

This phrase is a shorthand for completing a car purchase contract. It points to the idea that buying a car involves formal paperwork and legal agreements, not just casual verbal promises.

“Raptor” usually refers to the Ford F-150 Raptor, a performance off-road pickup built for rough terrain. In this segment, the hosts are talking about the paperwork process when someone bought one, not technical details.

A Porsche 911 Turbo is the turbocharged version of the 911, built for strong acceleration and high-speed stability. In this segment, the hosts use it as an example of how real-world pricing can differ from what people claim online.

The Subaru BRZ is a compact sports coupe that’s known for offering a driver-focused setup, including versions with a manual transmission. The podcast references a “manual BRZ” and describes it as sitting on the show’s setup, implying it’s part of a hands-on or visual discussion. That makes it relevant as an example of a particular BRZ configuration and how it feels/looks in context.

The Toyota BRZ is a compact sports coupe known for being lightweight and fun to drive, often offered with a manual transmission. Here it’s mentioned as a car on the dealership’s “super lot” that the hosts can walk up to and inspect.

“Six speed” refers to a manual transmission with six forward gears. More gears can help keep the engine in its power band during different speeds, which is part of why manual sports cars feel engaging.

A “manual” transmission means the driver uses a clutch pedal and gear lever to select gears. In enthusiast circles, manuals are often valued for driver control and engagement, and the hosts use it to highlight what’s actually available on the lot.

The Porsche Taycan is Porsche’s all-electric performance sedan. The host mentions it as another example in the broader argument about what prices and availability are actually like versus what people claim online.

The speaker is talking about a first-generation Porsche Cayenne (often called “Gen 1”). The Cayenne is Porsche’s SUV, and the first generation is known for being a more budget-friendly entry point compared with newer Cayennes.

The Nissan Leaf is an all-electric compact car. The speaker is using it as an example to compare what you can buy for under $30,000 in terms of used mileage and EV availability.

“Cayans” refers to the Porsche Cayenne, Porsche’s SUV line. In the context of the episode, the host is saying these SUVs are showing up as unusually cheap compared with what people expect from Porsche.

The host is describing how to refine online car listings by filtering out brands that generate too many results. In practice, this is about controlling the dataset so comparisons (like price and mileage thresholds) aren’t skewed by one brand’s volume.

Hyundai is a mass-market automaker, and the host says to “eliminate” it from search results because it would “flood” the results. That implies Hyundai listings are so numerous (or broadly priced) that they overwhelm the specific budget/mileage filters they’re trying to use.

Kia is another mainstream automaker mentioned alongside Hyundai. The host’s point is that Kia listings are so common that they would dominate the search results, making it harder to isolate cars that match their “cheap” criteria.

Cadillac is a luxury brand within General Motors. In this segment, the hosts mention the brand’s EV lineup as something you can buy for around $30,000, framing it as a value deal.

“Special fuel” is a casual way to refer to fuel that’s different from the regular pump gas—often higher-octane gasoline or a different fuel blend. People bring it up when a vehicle’s engine is designed to require that specific fuel for proper performance and to avoid knocking.

An “AC bill” here refers to the cost of diagnosing and repairing an air-conditioning refrigerant leak, plus the labor to recharge the system. Vehicle A/C service commonly includes finding the leak, repairing the failed component, and then restoring the correct refrigerant charge.

Schrader valves are the small valve stems used on many vehicle A/C systems for connecting gauges and for pressurizing the refrigerant circuit. If a Schrader valve leaks, the system can lose refrigerant over time, which reduces cooling and triggers repeated service.

“Recharge the system” means adding refrigerant back into the A/C system after a leak or service. Refrigerant is the working fluid that absorbs heat inside the cabin; if the level is low, the A/C won’t cool properly even if the compressor is working.

CVT stands for continuously variable transmission. Instead of fixed gear ratios, it uses a belt/chain and pulleys to keep the engine near an efficient operating point across a wide range of speeds.

“Safety features” refers to driver-assistance and crash-mitigation systems (like sensors and automated braking) that help prevent or reduce the severity of accidents. These systems are integrated into the vehicle’s electronics and calibration, so removing components can require re-engineering.

In modern cars, sensors are hardware inputs (often for radar, cameras, or wheel/engine monitoring) that feed data to driver-assistance and safety systems. The transcript’s point is that removing even one sensor can disrupt the whole safety platform because the systems are designed to work together.

“Doom scrolling” is the habit of endlessly reading bad or alarming content online. In a car-shopping context, it can distract you from practical research and lead to poor decisions.

The Tesla Model Y is a compact electric SUV. In this segment, the hosts use its price as an example of how pricing and market access affect what buyers can realistically pay.

BYD is a Chinese automaker known for producing a wide range of electric vehicles and batteries. Here, it’s referenced in the context of “low price” Chinese EVs and how that pricing compares to what’s available in the U.S. market.

The hosts are using a sales/negotiation metaphor: “tilting the table” means structuring a car deal so you have leverage and fewer downsides. In practice, it can mean shopping timing, knowing pricing, and avoiding add-ons that worsen the deal.

“Greenlit” is industry jargon meaning a company officially approved an idea or project to move forward. In this context, Ford approved the pitch to create the custom concept.

“Bullnose” is an enthusiast nickname for the 1980–1986 Ford F-Series trucks (F-150/F-250/F-350) with the distinctive front-end styling. The term is used to identify that specific body/face design era.

The speaker is talking about the Ford F-150 (1980–1986) in the “bullnose” styling era. This is a classic full-size pickup generation that enthusiasts often modify for off-road and hot-rod builds.

The speaker includes the Ford F-350 in the 1980–1986 “bullnose” era. This generation is known for being a straightforward platform for swaps and upgrades, which is why it’s popular with truck enthusiasts.

The speaker groups the 1980–1986 “bullnose” trucks, including the Ford F-250. The F-250 is the heavier-duty variant in the same generation, and it’s commonly used as a base for engine and suspension swaps.

A “big block” is the larger-displacement V8 engine category compared with “small block.” Enthusiasts often mention it in the context of engine swaps because it’s typically associated with higher power potential and heavier-duty components.

A “small block” refers to a family of compact V8 engines (commonly associated with Ford’s and other manufacturers’ V8 designs). In hot-rodding, it’s often chosen because it’s relatively compact and easier to fit and build.

“Twin-traction beam” is a specific front suspension design used on some older Ford trucks. It’s known for being unusual compared with more common independent front suspensions, and it can create packaging space that makes certain modifications easier.

Carrot Customs is referenced as the source of parts and the suspension kit used in the build. In this context, it’s a brand/vendor identity for aftermarket components.

“Custom Car emblems” is mentioned as the maker of the Raptor emblems. This is a consumer-facing aftermarket branding reference tied to exterior appearance rather than performance.

A “long travel TTB kit” is an aftermarket suspension setup designed to let the truck’s suspension move farther (more wheel travel) for off-road use. “TTB” refers to Twin Traction Beam, a front suspension design used on some trucks that uses two beams to control wheel motion.

“600 horsepower” is a measure of engine power output. In this context it’s describing the target power level of the build they’re talking about, which helps listeners gauge how serious the performance goal is.

Headers are exhaust manifolds that route exhaust gases through individual tubes before they join into the rest of the exhaust system. They’re often used to improve exhaust flow and can help performance, especially on older or heavily modified engines.

FPA is referenced as the place/person (“Steve at FPA”) connected to producing or supplying the headers. The acronym isn’t expanded in the excerpt, but it’s clearly a shop or supplier involved in the parts.

A “jig” is a specialized tool or fixture used to hold parts in the correct position so they can be made or assembled consistently. Here, it’s the tooling needed to manufacture the headers accurately.

“Ceramic coated” refers to applying a ceramic-based coating to parts like headers to help manage heat. The coating can reduce under-hood temperatures and may improve durability by protecting the metal from heat cycling.

“Dyno tested” means the engine or vehicle was run on a dynamometer (dyno) to measure outputs like horsepower and torque under controlled conditions. It’s used as a quality check to verify the build performs as expected.

A “suspension project” means modifying the truck’s suspension system—typically components that control ride height, damping, and handling. In this segment, they specifically mention springs and other suspension parts being delayed.

“Back order” means the parts are sold but not currently available, so the buyer is queued to receive them later. For suspension projects, back-ordered components can delay the entire install because many upgrades require multiple parts to be installed together.

The “COVID era” refers to the period during and after the initial COVID-19 disruptions, when supply chains and manufacturing capacity were affected worldwide. The hosts connect it to delays in getting suspension and exhaust-related parts made and shipped.

Springs are key suspension components that support the vehicle’s weight and help determine ride height and how the suspension responds to bumps. When springs are delayed, it can stall suspension upgrades because they’re often replaced as part of a matched setup.

In automotive context, “handling” refers to how a vehicle responds to steering inputs and how well it stays composed while cornering. It’s often discussed in terms of grip, balance, steering feel, and how predictable the car is at speed.

This phrase describes the idea of making an SUV drive more like a sports car—typically by improving steering response, suspension tuning, and overall chassis balance. The goal is to reduce the “floaty” or body-roll feel many people associate with SUVs.

A four-door sedan is a passenger car body style with two rows of seats and a trunk, accessed through four doors. In this context, the hosts are treating it as a notable model direction because it would broaden Ferrari’s typical supercar-focused image.

The Chevrolet Camaro is a performance-focused coupe that’s often discussed as a “muscle car” style option with a strong enthusiast following. The podcast references it while talking about what might be coming back, suggesting it’s part of a broader conversation about trends and future availability. That’s why it shows up in the discussion.

The Acura RSX is a compact sports coupe from Acura that’s best known as a fun, affordable alternative in the early 2000s. In this segment, the hosts are lamenting that an RSX EV plan didn’t happen, so listeners don’t get a modernized version of the RSX formula.

“Infinity” is almost certainly a reference to Infiniti, Nissan’s luxury brand. The hosts are using it as an example of a company that’s taking EV direction more seriously than others.

The Chevrolet Bolt is a compact electric car known for offering a relatively practical range for its size. The hosts say it was “slept on,” then suggest it could have been paired with the Volt’s identity—before discussing that it’s being canceled due to shifting EV strategy.

The BMW i4 is BMW’s electric 4-series–based sedan/coupe-style EV. It’s mentioned here as one of the EVs that won’t make it to the “revitalized list” of 2027 plans, reflecting how product lineups can change quickly.

The BMW iX is BMW’s electric flagship SUV. The transcript says “BMW ix,” which is likely the iX, and it’s included in the list of EVs that may be canceled or delayed.

The Chevrolet Volt was a plug-in hybrid that could run on electricity for daily driving, then switch to a gasoline engine when needed. In the segment, the hosts compare the Volt’s role to what the Bolt could have been—essentially arguing for a small, efficient EV that fits a clear niche.

The Chevrolet Equinox is a compact SUV, and the hosts say the EV “looks like a small equinox.” This is a commentary on how EVs are sometimes designed to resemble familiar crossover shapes, which can make them feel less distinctive.

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is an electric crossover designed to be practical while still feeling modern and tech-forward. The podcast mentions it in the context of “Ioniq 6,” indicating a comparison or mix-up between related Ioniq models. That’s why it’s referenced during a discussion about which specific car they mean.

The Hyundai Ioniq 6 is an all-electric sedan known for its streamlined, low-drag shape. In this segment, it’s mentioned as an example of an EV that drew strong opinions online.

The “Kona EV” is Hyundai’s electric version of the Kona crossover. The hosts mention it alongside other Hyundai/Kia EVs that show up in search results and are being discussed in the context of cancellations.

The Kia Niro EV is Kia’s electric crossover variant of the Niro lineup. The hosts say it “looks OK,” contrasting it with other EVs they’re calling out as being canceled or mocked online.

The GMC Safari is a vehicle name associated with a people-hauling van, and in this podcast segment it’s discussed as having an unusual styling direction. The hosts describe it as wanting a “safari” look while still trying to feel luxurious, and they question how that combination works dynamically and visually. That’s why it’s brought up—it's an example of a design concept they find odd.

Sony is mentioned in the context of a partnership tied to a specific car concept. The hosts are implying that brand collaborations can help marketing, but they don’t guarantee buyers will accept the product—especially at a high price.

The Tesla Model S is an all-electric luxury sedan from Tesla. It’s one of the brand’s most well-known models and often comes up in discussions about EV value, used-car pricing, and long-term ownership.

The Nissan Xterra is a rugged, body-on-frame SUV known for off-road capability and a simple, durable layout. In this segment, it’s referenced as a car the hosts have discussed before, likely in the context of design or ownership impressions.

The Ford Falcon is a model name that has appeared on Ford’s lineup, and in this podcast segment it’s specifically tied to a critique of its door design. The hosts call the Falcon doors “stupid” and “pretty dumb,” focusing on how the styling choice doesn’t work for them. That’s why it’s discussed here—more as a design example than a performance one.

“Falcon doors” is a nickname for a type of scissor-style door that hinges near the front and swings upward/outward. They’re meant to look dramatic and improve access, but they can be awkward in tight spaces and may add complexity versus conventional doors.

“Goal wing” doors are a door style that opens upward and outward, similar in concept to scissor-style or upward-swinging doors. The name is often used by enthusiasts to describe dramatic, supercar-like door motions that can improve visibility and access.

The Toyota Supra is a performance sports car nameplate that’s been used across multiple generations. In this segment, it’s referenced as another car where the hosts didn’t like the door style being discussed.

The Volkswagen ID family refers to Volkswagen’s electric vehicles built on the ID platform (for example, ID.4 and ID. Buzz). The hosts mention that “ID cars” have had problems, pointing to the broader topic of EV reliability and early-production issues.

Stellantis is the automaker behind brands like Jeep, Dodge, Chrysler, and Peugeot, among others. “Stellantis numbers” likely refers to the company’s financial or sales figures being discussed in the context of the broader automotive news cycle.

“Starting V8” means the least-expensive version of a model that still uses a V8 engine. The hosts are using it to argue that buyers can get into a V8-powered SUV at a relatively accessible price point.