2026 Consumer Guide Best Buys

The Buick Lucerne was a full-size luxury sedan from Buick, positioned as a “large car” alternative to other big American sedans. The hosts mention it to illustrate how those traditional full-size models have disappeared from the modern U.S. lineup.

The Chrysler 300 is a full-size luxury sedan that became a modern reference point for “big American car” styling and comfort. In this segment, it’s cited as an example of a model that no longer exists in the way it used to, highlighting the shrinking of the large-car market.

The Buick LeSabre was a full-size Buick sedan, commonly associated with the classic American “big car” era. The hosts connect it to the idea of a benchmark large car and then discuss how General Motors’ 1970s full-size lineup was organized into different body categories.

“B-body” and “C-body” were General Motors internal vehicle platforms/body families used in the mid-to-late 20th century. In this segment, the hosts say C-bodies were premium while B-bodies were not, reflecting how GM segmented its large-car lineup by price and positioning.

The Chevrolet Caprice is a classic American full-size car that’s brought up as a “benchmark” example in the podcast’s historical comparison. Mentioning it alongside other older models suggests the hosts are talking about what made certain cars stand out in their era. It’s relevant because it helps frame how people judge today’s cars against past standards.

The Pontiac Catalina is another classic full-size car referenced as part of the podcast’s “benchmark cars” discussion. Listing it alongside models like the Caprice and Bonneville suggests the hosts are comparing what certain cars represented in their time. It’s relevant as a historical reference point for how enthusiasts evaluate vehicles.

The Nissan Leaf is a fully electric compact car designed for everyday commuting. It often comes up in discussions because it’s one of the more established mainstream EVs and is typically compared on practicality, charging, and total cost of ownership. In a podcast lineup of small crossovers and hatchbacks, it’s a notable alternative because it’s battery-electric rather than gas-powered.

The Hyundai Kona is a compact crossover SUV that’s often compared against other small crossovers for value and everyday practicality. In the podcast lineup, it’s grouped with models like the Mazda CX-30, Nissan Kicks, and Nissan Leaf, which highlights how buyers weigh different powertrains and sizes. That makes it a relevant “shortlist” topic in a segment about what’s worth considering.

The Chevrolet Bolt is an affordable battery-electric vehicle (EV) from Chevrolet. In this segment, it’s mentioned as an alternative EV option, but the hosts flag that availability may be limited.

All-wheel drive (AWD) means power is sent to all four wheels, improving traction when roads are slippery or uneven. In this segment, the hosts note these cars aren’t available with AWD, which affects how confidently you can drive in snow or rain.

The Buick Encore GX is a compact crossover SUV, and the hosts say the Invista is very closely related to it. That implies shared engineering/platform DNA, which often means similar packaging, driving feel, and options.

The Chevrolet Trailblazer is a compact crossover SUV, and the hosts say the Trax is very closely related to it. This is another example of GM using shared components and platforms across multiple nameplates.

The Chevrolet Trax is a subcompact SUV known for being an affordable, easy-to-live-with option. In this segment, the host highlights the Trax’s “active” trim, its Apple CarPlay integration, and a price around $24,000 at the time—factors that made it feel more impressive than expected after driving it.

Apple CarPlay is a smartphone-integration system that lets you use certain iPhone apps through the car’s infotainment screen. It typically provides navigation, music, calls, and messages in a more driver-friendly interface than using the phone directly.

The Nissan Kicks is a compact crossover that’s often discussed as a value-focused option in its segment. In the podcast context, it’s grouped with other small crossovers and the hosts highlight that it offers “a lot of value for the money.” That makes it a common pick when shoppers want a practical SUV without paying for a larger or more expensive model.

A non-turbocharged engine doesn’t use a turbocharger to force extra air into the cylinders. That usually changes how the engine makes power—often less punch at low rpm—but it can also feel smoother and be simpler than turbo setups.

The Dodge Hornet is a compact crossover that Dodge sold briefly. In this episode, it’s referenced as the base platform that Alfa Romeo adapted, which helps explain why the Hornet and its Alfa Romeo counterpart share underlying engineering.

Alfa Romeo is the Italian brand referenced here as taking the Dodge Hornet’s concept and turning it into its own model. The episode emphasizes that, while it’s “Alfa Romeo,” it’s built on shared engineering rather than being a fully unique Alfa platform.

“Architecture” here means the shared vehicle platform—things like the chassis layout, mounting points, and major systems—used across multiple models. When the hosts call it “common Stellantis architecture,” they’re pointing out that the Alfa Romeo-feeling car is built on a platform shared with other Stellantis brands.

The “mama spring rally” is mentioned as an event where the hosts put the car on a racetrack. It’s relevant mainly as context for how they evaluated the vehicle’s driving feel.

“Big wheels and tires” usually refers to larger wheel diameters and wider or lower-profile tires. That can improve grip and steering response, but it can also affect ride comfort and tire cost.

“Better brakes” refers to improved braking hardware and/or calibration—things like stronger brake components or more effective brake feel. In this episode, it’s used to argue that this model stops better than other Stellantis products in the lineup.

The BMW X1 is BMW’s compact luxury crossover, and it’s notable because it’s positioned as the most affordable way into the brand. In this segment, the hosts highlight that it still feels like a “BMW” while being roomy and fun to drive, which is the key buying angle for shoppers comparing entry-level luxury.

The Volvo EX30 is a fully electric Volvo crossover, and the segment focuses on its planned US availability and real-world feasibility. The hosts mention a target of close to 300 miles of range and a starting price around $35K, then explain that trade tariffs disrupted the plan—making the earlier “best buy” guidance obsolete.

“Fully electric” means the vehicle runs only on an electric motor powered by a battery, with no gasoline engine. That matters for the EX30 discussion because the hosts tie its US launch plan to battery-electric range expectations (close to 300 miles) and the economics of importing an EV.

Tariffs are taxes the government places on imported goods. In this context, the hosts say tariffs made the EX30’s plan to be built in China and sold in the US financially unworkable, which is why the earlier “best buy” recommendation became obsolete.

“Compact crossover” refers to a popular class of SUVs that blend car-like driving with higher seating and utility. The hosts use it as the segment category for their “best buy” recommendations, comparing multiple mainstream models within the same consumer shopping set.

The Honda CR-V is a compact crossover SUV that’s long been one of the most recognizable alternatives in the mainstream family-crossover segment. In this episode, it’s referenced as a key competitor when the hosts discuss why the compact crossover category is hard to choose from.

The Mazda CX-50 is a compact crossover SUV from Mazda, positioned between smaller crossovers and larger family-oriented models. In this episode, it’s one of the hosts’ “compact crossover” best-buy picks, so it’s being compared directly against other mainstream options like the Nissan Rogue and Subaru Forester.

The Subaru Forester is a compact crossover SUV known for its practical, outdoorsy reputation and Subaru’s all-wheel-drive focus. In this episode, it’s one of the hosts’ compact crossover picks, placed alongside the Mazda CX-50 and Nissan Rogue as a key alternative for shoppers.

The Mazda CX-5 is Mazda’s long-running compact crossover SUV and, in this discussion, it’s described as the brand’s best-selling model. The hosts also set up the CX-50 as a related variant, implying the CX-5’s role as the baseline for what buyers expect from Mazda crossovers.

A hybrid powertrain combines an internal-combustion engine with an electric motor and battery. The goal is to improve efficiency and smoothness, and in this segment the hosts specifically praise the CX-50’s hybrid as “really a good hybrid.”

The Nissan Rogue is a mainstream compact crossover SUV that’s often compared directly with other urban-focused family vehicles. In this segment, the hosts highlight its handling, quiet cabin, and especially its interior space, while also noting drawbacks tied to its powertrain and driving feel.

A three-cylinder engine uses three combustion cylinders instead of the more common four or six. Because it has fewer cylinders firing, it can feel more buzzy or less smooth, especially at certain speeds or under load.

A CVT (continuously variable transmission) is an automatic gearbox that uses pulleys/belts to smoothly change gear ratios instead of fixed gears. Some drivers dislike CVTs because the engine can feel like it’s “revving” in a way that doesn’t match how they expect the car to accelerate.

“All will drive” here is referring to Subaru’s standard all-wheel drive (AWD). AWD sends power to more than one axle for better traction, especially in rain, snow, or rough conditions, but it can reduce fuel economy compared with front- or rear-wheel-drive setups.

The New York auto show is a major event where automakers display upcoming vehicles and concepts. In this segment, the host references attending it and making videos/recommendations about compact crossovers for short drivers.

The Toyota RAV4 is a compact crossover that’s especially popular in the U.S. for its mix of practicality and available hybrid powertrains. Here, the host focuses on the new RAV4’s visibility and notes that hybrid versions are in short supply as they trickle into dealerships.

In this podcast context, “Genesis” refers to a luxury vehicle lineup, and the mention is tied to the Genesis GV70. Genesis is positioned as Hyundai’s premium brand, so it often comes up when discussing alternatives to mainstream luxury SUVs. The podcast frames it as an easy pick, suggesting it fits the criteria being discussed.

The Genesis GV 70 is a compact luxury crossover from Genesis (Hyundai’s luxury brand), known for its upscale interior and “small crossover” practicality. In this segment, the hosts highlight it as a fun-to-drive option with multiple powertrain choices and a value angle versus pricier German rivals.

A powertrain is the car’s complete set of components that create and deliver motion—typically the engine (or motors), transmission, and related drivetrain parts. The hosts say the GV 70 offers two powertrains that are “seriously punchy,” meaning both choices provide strong acceleration/response.

Mercedes-Benz is a German luxury brand often compared against other premium crossovers on both price and perceived quality. In this segment, it’s mentioned alongside BMW to frame the Genesis GV 70 as a less expensive alternative to comparable Mercedes-Benz products.

The Mazda CX-70 is a midsize crossover from Mazda, described here as a two-row option in the CX lineup. The host frames it as a family-friendly “midsize crossover” choice that balances driver-focused driving feel with room for passengers and cargo.

An inline six-cylinder engine is an engine layout where all six cylinders are arranged in a single straight line. In this segment, the host calls it “super smooth,” and notes Mazda developed it specifically for these midsize crossovers, implying it’s tuned for refined, easy power delivery rather than just raw performance.

The Mazda CX-7 is a midsize SUV from Mazda’s lineup that’s often discussed as a sporty-feeling option. In this segment, it’s mentioned alongside the CX-90 as a model that “doesn’t sell that well,” even though the host still frames Mazda vehicles as enjoyable to own.

The Mazda CX-90 is Mazda’s larger, three-row SUV aimed at buyers who want a more upscale feel without going full luxury. Here, it’s used to support the host’s point that Mazda has carried its “sporty fun to drive” character into bigger family SUVs, even if sales haven’t matched expectations.

“Premium midsize crossovers” refers to a category of family-oriented SUVs that sit in the mid-size footprint range, but are positioned with higher-end features and pricing than mainstream models. In a consumer guide context, this usually means comparing comfort, tech, and powertrain choices across competing brands within that segment.

Lexus RX is a luxury crossover built on a car-based platform, known for a smooth, refined ride and family-friendly practicality. In this segment, the hosts credit the RX with helping shift buyer preferences away from sedans toward crossovers.

Lexus TX is a larger, longer luxury crossover positioned as more third-row oriented than the RX. The hosts describe it as an electric-focused, family-hauling alternative within the Lexus lineup.

Audi is a German luxury brand that competes in the same premium vehicle categories as Lexus. The hosts cite Audi as another brand that typically costs more than Lexus while offering similar “refined, well-finished” appeal.

“Floaty” is a driving-feel description meaning the suspension feels soft and a bit disconnected from the road. In this context, the host is contrasting the RX’s comfort-focused ride with a more sporty, tightly controlled feel.

The Lincoln Nautilus is Lincoln’s mid-size luxury SUV, and the host highlights it as a standout among Lincoln models. They specifically mention it being “not built in China,” having an “absolutely beautiful interior,” and being available with a hybrid powertrain.

A digital readout is an electronic display that shows driving information like speed, navigation prompts, and vehicle status. The host is praising the Nautilus for using modern, dashboard-wide digital displays and controls.

Revel is an audio brand used in some luxury vehicles, known for premium speaker and tuning packages. Here, the host praises the Revel sound system as “incredible,” highlighting that the audio experience is a standout feature.

The Lincoln Aviator is a luxury SUV from Lincoln (Ford’s upscale brand), known for comfort-focused driving and a tech-heavy interior. In this segment, it’s discussed as a non-sporty but very impressive cruiser, with emphasis on driver-assistance features and cabin experience.

Indianapolis is a major U.S. city in Indiana, commonly associated with motorsports (including the Indianapolis Motor Speedway). The host mentions driving there and back to evaluate real-world comfort and driver-assist behavior.

Blue Cruise is Lincoln’s hands-free driver-assistance system, designed to help with steering and highway driving under certain conditions. The hosts compare it to another system (Super Cruise) and evaluate how good it feels in real-world use.

Super Cruise is a hands-free highway driving system associated with General Motors’ Cadillac brand, known for its ability to steer the car on compatible roads. In this segment, it’s used as the benchmark for how capable the Lincoln system feels.

A “pillar-to-pillar screen” refers to a single wide display design that spans much of the dashboard area, often visually connecting across the cabin’s front structure. The host argues it’s not distracting or gimmicky because it’s functional and improves usability.

The Ford Expedition is a large, body-on-frame SUV built for towing and heavy-duty use, but it’s also meant to be comfortable for passengers. Here, the standout detail is its EcoBoost V6, which the hosts say helps it achieve relatively good fuel economy for a big vehicle.

Body-on-frame is a construction method where the vehicle’s body sits on a separate ladder-like frame. It’s common on trucks and towing-focused SUVs because it’s strong and can handle heavy loads, though it often feels less “car-like” than unibody designs.

EcoBoost V6 refers to Ford’s turbocharged V6 engine family, designed to deliver strong power while improving fuel economy versus a naturally aspirated engine. In this segment, it’s credited for relatively good fuel economy in a large, heavy SUV like the Ford Expedition.

The Nissan Armada is a full-size, body-on-road large SUV that competes directly with other big family haulers like the Ford Expedition. In this segment, the host highlights that Nissan updated the Armada recently and that it uses a turbocharged V6, which is a key powertrain detail for how it drives and feels.

This is a practical usability concept: checking whether a large vehicle’s dimensions work with your real-world parking space. For big SUVs, fitment affects daily convenience more than spec-sheet numbers. The host uses it to contrast a very large vehicle with a more manageable one that still fits easily.

The Chevrolet Tahoe is a full-size SUV from General Motors, typically aimed at buyers who want a large family vehicle with available luxury features. Here it’s mentioned alongside the Yukon and Suburban as part of a set that’s “going to be redesigned” and getting “new engines.” That signals a major refresh that can affect fuel economy and overall performance characteristics.

The Chevrolet Suburban is a full-size SUV from General Motors known for its long-running “big family hauler” formula and roomy interior. In this segment, it’s grouped with the Yukon and Tahoe as vehicles that are going to be redesigned and receive new engines. A redesign typically brings updated powertrains and modernized tech, which can change the ownership experience.

The GMC Yukon is a full-size SUV from General Motors’ GMC brand, known for being a mainstream large-SUV alternative to other body-on-frame family haulers. The host groups it with the Chevrolet Tahoe and Chevrolet Suburban and says these GM models are headed for redesigns and new engines. That matters because a redesign can change driving feel, efficiency, and tech features.

The Lincoln Navigator is a full-size luxury SUV from Lincoln, positioned as a flagship competitor in the large-SUV market. In this segment, it’s used as the price benchmark for the Infiniti QX80, with the host claiming the QX80 costs much less. That comparison highlights how these big luxury SUVs can differ significantly in purchase cost.

The Infiniti QX80 is a large, luxury three-row SUV known for its upscale interior and comfort-focused ride. In this segment, the host highlights the QX80’s design and tech, especially compared with older infotainment setups.

A “two-screen system” refers to an infotainment layout where functions are split across two separate displays. The host criticizes the older Armada/QX80-era setup as “antiquated,” implying it was less intuitive or less modern than newer interfaces.

Resale value is how much a vehicle is expected to be worth when you sell it later. The hosts say these vehicles’ resale value is “almost locked in,” meaning demand and pricing tend to stay strong, reducing the risk of losing a lot of money.

A turbocharged V6 is an engine with six cylinders arranged in a V shape, plus a turbocharger that forces more air into the cylinders. That typically improves power and efficiency compared with a non-turbo V6 of similar size, which is why the hosts call it a “great” drivetrain.

Power running boards are motorized side steps that extend when you open the door and retract afterward. They’re meant to reduce the effort of climbing into taller vehicles, especially for people with mobility limitations, but they can also feel intrusive when driving or when you’re shorter.

A V6 is an engine with six cylinders arranged in a “V” shape. It’s a common layout in mid-sized trucks because it can provide smooth power for towing and everyday driving without needing turbocharging to be strong.

“Turbos” refers to turbochargers, which use exhaust gases to spin a turbine and force more air into the engine. That can improve power and efficiency, but it often leads to more complex engine options across a lineup.

The Nissan Frontier is a mid-sized pickup truck known here for keeping things simple: a V6 paired with an automatic transmission, without turbo engines or multiple drivetrain choices. In this segment, the hosts also point out that it’s offered in straightforward cab/bed configurations (including a long-wheelbase version), which makes it easier to shop than many competitors.

A turbocharged four-cylinder engine combines a smaller engine (four cylinders) with a turbocharger to increase power output. Many modern truck lineups use this approach to meet fuel-economy goals, which is why the hosts say the segment can get complicated with lots of turbo options.

“Quad cab” is a pickup body style that typically means four-door access with rear seats that are smaller or less roomy than a full crew cab. It’s part of how pickups are configured, affecting passenger space and overall practicality.

Long wheelbase means the distance between the front and rear axles is longer than on a standard wheelbase version. On pickups, that usually translates to more cabin/bed layout options and can improve ride stability, but it also makes the truck longer and harder to maneuver.

Steering feel at lower speed refers to how heavy or responsive the steering is when maneuvering—like parking, backing up, or turning in tight spaces. Some trucks use steering ratios and assist tuning that can feel less nimble for shorter drivers.

The Ford Ranger is a midsize pickup truck known for being easier to maneuver than large full-size trucks. In this segment, the hosts focus on practical city usability—especially how it feels smaller and how its turning radius helps with tight streets.

Turning radius is the tightest circle a vehicle can make when steering. A smaller turning radius makes it easier to navigate and park in crowded city environments with narrow streets and tight corners.

The “Hurricane” engine is Ram’s branded name for a modern engine program they’ve marketed as advanced and efficient. In this segment, the host says it’s “amazing” and compares it to other Ram engine options in cost and output.

“Hemi” refers to a hemispherical combustion-chamber cylinder head design. That shape can help airflow and combustion, which is why “Hemi” engines are often associated with strong power output in Chrysler/Dodge/Ram applications.

Ram’s “1,500 series” refers to its half-ton pickup truck lineup. In this segment, the hosts focus on how Ram changed engine availability—removing the Hemi from the 1,500 series—then later bringing it back due to customer demand.

Ram is the truck brand within Stellantis, and the podcast context frames it as a strong “best buy” option with a lot going forward. The mention of “shockingly nice” suggests the discussion is about comfort, features, or overall value. That’s why Ram comes up—buyers often want a truck that feels good to live with, not just work-capable.

Coil spring rear suspension uses coil springs to support the rear of the vehicle and control how it moves over bumps. The hosts call out that Ram uses this setup, implying it helps ride quality and handling compared with other trucks that use different rear suspension designs.

Resell value is what a vehicle is expected to be worth when you sell it later. The hosts suggest that choosing the Hemi may pay back some of the extra cost at resale, though they hedge about the future.

Adjustable pedals let you move the accelerator and brake closer or farther from the driver. That helps different-height drivers find a comfortable reach and can improve how naturally you can use the pedals.

The hosts say the next segment will cover minivans, and later note changes for 2026 and 2027. This is a structural shift to a new vehicle category in the consumer guide.

The Chrysler Pacifica is a minivan built around comfort and interior space, and it’s especially noted here for being an excellent highway car. The hosts mention it’s being refreshed with an all-new front end, while still keeping the practical minivan strengths like quietness and usable room.

“Stow ’n Go” is Chrysler’s minivan seating system where the middle-row seats fold and stow into the floor. That creates a flat cargo area without removing the seats, which is a major usability advantage versus minivans that require physically taking seats out.

The Chrysler Town & Country is a minivan known for family-focused space and comfort. In the podcast context, it’s mentioned alongside other Chrysler/Dodge/Plymouth crossover-related comments, suggesting the hosts are talking about older minivan or family-vehicle options and how people move between categories. It’s relevant because minivans like this were once a common “default” for families.

The Honda Odyssey is Honda’s long-running minivan, typically known for being a mainstream family hauler with strong practicality. Here, the host notes Honda won’t be updating it much soon, tying that to the company’s shifting focus toward electric vehicles.

The Toyota Sienna is a minivan known for being offered with a hybrid powertrain, which helps it deliver strong real-world efficiency for a family hauler. In this segment, the hosts also call out its resale value, positioning it as a practical “no-brainer” if you’re already a Toyota fan.

Rental fleets are groups of vehicles owned by rental companies and used by many different drivers. Because these cars are often sold off after a short period, they can end up as relatively affordable used options compared with buying new.

The Kia Carnival is a modern minivan that’s positioned around tech and infotainment. In this segment, the host highlights that it’s the most up-to-date minivan for “cool screens and apps,” and that it’s set up in a way they prefer over rivals.