ABG Pod Live Show - Alex Does Q&A!
About this episode
The live show features a Q&A session where Alex discusses the surprising number of vehicle models being discontinued for the 2026 model year, including notable brands like Acura, Infiniti, and Ford. The conversation dives into the implications of these cancellations, the future of electric vehicles, and the challenges automakers face with pricing and demand. Alex also addresses listener questions about specific models, the practicality of wagons, and the trend of automakers opting for refreshes over redesigns. Insights into the automotive market's shifting landscape make this episode engaging for those following industry changes.
It’s a packed Friday live show covering one of the biggest shake-ups in the modern car market: dozens of vehicles disappearing for the 2026 model year. We kick things off with a rapid-fire rundown of discontinued sedans, coupes, EVs, and SUVs—and what those cancellations say about where the industry is heading.
From there, we dive deep into EV demand, plug-in hybrid realities, tariffs, pricing pressure, and federal incentives, plus honest answers to audience questions on everything from Kia and Toyota strategy to Volvo wagons, Stellantis indecision, and the real cost of owning modern EVs.
We also cover:
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Why affordable $25,000 EVs are still a long way off
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Whether plug-in hybrids actually get plugged in
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Tesla’s robotaxi ambitions and CarPlay rumors
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Used EV buying advice (Lightning vs Rivian, Audi vs Mercedes)
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The future of minivans, wagons, and midsize trucks
As always, this one blends industry analysis with real-world ownership experience and zero PR spin.
00:00 – Welcome & live show setup 00:02 – Massive list of vehicles canceled for 2026 04:45 – Audience Q&A begins 04:55 – Why there’s no 2026 Kia EV6 yet 05:36 – Kia & Hyundai’s electric future in the U.S. 06:21 – EV demand slowdown, tax credits, and pricing math 07:06 – Toyota warns of multiple price hikes due to tariffs 07:27 – Volvo wagons: why they stopped working in the U.S. 08:17 – Refresh vs redesign: when automakers stretch platforms 09:51 – Are plug-in hybrids dying in America? 11:09 – Europe vs U.S. plug-in hybrid reality check 13:20 – GM, Mary Barra, and plug-in hybrid data 15:09 – Aston Vantage vs Porsche 911 ownership advice 16:29 – When (or if) $25,000 EVs will exist 18:09 – Used Mercedes EQ vs Audi e-tron reliability 18:58 – Why minivan seats don’t fold flat 19:43 – 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander refresh & warranty thoughts 20:54 – Blazer EV ownership update (pros, cons, issues) 23:46 – Solar, batteries, and Chinese subsidy changes 26:01 – Why EVs cost more in the U.S. than Europe 28:26 – Automakers writing off billions in EV investments 29:14 – Grand Highlander vs Honda Pilot buying advice 31:39 – 2026 Jeep Cherokee vs Dodge Durango 33:47 – Volvo EX60 vs Rivian R2 expectations 36:10 – Polestar 3 vs Volvo EX lineup overlap 37:37 – Stellantis product delays and strategy confusion 40:31 – Rivian R1T vs Ford Lightning for camping 42:04 – Tesla CarPlay rumors & software strategy 43:06 – Honda Accord Hybrid MPG limits explained 46:00 – Tesla, robotaxis, and the future of carmaking 48:02 – Frunks, crash safety, and real-world risks 50:34 – Will the Accord ever get AWD? 51:52 – RAV4 Plug-In Hybrid: worth the premium? 53:36 – Wrap-up and sign-off
BMW 8 Series
"...how many vehicle models are being canceled in 2026 or for the 2026 model year as in ending in the 2025 model year. I’ll just rattle off this list because it is scary long here. We have Acura TLX, ZDX, RDX, the X4, the eight series..."
The BMW 8 Series is a fancy sports car that is built for both speed and comfort, making it great for long drives or just enjoying the ride.
The BMW 8 Series is a luxury grand tourer that combines high performance with elegant design, offering a range of powerful engines and advanced technology.
BMW X4
"...how many vehicle models are being canceled in 2026 or for the 2026 model year as in ending in the 2025 model year. I’ll just rattle off this list because it is scary long here. We have Acura TLX, ZDX, RDX, the X4..."
The BMW X4 is a stylish SUV that looks sporty and is designed for people who want both a fun driving experience and the practicality of an SUV.
The BMW X4 is a compact luxury crossover SUV that features a sporty design and performance-oriented handling, appealing to those who want a blend of utility and sportiness.
Cadillac XT4
"...how many vehicle models are being canceled in 2026 or for the 2026 model year as in ending in the 2025 model year. I’ll just rattle off this list because it is scary long here. We have Acura TLX, ZDX, RDX, the X4, the eight series, the Z4, the Q8 e-tron, the XT4..."
The Cadillac XT4 is a smaller luxury SUV that offers a nice interior and modern technology, making it a good choice for those who want a comfortable ride.
The Cadillac XT4 is a compact luxury SUV that combines a stylish design with a comfortable interior and advanced technology features.
Cadillac XT5
"...ng, the Q8 e-tron, the XT4, XT6, and probably the XT5 as well. The Chevy Malibu, I actually totally fo..."
Cadillac XT6
"...the Z4 that's also dying, the Q8 e-tron, the XT4, XT6, and probably the XT5 as well. The Chevy Malibu,..."
Audi Q8 Etron
"I'll just rattle off this list because it is scary long here. We have Acura TLX, ZDX, RDX, the X4, the eight series, the Z4 that's also dying, the Q8 e-tron, the XT4, XT6, and probably the XT5 as well. The Chevy Malibu, I actually totally forgot that that one was still being built."
Chevrolet Malibu
"...the 2026 model year as in ending in the 2025 model year. I’ll just rattle off this list because it is scary long here. We have... The Chevy Malibu, I actually totally forgot that that one was still being built."
The Chevrolet Malibu is a family-friendly car that is comfortable to drive and has good gas mileage, making it a practical option for everyday use.
The Chevrolet Malibu is a midsize sedan known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and good fuel efficiency, making it a popular choice for families.
Chevrolet Blazer
"...the 2026 model year as in ending in the 2025 model year. I’ll just rattle off this list because it is scary long here. We have... The regular gasoline blazer, that's also sailing off into the sunset."
The Chevrolet Blazer is a stylish SUV that is designed to be both fun to drive and practical for everyday use.
The Chevrolet Blazer is a midsize SUV that combines sporty styling with practicality, offering a comfortable interior and a range of engine options.
Dodge Hornet
"We have the Dodge Hornet plug-in hybrid. That wasn't too surprising there."
The Dodge Hornet is a small SUV that can run on both gasoline and electricity, making it more fuel-efficient.
The Dodge Hornet is a compact SUV that features a plug-in hybrid variant, offering a balance of performance and efficiency.
Infiniti QX55
"The Infiniti QX50 and QX55 are also dying."
The Infiniti QX55 is a stylish small SUV that offers a mix of sportiness and luxury features.
The Infiniti QX55 is a luxury crossover SUV that combines sporty design with performance and technology.
Infiniti QX50
"The Infiniti QX50 and QX55 are also dying."
The Infiniti QX50 is a fancy small SUV that has a lot of nice features and a comfortable interior.
The Infiniti QX50 is a luxury compact SUV known for its upscale interior and advanced technology features.
Kia Niro
"Let's see here, we have the Kia Soul, we have the Nero plug-in hybrid."
The Kia Niro is a small crossover that can run on gasoline or electricity, making it a good choice for saving fuel.
The Kia Niro is a compact crossover that offers hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric versions, focusing on efficiency and practicality.
Kia Soul
"Let's see here, we have the Kia Soul, we have the Nero plug-in hybrid."
The Kia Soul is a small car with a distinctive boxy design that offers a lot of space inside.
The Kia Soul is a unique compact car known for its boxy shape and spacious interior, appealing to a wide range of drivers.
Kia Seltos
"...g to die, but I wouldn't be surprised because the Seltos is getting a new version of their entry-level ult..."
Lexus RC
"We have the Lexus RC that's sailing off into the sunset."
The Lexus RC is a luxury two-door car that looks sporty and offers a comfortable ride.
The Lexus RC is a luxury sports coupe known for its stylish design and performance-oriented features.
Tata Motors Aria
"...C that's sailing off into the sunset. The Nissan Aria and Versa are also dropping out. Polestar 2, tha..."
Nissan Aria
"The Nissan Ariya and Versa are also dropping out."
The Nissan Ariya is a new electric SUV that has a lot of space and modern features.
The Nissan Ariya is an all-electric crossover SUV that combines modern design with advanced technology and a spacious interior.
Nissan Versa
"The Nissan Ariya and Versa are also dropping out."
The Nissan Versa is a small, affordable car that gets good gas mileage, making it a great option for saving money.
The Nissan Versa is a compact sedan known for its affordability and fuel efficiency, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Polestar 2
"Polestar 2, that's ended production already. Ostensibly, that's been replaced by the Polestar 4..."
The Polestar 2 is an electric car made by Polestar, a brand that focuses on high-performance electric vehicles. It has stopped being made as the company moves on to newer models.
The Polestar 2 is an all-electric fastback that was part of Polestar's lineup, which is focused on performance-oriented electric vehicles. Its production has ended as Polestar shifts focus to newer models.
Polestar 4
"...already. Ostensibly, that's been replaced by the Polestar 4, so I don't think that's a huge loss to the lineu..."
Porsche Boxster
"...it definitely is a problem for them. We have the Boxster, the Cayman, the Legacy, the S60, V60 and S90, so..."
Porsche Cayman
"... is a problem for them. We have the Boxster, the Cayman, the Legacy, the S60, V60 and S90, so Volvo is he..."
Volvo S60
"...the Legacy, the S60, V60 and S90, so Volvo is hemorrhaging a lot of models..."
The Volvo S60 is a car made by Volvo that is known for being safe and stylish. It's not selling as well as it used to, which is why Volvo is reducing its models.
The Volvo S60 is a compact executive car known for its safety features and stylish design. It has been part of Volvo's lineup for several years but has seen declining sales.
Hyundai Santa Cruz
"...huge numbers anyway anymore. We have the Hyundai Santa Cruz, the Tesla Model S and X. Those are, of course, ..."
Tesla Model S
"...the Hyundai Santa Cruz, the Tesla Model S and X. Those are, of course, intriguing in a way..."
The Tesla Model S is a high-end electric car made by Tesla. It's known for being fast and having a long driving range, but some versions are not selling well.
The Tesla Model S is a luxury all-electric sedan that has been a flagship model for Tesla, known for its performance and range. Despite its popularity, certain variants are seeing reduced production due to low sales.
Tesla Model
"...way anymore. We have the Hyundai Santa Cruz, the Tesla Model S and X. Those are, of course, intriguing in a w..."
Hyundai Santa
"...ling in huge numbers anyway anymore. We have the Hyundai Santa Cruz, the Tesla Model S and X. Those are, of cou..."
Mercedes GLC 63
"...the Mercedes C63 and GLC 63. We heard the news today that they are ending as well..."
The Mercedes GLC 63 is a sporty version of the Mercedes GLC SUV. It's known for being powerful and luxurious, but it's also being discontinued as the company moves to electric vehicles.
The Mercedes GLC 63 is a performance-oriented version of the GLC-Class SUV, offering a blend of luxury and power. Its discontinuation reflects a broader trend in the automotive industry towards electrification.
Mercedes C63
"...the Mercedes C63 and GLC 63. We heard the news today that they are ending as well..."
The Mercedes C63 is a sporty version of the Mercedes C-Class. It's known for being powerful and fun to drive, but it's being phased out in favor of new technologies.
The Mercedes C63 is a high-performance variant of the C-Class, known for its powerful engine and sporty handling. Recent changes in the lineup indicate a shift away from traditional powertrains.
plug-in hybrid drivetrain
"...that probably has more to do with the plug-in hybrid drivetrain that offered just one mile of all-electric range..."
A plug-in hybrid drivetrain is a type of engine that uses both gas and electricity. You can charge it like an electric car, but it also has a regular engine for longer trips.
A plug-in hybrid drivetrain combines a traditional internal combustion engine with an electric motor, allowing the vehicle to run on electric power alone for a limited range. This technology is becoming more common as manufacturers shift towards electrification.
inline 6 drivetrain
"...because they seem to be working on a new inline 6 drivetrain there."
An inline 6 drivetrain is a type of engine that has six cylinders lined up in a row. It's known for running smoothly and is often used in high-performance cars.
An inline 6 drivetrain refers to an engine configuration where six cylinders are arranged in a straight line. This design is known for its smoothness and balance, making it a popular choice for performance vehicles.
Ford Escape
"The EQB is sailing off into the sunset. Ford's losing the Escape and the Corsair."
The Ford Escape is a small SUV that many people use for family trips and daily driving. It's being discontinued, which is surprising since many people like this type of vehicle.
The Ford Escape is a compact SUV that has been popular in the U.S. market. Its discontinuation reflects changing consumer preferences and market dynamics.
Mercedes-Benz EQB
"... working on a new inline 6 drivetrain there. The EQB is sailing off into the sunset. Ford's losing the..."
Lincoln Corsair
"...into the sunset. Ford's losing the Escape and the Corsair. I am really shocked that the Escape is leaving,..."
Ford Ranger
"...wonder if that's going to be a repeat of the Ford Ranger debacle, because when Ford used to own the mid-si..."
Toyota Tacoma
"...sized truck segment in the US, when we looked at Tacoma sales, they did not sell very many Tacomas in the..."
Hyundai Genesis
"...ag, and we all know how that went. It looks like Genesis is ditching the G80 Electric. I'm really sad abo..."
Mercedes-Benz GLC
"... for a family car. Mercedes is also ditching the GLC and GLE coupes, just preferring the regular old h..."
Porsche Macan
"...pes there in the luxury segment. We have the gas macan, the Supra sailing off into the sunset, Honda alr..."
Toyota Supra
"...n the luxury segment. We have the gas macan, the Supra sailing off into the sunset, Honda already whacke..."
Honda Prologue
"...ng off into the sunset, Honda already whacked the prologue along with the ZDX there. Ford is dropping the l..."
Jeep Wagoneer
"...here is a new plug-in hybrid coming, which is the Wagoneer Extended Range. So who knows about that one?"
Kia EV6
"Why is there no 2026 Kia EV6 yet? This is a bit tricky. It probably has to do with the fact that, you know, electrification is not exactly the hottest trend in America right now..."
The Kia EV6 is a new electric car from Kia. It's designed to be a stylish and modern SUV that runs on electricity instead of gasoline, making it more environmentally friendly.
The Kia EV6 is an all-electric crossover SUV that represents Kia's commitment to electrification. It features a modern design and advanced technology, aiming to compete in the growing electric vehicle market.
Dodge Durango
"For instance, the Dodge Durango is a perennial hit, and it's weird that 2025 was its best sales year ever in this generation, even though it's never been any younger. And I think that another refresh of the Durango in some weird way might actually make more sense than a complete redesign..."
The Dodge Durango is a large SUV that can carry many passengers and has a lot of space for cargo. It's good for towing trailers or boats, making it a practical choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
The Dodge Durango is a mid-size SUV known for its spacious interior and strong towing capabilities. It has been popular among families and those needing a versatile vehicle for both daily driving and utility.
Ford Explorer
"...ser to what police departments are after than the Explorer apparently. So that's interesting."
Jeep Wrangler
"Unquestionably, we'll see a reduction in plug-in hybrid sales volume because the two best-selling plug-in hybrids are gone for 2026, the Grand Cherokee and the Jeep Wrangler plug-in hybrid."
The Jeep Wrangler is a tough, small SUV that can drive off-road. It's popular with people who like outdoor adventures and has a version that can use both gas and electricity.
The Jeep Wrangler is a compact SUV known for its off-road capabilities and rugged design. It has a strong following among outdoor enthusiasts and is available in a plug-in hybrid variant.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
"...t-selling plug-in hybrids are gone for 2026, the Grand Cherokee and the Jeep Wrangler plug-in hybrid. The proble..."
Toyota RAV4
"...like we find in a RAV4 plug-in hybrid, something along those lines. That choice and that decision to buy one implies that that person is more interested in plugging it in..."
The RAV4 plug-in hybrid is a version of the Toyota RAV4 that can run on electricity for short trips and also uses gasoline. It's a good choice for people who want to save on gas and reduce emissions.
The RAV4 plug-in hybrid is a variant of Toyota's popular RAV4 SUV that combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor, allowing for electric-only driving for short distances. It is designed for efficiency and versatility, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.
Chevrolet Volt
"...of doublespeak there. And GM's own data on Chevy Volt owners indicated a high percentage of plug-in hyb..."
Porsche Taycan
"...here. Kevin Buckley is saying that he has a 2021 Taycan 4S. He's looking to get something different."
Porsche 911
"...023-2024 advantage with the AMG motor or the base 911? I would probably recommend the 911."
Chevrolet Equinox
"...get would be a pretty solid discount on a current Equinox EV. The Chevy Bolt EV will probably have some ca..."
Hyundai Ioniq
"... the high volume category, you know, lease return Hyundai Ioniq 5, a lease return Equinox, something along those..."
Tesla Model 3
"...long those lines. Obviously a lease return Tesla Model 3 or Model Y would be in that $25,000 range. But I..."
Mercedes-Benz EQS
"...ristopher is asking, do you think a used Mercedes EQS is significantly more expensive to repair versus ..."
Mitsubishi Outlander
"... here. Any impressions on the newly revised 2026 Outlander and its extended warranty. So Mike, I think the ..."
Nissan Rogue
"... If I'm perfectly honest, I would like to see the Rogue and the Outlander maybe have somewhere between a ..."
Chevrolet Blazer EV
"Let's move on here. Koopa is asking how the Blazer EV ownership is going, looks like potential steel on..."
Ford Maverick
"...manufacturer for compliance reasons, say the Ford Maverick and why its hybrid system was standard. They nee..."
Nissan Leaf
"...guzzling trucks. So we don't know all of the tea leafs that are there in the European market, but we can..."
Toyota Grand Highlander
"... Let's see here. Everything in it saying, OK, OK, Grand Highlander, non-hybrid or Honda Pilot. I would probably go ..."
Dodge Charger
"...erokee or Durango originally looking at the Dodge Charger, but it's too expensive. That is quite a split 2..."
Toyota Chr
"...inox video, the new Cherokee, the hybrid one, the CHR, the grand Cherokee four cylinder, the BZ Woodla..."
Mazda Cx5
"We have the new Macan EV GTS or equinox video, the new Cherokee, the hybrid one, the CHR, the grand Cherokee four cylinder, the BZ Woodland CX-5, the trail seeker from Subaru, Audi A6, and the Q3 from Audi as well. So on that take, it depends on what you want to do with the Durango."
Honda Crv
"How would I describe this? It's the most Honda CR-V trail sport that Jeep has ever produced because the Cherokee does not have a lot of ground clearance. The hybrid system is the only drivetrain currently offered and it's really not overly focused on off-roading capability."
Volvo XC60
"...ould say behind it. It is faithfully an electric XC60 redo in that it's about the same size as the XC60..."
Polestar 3
"... out of the pile. Is the EX-60 going to kill the Polestar 3? They're nearly identical, especially the EX-60 i..."
Volvo EX90
"The Polestar 3 is also getting an 800 volt updo. We don't know all of the details on this, however, but most likely the refresh drivetrain in the EX-90 and the Polestar 3 is very closely related to what we see in the sedan in other markets in Volvo's line of electric sedan or the EX-60."
Volvo XC90
"...t it's really not, it's really a heavily modified XC90 platform, whereas EX-60 is a dramatically differ..."
Chrysler Pacifica
"...gy? Why are we waiting so long for a new Durango Pacifica Dakota, etc.? Side question, what are your thoug..."
Rivian R1T
"Lobo is asking, which truck would you recommend? A 2022 Rivian R1-T or a 22 F-150 Lightning, tent camping in the mountains two times a year, 250 miles one way to get to a campsite,"
Ford F150 Lightning
"Lobo is asking, which truck would you recommend? A 2022 Rivian R1-T or a 22 F-150 Lightning, tent camping in the mountains two times a year, 250 miles one way to get to a campsite,"
Honda Accord
"... that does come to fruition. Do we think Honda's Accord Hybrid will get over 55 miles per gallon in the ..."
Toyota Camry
"...mbers. So for instance, if we look at Sonata and Camry Hybrid, they have some fantastically efficient m..."
Hyundai Sonata
"...mate MPG numbers. So for instance, if we look at Sonata and Camry Hybrid, they have some fantastically e..."
Honda Prelude
"...e versions where it shifts kind of like the Honda Prelude does. So moving along here, let's go up to John ..."
Tesla Model X
"...e saying, Tesla's announcement about Model S and Model X repositioning to become a RoboTaxi and a robot c..."
Nissan Altima
"... the the Nissan switch to all-wheel drive in the Altima, they really did see a pretty big sales up tick ..."
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