Car Tax Breaks, Auto Tariffs & Ram’s Wild New Trucks!
About this episode
A new car tax break could allow buyers of U.S. assembled vehicles to deduct up to $10,000 in auto loan interest starting in 2025, potentially lowering ownership costs. The episode also covers a significant Porsche recall affecting over 173,000 vehicles due to rear camera issues, and Mexico's new tariffs on imports, impacting vehicle pricing. RAM unveils the powerful 2027 RAM 1500 SRTTRX and a new diesel Power Wagon, both set to launch in 2026. Additionally, GM's stock performance and a Senate hearing on rising vehicle prices are discussed.
This week on Weekly Wheelhouse, we break down the biggest U.S. automotive stories from Dec 26, 2025 through Jan 1, 2026 — clearly, factually, and without the noise.
A possible new car tax break could lower ownership costs for qualifying buyers.Mexico approves new tariffs that could impact vehicle and steel imports.
Ram goes wild, confirming the return of the 777-hp TRX and a diesel Power Wagon.
Plus: Porsche recalls, Senate price hearings, and GM’s stock surge.
If you want auto news that actually matters, hit subscribe and stay informed.
2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Review - https://youtu.be/WOOuYlAWq8Y?si=IQwVhDWUMukuoz0J
Last Week's Weekly Wheelhouse - https://youtu.be/TYphaeUlfic?si=DqI2fMJGFOZgTKVE
auto loan interest deduction
"Updated IRS guidance may allow buyers of new U.S. assembled vehicles purchased in 2025 to deduct up to $10,000 per year in auto loan interest, under the no tax on car loan interest provision of the OBBBA Act."
This is a tax break that lets you subtract some of the interest you pay on your car loan from your taxes, which can help you save money.
The auto loan interest deduction allows buyers to deduct a portion of the interest paid on their auto loans from their taxable income, potentially lowering their overall tax liability. This can make financing a vehicle more affordable for qualifying buyers.
OBBBA Act
"...under the no tax on car loan interest provision of the OBBBA Act. There are income limits and usage restrictions..."
This is a law that includes rules about tax breaks for buying certain cars, especially those made in the U.S., which can help you save money when you buy a vehicle.
The OBBBA Act refers to legislation that includes provisions for tax breaks and incentives related to vehicle purchases, particularly aimed at promoting the purchase of U.S. assembled vehicles. Understanding this act is important for buyers looking to maximize their savings.
total ownership cost
"...this could reduce the total ownership cost, even though monthly payments would stay the same."
This is the total amount of money you spend on a car over time, including the price you pay, interest on loans, insurance, and repairs. It helps you understand how much owning a car really costs.
Total ownership cost refers to the complete financial outlay associated with owning a vehicle, including purchase price, financing costs, insurance, maintenance, and depreciation. It's important for buyers to consider all these factors when evaluating the affordability of a vehicle.
recall
"Next we have a major recall. Porsche is recalling 173,538 vehicles..."
A recall happens when a car company asks people to bring their cars back to fix problems that could be dangerous.
A recall is a request to return a product, in this case, vehicles, to the manufacturer for repair or replacement due to safety issues or defects.
Porsche Cayenne
"...laced in reverse. The affected models include the Cayenne, the 911, the Taycan, and the Panamera. Model yea..."
Porsche Taycan
"The affected models include the Cayenne, the 911, the Taycan, and the Panamera."
The Porsche Taycan is a fast electric car that is part of Porsche's move towards making electric vehicles.
The Porsche Taycan is an all-electric sports sedan that offers impressive performance and cutting-edge technology, representing Porsche's commitment to electric mobility.
Porsche 911
"...rse. The affected models include the Cayenne, the 911, the Taycan, and the Panamera. Model years range ..."
Porsche Panamera
"...include the Cayenne, the 911, the Taycan, and the Panamera. Model years range from 2019 through 2025."
GM
"...executives from Ford, GM, and Stellanus were invited while Tesla's CEO was not..."
GM stands for General Motors, a big car company that makes several brands of cars and trucks.
General Motors (GM) is one of the largest automotive manufacturers in the world, producing brands like Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, and Cadillac.
Stellantis
"...executives from Ford, GM, and Stellanus were invited while Tesla's CEO was not..."
Stellantis is a car company that makes many different brands of cars, including Jeep and Dodge, and was created by merging two other companies.
Stellantis is a multinational automotive manufacturer formed from the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group, producing brands like Jeep, Dodge, and Peugeot.
Ford
"...executives from Ford, GM, and Stellanus were invited while Tesla's CEO was not..."
Ford is a well-known car company in the United States that makes many types of vehicles, like trucks and cars.
Ford is a major American automotive manufacturer known for producing a wide range of vehicles, including trucks, SUVs, and cars.
Tesla
"...while Tesla's CEO was not, leading to disputes over fairness and representation..."
Tesla is a company that makes electric cars, which are vehicles that run on electricity instead of gasoline.
Tesla is an American electric vehicle manufacturer known for its innovative electric cars and energy products, founded by Elon Musk and others.
Ram 1500
"So RAM confirmed the return of the 2027 RAM 1500 SRT TRX calling it the most powerful production street legal gas half ton pickup ever."
The RAM 1500 SRT TRX is a powerful pickup truck that can go fast and handle tough conditions. It's built for people who want a strong truck that can also be fun to drive.
The RAM 1500 SRT TRX is a high-performance version of RAM's popular 1500 pickup truck, known for its powerful engine and off-road capabilities. It is designed to deliver exceptional performance on both streets and rugged terrains.
6.2 liter Supercharged Hemi V8
"The TRX uses the 6.2 liter Supercharged Hemi V8 rated at 777 horsepower and 680 pound-feet"
The 6.2 liter Supercharged Hemi V8 is a big and powerful engine that helps the truck go really fast. The supercharger makes it even stronger by pushing in more air to help it burn fuel better.
The 6.2 liter Supercharged Hemi V8 is a high-performance engine known for its power and efficiency. This engine is equipped with a supercharger, which forces more air into the combustion chamber, resulting in increased horsepower and torque.
horsepower
"The TRX uses the 6.2 liter Supercharged Hemi V8 rated at 777 horsepower and 680 pound-feet"
Horsepower is a way to measure how strong an engine is. More horsepower means the car can go faster and do more work.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement for engine power. It indicates how much work an engine can perform over time, with higher horsepower generally resulting in better acceleration and performance.
pound-feet
"The TRX uses the 6.2 liter Supercharged Hemi V8 rated at 777 horsepower and 680 pound-feet"
Pound-feet is a way to measure how much twisting force an engine has. More pound-feet means the truck can pull heavier things and start moving faster.
Pound-feet is a unit of measurement for torque, which measures the rotational force an engine produces. Higher torque means better acceleration and towing capability.
suspension travel
"Now off-road hardware and chassis numbers at RAM called out included 35 inch tires, 13 inches of front suspension travel, up to 14 inches of rear suspension travel."
Suspension travel is how much the car's suspension can move up and down. This helps the car handle bumps better, especially when driving off-road.
Suspension travel refers to the distance the suspension can move up and down. It is crucial for off-road performance, allowing the vehicle to absorb bumps and maintain traction on uneven surfaces.
locking differential
"you get a Dana 60 rear axle with a rear electronic locking differential."
A locking differential helps both back wheels of a vehicle turn together, which is useful when driving on slippery or uneven surfaces. This helps the vehicle maintain traction.
A locking differential allows both wheels on an axle to rotate at the same speed, which is beneficial for off-roading and slippery conditions. It improves traction by ensuring power is distributed evenly to both wheels.
Dana 60
"you get a Dana 60 rear axle with a rear electronic locking differential."
The Dana 60 is a strong axle used in trucks that helps support the vehicle's weight and power. It's built to handle tough conditions and heavy loads.
The Dana 60 is a heavy-duty axle commonly used in trucks and off-road vehicles, known for its strength and durability. It can handle high torque loads, making it ideal for performance applications.
Dodge Ram
"Little pricey, but we're glad it's back. RAM was not done there. They also announced the first..."
The Dodge Ram is a big truck that people use for work or to carry heavy things. It's popular because it's strong and comfortable, and it's back in the news because of some new features and updates.
The Dodge Ram, now known simply as RAM, is a full-size pickup truck known for its strong performance, towing capacity, and comfortable interior. Its return to the spotlight is significant as it continues to compete in a crowded truck market, appealing to both work and leisure users.
Cummins
"the first ever power wagon with the 6.7 liter Cummins high output turbo diesel pushing out 430 horsepower, 1,075 pound-feet of torque."
Cummins is a company that makes strong diesel engines often used in trucks. Their engines are known for lasting a long time and providing a lot of power.
Cummins is a well-known manufacturer of diesel engines, particularly for heavy-duty trucks. Their engines are recognized for their durability and high torque output, making them popular in commercial and performance vehicles.
Dodge Power Wagon
"...ot done there. They also announced the first ever power wagon with the 6.7 liter Cummins high output turbo dies..."
The Dodge Power Wagon is a tough truck made for driving off-road and handling heavy jobs. It's getting a new powerful engine that makes it even stronger, which is why people are talking about it.
The Dodge Power Wagon is a heavy-duty off-road truck that combines rugged capability with advanced technology. The introduction of the 6.7-liter Cummins high-output turbo diesel engine marks a significant enhancement, making it a noteworthy topic for those interested in powerful trucks.
torque
"pushing out 430 horsepower, 1,075 pound-feet of torque."
Torque is the force that helps a vehicle start moving and pull heavy things. More torque means the vehicle can do more work, like towing.
Torque is a measure of rotational force, which is crucial for a vehicle's acceleration and towing capacity. Higher torque means better performance in moving heavy loads.
8-speed automatic transmission
"You get a torque flight, heavy-duty 8-speed automatic transmission, 342 rear axle ratio."
An 8-speed automatic transmission helps the car change gears smoothly and can save fuel. It gives the driver more options for how the car drives.
An 8-speed automatic transmission allows for smoother shifting and better fuel efficiency by providing more gear ratios. This can enhance performance and driving comfort.
five-link coil rear suspension
"...disconnecting front stabilizer bar, Bilstein shocks, five-link coil rear suspension..."
A five-link coil rear suspension is a system that helps keep the back wheels of a truck stable and in control, especially when driving on rough terrain.
A five-link coil rear suspension is a type of suspension system that uses five links to control the rear axle's movement, providing better handling and stability, especially off-road.
Bilstein shocks
"...disconnecting front stabilizer bar, Bilstein shocks, five-link coil rear suspension..."
Bilstein shocks are special parts that help control how a vehicle moves over bumps and rough ground, making the ride smoother and safer.
Bilstein shocks are high-performance shock absorbers designed to improve a vehicle's handling and ride quality, particularly in off-road conditions.
payload capacity
"...just under 3,000 pounds of payload."
Payload capacity is how much weight a truck can carry inside or in its bed. This is useful for people who need to transport heavy items.
Payload capacity is the maximum weight a vehicle can carry in its bed or cabin, important for determining how much cargo can be transported.
towing capacity
"Capability numbers at RAM issue were just under 20,000 pounds of towing..."
Towing capacity is how much weight a truck can pull safely. It's important for people who need to move trailers or heavy items.
Towing capacity refers to the maximum weight a vehicle can safely tow, which is crucial for trucks used for hauling trailers or heavy loads.
automatic leveling rear air suspension
"They are also making available an automatic leveling rear air suspension for the first time."
Automatic leveling rear air suspension helps keep the back of the truck level, even when carrying heavy loads. This makes the ride smoother and safer.
Automatic leveling rear air suspension adjusts the height of the vehicle's rear end automatically to maintain a level ride, improving stability and comfort, especially when loaded.
Hyundai Palisade
"...nd that's going to be of the all-new 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT. The Palisade was redesigned for 2026 and the..."
The Hyundai Palisade is a large family car that can fit many passengers and their stuff. The new version for 2026 has been updated to be even better, which is why people are excited to talk about it.
The Hyundai Palisade is a mid-size SUV that has gained popularity for its spacious interior, advanced technology, and family-friendly features. The 2026 model has been redesigned to enhance its appeal, making it a significant topic of discussion among automotive enthusiasts and potential buyers.
all-wheel drive
"The Palisade was redesigned for 2026 and the XRT trim adds rugged exterior styling and standard all-wheel drive while retaining the Palisade's strong interior space, ride comfort and family friendly layout."
All-wheel drive means that all four wheels of the car get power from the engine, which helps the car grip the road better, especially in rain or snow.
All-wheel drive (AWD) is a drivetrain system that provides power to all four wheels of a vehicle, enhancing traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions.
Kia K4
"...auto loan terms, Ford's rollaway recalls, the new Kia K4 hatchback and a few more items. So make sure you ..."
The Kia K4 is a small car with a hatchback design, which means it has a back door that opens up for easy access to the trunk. It's being talked about because it's a new model that many people are curious about.
The Kia K4 is a hatchback that represents Kia's commitment to stylish design and practicality. It has been mentioned in the context of new automotive developments, highlighting its significance in the evolving hatchback market.
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