From Pixel Headlights To V8 Pull: Real-World EV And SUV Reviews
About this episode
The episode features in-depth reviews of the 2025 Volvo EX40 and the 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander, highlighting their unique features and performance. The Volvo EX40 impresses with its pixel headlight technology and improved battery efficiency, although its infotainment system draws criticism for being overly complex. The Grand Highlander, on the other hand, offers spacious seating and a hybrid option, praised for its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride. The hosts also reminisce about the quirky custom vans of the 1970s, discussing their cultural significance and unique designs.
We continue our 2025 End Of Year look...
Looking for clarity on your next daily driver? We put two very different paths under the microscope: Volvo’s 2025 EX40 Twin Motor Ultra with its tight, tech-forward approach to electrification, and Chevrolet’s 2026 Tahoe Premier 4WD with big V8 torque, real towing, and road-trip comfort. The contrast reveals what you truly trade—time at chargers for quiet torque, touchscreen taps for minimal cabin clutter, and fuel costs for full-size capability.
We start with the EX40’s foundations in the XC40 platform and talk through what carries over and what improves. Pixel headlight tech, a 12.3-inch driver display, and a nine-inch center screen give the EV a modern face, but burying basic functions in software adds friction—like needing four taps to power down. We share cost-per-mile numbers from a 270-mile run, why a slightly faster charge still matters, and how the twin-motor setup’s 402-hp equivalent translates to daily confidence. Safety pedigree remains a Volvo hallmark, but we ask the hard question: does the interface help or get in the way?
Then we climb into the Tahoe Premier. A 6.2-liter V8 paired with a 10-speed transmission delivers 420 horsepower, 460 pound-feet, and up to about 8,200 pounds of towing, backed by Magnetic Ride Control and a surprisingly maneuverable feel for its size. Inside, the horizontal 17-inch infotainment display and 15-inch head-up display keep vital info easy to parse, while optional rear screens keep passengers entertained. We compare it directly with Ford Expedition, Toyota Sequoia hybrid, Nissan Armada, and GMC Yukon, and weigh where the Tahoe earns its price: space, visibility, and hardware that just works.
Between test drives, we take a joyride through 1970s custom van culture—shag carpet, side pipes, and airbrushed fantasy—and swap stories on the “five worst cars,” from Pinto to Aztek, separating legend from reality. By the end, you’ll know whether you’re better off with an EV that prioritizes safety and sleek software or a full-size SUV that delivers straightforward strength and family-ready comfort.
If you enjoyed this review mashup and the car-culture detour, follow, share with a friend, and leave a rating. Tell us: are you team EX40 or team Tahoe
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Volvo EX40 Twin Motor Ultra
"Now, we're talking about the 2025 Volvo EX40 Twin Motor Ultra all-wheel drive. Now, this vehicle, the final assembly point, is in Ghent, G-H-E-N-T Belgium, which kind of surprised me."
The Volvo EX40 Twin Motor Ultra is a new electric car that will be available in 2025. It's built on the design of an earlier model called the XC40, which means it shares some features with that car.
The Volvo EX40 Twin Motor Ultra is an all-wheel-drive electric vehicle set to be released in 2025. It is based on the previous year's XC40 model, showcasing Volvo's commitment to expanding its electric vehicle lineup.
Volvo XC40
"And the relative it is, this is new for 2025, but it's all based on the last year's XC40. So they took the XC40, they kind of rebuilt it and turned it into the EX40."
The Volvo XC40 is a smaller SUV from Volvo that the new EX40 is built upon. It's known for being safe and stylish, and many people like it for its size and features.
The Volvo XC40 is a compact SUV that serves as the basis for the new EX40 model. It is known for its stylish design and advanced safety features, making it a popular choice in the compact SUV segment.
twin motor
"But each one can have a single motor or a twin motor. So you can actually get six different variants of this vehicle."
A twin motor means the car has two electric motors, which helps it drive better, especially in different weather conditions. It can also make the car faster and more powerful.
A twin motor configuration in electric vehicles means that there are two electric motors, typically one for each axle. This setup can enhance performance, provide all-wheel drive capabilities, and improve traction under various driving conditions.
pixel headlight technology
"It's got pixel headlight technology, which if you're not familiar with that, they actually have little cameras in the headlights that reads what the lighting is on the outside, cars coming at you and things like that. And it adjusts the brightness of your headlights accordingly."
Pixel headlight technology is a smart feature in some cars that helps the headlights adjust their brightness based on how bright or dark it is outside. This makes it easier to see while driving at night.
Pixel headlight technology refers to advanced headlights that use cameras and sensors to detect external lighting conditions and adjust their brightness automatically. This enhances visibility and safety while driving at night or in varying light conditions.
power liftgate
"...got a power sunroof, power liftgate, rolls on the optional weather actually standard on the ultra trim level,..."
A power liftgate is a door at the back of an SUV that opens automatically when you press a button. It makes it easier to load things into the car.
A power liftgate is an automated rear door on an SUV or hatchback that opens and closes with the push of a button, providing convenience when loading or unloading cargo.
LED fog lights
"...it's got the LED fog lights, got the power side mirrors, got a power sunroof, power liftgate,..."
LED fog lights are special lights on cars that help you see better when it's foggy. They shine bright and don't blind other drivers.
LED fog lights are a type of automotive lighting that uses light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to illuminate the road in foggy conditions. They produce a bright, focused beam of light that helps improve visibility without causing glare for other drivers.
20 inch alloy wheels
"...actually standard on the ultra trim level, the 20 inch alloy wheels. Now, the get into the interior of this thing."
20 inch alloy wheels are big, lightweight wheels made from a special metal. They help the car look nicer and can make it handle better on the road.
20 inch alloy wheels are larger wheels made from a lightweight metal alloy, which can enhance a vehicle's performance and aesthetics. They often provide better handling and a sportier look compared to standard steel wheels.
digital driver display
"It's got a 12.3 inch digital driver display. Got a nice nine inch touchscreen center stack, which is very important."
A digital driver display is a screen in the car that shows you important information like how fast you're going and directions. It's a modern version of the old-fashioned dials you used to see in cars.
A digital driver display is an electronic screen that provides the driver with important information such as speed, navigation, and vehicle status. It often replaces traditional analog gauges for a more modern look and functionality.
touchscreen center stack
"Got a nice nine inch touchscreen center stack, which is very important. And we'll get to that in a moment."
The touchscreen center stack is the main screen in the middle of the car that you touch to control things like music and navigation. It's a modern way to manage these features instead of using buttons.
The touchscreen center stack is the central control interface in a vehicle, typically featuring a touchscreen display that allows the driver to control various functions such as navigation, audio, and climate settings. It's increasingly common in modern vehicles.
surround view camera
"Got the sound surround view camera. It's got connections with Google and Apple and all these other things."
A surround view camera gives you a bird's-eye view of your car and its surroundings, making it easier to park and avoid hitting things.
A surround view camera system uses multiple cameras around the vehicle to provide a 360-degree view of the surroundings, helping drivers navigate tight spaces and avoid obstacles.
digital owner's manual
"And it has a digital owners manual. I thought it was rather interesting."
A digital owner's manual is an online version of the car's manual that you can look up on a screen, making it easier to find information about your car.
A digital owner's manual is an electronic version of a vehicle's manual, often accessible via a touchscreen or mobile app, providing easier navigation and search capabilities compared to traditional paper manuals.
Harman Kardon
"Got a Harman Kardon premium audio system with 13 speakers, 600 watts subwoofer that is air vented, which is rather unusual. But switching back up to that nine inch screen that center stack, it's very important."
Harman Kardon makes high-end audio systems that provide great sound quality in cars and homes, often with special features like extra speakers and powerful bass.
Harman Kardon is a premium audio brand known for producing high-quality sound systems for vehicles and home audio equipment, often featuring advanced technology and design.
twin electric motors
"So again, twin electric motors on this vehicle that we had, 402 horsepower equivalent."
Twin electric motors mean the car has two electric engines that help it move. This setup can make the car faster and more efficient.
Twin electric motors refer to a vehicle's propulsion system that uses two electric motors for better performance and efficiency, often providing instant torque and improved acceleration.
horsepower
"So again, twin electric motors on this vehicle that we had, 402 horsepower equivalent."
Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful an engine is. It tells you how much work the engine can do, like how fast a car can go.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, commonly used to indicate the power output of engines. In this context, it refers to the total power produced by the vehicle's twin electric motors.
towing capacity
"Basically it's one speed. Will be rated for towing 2,000 pounds. Gross weight on this vehicle is 5,840 pounds amazingly."
Towing capacity is how much weight a vehicle can pull behind it, like a trailer or boat. Knowing this helps you understand what you can safely tow without harming the vehicle.
Towing capacity refers to the maximum weight a vehicle can safely tow. It is an important specification for trucks and SUVs, as it determines what types of trailers or loads can be pulled without risking damage to the vehicle.
gross weight
"Gross weight on this vehicle is 5,840 pounds amazingly. Now the MPG, it says it's rated for 103 in the city, 85 on the highway combined, 94."
Gross weight is how much a vehicle weighs when you add everything together, like the car itself and anything inside it. This helps determine how much weight the car can handle safely.
Gross weight refers to the total weight of a vehicle including its own weight plus any cargo, passengers, and fluids. It's an important measure for understanding the vehicle's overall load and performance capabilities.
MPG
"Now the MPG, it says it's rated for 103 in the city, 85 on the highway combined, 94. I still haven't figured out how to convert all that stuff."
MPG means how far a car can go on a gallon of gas. The higher the number, the better the car is at saving fuel, which helps you spend less money on gas.
MPG stands for miles per gallon, a measure of fuel efficiency that indicates how many miles a vehicle can travel on one gallon of fuel. Higher MPG ratings typically mean better fuel economy, which can lead to lower fuel costs over time.
miles per gallon
"...gasoline at $2.60 in my truck that gets 18 miles to the gallon, if not better. And I could go 232 miles..."
Miles per gallon tells you how efficient a car is with fuel. The higher the number, the further you can drive on a gallon of gas, which usually means spending less money on fuel.
Miles per gallon (MPG) is a measure of how far a vehicle can travel on one gallon of fuel. It's an important metric for assessing fuel efficiency and can influence a buyer's decision when choosing a vehicle.
base trim price
"...the base trim price on this vehicle would be $53,795."
The base trim price is the lowest price you can pay for a car before adding any extra features. It's like the starting point for how much the car costs.
Base trim price refers to the starting cost of a vehicle without any additional options or upgrades. This price is important for consumers to understand the minimum investment required before considering optional features or packages.
MSRP
"Now the base model price is $62045 and we had the base ultra, I guess you would call it, the $62045 was the MSRP as tested."
MSRP is the price that the car maker suggests you should pay for a new car. It's a starting point for negotiations when buying a vehicle.
MSRP stands for Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price, which is the price that the manufacturer recommends for the vehicle. It serves as a guideline for both dealers and consumers when buying a car.
Mercedes-Benz GLB
"...des-Benz equivalent is an EQB, which used to be a GLB for $53,050, Audi QE Tron for $49.08 and the Gene..."
The Mercedes-Benz GLB is a smaller luxury SUV that feels nice to drive and has a lot of cool features. It's a good choice if you want something fancy but still practical.
The Mercedes-Benz GLB is a compact luxury SUV that combines practicality with upscale features. It is designed to offer a comfortable ride with advanced technology and is often discussed for its blend of luxury and functionality.
Genesis GV60
"... $53,050, Audi QE Tron for $49.08 and the Genesis GV60 at $52,350. So it's in the same price as all the..."
Mercedes-Benz EQB
"...e MSRP as tested. Mercedes-Benz equivalent is an EQB, which used to be a GLB for $53,050, Audi QE Tron..."
Toyota Grand Highlander
"Had a chance to drive the 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander. Now, the difference between the Grand Highlander and the Highlander, six inches of length at the back end of it that allows for a third row."
The Toyota Grand Highlander is a bigger SUV than the regular Highlander, providing extra room for passengers and cargo, especially with a third row of seats for more people.
The Toyota Grand Highlander is a larger version of the standard Highlander SUV, designed to offer more space and comfort, particularly for families needing a third row of seating.
hybrid
"I had the max shade hybrid. Standard SUV seats, including the driver, seven exterior changes from last model year was all new in 2024."
A hybrid car uses both a regular engine and an electric motor, which helps it save fuel and produce less pollution than just using gasoline alone.
A hybrid vehicle combines a traditional internal combustion engine with an electric motor to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. This technology allows for better mileage compared to standard gasoline engines.
toe rating
"...Toe rating 3500 pounds all wheel drive."
Toe rating tells you how much weight a car can pull behind it, like a trailer. It's important if you plan to tow something heavy.
Toe rating refers to the maximum weight a vehicle can tow safely. This is an important specification for buyers who need to haul trailers or heavy loads.
Mazda Cx90
"The Mazda CX-90 hybrid plug-in, they don't have a pure hybrid, but it's a plug-in, $49,995."
The Mazda CX-90 is a type of SUV that can run on both gasoline and electricity, making it more fuel-efficient.
The Mazda CX-90 is a midsize SUV that offers a hybrid plug-in variant, providing a balance of performance and efficiency.
Hyundai Santa Fe
"Hyundai Santa Fe hybrid, $37,8."
The Hyundai Santa Fe is a family-friendly SUV that can also use less fuel by using a hybrid engine.
The Hyundai Santa Fe is a midsize SUV that offers hybrid options, known for its spacious interior and advanced technology features.
Kia Sorento
"Kia Sorento hybrid, $38,690."
The Kia Sorento is another type of SUV that can save on gas by using a hybrid engine.
The Kia Sorento is a midsize SUV that offers hybrid variants, providing versatility for families with its three-row seating and modern features.
Mazda Miata Mx5
"Next week, you're going to review the 2025 Mazda Miata MX-5."
The Mazda Miata MX-5 is a small sports car that is very fun to drive, and the 2025 version is the latest model.
The Mazda Miata MX-5 is a lightweight sports car known for its agile handling and fun driving experience, with the 2025 model continuing this legacy.
Ford Pinto
"...one that comes to mind real quick and easy is the Ford Pinto. It was manufactured from 1971 to 1980. It was a very popular car and they sold a bajillion of them."
The Ford Pinto is a small car that was made by Ford in the 1970s. It was popular because it was cheap and got good gas mileage, but it also had some serious safety problems that made it controversial.
The Ford Pinto was a compact car produced by Ford from 1971 to 1980, known for its affordability and fuel efficiency. However, it gained notoriety for safety issues related to its fuel tank design, leading to a number of accidents and fires.
Chevrolet Camaro
"...eally always liked the way those look like a baby Camaro or something. And, you know, they never did real..."
The Chevrolet Camaro is a sporty car that looks really cool and goes fast. It's been around for a long time and is popular because people love how it drives and how it looks.
The Chevrolet Camaro is a classic American muscle car known for its powerful performance and aggressive styling. First introduced in 1966, it has become a symbol of American automotive culture and is often discussed for its sporty design and performance capabilities.
Copo
"Didn't they have a Copo version of that? They had a Cosworth version."
COPO stands for Central Office Production Order, which was a way for Chevrolet dealers to order special high-performance cars that regular customers couldn't buy. It was popular in the muscle car era.
The COPO (Central Office Production Order) was a special ordering system used by Chevrolet to produce high-performance versions of their cars, particularly in the 1960s and 1970s. It allowed dealers to order vehicles with specific performance options that were not available to the general public.
Cosworth
"They had a Cosworth version. Cosworth. It was a little bit of a hot rod."
Cosworth is a company that makes high-performance engines and parts, often used in racing cars. They are known for improving the speed and power of vehicles.
Cosworth is a British engineering company known for its high-performance engines and tuning. They have a long history in motorsports and have developed engines for various manufacturers, enhancing performance and racing capabilities.
Chevrolet Corvair
"Then the one of your favorite probably, Don, is the Corvair. Oh, God. Not the first model. I mean, they were built from 1960 to 1969."
The Chevrolet Corvair is a car that was made in the 1960s. It had a special engine design that was different from most cars, which made it interesting and unique.
The Chevrolet Corvair was a compact car produced by Chevrolet from 1960 to 1969. It is notable for its unique design, including a rear-engine layout and a flat-six engine, which was uncommon for American cars at the time.
flat-six engine
"So the first ones came out with a flat six at 80 horsepower. It was under $2,400 to buy this thing."
A flat-six engine is a kind of engine where six cylinders sit flat instead of standing up. This design helps the car handle better and makes it smoother to drive.
A flat-six engine is a type of engine configuration where six cylinders are arranged horizontally, allowing for a lower center of gravity and a more compact design. This configuration is known for its smooth operation and is often used in sports cars and some classic vehicles.
Volkswagen Beetle
"That was to compete with the Volkswagen Beetle."
The Volkswagen Beetle is a famous small car known for its round shape. It was very popular and affordable, making it a common choice for many drivers.
The Volkswagen Beetle is a compact car that was originally designed in the 1930s and became one of the best-selling cars in history. Known for its distinctive rounded shape and rear-engine layout, it was popular for its affordability and reliability.
Chevrolet Tahoe
"...pular SUVs in the world. That would be the Chevy Tahoe. And here is now to talk to you about that."
The Chevrolet Tahoe is a big family car that can hold a lot of people and stuff. It's great for road trips and is known for being comfortable and powerful.
The Chevrolet Tahoe is a full-size SUV that is well-regarded for its spacious interior, strong towing capabilities, and family-friendly features. It is one of the best-selling SUVs in the United States, often discussed for its versatility and comfort.
Cadillac Escalade
"Yeah, yeah. They'd be calling Escalade. If you're looking for something to compare this..."
The Cadillac Escalade is a fancy, big SUV that has a lot of luxury features and space inside. People often talk about it because it's known for being very comfortable and stylish.
The Cadillac Escalade is a luxury full-size SUV that stands out for its opulent features, spacious interior, and advanced technology. It is often seen as a status symbol and is frequently discussed in the context of luxury vehicles.
Ford Expedition
"...is to, I mean, you could look across at the Ford Expedition of about the same size, $64,995 to get started. ..."
The Ford Expedition is a big car that can fit a lot of people and their stuff. It's powerful and good for towing things, making it a great choice for families.
The Ford Expedition is a large SUV that offers ample passenger and cargo space, making it ideal for families and those needing extra room. It is known for its strong performance and towing capacity, often compared to other full-size SUVs.
GMC Yukon
"... gasoline engine, but it's $64,000. Now, the GMC Yukon is the sister vehicle to the Tahoe or the cousin,..."
The GMC Yukon is a large SUV that can carry a lot of people and gear. It's similar to the Chevy Tahoe but has a tougher look, making it a great option for families.
The GMC Yukon is a full-size SUV that shares its platform with the Chevrolet Tahoe, offering similar features with a more rugged design. It is known for its spaciousness and capability, making it a popular choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
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