Highs and Lows of 2025 and What To Watch For In 2026
About this episode
Reflecting on the automotive landscape of 2025, hosts Hannah Elliott and Matt Miller discuss standout brands and models, highlighting both triumphs and disappointments. They share personal experiences with various vehicles, including the impressive Aston Martin Vanquish and the surprising Chevy Blazer SS EV. The conversation touches on the challenges faced by brands like Porsche and the promising future of Ferrari, emphasizing the importance of manual transmissions for enthusiasts. With insights on technology, design, and the evolving EV market, this episode offers a comprehensive look at what to expect in 2026.
This week Hannah and Matt review some of the highs and lows of 2025, what to be on the lookout for in 2026 and how exactly Cardi B fits somewhere in this.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
average cost
"...they're mostly more than $50,000 a piece, so more than the average cost. They're brand new and hopefully they've been..."
The average cost is what most people expect to pay for something. Here, it means that the cars being discussed are usually more expensive than what most people typically spend on a car.
The average cost refers to the typical price range for a product, in this case, vehicles. It helps consumers gauge whether a car is priced fairly compared to others in the market.
Chevrolet Tahoe
"... it? I think it was either a GMC Yukon or a Chevy Tahoe, one of those big GM trucks that I love so much, ..."
GMC Yukon
"I think it was either a GMC Yukon or a Chevy Tahoe, one of those big GM trucks that I love so much, but it was on like 24s."
The GMC Yukon is a large SUV that can carry many people and their gear. It's great for road trips and has a lot of space inside.
The GMC Yukon is a full-size SUV known for its spacious interior and strong towing capacity, making it popular among families and for outdoor activities.
24s
"...but it was on like 24s. And so if you look at it wrong, you get a flat tire."
'24s' means the wheels on the car are 24 inches wide. Bigger wheels can make a car look cooler, but they can also make the ride bumpier.
'24s' refers to 24-inch wheels, which are larger than standard wheels. These larger wheels can enhance the appearance of a vehicle but may negatively affect ride quality and handling.
flat tire
"...if you look at it wrong, you get a flat tire. And then I had to change the tire myself..."
A flat tire means the tire on the car has lost air and can't work properly. This can happen if something sharp pokes it, and it needs to be fixed before driving.
A flat tire occurs when a tire loses air pressure, often due to a puncture or damage. It can make a vehicle unsafe to drive and requires immediate attention to fix or replace the tire.
Audi Rs6
"...with this recent Audi RS6 wagon that we had, I literally was parking that two feet away from the curb and I didn't even care..."
The Audi RS6 is a fast and powerful car that is also a wagon, meaning it has extra space in the back for carrying things. It's designed for people who want a sporty car but still need room for everyday use.
The Audi RS6 is a high-performance version of the Audi A6, known for its powerful engine and sporty handling. It's popular among enthusiasts for its blend of practicality and performance, especially in the wagon variant.
Cadillac Celestic
"But I will say a big miss for me was the key fob on the Cadillac Celestic. And I know I've spoken"
The Cadillac Celestic is a new luxury electric car from Cadillac. It's designed to be very high-end and includes a lot of modern technology.
The Cadillac Celestic is an all-electric luxury sedan that represents Cadillac's push into the electric vehicle market. It features advanced technology and a focus on high-end materials and craftsmanship.
key fob
"...the key fob that they gave me for that was a plastic square that I couldn't believe..."
A key fob is a small remote control that you use to unlock and start your car without using a traditional key. It's a common feature in modern vehicles.
A key fob is a small electronic device used to control keyless entry systems in vehicles. It often includes features like remote locking, unlocking, and starting the car.
Rivian R1S
"...my biggest key problem this year was the Rivian R1S. Oh yeah. And they only gave me a little card like the size of a credit card..."
The Rivian R1S is a new electric SUV that is built for outdoor activities. It has a lot of space inside and comes with modern technology to help you on your adventures.
The Rivian R1S is an all-electric SUV designed for adventure and outdoor activities, featuring a spacious interior and advanced technology. It is part of Rivian's lineup of electric vehicles aimed at outdoor enthusiasts.
Aston Martin Vanquish
"Top of my list is the Aston Martin Vanquish. Now I knew it was going to be amazing, but I feel like Aston Martin finally got so many things right that people have been complaining about for a while."
The Aston Martin Vanquish is a high-end sports car that looks great and drives fast. It's a car that many people dream of owning because of its beauty and speed.
The Aston Martin Vanquish is a luxury supercar known for its stunning design and powerful performance. It represents a blend of elegance and high performance, making it a desirable choice for enthusiasts.
Ferrari 308
"you I'm sure are aware that I would prefer to have a Ferrari, like a 308."
The Ferrari 308 is a classic sports car made by Ferrari that was popular in the late 1970s and early 1980s. It has a powerful engine and a unique look.
The Ferrari 308 is a mid-engine sports car produced by Ferrari from 1975 to 1985. It is known for its distinctive design and performance, featuring a V8 engine.
Ferrari 612
"Yes. Um, or, or a 612. Yes. Uh, for a new thing,"
The Ferrari 612 is a luxury sports car that can seat four people. It has a powerful engine and is designed for both speed and comfort.
The Ferrari 612 Scaglietti is a grand tourer produced by Ferrari from 2004 to 2011. It features a V12 engine and is known for its blend of performance and luxury.
Ferrari Roma
"I haven't driven the Ferrari Roma or the Amalfi or drive that this weekend."
The Ferrari Roma is a newer sports car from Ferrari that looks stylish and is very fast. It has a powerful engine and is meant for long drives in luxury.
The Ferrari Roma is a modern grand tourer that combines classic Ferrari styling with contemporary performance. It features a twin-turbo V8 engine and is designed for both comfort and speed.
Chevy Blazer SS EV
"what surprised me when the Chevy Blazer SS EV showed up in my driveway, I thought, well, here's when I'm not going to drive this week..."
The Chevy Blazer SS EV is an electric SUV from Chevrolet that offers a sporty design and performance. 'SS' means it's a sportier version.
The Chevy Blazer SS EV is an electric version of the Chevrolet Blazer, a midsize SUV known for its sporty design and performance. The 'SS' designation typically indicates a sportier trim with enhanced features.
Honda Prologue
"I think from the outside, it still remains more unimpressive than the Honda Prologue. But the driving experience really impressed me."
The Honda Prologue is a new electric SUV from Honda that will be available soon. It's designed to be roomy and have the latest tech features.
The Honda Prologue is an upcoming electric SUV from Honda, designed to compete in the growing electric vehicle market. It aims to offer a spacious interior and modern technology.
fast charging stations
"...it automatically like told me where the fast charging stations are and essentially did it for me."
Fast charging stations are places where you can quickly charge your electric car. They work much faster than regular chargers, making it easier to travel long distances.
Fast charging stations are specialized charging points for electric vehicles that provide a higher power output, allowing for quicker recharging compared to standard chargers. They are essential for long-distance travel in electric cars.
GMC Sierra EV
"...I had such a great time in the, for example, Sierra GMC Sierra EV so luxurious. Mary Barra, come talk to us. Yes. Because I do think..."
The GMC Sierra EV is a new electric truck that offers a lot of luxury and a long driving range. It's part of GMC's effort to create more electric vehicles.
The GMC Sierra EV is an all-electric version of GMC's popular Sierra pickup truck, known for its luxury features and impressive range. It represents GMC's commitment to electric vehicles and showcases the capabilities of the Altium platform.
GMC Sierra Gmc
"...wer. I had such a great time in the, for example, Sierra GMC Sierra EV so luxurious. Mary Barra, come talk to ..."
General Motors
"For instance, Ford made a very different choice about EVs than General Motors. Yep."
General Motors is a big car company that owns several brands and is working on making more electric cars.
General Motors (GM) is a major American automotive corporation that produces vehicles under various brands, including Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac, and Buick, and is heavily investing in electric vehicle technology.
EVs
"For instance, Ford made a very different choice about EVs than General Motors. Yep."
EVs stands for electric vehicles, which are cars that run on electricity instead of gas. They are better for the environment.
EVs, or electric vehicles, are cars that are powered entirely by electricity rather than gasoline or diesel. They are known for being more environmentally friendly and often have lower operating costs.
manual transmission
"I sensed a willingness in him to go back to a manual transmission to three pedals. You sensed it. You got this vibe."
A manual transmission is a way of changing gears in a car where the driver has to do it themselves, usually using a stick and a pedal. It gives the driver more control over how the car drives.
A manual transmission is a type of vehicle transmission that requires the driver to manually shift gears using a clutch pedal and gear stick. This system allows for greater control over the vehicle's power and performance.
Porsche 911 GT3
"...ank Stephan Walliser, about the take rate for the GT3, for the manual transmission in the GT3, because ..."
The Porsche 911 GT3 is a special version of the regular Porsche 911 that is built for speed and racing. It has a powerful engine and is designed to be very fun to drive, especially on a racetrack. People talk about it because it's one of the best sports cars you can buy.
The Porsche 911 GT3 is a high-performance variant of the iconic 911 sports car, known for its track-focused design and exceptional handling. It features a naturally aspirated engine and is often praised for its driver engagement, especially with the option of a manual transmission. The GT3 is significant in discussions about sports cars due to its blend of everyday usability and extreme performance capabilities.
PDK
"Why would they want a PDK? They're not tracking it. Or at least that's how I read it."
PDK is a type of automatic transmission used by Porsche that can change gears very quickly. It helps the car go faster and perform better.
PDK stands for Porsche Doppelkupplung, which is a dual-clutch automatic transmission developed by Porsche. It allows for faster gear shifts and improved performance compared to traditional automatic transmissions.
Cadillac
"I can't wait to watch Formula One pretty soon. I know. Are you watching Cadillac? Are you watching Audi?"
Cadillac is a brand that makes luxury cars. They are known for being stylish and high-quality, often featuring the latest technology.
Cadillac is a luxury vehicle brand under General Motors, known for its high-end cars and innovative technology. The brand has a rich history in the automotive industry and is recognized for its distinctive design and performance.
profit
"...It was the most profitable automaker in the world. Yes, yes. And when it was kicked off of this German stock index, the shares had fallen over 30% from the previous year."
Profit is the money a company makes after paying all its costs. It's a sign of how well the company is doing financially.
Profit refers to the financial gain a company makes after subtracting all its expenses from its revenue. It's a key indicator of a company's financial health and success.
Porsche 911
"...use Porsche has been so dominant. And because the 911 is still, I think the pinnacle sports car for the..."
The Porsche 911 is a famous sports car that has been around for a long time and is known for its unique shape and fast performance. It's loved by many car fans because it combines style with great driving experience. People often compare other sports cars to the 911 because it's considered one of the best.
The Porsche 911 is a legendary sports car that has been in production since the early 1960s, known for its distinctive design and rear-engine layout. It has become a symbol of performance and luxury, often regarded as the benchmark for sports cars. Its ongoing evolution and consistent performance make it a frequent topic of discussion among automotive enthusiasts.
Bugatti
"...this is the hero that bought and brought back Bugatti. This is the guy who got himself Ducati for his birthday..."
Bugatti is a very high-end car brand that makes some of the fastest and most expensive cars in the world, like the Bugatti Veyron.
Bugatti is a luxury automobile manufacturer known for producing high-performance hypercars, such as the Bugatti Veyron and Chiron. The brand is synonymous with speed and exclusivity.
handbrake
"...whether things like the lack of a handbrake, which went away in the 997..."
A handbrake is a special brake that helps keep the car from rolling when it's parked. You pull a lever to use it.
A handbrake, also known as a parking brake, is a secondary braking system used to keep a vehicle stationary when parked. It is typically engaged by pulling a lever inside the car.
997
"...whether things like the lack of a handbrake, which went away in the 997..."
The 997 is a version of the Porsche 911 that was made between 2004 and 2012. It has a mix of new technology and the classic look of Porsche cars.
The 997 is the internal designation for the Porsche 911 model produced from 2004 to 2012. It is known for its blend of modern technology and classic Porsche styling.
Mazda Miata
"... about the 911 more than any model, including the Miata. I have to disagree. I think people in Ferrari ci..."
The Mazda Miata is a small, two-seat sports car that is very light and fun to drive. It's known for being affordable and great for people who love driving. Many car lovers enjoy it because it gives a really exciting experience without costing a lot of money.
The Mazda Miata, also known as the MX-5, is a lightweight two-seater sports car that has gained a cult following since its introduction in 1989. It is celebrated for its simple design, excellent handling, and affordability, making it an accessible option for driving enthusiasts. The Miata is often discussed for its fun driving experience and as a great entry point into sports car ownership.
Lamborghini
"...in Ferrari circles or Lamborghini circles or Pagani circles would say, well, we talk about our favorite cars. For sure..."
Lamborghini is another well-known car brand from Italy that makes very fast and flashy sports cars. They are famous for their unique looks and powerful performance.
Lamborghini is an Italian manufacturer of high-performance sports cars known for their bold designs and powerful engines. They are a symbol of luxury and speed in the automotive industry.
Pagani
"...in Ferrari circles or Lamborghini circles or Pagani circles would say, well, we talk about our favorite cars. For sure..."
Pagani is a small, luxury car brand from Italy that makes very exclusive and expensive sports cars. They are known for their artistic designs and incredible performance.
Pagani is a boutique manufacturer of high-performance sports cars from Italy, known for their extreme attention to detail and unique designs. Their cars are often considered works of art as much as they are vehicles.
Porsche Taycan
"...f the big surprises for me this year also was the Taycan, which you'd already driven, I think, in previous..."
The Porsche Taycan is an all-electric sports car from Porsche that offers fast speeds and a high-tech experience. It's important because it shows how traditional car makers are moving towards electric vehicles while still keeping the fun of driving. Many people are excited about it because it's both powerful and good for the environment.
The Porsche Taycan is Porsche's first fully electric sports car, combining the brand's performance heritage with cutting-edge electric vehicle technology. It offers impressive acceleration, advanced features, and a luxurious interior, making it a significant player in the growing electric vehicle market. The Taycan is often discussed for its ability to deliver a thrilling driving experience while being environmentally friendly.
Mercedes-AMG GT63
"So it's the four-door version of the GT63. Yes, and it actually has the same amount of torque as that two-door GT60 AMG GT."
The Mercedes-AMG GT63 is a sporty luxury car that is designed for high performance. It has a powerful engine and is known for its speed and handling.
The Mercedes-AMG GT63 is a high-performance luxury coupe that offers a blend of sporty design and powerful performance, featuring a robust engine and advanced technology.
Mercedes-Benz AMG GT
"...s the same amount of torque as that two-door GT60 AMG GT. Little lighter on horsepower, but near enough......"
The Mercedes-Benz AMG GT is a luxury sports car that is very powerful and stylish. It has a strong engine that makes it fast and fun to drive. People talk about it because it combines luxury with the excitement of a sports car.
The Mercedes-Benz AMG GT is a high-performance sports car that exemplifies luxury and power, developed by Mercedes' performance division, AMG. It features a powerful twin-turbo V8 engine and is known for its stunning design and advanced technology. Discussions about the AMG GT often focus on its blend of everyday usability and track-ready performance.
BMW M2
"..... I agree. Baby blue, like the new or newish BMW M2. I love that blue, you know, but it's shiny. Oh, ..."
The BMW M2 is a small sports car that is really fun to drive and has a lot of power. It's made by BMW and is known for being quick and agile, which makes it exciting on the road. Many people like it because it's a great way to experience BMW's performance without needing a bigger car.
The BMW M2 is a compact sports car that offers a thrilling driving experience, combining performance with everyday practicality. It features a powerful engine and precise handling, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts. The M2 is often discussed for its balance of power and agility, as well as its appeal as an entry point into the BMW M performance lineup.
Burmester
"I will say though, the sound system, it's the Burmister or Burmeister 4D surround sound costs $6,800 extra."
Burmester is a brand that makes really good sound systems for cars. They are known for their high-quality audio, making music sound great while you drive.
Burmester is a high-end audio company known for producing premium sound systems for luxury vehicles. Their systems are designed to deliver exceptional audio quality, enhancing the driving experience.
Chevrolet Corvettes
"...6. The hybrid thing, I'm a huge fan of it, of the Corvettes. I really like the E-Ray because it has the elect..."
The Chevrolet Corvette is a well-known sports car from America that has been around for many years. It's famous for being fast and having a cool design. The newer versions, like the E-Ray, even include hybrid technology, which makes it more advanced and exciting.
The Chevrolet Corvette is an iconic American sports car that has been in production since 1953, known for its powerful performance and distinctive styling. The latest models, including the hybrid E-Ray, showcase advanced technology and engineering, further solidifying the Corvette's reputation as a high-performance vehicle. Discussions about the Corvette often revolve around its evolution and impact on the sports car market.
Request an Explanation
Heard something you'd like explained? We'll add it to this episode.
Sign in to request explanations for terms you heard.
Want to learn more?
Browse our glossary for plain-English explanations of automotive terms, jargon, and concepts.
Help improve this episode
See something that's not quite right? Our annotations are AI-generated and can sometimes miss the mark. Click the flag icon on any annotation to suggest a correction.