About this episode
Nicole Wakelin shares her frustrating quest to replace her Jeep Wagoneer S, highlighting the challenges of shopping for a performance car. After being denied a test drive of a BMW M3 at one dealership due to restrictive policies and condescending treatment, she contrasts it with a stellar, respectful experience at another dealer. The hosts discuss dealership etiquette, the absurdity of test-drive bans on sports cars, and why buyers should always walk away from disrespectful sales staff.
This week Nicole shares her adventure of trying to get a test drive in a BMW, and testing the Subaru Crosstrek hybrid and Ford Maverick hybrid. Robbie went on an adventure in the new Subaru Outback and Sam did truck stuff with the Ford Maverick Lobo.
In the news, Jeep teased the new Cherokee Trailhawk, a Toyota engineer said he's like a Rav4 Ute, and we discuss bad old car ads. IIHS crashed old and new Blazers, Polestar pulled out of the US market, Honda is bringing back the Element, our pal Andre tries a restomoded 23-window VW bus and we look at the new Hyundai Elantra. We also spend a lot of time discussing Slate.
Links
Thrill To Four Dull Commercials For Dazzlingly Boring '70s And '80s Cars! - The Autopianngly-boring-70s-and-80s-cars/
Toyota RAV4 ute market would be 'quite appealing', says top engineer
2026 vs. 1996 Chevrolet Blazer IIHS crash test
Polestar strengthens its focus on Europe following decision under the U.S. Connected Vehicle Rule
Honda Element Returning in 2029
U.S. Initial Quality Study (IQS) | JD Power
Is This EV-Converted Volkswagen Microbus Brilliant or Blasphemy?
Vintage Vehicles | Modern Classic Cars | Kindred Motorworks
Next-generation Hyundai Elantra brings striking new look | Autocar
GMC introduces the most advanced, luxurious, and powerful Sierra 1500 ever
Study: People Wanted Tech-Savvy Cars, And Now They Can't Afford Them
Everyone Loves The Slate Truck. I'm Not Ready To Celebrate Yet
We Ride Along in Slate's $25,000 Electric Pickup - Mobility Engineering Technology
We Ride Along in Slate's $25,000 Electric Pickup
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Jeep Wagoneer
"... knows, Nicole is no longer the owner of a Jeep ⁓ Wagoneer S. And so she's been contemplating what to buy ⁓ ..."
The Jeep Wagoneer is a large, luxury SUV made by Jeep. The newest version, called the Wagoneer S, is a fast, high-tech vehicle that runs completely on electric power.
The Jeep Wagoneer is a premium full-size SUV lineup, which recently expanded to include the Wagoneer S, a fully electric mid-size luxury crossover. The Wagoneer S represents Jeep's first global battery-electric vehicle, focusing on high performance and premium interior comfort. The standard gas-powered Wagoneer remains a large, three-row luxury cruiser.
BMW M3
"So I have been looking at BMW and I was looking at thinking M3 or M340i, I think is what I was looking at. And I said, Well, I just need I wasn't sure the M3. I love sporty, don't get me wrong, but like if I'm gonna go on a long drive, too sporty in New England is harsh."
It's a high-performance version of BMW's standard 3 Series sedan. It looks like a regular luxury car but has a much more powerful engine, stiffer suspension, and stronger brakes for high-speed driving.
The BMW M3 is a legendary high-performance sports sedan developed by BMW's motorsport division, BMW M. Originally created as a racing homologation special in 1986, it has evolved into the industry benchmark for combining track-ready dynamics with everyday luxury and usability.
BMW M340I
"...ooking at BMW and I was looking at thinking M3 or M340i, I think is what I was looking at. And ⁓ I said, ..."
The BMW 3 Series is a luxury four-door sedan made by BMW. It is designed to be comfortable for daily driving while also feeling sporty and fast.
The BMW 3 Series is the quintessential compact executive sport sedan, long considered the industry benchmark for balancing luxury, technology, and driving dynamics. The M340i trim is highly praised for offering near-M3 performance with daily-driver comfort. It remains a core product for BMW enthusiasts.
BMW M340i
"So I have been looking at BMW and I was looking at thinking M3 or M340i, I think is what I was looking at."
This is a fast, sporty version of the BMW 3 Series that sits just below the extreme M3 model. It gives you plenty of speed and fun handling but is softer and more comfortable for long road trips.
The BMW M340i is an M Performance variant of the 3 Series, bridging the gap between the standard models and the track-focused M3. It features a powerful turbocharged inline-six engine (the B58) and a sport-tuned suspension that offers a more compliant ride for daily driving than the full M3.
certified pre-owned
"Right. So so I'm thinking, okay. And then I said, All right. I said, well, I said, if it's because somebody buying a new one doesn't want any miles on theirs, I said, Do you have even a CPO that I could do that that would still give me enough of a taste of what this feels like to to get an idea?"
It's a used car that has been officially checked out and approved by the company that built it. Because they inspect it and fix any issues, they sell it with an extra warranty to give you peace of mind.
Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) refers to a used vehicle that has been thoroughly inspected, refurbished, and certified by the manufacturer or an authorized dealer. These vehicles typically come with an extended manufacturer-backed warranty and other perks similar to buying a new car.
Subaru WRX STI
"I I will tell you as someone who's who's who's who's been in the market and has dealt with like performance vehicles, niche vehicles like this, is that they won't let you drive an STI at a lot of dealerships."
This is a fast, loud, rally-race-inspired version of a standard Subaru sedan. It has a big wing on the back, all-wheel drive for grip in the dirt or snow, and is popular with car enthusiasts who love manual transmissions.
The Subaru WRX STI is a rally-inspired, high-performance compact car featuring Subaru's signature symmetrical all-wheel-drive system and a turbocharged boxer engine. Developed by Subaru Tecnica International, it is famous for its aggressive styling, hydraulic steering, and driver-controlled center differential.
BMW M2
"...s, but straight up M3. And he said, and I have an M2. He's like, the M2 is not the same. But if you wa..."
The BMW M2 is a small, powerful two-door sports car made by BMW. It is designed for high-speed driving and sharp handling on race tracks and curvy roads.
The BMW M2 is a high-performance compact coupe that serves as the entry point to BMW's dedicated 'M' lineup. While smaller and more agile than its larger sibling, the M3, it shares a similar twin-turbocharged inline-six engine and track-focused dynamics. The current G87 generation features bold styling and aggressive performance tuning.
Subaru BRZ
"...ifteen thousand dollar surcharge on the car. Like BRZs when the f when the new BRZ came out, the dealers..."
The Subaru BRZ is a small, two-door sports car made by Subaru. It is designed to be lightweight and fun to drive around corners, rather than having a lot of passenger space.
The Subaru BRZ is a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports coupe co-developed with Toyota. When the redesigned second-generation model debuted, high demand and limited production led to significant dealership markups. It is highly praised for its pure steering feel, balanced chassis, and affordable entry point into sports car ownership.
Chevrolet Trax
"...d it doesn't matter whether you're buying a Chevy Trax or a Lamborghini, you should get Decent treatment..."
The Chevrolet Trax is a small, affordable SUV made by Chevrolet. It is designed to be an inexpensive option for people who want a new car with modern technology and decent cargo space.
The Chevrolet Trax is an entry-level subcompact crossover that underwent a dramatic redesign for the 2024 model year, offering sharp styling and a spacious interior at a very low starting price. It is frequently cited as one of the best budget-friendly new cars on the market. It features a front-wheel-drive layout and a modern digital dashboard.
Subaru Cross Trek
"so I I realized that I forgot to talk about I had a wit bit bit ago, I had a Subaru Cross Trek hybrid. whoops, I just lost my screen. Wait, there we are. I'm good. so I had a Subaru Cross Trek hybrid, which isn't a new model, it's like part of the third gen of the vehicle to bring in the hybrid."
This is a small, rugged Subaru SUV that uses both a gas engine and an electric battery to save fuel. It sits higher off the ground than a normal hatchback, making it great for driving in snow or on dirt roads.
The Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid is a plug-in hybrid variant of Subaru's popular compact crossover, combining a flat-four boxer engine with Toyota-derived hybrid technology. It offers standard all-wheel drive, raised ground clearance, and a rugged exterior design tailored for light off-roading.
Crosstrek Cross Track
"... don't know. It's just me. it's I haven't had the Cross Track hybrid. I've had ⁓ Forester hybrid. well, you kno..."
The Subaru Crosstrek is a small, rugged hatchback made by Subaru that sits high off the ground. It is designed to be easy to drive in the city while still being able to handle snowy roads and camping trips.
The Subaru Crosstrek is a highly popular subcompact crossover SUV that is essentially a raised Impreza hatchback, offering standard all-wheel drive and rugged styling. It is highly favored by outdoor enthusiasts for its capability, value, and compact footprint. The current generation features improved cabin refinement and updated safety technology.
Forester Hybrid
"... I haven't had the Cross Track hybrid. I've had ⁓ Forester hybrid. well, you know what was I had a whole bunch of S..."
The Subaru Forester is a small, family-friendly SUV made by Subaru. It is designed to be safe, easy to see out of, and good at driving in bad weather like snow and rain.
The Subaru Forester is a compact crossover SUV known for its boxy, cargo-friendly shape, excellent outward visibility, and standard all-wheel drive. The latest generation introduces a highly anticipated hybrid powertrain co-developed with Toyota's hybrid technology. It is a popular choice for families seeking safety and all-weather capability.
ground clearance
"Eight, a bunch. I don't know how many. A bunch of charging ports. and the eight was gonna be eight point seven inches of ground clearance. That's where I was going with eight. So yeah, eight point seven inches of ground clearance."
This is the amount of space between the bottom of the car and the road. Cars with high ground clearance can drive over bumps, rocks, and deep snow without scraping their bellies.
Ground clearance is the minimum distance between the flat surface the vehicle is resting on and the lowest point of the vehicle's chassis (excluding tires). Higher ground clearance is essential for off-road driving to prevent obstacles like rocks or logs from damaging the underside of the vehicle.
Mazda MX-5 / Miata
"...t's not really that fast. it's like drag racing a Miata. You're like, Well unless I'm drag racing other M..."
The Mazda Miata is a small, two-door convertible car with two seats made by Mazda. It is designed to be fun and easy to drive on curvy roads, rather than being built for high-speed drag racing.
The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a legendary lightweight, two-seat convertible sports car celebrated for its exceptional handling and driver engagement rather than straight-line speed. It is a frequent benchmark in automotive discussions for affordable, pure driving pleasure. The current ND generation continues to champion a minimalist, rear-wheel-drive formula.
Ford Maverick
"The Ford Maverick, the hybrid. I like the Maverick. This color is just meh. Why am I getting meh color cars? The only real cool color it has, so they have the accent color inside, and it's a really bright blue."
It's a small, budget-friendly pickup truck made by Ford that drives like a comfortable SUV rather than a giant, heavy truck. It is famous for getting excellent gas mileage and being easy to park in tight spaces.
The Ford Maverick is a compact, unibody pickup truck built on a passenger car platform, sharing its architecture with the Ford Escape and Bronco Sport. It revolutionized the entry-level truck market by offering a highly efficient standard hybrid powertrain, a versatile bed, and a very affordable starting price.
Hyundai Accent
"...The only real cool color it has, so they have the accent color inside, and it's a really bright blue. So t..."
The Hyundai Accent is a very small, budget-friendly sedan made by Hyundai. It was designed to provide simple, fuel-efficient transportation for daily commuting.
The Hyundai Accent was a long-running subcompact sedan known for offering basic, reliable transportation at an extremely affordable price point. While discontinued in North America to make room for small crossovers, it remains a staple of budget motoring globally. It is praised for its simple mechanics and excellent fuel economy.
Subaru Outback
"...and Subarus on this episode. 'Cause I'm I have an outback. That's what I'll be talking about. Well anyway, ..."
The Subaru Outback is a raised station wagon made by Subaru. It is designed for families who want a comfortable car that can also handle snowy roads and light dirt trails.
The Subaru Outback is a mid-size crossover wagon that blends the passenger comfort of a car with the ground clearance and cargo capacity of an SUV. It is highly regarded for its standard all-wheel drive, safety features, and outdoor-oriented lifestyle appeal. It is a staple vehicle for buyers seeking practical, all-weather capability.
Ford Lobo
"...I have in my list. the the starting price for the Lobo is like thirty four. I'll I'll I'll get I'll get ..."
The Ford Lobo is a sporty version of Ford's small Maverick pickup truck. It is designed to sit lower to the ground and handle paved roads more like a sports car than a traditional off-road truck.
The Ford Maverick Lobo is a specialized, street-performance-oriented trim of the compact Maverick pickup truck, inspired by the lowered 'street truck' culture of the 1980s and 90s. It features a lowered ride height, sport-tuned suspension, and unique styling cues. It is designed for buyers who prefer on-road handling over off-road capability.
Chevrolet Silverado ZR2
"And my god, I parked next to a Chevy Silverado off-road. What was that? What's the off-road term in that? The wheels, I swear to God, were bigger than the hood. Maybe ZR2. Thank you."
This is a giant, heavy-duty off-road version of Chevrolet's popular pickup truck. It has massive tires, specialized racing-style suspension to absorb huge bumps, and sits very high off the ground.
The Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 is a flagship off-road variant of Chevy's full-size pickup truck, equipped with high-performance Multimatic DSSV spool-valve dampers, front and rear electronic locking differentials, and 33-inch mud-terrain tires. It is designed to tackle extreme off-road terrain while maintaining comfortable on-road manners.
Subaru Outback Limited XT
"I had the Subaru Outbag Limited XT. So a bigger Subaru. It's bigger. It just looks like a raised station wagon. And I actually did off-road y things with it."
This is a large, comfortable Subaru station wagon that sits high off the ground like an SUV. The 'XT' part means it has a turbocharged engine, which gives it extra power for passing cars on the highway or climbing steep hills.
The Subaru Outback Limited XT is a well-equipped, turbocharged version of Subaru's mid-size lifted wagon. It features a 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine, standard symmetrical all-wheel drive, and premium interior features, offering a blend of family-car comfort and rugged off-road capability.
hill descent control
"So what I I really like is that, you know, and I sa I I first use on outback wilderness during the drive program is that you have downhill descent on you know vehicles they have any sort of off road anything on them."
It's like cruise control but specifically for going down steep, slippery hills off-road. The car automatically pumps the brakes for you to keep you moving at a slow, safe crawl so you don't slide out of control.
Hill Descent Control (HDC) is a driver-assistance system that automatically controls a vehicle's braking to maintain a safe, steady, and controlled speed while descending steep, rough off-road slopes. This allows the driver to focus entirely on steering without needing to touch the brake or accelerator pedals.
Outback Wilderness
"... is that, you know, ⁓ and I sa I I first use on ⁓ outback wilderness during the drive program is that you have downhil..."
The Subaru Outback Wilderness is a special version of the Outback wagon that is built to go further off-road. It sits higher off the ground, has tougher tires, and features special electronic settings to help it climb down steep, slippery hills safely.
The Subaru Outback Wilderness is a rugged, off-road-focused trim of the popular crossover wagon, featuring increased ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and advanced X-Mode traction control. It is designed for outdoor enthusiasts who require more capability on rough trails. It also features unique styling accents and a more robust roof rack.
Toyota Corolla
"...efin it was definitely a road you couldn't take a corolla on 'cause it would have scratched up the bottom. ..."
The Toyota Corolla is a small, everyday passenger car made by Toyota. It is designed for driving on paved city streets and highways, and it sits close to the ground, so it is not meant for driving over rocks or rough dirt paths.
The Toyota Corolla is a globally renowned compact car available in sedan and hatchback body styles, prized for its efficiency and dependability. It has a low ground clearance, making it unsuitable for rough off-road trails where it could sustain underbody damage. It remains one of the best-selling automotive nameplates in history.
boxer engine
"yeah this thing has that four liter two point four four liter four cylinder two point four liter turbo boxer engine it has 260 horsepower 277 pound feet of torque"
Instead of the pistons moving up and down like in most cars, the pistons in a boxer engine punch side-to-side horizontally, like two boxers sparring. This flat layout helps the car stay more balanced when turning corners.
A boxer engine is an internal combustion engine layout where the cylinders are horizontally opposed, meaning the pistons move horizontally in and out rather than vertically. This flat design, pioneered and famously used by Subaru and Porsche, lowers the vehicle's center of gravity, which improves handling and stability.
Subaru Trailseeker
"...ally excited about like showing out the fact that Trailseekers and EV I just leave the E V on the air conditioni..."
The Subaru Trailseeker is a name used for a new electric SUV from Subaru. It is designed to run entirely on battery power while still being able to go on outdoor adventures.
The Subaru Trailseeker is a newly trademarked nameplate for Subaru's expanding lineup of electric vehicles, expected to be a rugged, adventure-oriented EV SUV. It represents Subaru's push to offer zero-emission vehicles that retain the brand's signature off-road capability. It is designed to appeal to traditional Subaru buyers looking to transition to electric power.
Jeep Wrangler
"...u drive over things that other people buy a Dreep Wrangler for? Yep. No problem. ⁓ I could s you know, and w..."
The Jeep Wrangler is a rugged utility vehicle made by Jeep that is specifically built to drive over rough terrain like rocks, mud, and sand. It has a boxy shape, large tires, and parts like the roof and doors can be taken off.
The Jeep Wrangler is an iconic, highly capable off-road SUV featuring body-on-frame construction, removable doors, and a folding windshield. It serves as the industry benchmark for rugged, go-anywhere capability, which is why other vehicles are often compared to it. The current JL generation offers a mix of traditional gas engines and a plug-in hybrid option.
Ford Maverick Lobo
"Well, I also had a Maverick, but I had the the Maverick Lobo, which is new for Model Year twenty six. and it's the the Lobo, you know, is it's supposed to be like a street truck version of the Maverick."
This is a special version of Ford's small truck that is designed for paved streets rather than off-roading. It sits lower to the ground, has sporty wheels, and is tuned to handle corners more like a sports car.
The Ford Maverick Lobo is a street-truck-inspired performance variant of Ford's compact pickup, featuring a lowered ride height, sport-tuned suspension, and unique styling elements. It utilizes the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine paired with a modified transmission setup designed to keep the engine in its optimal power band.
Aston Martin Valhalla
"..., and then just rode them. Like you're headed for Valhalla. Yeah. And that includes that eighteen hundred an..."
The Aston Martin Valhalla is an extremely expensive, high-performance sports car made by Aston Martin. It uses a mix of a powerful gasoline engine and electric motors to go incredibly fast.
The Aston Martin Valhalla is a limited-production, mid-engine hybrid supercar developed in collaboration with Formula 1 technology. It utilizes a twin-turbo V8 paired with electric motors to produce extreme horsepower and track-focused performance. It represents the pinnacle of Aston Martin's modern engineering and aerodynamic design.
Lucid Air
"...cause it's hot and then it gets cool and then the air, you know, the ocean and the bay are cold. So tha..."
The Lucid Air is a high-end, luxury electric sedan made by an American company called Lucid. It is powered entirely by batteries and can travel longer distances on a single charge than almost any other electric car.
The Lucid Air is a luxury all-electric sedan known for its industry-leading driving range, ultra-fast charging capabilities, and minimalist interior design. It represents a high-end competitor in the premium EV segment, boasting up to over 500 miles of range on a single charge. It is highly praised for its engineering efficiency and spacious cabin.
Renault Wind
"... Outback. Roberto Baldwin (45:07) Yeah, those headwinds, man, they they are not there. If you ever drive..."
The Renault Wind was a small, two-seat convertible car made by a French company called Renault. It was unique because its metal roof could flip backward in one quick motion to let the sunshine in.
The Renault Wind was a unique, two-seat roadster coupe produced by the French automaker Renault from 2010 to 2013. It featured an innovative, fast-flipping metal roof mechanism that rotated 180 degrees to open up the cabin. It was designed as a fun, affordable, and compact open-top car for the European market.
Slate
"Well let's let's stick with small trucks. 'cause Robbie, you went to LA a few days ago to to see the slate. And Nicole, I don't think you were there, but you wrote about it too."
Slate is a new electric car company that is trying to build very simple, cheap electric trucks. Their vehicles are designed to be customized by the owner, even letting you print your own parts with a 3D printer.
Slate is an emerging electric vehicle startup focused on producing highly affordable, modular, and minimalist utility vehicles. Their debut product is a compact, back-to-basics electric pickup truck designed with DIY customization and fleet use in mind.
Honda Civic
"...to be honest, like I that's more I think my Honda Civic would do that in nine in the nineties. So I'm lik..."
The Honda Civic is a popular, small passenger car made by Honda. It is designed to be a dependable and fuel-efficient vehicle for daily driving.
The Honda Civic is a staple compact car known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and diverse lineup ranging from sensible commuters to high-performance models. Its historical reputation for simple, robust engineering in the 1990s makes it a frequent point of comparison for modern vehicles. The current generation offers a highly refined cabin and a new hybrid powertrain.
4Runner Forerunner
"...st throw a cab on the back like it's a It's a a a forerunner from the from the nineties. ⁓ yeah, it's ⁓ the Z ..."
The Toyota 4Runner is a tough, truck-like SUV made by Toyota that is famous for lasting a very long time and being excellent at driving over rough terrain. Older versions from the 1980s and 90s had a back section that looked like a truck bed with a removable cover.
The Toyota 4Runner is a legendary mid-size, body-on-frame SUV celebrated for its extreme off-road capability and bulletproof reliability. Early generations from the 1980s and 90s featured a removable rear canopy, a design element highly nostalgic to off-road enthusiasts. The latest generation introduces modern powertrains while retaining its rugged off-road focus.
Chevrolet Bolt EV
"And you know, the bolt if you want an EV that's inexpensive and has all the bits and pieces, the bolt's only a few thousand dollars more."
This is a small, all-electric hatchback made by Chevrolet. It was one of the first electric cars that regular people could afford while still offering enough battery range to drive all day without recharging.
The Chevrolet Bolt EV is a subcompact electric hatchback introduced by General Motors for the 2017 model year. It was a pioneering affordable electric vehicle, offering over 200 miles of range at a mainstream price point, utilizing a single electric motor driving the front wheels.
Volkswagen Id Buzz
"...he excitement for this vehicle is higher than the ID buzz was in within normies within my group of humans. ..."
The Volkswagen ID. Buzz is a modern, fully electric van made by Volkswagen. It is designed to look like the famous retro VW buses from the 1960s but runs entirely on battery power.
The Volkswagen ID. Buzz is an all-electric minivan that pays homage to the iconic retro styling of the classic Type 2 Microbus. It has generated immense consumer interest for its nostalgic design combined with a modern electric drivetrain. It offers a spacious, flexible interior suitable for families and road trips.
LFP battery
"And that's the biggest part is that this is an EV, which means it has they have to pay for that very expensive LFP six sixty-five or s whatever use yeah, kilowatt hour battery pack for that vehicle."
This is a type of battery used in electric cars that is cheaper to make, safer, and lasts longer than standard batteries. The downside is that they are heavier and don't hold quite as much energy, so the car won't go as far on a single charge.
Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) is a type of lithium-ion battery chemistry that uses iron phosphate as the cathode material. LFP batteries are highly durable, have a longer lifespan, and are less prone to thermal runaway (catching fire) compared to traditional nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) batteries, though they have lower energy density.
Volkswagen Golf
"...pre orders for more vehicles than Volkswagen sold golfs in the United States in twenty twenty five. I was..."
The Volkswagen Golf is a small, hatchback-style car made by Volkswagen. In the United States, it is mostly sold as a sporty, fast version of a practical hatchback.
The Volkswagen Golf is a compact hatchback that, in the United States, is currently sold exclusively in its high-performance GTI and Golf R trims. Its sales volume in the US has become relatively low as the brand focuses on SUVs and electric vehicles. It remains highly regarded for its sporty driving dynamics and practical hatchback shape.
battery management system
"Yeah, still not profitable. I wonder like how much of that is like is it because Rivian Lucids had software issues, this company Yeah, it's just yeah, it just drives, you know, software issues or it's mostly it's mostly the BMS. BMS is your biggest thing, the battery management system."
This is the computer brain that watches over an electric car's battery. It makes sure the battery doesn't get too hot, too cold, or overcharged, which keeps the battery safe and helps it last as long as possible.
A Battery Management System (BMS) is an electronic system that manages a rechargeable battery pack, such as those in electric vehicles. It protects the battery from operating outside its safe operating area, monitors its state, calculates secondary data, reports that data, controls its environment, and balances the individual cells.
Kia Soul
"...that people just don't buy. Like i why is the Kia Soul gone? That thing was awesome. Yeah. And the yeah,..."
The Kia Soul is a small, box-shaped car made by Kia. It is known for its unique look, low price, and surprisingly roomy interior for passengers and cargo.
The Kia Soul is a subcompact crossover distinguished by its quirky, boxy styling and highly practical cabin space. Despite its popularity as an affordable and spacious commuter, shifting market trends have led to discussions about its potential retirement. It offers a high seating position and excellent value for budget-conscious buyers.
Gmc Sierra
"...ealed this past week. the the twenty twenty seven GMC Sierra. And I think the you know, I mean for the most pa..."
The GMC Sierra EV is a large, luxury pickup truck made by GMC that runs entirely on electricity. It is designed to do heavy work like towing while offering a quiet ride and high-tech features.
The GMC Sierra EV is a premium, all-electric full-size pickup truck built on General Motors' Ultium platform, offering massive towing capacity, rapid charging, and high-end luxury features. It represents GMC's push to electrify its highly profitable truck lineup. It features a versatile midgate design that expands the cargo bed into the cabin.
Hyundai Elantra
"...w in South Korea showed off the next generation ⁓ Elantra Avante as they call it in ⁓ in South Korea. what ..."
The Hyundai Elantra is a small, four-door family sedan made by Hyundai. It is designed to be fuel-efficient, affordable, and packed with modern safety technology.
The Hyundai Elantra is a popular compact sedan known for its bold, angular styling, high-tech features, and value-oriented pricing. Sold as the Avante in South Korea, it is a key player in the global compact car market. It offers a range of powertrains, including highly efficient hybrid options and a sporty N-Line variant.
restomod
"Well, Kindred Kindred does r electric resto mods of Ford first gen Ford Broncos, old nine eleven's and microbuses now."
It's a vintage car that looks classic on the outside but has been completely rebuilt with modern parts on the inside, like a new engine, modern air conditioning, and better brakes. It gives you the cool retro look without the headaches of driving an old, unreliable car.
A restomod is a classic vehicle that has been restored but modified with modern parts and technology, such as upgraded powertrains, suspensions, brakes, and electronics. The goal is to retain the vintage aesthetic of the original car while providing modern performance, safety, and reliability.
Ford Broncos
"...dred does r electric resto mods of Ford first gen Ford Broncos, old nine eleven's and microbuses now. ⁓ and the ..."
The Ford Bronco is a boxy, off-road vehicle made by Ford. While there is a modern version you can buy today, older versions from decades ago are very popular collector's items that some companies convert to run on electricity.
The Ford Bronco is a rugged, mid-size off-road SUV designed to compete directly with the Jeep Wrangler, featuring removable doors and roof panels. The classic first-generation models from the 1960s and 70s are highly sought after and frequently used as platforms for high-end electric restomods. The modern version blends retro styling with advanced off-road technology.
Volkswagen Bus
"...win (1:28:37) And that was the end of my my my VW bus ⁓ owning lifestyle. So Sam Abuelsamid (1:28:44) W..."
The Volkswagen Bus is a classic, boxy van made by Volkswagen that was very popular in the 1960s. It is famous for its retro look and is a highly sought-after collector's item today.
The Volkswagen Bus, officially known as the Type 2, is an iconic vintage van that became a global symbol of counterculture in the 1960s and 70s. It is highly prized by collectors today for its nostalgic charm, simple air-cooled engine, and spacious, boxy design. It has inspired modern electric successors like the ID. Buzz.
Honda Element
"so the Honda Element apparently might be coming back, according to automotive news. it should be coming back in twenty twenty nine. Gonna be built in Ohio like it was before. and apparently it's being targeted as a competitor to the Ford Broncos sport."
A boxy, quirky SUV made by Honda that was designed to be incredibly practical for outdoor adventures or families. It had rear doors that opened backward, no carpet so you could easily sweep or wipe it out, and seats that could be completely removed to carry bulky gear.
The Honda Element is a compact crossover SUV produced from 2003 to 2011, famous for its boxy, utilitarian design, bi-parting side doors (suicide doors), and highly versatile interior. It featured a flat, easy-to-clean urethane floor and rear seats that could fold flat, flip up against the sides, or be removed entirely.
Ford Broncos Sport
"...y it's being targeted as a competitor to the Ford Broncos sport. Nicole Wakelin (1:29:53) I loved the Honda eleme..."
The Ford Bronco Sport is a small SUV made by Ford. It looks like a rugged off-road vehicle but is designed to drive smoothly on everyday roads while still being able to handle light dirt trails.
The Ford Bronco Sport is a compact crossover SUV that shares its rugged styling with the larger body-on-frame Bronco but is built on a car-like unibody platform. It offers respectable off-road capability for its class, making it a popular competitor for outdoor-oriented compact SUVs. It features clever cargo solutions and a boxy, retro-inspired design.
suicide doors
"I want it to look like a little box like this with the suicide doors and everything. Yeah, I don't know if they'll do the the doors, but yeah."
These are car doors that open backward (hinged at the back instead of the front). When you open both the front and back doors, there is no metal pillar in the middle, making it super easy to load large items or climb into the back seat.
Suicide doors is the slang term for vehicle doors that are hinged at the rear rather than the front, opening backward. Often used on vintage cars and modern vehicles like the Honda Element or Mazda RX-8, they allow for a wide, pillarless opening when paired with standard front doors, making cabin entry much easier.
Polestar
"All right. Polestar. You know we're we were talking about, you know, start up brands, you know, kind of failing. and you know, Polestar, you know, it's relative it's relatively new as a standalone brand. But, you know, it's been around, you know, and it started in the nineties building first building Volvo race cars"
Polestar is a luxury electric car brand that started out making fast racing versions of Volvo cars. Today, they make sleek, modern electric cars that share a lot of parts and technology with Volvo.
Polestar is a Swedish premium electric vehicle brand jointly owned by Volvo Cars and its parent company, Geely. Originally Volvo's performance racing partner, it was spun off as an independent brand in 2017 to focus on high-performance electric cars with minimalist Scandinavian design.
4 Polestar Four
"...ninety that's built in the same factory. It's the Polestar four that would potentially be problematic. ⁓ and Volv..."
The Polestar 4 is a sleek, electric luxury SUV made by Polestar. It is unique because it does not have a back window; instead, it uses a camera and a screen to show the driver what is behind them.
The Polestar 4 is an all-electric luxury crossover coupe that is unique for completely eliminating the traditional rear window, relying instead on a high-definition digital camera system. It is positioned between the Polestar 2 and Polestar 3 in terms of size and price. It focuses on high-end performance, sustainable materials, and minimalist Scandinavian design.
Chevrolet Blazer
"...le. This time they took a twenty twenty six Chevy blazer and a nineteen ninety six S ten blazer and they r..."
The Chevrolet Blazer is a mid-sized SUV made by Chevrolet. While older versions from the 1990s were built like rugged trucks, the modern version is a smooth-riding family vehicle available in both gasoline and electric versions.
The Chevrolet Blazer nameplate currently represents a mid-size crossover SUV, which also includes a highly advanced, fully electric variant called the Blazer EV. This modern, road-focused crossover is a stark departure from the rugged, truck-based S-10 Blazer models of the 1990s. It is designed to offer sporty styling and modern technology for families.
ute
"said, a Rabfour Ute, which is what Australians call pickup trucks, the Rab Four Ute would be quite appealing."
This is a slang word used in Australia and New Zealand for a pickup truck. It originally referred to a car that had been modified to have a truck bed in the back, but now they use it for almost any small or mid-size truck.
A 'ute' (short for 'utility') is an Australian term for a passenger vehicle with a cargo bed integrated into the body, similar to a coupe utility like the Chevrolet El Camino. In modern Australian English, the term has expanded to include any light pickup truck or cab-chassis vehicle.
Chevrolet El Camino
"...ppealing. Roberto Baldwin (1:41:19) I mean a RAV4 El Camino would be rad. I mean it's just a Santa Cruz, but ..."
The Chevrolet El Camino is a classic vehicle made by Chevrolet that looks like a regular car in the front but has a pickup truck bed in the back. It was discontinued in the late 1980s but remains famous among car collectors.
The Chevrolet El Camino is a classic coupe utility vehicle produced across five generations, combining the cabin of a passenger car with an integrated cargo bed. It remains a cultural icon and the historical inspiration for modern car-based pickup trucks. It is highly popular among classic car restorers and enthusiasts.
Hyundai Santa Cruz
"...a RAV4 El Camino would be rad. I mean it's just a Santa Cruz, but it's Rabfor. Yeah. Why one one dude being li..."
The Hyundai Santa Cruz is a small vehicle made by Hyundai that looks like a comfortable SUV in the front but has a small open truck bed in the back. It is designed for people who want the easy driving of a car but need to carry dirty outdoor gear.
The Hyundai Santa Cruz is a compact sport adventure vehicle that blends the comfort and driving dynamics of a crossover SUV with the utility of a small open cargo bed. It competes in a niche market of car-based pickup trucks, offering a stylish alternative to traditional mid-size trucks. It features a highly modern interior and a comfortable, car-like ride.
Toyota RAV4
"...ite appealing. Roberto Baldwin (1:41:19) I mean a RAV4 El Camino would be rad. I mean it's just a Santa ..."
The Toyota RAV4 is a popular, mid-sized family SUV made by Toyota. It is designed to be reliable, comfortable, and fuel-efficient for daily driving.
The Toyota RAV4 is one of the best-selling compact crossover SUVs in the world, renowned for its practicality, safety, and highly efficient hybrid options. It is a frequent benchmark for everyday family transport. It offers a comfortable ride, a spacious cabin, and strong resale value.
Jeep Cherokee
"...41:36) ⁓ and then ⁓ Jeep has confirmed that ⁓ the Cherokee Trailhawk, probably you know, one of the worst ke..."
The Jeep Cherokee is a medium-sized SUV made by Jeep designed for families. The 'Trailhawk' version was built with special parts to help it drive over dirt trails and rough terrain better than standard SUVs.
The Jeep Cherokee was a long-running mid-size crossover SUV, with the rugged 'Trailhawk' trim offering genuine off-road capability in a family-friendly package. Though discontinued in 2023, Jeep has dropped strong hints about reviving the nameplate for a new generation of electrified SUVs. It historically bridged the gap between daily commuting and weekend trail riding.
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