Is This The End For Small Cars?
About this episode
The discussion centers around the decline of small cars in the automotive market, highlighted by Kia's recent discontinuation of the Soul. Guests David Thomas and Matthew Guy delve into the reasons behind this trend, including tariffs and shifting consumer preferences towards SUVs. The episode also covers the NASCAR championship race, focusing on Denny Hamlin's heartbreak after leading most of the race but ultimately losing due to a pit strategy decision and tire issues. The conversation wraps up with insights on the future of NASCAR and potential changes to the playoff format.
small cars
"...this week we talk about the death of small cars and we wrap up the NASCAR season. We talk small cars of David Thomas..."
Small cars are little vehicles that are easier to drive and park, especially in cities. They usually use less gas, which can save you money.
Small cars are typically compact vehicles that are designed for efficient use of space and fuel. They often appeal to urban drivers due to their maneuverability and lower operating costs.
NASCAR
"...we wrap up the NASCAR season. We talk small cars of David Thomas from CDK Global..."
NASCAR is a type of car racing that happens on circular tracks. It's very popular in the U.S. and involves cars that look like regular cars but are built for racing.
NASCAR, or the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, is a popular motorsport organization in the United States known for its stock car racing series. It features high-speed races on oval tracks and has a large fan following.
CDK Global
"...small cars of David Thomas from CDK Global and TTAC contributor Matthew Guy..."
CDK Global is a company that helps car dealerships with technology and services to sell cars better and connect with customers.
CDK Global is a technology company that provides software and services to the automotive industry, focusing on dealership management and customer engagement solutions.
Dacia Dusters
"...d I discuss NASCAR's championship as well as air dusters for your car. But first buying a car should feel..."
The Dacia Duster is a small SUV that is really affordable and useful for everyday driving. Many people like it because it gives you a lot of car for the price, making it a smart choice for those who don’t want to spend too much.
The Dacia Duster is a compact SUV known for its affordability and practicality. It has gained popularity in Europe and other markets for offering good value for money, making it a common choice for budget-conscious buyers.
eBay
"...that's why you should buy your next ride on eBay. See, eBay has got everything from classics to trucks and imports..."
eBay is a website where you can buy and sell many things, including cars. They make sure that the sellers are trustworthy and that you can buy safely.
eBay is an online marketplace where individuals and businesses can buy and sell a wide variety of goods, including vehicles. It offers features like secure purchases and verified sellers to enhance buyer confidence.
Fox Body
"...in your Fox body, right? I mean, you're always having a few snacks or whatever. And it's just really, really hard to get in those nooks and crannies."
The 'Fox Body' is a nickname for a specific style of Ford Mustang made between 1979 and 1993. It's popular among car fans because it's lightweight and can be easily customized.
The term 'Fox Body' refers to the Ford Mustang models produced from 1979 to 1993, known for their lightweight design and performance potential. This generation of Mustangs has a strong following among car enthusiasts and is often modified for better performance.
Wolf Box
"...this company Wolf Box WLF BOX has their own storefront on eBay. So you know, you're getting it from the company, not from a random reseller."
Wolf Box is a brand that sells car accessories, like cameras and cleaning tools, on eBay. Buying directly from them means you're getting the product straight from the company, not a random seller.
Wolf Box is a company that specializes in automotive accessories, often selling products like dash cams and other vehicle-related gadgets. They have a storefront on eBay, ensuring customers are purchasing directly from the manufacturer.
vehicle buying
"eBay has reinvented vehicle buying from click to curb. Everything's covered. It's all thanks to their new secure purchase."
Vehicle buying is how people purchase cars. It can happen online or at a dealership, and new technologies are making it safer and simpler.
Vehicle buying refers to the process of purchasing a car, which can involve various methods such as online platforms, dealerships, or private sales. The landscape of vehicle buying has evolved with technology, making it easier and more secure for consumers.
DMV
"Or maybe worst of all, wait for hours at the DMV just a chance to the title. That air is over."
The DMV is a government office where you go to get your driver's license and register your car. Many people find it can take a long time to complete these tasks.
The DMV, or Department of Motor Vehicles, is a government agency responsible for vehicle registration, driver licensing, and maintaining driving records. It's often associated with long wait times and paperwork when buying or registering a vehicle.
Kia Soul
"So what we're talking about today with Dave is the death of the small car. So the Kia Soul, which was a pretty popular vehicle, was recently killed off by Kia. And that Kia made it official."
The Kia Soul is a small car that looks like a box and is known for being roomy inside. It's popular because it's different from regular cars and is easy to drive.
The Kia Soul is a compact crossover SUV known for its distinctive boxy design and practicality. It has been popular for its spacious interior and unique styling, appealing to a diverse range of buyers.
tariffs
"...the main reason that the vehicle is not going to be profitable moving forward is because of tariffs. So when an automaker looks and obviously Kia hasn't come out and said this, but the current tariff on South Korea is still 25%."
Tariffs are extra taxes that make imported cars more expensive. This can make it hard for companies to sell certain cars profitably if the costs are too high.
Tariffs are taxes imposed on imported goods, which can increase the cost of manufacturing vehicles in a particular country. In this case, a 25% tariff on cars imported from South Korea affects the profitability of models like the Kia Soul.
Nissan Versa
"...we saw one of those with the Nissan Versa be canceled as well. But this is one coming from, I don't think people really expected these large tariffs..."
The Nissan Versa is a small and affordable car that many people buy because it's easy to drive and doesn't cost a lot of money.
The Nissan Versa is a subcompact car known for its affordability and practicality. It has been a popular choice for budget-conscious consumers looking for a reliable vehicle.
Hyundai Venue
"...e as well. What's left in the segment? Hyundai's venue is basically it, right? Yeah. And then you don't..."
The Hyundai Venue is a small SUV that looks modern and is easy to drive around town. It’s a good choice for younger people or anyone who wants a stylish car without spending too much money.
The Hyundai Venue is a subcompact SUV that stands out for its modern design and user-friendly technology. It is aimed at younger buyers looking for an affordable and stylish vehicle that is easy to drive in urban environments.
Toyota Corolla
"... popular in this country forever, whether it's a Corolla Civic or Elantra or now this K4. So it makes sens..."
Honda Civic
"... in this country forever, whether it's a Corolla Civic or Elantra or now this K4. So it makes sense. And..."
Hyundai Elantra
"...compact sedans have been popular in this country forever, whether it's a Corolla Civic or Elantra or now this K4..."
The Hyundai Elantra is a small car that looks good and has a lot of features for the price. It's a popular choice for people looking for a compact sedan.
The Hyundai Elantra is a compact sedan known for its stylish design, advanced technology features, and value for money. It competes directly with other compact cars in the market.
steel and aluminum
"the steel and aluminum are going to be expensive. Yeah, for sure. So you have car costs going up, you've got tariffs affecting vehicles based on where they're built and what materials they use."
Steel and aluminum are types of metal used to make cars. When their prices go up, it can make cars more expensive to produce.
Steel and aluminum are common materials used in car manufacturing. Their prices can fluctuate based on market conditions, affecting the overall cost of vehicles.
hatchbacks
"But a couple of things that stuck out to me, you mentioned hatchbacks not having been popular in the States in a long time. This is something that has always kind of sort of ate at me not"
Hatchbacks are cars that have a back door that opens up, allowing you to access the trunk easily. They are usually smaller and can be very practical for everyday use.
Hatchbacks are a type of car design characterized by a rear door that swings upwards, providing access to the trunk space. They are often compact and versatile, making them popular in various markets.
Volkswagen Golf
"I'm testing a Volkswagen Golf R as we speak."
The Volkswagen Golf R is a fast and sporty version of the Golf, which is a small car with a hatchback design. It's popular for its fun driving experience.
The Volkswagen Golf R is a high-performance variant of the popular Golf hatchback, known for its sporty handling and powerful engine. It's part of the Golf lineup, which has a strong following among car enthusiasts.
Kia Seltos
"there is a Kia Seltos, right? There's a small real SUV..."
The Kia Seltos is a small SUV that is popular for its stylish design and useful features. It's a good choice for city driving and has plenty of space for passengers and cargo.
The Kia Seltos is a compact SUV that combines style, practicality, and advanced technology. It is designed to cater to urban drivers looking for a versatile vehicle with ample cargo space.
body on frame
"Most of us know that SUVs can be a little more profitable, especially the body on frame ones. I know a lot of crossovers. Most crossovers are unibody, but obviously if you were a body on frame..."
Body on frame means the car's body is built on a strong frame, which is common in big vehicles like SUVs and trucks. It makes them tough and easier to fix if something goes wrong.
Body on frame is a vehicle construction method where the body is mounted on a separate frame. This design is often used in larger vehicles like SUVs and trucks, providing durability and ease of repair.
unibody
"I know a lot of crossovers. Most crossovers are unibody, but obviously if you were a body on frame, especially the larger ones..."
Unibody means the car's body and frame are made as one piece, making it lighter and usually better on gas. Most cars today use this design.
Unibody construction integrates the body and frame into a single piece, which is lighter and often more fuel-efficient. This design is common in most modern cars and crossovers.
Kia K4
"...et that are under $30,000. And you mentioned the Kia K4. You can probably get a basic cord for right aro..."
The Kia K4 is a small car that’s comfortable and packed with features, making it a good choice for everyday driving. It’s especially popular in China and offers a nice mix of style and practicality.
The Kia K4 is a compact sedan that is designed to offer a balance of comfort, technology, and affordability. It is aimed primarily at the Chinese market, providing a stylish and practical option for daily commuting.
Bristol Bullet
"...buying used? Are they buying, are they biting the bullet and spending more money on something larger? Wha..."
The Bristol Bullet is a special sports car that looks classic but has modern features. It’s lightweight and built with care, making it a favorite among car lovers who appreciate unique designs.
The Bristol Bullet is a unique sports car known for its lightweight construction and classic design. It combines traditional craftsmanship with modern performance, making it a rare find among automotive enthusiasts.
Toyota RAV4
"...The RAV4 I know is the most popular non-truck in the country. And so that volume, and it's a huge volume of vehicles, that one compact sedan."
The Toyota RAV4 is a small SUV that many families like because it has a lot of space and is reliable. It's one of the best-selling SUVs in the U.S.
The Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV that has gained immense popularity due to its spacious interior, versatility, and reliability. It is often recognized as one of the top-selling vehicles in the non-truck category in the U.S.
affordability
"...one of the top issues they have is meeting affordability for the people that come in. That they really do need affordable options."
Affordability means how easy it is for people to buy cars without spending too much money. It depends on how much money people make and how expensive the cars are.
Affordability in the automotive context refers to the ability of consumers to purchase vehicles without financial strain. This is influenced by factors like income levels, vehicle prices, and financing options.
Nissan Kicks
"But the Nissan, the regenerated or refreshed Nissan Kicks is in that, is in that box too,"
The Nissan Kicks is a small SUV that is budget-friendly and great for city driving. It has a modern look and comes with useful features without being too expensive.
The Nissan Kicks is a subcompact crossover SUV known for its affordability and efficient use of space. It offers a stylish design and a range of modern features, making it a popular choice for urban drivers.
Jaguar Mark I
"in terms of the smaller car, it's a little bit higher in price. I think it's just above, I think it's just above the 30K mark. I don't have the numbers in front of me. But the Nissan, the regenerated or refreshed Nissan kicks is in that, is in that box too,"
The Jaguar Mark I is a fancy car from the 1950s that is known for being stylish and well-made. It helped Jaguar become famous for making high-quality cars that people love.
The Jaguar Mark I is a luxury sedan produced in the 1950s, known for its elegant design and performance. It played a significant role in establishing Jaguar's reputation for quality and style in the automotive industry.
Chevrolet Trax
"...he mid 20s. And I think it's, you know, the Chevy Trax has performed really well as an affordable compa..."
The Chevy Trax is a small SUV that’s great for city driving because it’s easy to park and handle. It also has enough room inside for your stuff and comes with some nice tech features.
The Chevrolet Trax is a subcompact SUV that offers a blend of practicality and efficiency, making it a popular choice for urban drivers. Its compact size allows for easy maneuverability, while still providing ample cargo space and modern technology features.
Honda Hrv
"The HR-V is under that $30,000."
The Honda HR-V is a small SUV that is very versatile, meaning you can use it for many different purposes, like carrying passengers or cargo.
The Honda HR-V is a subcompact crossover SUV that offers versatility and practicality, making it a great choice for small families or those needing extra cargo space.
captive financing
"...if you can get a captive financing deal from the automaker on the new one, and it's 3%, and the used incentive you're getting for interest rate is 8%..."
Captive financing is when a car company provides loans or leases directly to customers. It usually comes with better interest rates than banks or credit unions.
Captive financing refers to financing offered by a car manufacturer through its own financial services division. This often includes lower interest rates or special deals to encourage customers to purchase new vehicles.
software defined vehicle
"...shift to like a software defined vehicle type idea, which almost every automaker is going to in some way, even if it's not a EV..."
A software defined vehicle is a car that uses a lot of computer software to manage its features and functions. This means that many aspects of the car are controlled by software instead of just mechanical parts.
A software defined vehicle is a car that relies heavily on software to control various functions and features, often integrating advanced technology such as connectivity and automation. This trend is becoming common among automakers as they aim to enhance user experience and vehicle performance.
clutch
"...I also wanted to mention that Hamlin also fought a clutch issue all day. So good for him for being able to baby that clutch until the race finished..."
The clutch is a part of the car that helps you change gears. It connects and disconnects the engine from the wheels, making it easier to shift gears while driving.
The clutch is a crucial component in a vehicle's transmission system that allows the driver to engage and disengage the engine from the wheels. It plays a vital role in shifting gears and controlling the power transfer from the engine to the drivetrain.
blown tire
"...some driver was heading to the pits with a blown tire or, or there was a caution flag because of a blown tire. And each of the championship four..."
A blown tire means the tire has burst or lost air, which can make it hard for the car to drive properly. Drivers need to stop and change it to continue racing safely.
A blown tire refers to a tire that has ruptured or lost air pressure, often leading to loss of control and requiring the driver to pit for a replacement. This can significantly impact a race, especially in critical moments.
Goodyear
"...I don't think any consumers are going to stop buying Goodyear tires because, because very few consumers care and those who do can differentiate between race car tires and the car tires..."
Goodyear is a popular tire brand that makes tires for cars, trucks, and racing. They are known for their performance tires used in NASCAR races.
Goodyear is a well-known American tire manufacturer, recognized for producing tires for various vehicles, including race cars and consumer vehicles. In the context of racing, Goodyear supplies specialized tires designed to withstand the high demands of motorsport.
Chrysler Daytonas
"as we, as we talked about Phoenix. And then, so December's a full month, January's a full month, Daytona's like mid February. So two and a half, almost three months, essentially, if I'm doing my math correctly. So we've got plenty of time. And don't worry fans who, who like track talk,"
The Chrysler Daytona is a sporty car from the 1980s that was made for speed and style. It’s remembered for its cool design and is part of Chrysler's history in racing.
The Chrysler Daytona is a classic American sports car that was produced in the 1980s, known for its aerodynamic design and performance. It represents a significant era in Chrysler's history, particularly in the realm of motorsports and performance vehicles.
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