0:00 / 0:00
New Lexus ES, Airbag Thefts on the Rise, Best Adventure Vehicles

New Lexus ES, Airbag Thefts on the Rise, Best Adventure Vehicles

Car Stuff Podcast Jun 02, 2026 62 min
0:00
0:00

About this episode

The Car Stuff Podcast jumps between big auto news and practical buying talk: the hosts confirm the Volkswagen ID Buzz is returning for 2027, then dig into rising steering-wheel airbag thefts—especially on Honda models—explaining the fast, hard-to-trace black-market cycle and the repair costs. Lexus ES coverage follows, including the all-new 2026 hybrid/EV lineup, pricing, and charging quirks. The episode also features their adventure-vehicle awards, with winners across off-road, camping, and road-trip categories.

Technical Too Afraid to Ask
Car

Volkswagen Id

"Okay. Turns out the Volkswagen ID buzz will indeed return for 2027. Okay."

The Volkswagen ID. Buzz is an electric van. It’s designed to carry people and gear, and it has a distinctive, van-like shape. The podcast says it’s coming back for 2027, which matters if you’re waiting for an electric van.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

range

"Nothing mechanically has changed, so range has not improved, which was a problem. But one of the interesting things that they've done is that they made the cool two-tone paint jobs available on the base models."

For an electric car, “range” is how many miles it can go before the battery runs out. They’re saying the new version doesn’t go farther than before, which could hurt sales.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

two-tone paint jobs

"But one of the interesting things that they've done is that they made the cool two-tone paint jobs available on the base models."

Two-tone paint means the van has two different colors instead of one. In this case, the host is saying you can get that look without paying extra.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

base models

"they made the cool two-tone paint jobs available on the base models. So you no longer have to pay an extra 10 grand to get the orange or the green or the yellow."

“Base model” just means the entry-level version of the car. Here, it matters because the nicer paint option is now available without upgrading to a more expensive trim.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Hyundai Santa

"...Reuters story that said it was going away was the Hyundai Santa Cruz. So it's not going away either."

The Hyundai Santa Fe is a midsize SUV. It’s a regular family vehicle meant for everyday driving and road trips. In the podcast, it’s mentioned while talking about which Hyundai models are staying in the lineup.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Hyundai Santa Cruz

"But the other two vehicles or the other vehicle that is not gone that I think we had previously reported was going away because apparently there was a Reuters story that said it was going away was the Hyundai Santa Cruz. So it's not going away either."

The Hyundai Santa Cruz is a small SUV-like vehicle that also has a pickup-style bed for hauling. It’s popular with people who want some truck usefulness but don’t want a full-size pickup.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

compact trucks

"So there are still two compact trucks in the segment with a Maverick and a Hyundai."

“Compact trucks” means smaller pickup trucks. They’re usually cheaper and easier to live with than big trucks, and the hosts are talking about that market segment.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Ford Maverick

"Part of the problem is it comes in a little expensive for what it is. And since it launched, the Ford Maverick redefined what that segment is."

The Ford Maverick is a small pickup truck that’s known for being cheaper than most trucks. In this discussion, it’s mentioned as the reason the compact-truck market changed.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

crossover with a pickup bed

"And one of the things that segment isn't is a crossover with a pickup bed, which is very much what the Santa Cruz is."

This phrase means an SUV-like vehicle that also has a small pickup bed. It’s a way of describing the Santa Cruz’s mix of comfort and hauling space.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Company

Auto Savvy

"And one of his listeners sent me a question about a company called Auto Savvy. Auto Savvy is a retailer of used vehicles used that sells vehicles under something called a branded title."

Auto Savvy is a used-car seller. They sell cars that insurance companies previously wrote off, then they fix them up and sell them again with special paperwork.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

branded title

"used that sells vehicles under something called a branded title. Branded title probably doesn't mean a lot to some people in different states because automotive titles are handled at the state level."

A branded title is special paperwork on a used car that tells you it had a major problem in the past. It’s basically the car’s “history label,” and it can affect resale value and insurance.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

salvage title

"which means that in the US, it's like an Illinois, it's like a salvage title."

A salvage title means an insurance company decided the car was a total loss. Even after repairs, the car’s paperwork still reflects that past damage.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Concept

fix the car yourself

"to buy a car from them, I think you need to be a little brave. I think you need to be willing to gamble and be prepared to fix the car yourself, perhaps, or do something to keep it running."

The host frames buying these branded-title vehicles as requiring hands-on ownership—either repairing issues yourself or taking steps to keep the car running. This is a common reality with heavily damaged or previously written-off cars, where condition can vary widely.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

airbag

"people around me saying that their vehicle has been broken into [542.7s] and their airbag has been stolen and they are overwhelmingly Honda vehicles. [548.3s] I've seen a lot of Honda CRVs, but also Accords and Civics being broken into."

An airbag is a safety cushion that pops out in a crash to help protect you. If someone steals it, the car can’t protect you the same way, and fixing it can cost a lot.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Honda Crvs

"I've seen a lot of Honda CRVs, but also Accords and Civics being broken into. [553.8s] And literally, the only thing that is being taken is their airbag."

The Honda CR-V is a common SUV. The host says it’s showing up a lot in reports where thieves break in and steal the airbag.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Honda Accord

"I've seen a lot of Honda CRVs, but also Accords and Civics being broken into. [553.8s] And literally, the only thing that is being taken is their airbag."

The Honda Accord is a common Honda sedan. The host says thieves are breaking in and stealing the airbag, and that’s the main item taken.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

black market

"created this vicious cycle of [592.3s] airbags getting stolen to put on the black market to sell to somebody [595.9s] who actually needs to replace their airbags."

A black market is an illegal place where stolen items get sold. The idea here is that stolen airbags are being resold illegally instead of through normal repair parts channels.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

out-of-pocket cost

"And, you know, so they're saying that the total out-of-pocket [636.4s] cost for repairing this is going to be anywhere from $2,000 to $3,500,"

Out-of-pocket cost is what you pay yourself. Here, it means the total bill for fixing the stolen/possibly damaged airbag and related damage can be thousands of dollars.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Honda Civic

"which if you have an older, you know, Honda Civic or CRV, it may not be worth the repair."

The Honda Civic is a very common Honda compact car. The hosts mention it to illustrate that if an older Civic needs an expensive repair, it might not make financial sense—especially if you’re not insured.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

steering wheel lock

"So, they're saying, you know, using a steering wheel lock or, you know, anti theft window film and,"

A steering wheel lock is a clamp that locks the steering wheel so the car is harder to steal. The hosts mention it as one of the anti-theft ideas people recommend.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

anti theft window film

"using a steering wheel lock or, you know, anti theft window film and,"

Anti-theft window film is a film you put on the windows to make them tougher to break. The hosts mention it as another possible deterrent against car break-ins.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

serial number

"And that's that there's no serial number on the airbags. No. So they can't be identified as stolen."

A serial number is a unique tag that helps identify a specific part. The hosts say airbags don’t have one, so it’s harder for police to tell if a replacement airbag was stolen.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

parts commonality

"But the other problem is parts commonality. And that's that the cards you're talking about, the Honda civics,"

Parts commonality means different cars use the same parts. If thieves can steal one shared part that fits many cars, it’s easier for them to steal and sell.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Acura Integra
DestinationFearFan (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Car

Acura Integra

"And that's that the cards you're talking about, the Honda civics, some accords, the Acura Integra, whatever the Acura was before that PIL."

The Acura Integra is a Honda-family car sold under the Acura brand. The host is saying thieves go after it because it shares the same airbag part with other cars, making theft and resale simpler.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

platinum and palladium prices

"And one of the interesting things is I checked today. Platinum and palladium prices are very high."

Platinum and palladium are precious metals used in catalytic converters to help convert harmful exhaust gases into less harmful emissions. When their market prices rise, catalytic converter theft becomes more profitable, which the host connects to the broader theft discussion.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

catalytic converter thefts

"So you would think that there's still be a lot of catalytic converter thefts, but actually they're down a lot, which I think a couple of things happen."

Catalytic converter thefts are when criminals steal the catalytic converter from a vehicle, usually to sell the precious metals inside. The host notes that even though platinum and palladium prices are high, catalytic converter thefts are “down a lot,” suggesting thieves may be shifting to other targets like airbags.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

spray painted their catalytic converters paint

"but actually they're down a lot, which I think a couple of things happen. But I think a lot of people actually spray painted their catalytic converters paint."

Spray painting catalytic converters is a deterrence tactic: it can make stolen parts harder to resell because they’re visibly marked. The host suggests this behavior is one reason catalytic converter thefts are down.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

mesh you could wrap around some of them

"And I think that there's that mesh you could wrap around some of them. Also, I think the demand was met."

A mesh guard is a protective cover that makes it harder for thieves to get to the catalytic converter. The host is saying some people are using this kind of protection.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

three grand

"They're not making much money off of these things. Between 50 and 200 bucks. But as you've noted, it can cost you three grand to fix the problem."

“Three grand” is shorthand for roughly $3,000 in repair costs, which the host says it can take to fix the damage from theft. This highlights that even if stolen parts sell for relatively low amounts, the replacement and labor costs can be very high.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

club

"So a club is great. Is somehow they've got to shove that out of the way to get to the steering wheel? Or if you could just wrap something around your steering wheel."

A club is a lock device you put on the steering wheel to make the car harder to steal. It doesn’t guarantee safety, but it can slow thieves down enough that they choose another car.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

ring doorbell

"I mean, other than other than the club, you know, or, you know, if you're parking in front of your house and you have a camera like a ring doorbell or something"

A Ring Doorbell is a consumer smart doorbell camera that records video when it detects motion or a person. In car-theft prevention, the value is evidence: it can capture the thief’s actions and identity even if it can’t stop the theft.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

wireless

"You know, you could potentially, I mean, a lot of cameras these days are like they're not, they're wireless, so you could put a camera in your car."

Wireless just means the camera doesn’t need a cable connection. That can make it easier to set up a camera to film the theft.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

side impact

"They're not stealing the passenger side ones or side airbags or side impact or knee airbags. It's specifically the steering wheel ones because they're so gosh darn easy to get out."

Side-impact means a crash where something hits the car from the side. Side-impact airbags are the airbags meant to protect you in that kind of crash, and the episode says thieves aren’t going after those ones.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

2026 Lexus ES

"Lexus really late to the game here in 2026 rolling out a replacement for its popular midsize sedan. ... So coming out this month, they have the all new 2026 Lexus ES. It is both a hybrid and an electric vehicle."

The Lexus ES is a midsize family sedan. In 2026, Lexus is updating it so you can get it with different kinds of power—one version is hybrid and another is electric—while keeping the same basic car.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

badging

"They look exactly alike except for the badging on the back."

Badging refers to the brand/model nameplates and trim identifiers on a vehicle’s exterior. In this segment, the host says the electric and hybrid ES look almost identical except for the rear badging and a front design detail.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

grill

"And then the hybrid has like a slot on the nose that denotes like this is the grill that's letting air into the engine."

The grille is the front opening on a car. It helps bring in air to cool the engine and other parts that need airflow.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

hybrid powertrains

"I mean, Lexus and Toyota do an amazing job with their hybrid powertrains. And, you know, this is smooth, seamless."

A hybrid uses two kinds of power: a gas engine and an electric motor. It can switch between them depending on how you’re driving to help with efficiency and smoothness.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

destination fees

"So the base model is $48,895 with destination fees."

Destination fees are the cost to ship the car from where it’s built to the dealership. It’s why the final price is usually higher than the base number.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

horsepower

"And then although the base electric is a little low on power, is it about 225 horsepower or something like that?"

Horsepower is a number that describes how much power a car’s engine or electric motor can make. Higher horsepower usually means the car can accelerate more strongly, though it’s not the only factor.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

instantaneous torque

"So the base electric is 221 horsepower, but I'm going to tell you with the instantaneous torque, I don't think that matters."

Torque is the twisting force that helps the car accelerate. “Instantaneous” means the electric motor can deliver that force right away, so the car feels quick off the line.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

front wheel drive

"And, you know, if you go for the 500e, so it's the 350e is going to be front wheel drive, 221 horsepower, the 500e is going to be all wheel drive dual motor, 338 horsepower."

Front-wheel drive means the front wheels do the work of moving the car. That changes how the car grips and turns compared with cars where the power goes to more wheels.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Mercedes-Benz 500E

"...nk that matters. And, you know, if you go for the 500e, so it's the 350e is going to be front wheel driv..."

The Mercedes-Benz 500E is a luxury sedan with a strong performance focus. The podcast talks about how power is delivered, including that a related model (the 350e) would drive the front wheels. That helps explain how the cars may handle differently.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

all wheel drive dual motor

"221 horsepower, the 500e is going to be all wheel drive dual motor, 338 horsepower."

All-wheel drive (AWD) sends power to both the front and rear axles, which can improve traction and stability. “Dual motor” means there are two electric motors (typically one per axle), allowing the car to distribute torque between wheels more flexibly than a single-motor setup.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

drivetrain

"And I mean, I noticed a bigger difference between the all wheel drive and the front wheel drive drivetrain, like when you were rounding corners and things like that, you could feel the movement of the vehicle differently."

The drivetrain is everything that sends power to the wheels. If the car sends power to different wheels (like front-only vs all wheels), it can feel different when turning.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Toyota Crown

"It looks surprisingly like the Toyota Crown to me in silhouette. And I did some checking and it is mechanically very similar to the Toyota Crown,"

The Toyota Crown is a Toyota sedan that’s meant to feel more upscale than a typical family car. Here, the host is saying the new Lexus ES looks similar to it and even shares similar mechanical parts, even though it’s a Lexus.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Toyota Avalon

"which makes sense because the old Toyota Avalon was the basis for the old Lexus ES."

The Toyota Avalon is a Toyota sedan. The host is saying the Lexus ES used to be based on it, which helps explain why Lexus and Toyota cars can feel mechanically similar.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

ottoman

"where they allow you, like behind the passenger side, you can put out an ottoman and recline and there's massaging seats."

An ottoman is a footrest. Here, the host is saying the rear seat has a built-in footrest that pops out so you can recline and relax.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

executive package

"they have included an executive package where they allow you, like behind the passenger side, you can put out an ottoman and recline and there's massaging seats."

An executive package is a bundle of nicer comfort options. In this Lexus ES, it includes rear-seat features meant for relaxing—like a footrest, reclining, and even seat massage.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Lexus LS

"Yeah, I think part of the reason that that's included too is that this vehicle now builds the space that was also occupied by the larger LS, which has been discontinued."

The Lexus LS is Lexus’s top, most expensive luxury sedan. The host is saying that since the LS is discontinued, the newer ES is trying to give you some of that extra space and comfort.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

infotainment system

"It's got Lexus's newest infotainment system and the battery electric version."

An infotainment system is the car’s main screen and controls for things like music and navigation. Here, it’s also used to help plan EV charging stops.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

route planning

"You have the they now have route planning in it. So it will like if you were going from Chicago to Indianapolis, it would tell you how many miles it would take to get there."

Route planning is the navigation feature that helps you plan your trip. For an EV, it can suggest where to stop to charge and how long you’ll likely need.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

charging stations

"it would show you all the charging stations that are along the way and how long you would have to stop at the charging station."

Charging stations are the public places you plug an electric car into to recharge it. The navigation can show them along your route and help you plan stops.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

one pedal driving

"One, there is no one pedal driving."

One-pedal driving is when you can slow down mostly by just lifting off the gas pedal. The speaker is saying this car doesn’t do that, so you’ll likely use the brake pedal more.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

charge port

"but you have to turn off the car in order to open the charge port. And you cannot open the charge port from inside the car."

The charge port is where you plug the EV’s charging cable in. They’re saying this car makes you turn the car off and get out to open it, instead of opening it from inside.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Ford Bronco Sport

"...out best SUVs for off-roading. Subcompact SUV for Bronco Sport. Bronco Sports based on the escape platform,"

The Ford Bronco Sport is a smaller SUV designed for light off-road driving. It’s meant to handle rough roads better than a typical commuter SUV. The podcast also points out it’s related to the Escape, which helps explain how it’s built.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Ford Escape

"... SUV for Bronco Sport. Bronco Sports based on the escape platform, and the escape is going away."

The Ford Escape is a compact SUV. It’s mentioned because the Bronco Sport is built on the Escape’s underlying design. The podcast also notes that the Escape is being discontinued.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

platform

"Bronco Sports based on the escape platform, and the escape is going away."

A platform is the car’s basic “skeleton” that engineers reuse across different models. If two cars share a platform, they’re built on similar underlying parts and layouts.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Jeep Wrangler

"Best compact SUV for off-roading is probably the most obvious vehicle on this list, and that is the Jeep Wrangler. You're not going to give off road awards"

The Jeep Wrangler is one of the most famous off-road SUVs. In this segment, the host is basically saying it’s the obvious choice when you’re talking about off-roading.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Bronco

"Best mid-sized SUV for Bronco. A lot of people don't realize how much bigger the Bronco is than the Wrangler, but it's a much larger,"

The Ford Bronco is a bigger off-road SUV than the Bronco Sport. The host is pointing out that it’s actually much larger than the Jeep Wrangler, even if people don’t realize it.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Nissan Amada Pro 4x

"But, you know, the Nissan Amada Pro 4x. [1665.1s] Is a good value."

The Nissan Armada is a big SUV meant for carrying people and gear comfortably, and it’s built to handle tougher situations than a small crossover. “Pro-4x” is a higher trim that’s usually set up for more off-road use, and the hosts are saying it works both for trips and everyday driving.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Concept

good value

"But, you know, the Nissan Amada Pro 4x. [1665.1s] Is a good value."

“Good value” here means the SUV seems worth the money for what it can do. The hosts are saying it’s a smart choice because it works for both weekend trips and normal daily driving.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

truck-based SUVs

"including a bunch of truck-based SUVs, [1703.6s] Expedition, Tahoe, Yukon."

A “truck-based SUV” is built on a sturdier foundation similar to pickup trucks. That often makes it better at hauling and handling rougher conditions, which is why it’s popular for people who want one vehicle for both trips and everyday driving.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Ford Expedition

"including a bunch of truck-based SUVs, Expedition, Tahoe, Yukon. But, Amada, you know, when you loo..."

The Ford Expedition is a large SUV. It’s made for carrying people and gear, and it can be used for towing. It’s mentioned with other big SUVs because they’re similar in size and purpose.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Chevrolet Suburban

"...priced it right in there with like Expedition and Suburban. And it was new to the market."

The Chevrolet Suburban is a big SUV made to fit more people and cargo. It’s built for families who need lots of space. It’s often discussed alongside other large SUVs because it competes on size and usefulness.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

GMC Yukon

"Yeah, when you're looking at, you know, a GMC Yukon [1753.0s] that's $100,000, that's a tough deal to take."

The GMC Yukon is a large SUV. They’re using it as an example of how expensive big SUVs have gotten—some are now around $100,000.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Toyota RAV4 Woodland

"it was a little bit of a surprise too, [1767.8s] but when you look at the numbers, [1769.5s] it comes out on top. [1771.5s] Toyota RAV4 Woodland. [1773.5s] Okay."

The Toyota RAV4 Woodland is a special version of the RAV4 made for people who want a little more adventure capability. They’re saying it’s the best choice because it’s efficient as a hybrid and still practical.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Land Rover Defender

"Luxury SUV for off-roading, Land Rover Defender. [1800.3s] It's a light full vehicle. [1802.2s] For this one, it came down to kind of the Defender [1805.5s] and the Lexus GX. [1813.5s] but the Defender, when we looked at the numbers, [1816.8s] approach and departure angles really helped it out."

The Land Rover Defender is a tough, off-road-focused SUV. The hosts are saying it does especially well on trails because its shape helps it climb obstacles and drop down without scraping the front or rear.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Lexus Gx

"For this one, it came down to kind of the Defender [1805.5s] and the Lexus GX. [1809.6s] Two very different flavors of the same thing,"

The Lexus GX is a luxury SUV that’s meant to handle rough roads and trails. In this discussion, it’s being compared to the Defender to show two different ways to do off-roading.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

approach and departure angles

"[1813.5s] but the Defender, when we looked at the numbers, [1816.8s] approach and departure angles really helped it out. [1820.1s] Okay."

These are measurements of how well a vehicle can handle steep bumps and dips. If the angles are good, the front and rear are less likely to hit the ground when you go over obstacles.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Rivian R1S

"And then you have an EV. [1826.5s] Yes, the Rivian R1S. [1829.3s] Cool. [1830.0s] Again, a tough category because the numbers between it [1834.3s] and the Hummer EV off-roading were very, very close."

The Rivian R1S is an electric SUV designed for outdoor/adventure driving. They’re comparing it to another electric off-roader and saying the results are very close.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Hummer Ev

"...h category because the numbers between it and the Hummer EV off-roading were very, very close. Or are they?"

The Hummer EV SUV is an electric SUV designed for off-road driving. It’s meant to be tough and capable on rough terrain. The podcast compares it to another similar Hummer EV to see how close their off-road results are.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

energy efficient

"but it's not actually energy efficient. It just has a monstrous battery."

Energy efficiency means how much driving you get out of the energy you put in. The host is saying a huge battery can mean you’re not using that energy as efficiently as you could.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

monstrous battery

"It just has a monstrous battery. The battery unit weighs more than a Mazda Miata."

In an electric car, the battery is the heavy pack that stores electricity. The host is emphasizing that this one is extremely large and heavy.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Mazda MX-5 / Miata

"...attery. The battery unit weighs more than a Mazda Miata. There's, okay, by point exactly."

The Mazda Miata is a small two-seat sports car. It’s designed to feel quick and fun to drive, especially in corners. It comes up in comparisons because it’s very light for its size.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Toyota Tacoma

"...he pickups. Midsize pickup for off-roading Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro. Another tough category, some great compe..."

The Toyota Tacoma is a midsize pickup truck. The TRD Pro version is set up for off-road driving with more rugged equipment. It’s discussed because it’s one of the go-to trucks for people who want to drive on rough terrain.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Jeep Gladiator

"... competitors. Colorado ZR2, GMC Canyon, AT4, Jeep Gladiator. But the Tacoma just is an all around better pack..."

The Jeep Gladiator is a pickup truck that’s designed to handle off-road driving. It has a truck bed like other pickups, but it’s built with off-road features. The podcast mentions it as one of the main options in the off-road midsize truck group.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Gmc Canyon

"...h category, some great competitors. Colorado ZR2, GMC Canyon, AT4, Jeep Gladiator. But the Tacoma just is an a..."

The GMC Canyon Crew Cab is a midsize pickup with a larger back seat area. It’s meant to carry more people while still being a pickup for hauling. The podcast includes it when talking about off-road-capable midsize trucks.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Ford F150

"False size pickup for off-roading, Ford F-150. [1925.5s] You have two main off-road models of that, [1929.5s] the Trevor and the Raptor. ... [1942.9s] Well, and I just want to say the Ford F-150 from a petite person's [1946.7s] perspective, like that's just my favorite truck period, ... [1962.8s] The kick down windows, like at the front by the A-pillar, [1966.4s] they just kind of drop down, which allows you to lower the side mirrors"

The Ford F-150 is a popular full-size pickup truck. Here they’re talking about a visibility feature where part of the window can drop down so the side mirrors can be positioned lower, helping you see around them with fewer blind spots.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

F-150 Raptor

"... main off-road models of that, the Trevor and the Raptor. So there's kind of an off-roader for, you know, ..."

The Ford F-150 is a full-size pickup truck. It’s available in different versions, including off-road-focused models. The podcast mentions it because some trims are specifically built for rough terrain.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

blind spots

"And it just, you get really good visibility and very few blind spots. [1958.7s] So I don't know if everyone knows what you're talking about."

Blind spots are parts of the road around your car that you can’t see well from the driver’s seat. The hosts say the F-150’s mirror/window setup helps you see those areas better.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

A-pillar

"The kick down windows, like at the front by the A-pillar, [1966.4s] they just kind of drop down, which allows you to lower the side mirrors"

The A-pillar is the vertical metal support at the front of the car, near where the windshield meets the side window. The hosts mention it because the window feature they’re describing is near that front pillar area.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

adjustable pedals

" [1991.7s] And, you know, Jill, does the Ford still have the adjustable pedals? [1996.0s] It does. So does the Ram."

Adjustable pedals let you move the gas and brake closer or farther away. That can make it easier to drive comfortably and reach the controls without stretching.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Dodge Ram

"It does. So does the Ram. The Ram and the Ford are the only two pickup tru..."

The Ram is a full-size pickup truck. It’s built to haul and tow, and it can be configured in different ways depending on what you need. The podcast mentions it because it’s one of the main pickup choices being compared.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Rivian R1T

" [2005.1s] Best electric pickup for off-roading Rivian R1T. [2010.0s] Another tough category."

The Rivian R1T is an electric pickup truck built with off-road driving in mind. Here, the hosts are saying it’s the best EV truck if you want to take it off the pavement.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Chevrolet Silverado EV

"...tough category. And again, against the Hummer and Silverado EV, but the truck that you want to live with every d..."

The Chevrolet Silverado EV is an electric pickup truck. It’s meant for people who want the usefulness of a truck but with electricity instead of gasoline. The podcast compares it to other electric trucks and focuses on how easy it is to live with.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Tucson Hybrid

"[2078.9s] Best compact SUV for camping. [2081.0s] Hyundai Tucson. [2083.5s] What are the Tucson and the Tucson hybrid in the next category?"

The Hyundai Tucson is a popular compact SUV that comes in different versions, including a hybrid. Here they’re talking about it as a camping-friendly choice, mainly because of how much stuff you can carry.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

GMC Acadia

"[2125.1s] Mid-size SUV for camping, GMC Acadia. [2129.2s] GMC did very well in these awards. [2132.6s] You know, they talk about themselves as being like a luxury adventure brand."

The GMC Acadia is a bigger SUV meant for more passengers and more cargo. In this segment, they’re recommending it for camping because it has the space to carry what you need.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

static and dynamic

"We looked at cargo space. [2165.0s] We looked at roof capacity, both static and dynamic. [2169.7s] We looked at fuel efficiency even on this one because you have to get there."

When people talk about roof capacity, they mean two things: how much weight the roof can hold when you’re not moving, and how much it can safely handle while you’re driving. That matters if you’re carrying a tent or cargo on top.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Grand Highlander Hybrid

"We looked at fuel efficiency even on this one because you have to get there. [2175.9s] Best mid-size hybrid SUV for camping, Grand Highlander Hybrid. [2181.1s] And that's a vehicle that we just reclassified into mid-size."

This is a Toyota SUV with a hybrid powertrain, meaning it’s designed to be efficient for trips. The hosts are talking about whether it has the right size and space for camping gear and sleeping in the vehicle.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Mazda Cx70

"A lot. Do you find the CX-70 and the CX-90 hybrid drivetrains to be deficient in terms of smoothness and just general progressiveness?"

The Mazda CX-70 is an SUV. The podcast is talking about how its hybrid system feels when you drive—especially whether it feels smooth. This matters because some hybrids can feel different depending on how the power is delivered.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

inline six

"They the inline six in the non-hybrid, non-plugin hybrid is so smooth. When you pop into a plug-in, you realize how not smooth it is."

An inline six is an engine with six cylinders lined up in a row. People often say it feels smooth because it runs in a very balanced, even way.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

plug-in hybrid

"When you pop into a plug-in, you realize how not smooth it is. All right. We're on the same page."

A plug-in hybrid is a car that uses both gas and electricity, and you can charge it from a plug. Since it can drive on electricity sometimes, it can feel different than a regular hybrid.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Jeep Grand Cherokee

"It just, it was Grand Cherokee. I am now out of my Grand Cherokee and into a Genesis GV-70."

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a popular SUV from Jeep. Here it’s mentioned as the person’s previous vehicle before switching to something they found smoother.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Genesis GV70

"It just, it was Grand Cherokee. I am now out of my Grand Cherokee and into a Genesis GV-70. Oh, well, that's smoother."

The Genesis GV70 is a luxury SUV. It’s meant to feel more comfortable and refined than many non-luxury SUVs. The podcast mentions it as an upgrade for smoother driving.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

GMC Yukon XL

"Best large SUV for camping and that is the GMC Yukon XL, the long wheelbase Yukon, suburban in GMC clothing."

The GMC Yukon XL is a big SUV with extra room inside because it has a longer wheelbase. The host recommends it for camping because it has space for gear and people.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Hyundai Ioniq

"...n in GMC clothing. Best electric SUV for camping, Hyundai Ioniq 9, tons of cargo room, good range. A lot of featu..."

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is an electric SUV, meaning it runs on electricity instead of gasoline. It’s described as good for camping because it has a lot of space for gear and enough driving range for trips. The podcast is using it as an example of a practical EV SUV.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

power take-offs

"Also, power take-offs. Great looking. Best minivan for camping, Kia Carnival."

Power take-offs are built-in power outlets for running gear outside the car. For camping, that can help you power things like lights or chargers without bringing extra equipment.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

Kia Carnival

"Best minivan for camping, Kia Carnival. Okay."

The Kia Carnival is a minivan that’s built for hauling people and gear. The host recommends it for camping because it has practical space for luggage and supplies.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Term

pro-power on board

"And that has pro-power on board. Oh, okay. I was going to say zone lighting."

“Pro Power On Board” means the truck can supply electricity from built-in power outlets. For camping, that can run lights or charge devices without bringing a separate generator.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Car

GMC Sierra EV

"Best electric pickup for camping because people do that. GMC Sierra EV."

The GMC Sierra EV is an electric version of the Sierra pickup. The hosts are saying it works well for camping because it can provide power and still feels like a real truck.

Sign in to suggest edits or report issues
Loading more...
68 cars featured

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.

Explore Terms

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.

Report incorrect info
Suggest better explanations
Flag missing cars