{"version":"1.0.0","episode":{"title":"New Lexus ES, Toyota Crown Signia Review, War and the Auto Industry","url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/new-lexus-es-toyota-crown-signia-review-war-and-the-auto-industry","audioUrl":"https://pscrb.fm/rss/p/mgln.ai/e/1385/injector.simplecastaudio.com/acaf4dd6-46d2-4c27-bf92-b499221aec9a/episodes/ddaedc24-d4f2-4567-8e8e-b85e39e63e68/audio/128/default.mp3?aid=rss_feed&awCollectionId=acaf4dd6-46d2-4c27-bf92-b499221aec9a&awEpisodeId=ddaedc24-d4f2-4567-8e8e-b85e39e63e68&feed=YUUOu_sR","description":"Jill opens this week's show with a correction. Listen in for her begrudging mea culpa. The hosts go on to discuss briefly Tom's time in the Toyota Corolla Hybrid SE AWD. Toms's review of the car is live now on ConsumerGuide.com.\nTom shares a few details of the coming redesigned Lexus ES midsize sedan. New for 2026 is an EV variant of the popular model, while other examples of the ES will be hybrid only. Listen in for details.\nStill in the first segment, Jill reviews the Toyota Crown Signia. Both hosts are fans of the wagon-like midsize car, but agree that it may be slightly over promoted as a luxury vehicle.\nIn the second segment, Jill and Tom welcome Jamie Butters of the Butters Bureau to the show. Jamie shares his take on how the Iran conflict will impact U.S. auto sales. Jamie also talks about Toyota's counterintuitive move deeper into EV sales at a time the rest of the industry is recoiling. Listen in for details.\nIn the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom's \"It's a Fact!\" quiz, after which Tom shares some interesting Porsche sales statistics.\n \n  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising."},"annotations":[{"startTime":4.72,"endTime":9.5,"type":"car","title":"Toyota Tacoma","url":"/cars/toyota/tacoma","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/ca/Second_Gen_Toyota_Tacoma_on_Snowy_Mountain_-_2019.jpg","quote":"Soften your focus and visualize yourself off-roading in a Tacoma! Now engage your senses. What do you hear?","canonicalId":"car:toyota:tacoma","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"The Toyota Tacoma is a midsize pickup truck known for off-road capability and everyday usability. In ads, it’s often used to evoke trail-ready features like ground clearance and four-wheel-drive options.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Toyota Tacoma is a pickup truck made by Toyota. People like it because it can handle rough roads and it’s also useful for normal driving.","imageAttribution":"Noah Wulf (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":161.5,"endTime":167.2,"type":"concept","title":"North American Car of the Year","url":"/glossary/north-american-car-of-the-year","quote":"[161.5s]  North American Car of the Year juror and a prolific freelancer. How are you?\n[167.2s]  I am doing okay. The weather's a little bit colder than I want.","canonicalId":"concept:north-american-car-of-the-year","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"“North American Car of the Year” is an annual award that recognizes standout new vehicles sold in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Jurors evaluate cars based on overall excellence, including design, engineering, and value for buyers.","simplifiedExplanation":"It’s a yearly award for new cars sold in North America. Judges look at things like how good the car is overall and whether it’s a smart buy."}},{"startTime":252.28,"endTime":255.18,"type":"car","title":"Audi A8","url":"/cars/audi/a8","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/31/2018_Audi_A8_50_TDi_Quattro_Automatic_3.0.jpg","quote":"I'm not sorry.  The Audi A8, we said that was going away.  It's going away, b...","canonicalId":"car:audi:a8","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"The Audi A8 is a full-size luxury sedan known for high-end comfort and a flagship positioning within Audi’s lineup. The podcast says it’s going away, indicating an end to that model’s run and a shift in what Audi will offer in the large-luxury segment. It’s discussed because model discontinuations affect what buyers can buy and what replaces it in the lineup.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Audi A8 is a large luxury sedan. The podcast says it’s being discontinued, meaning it won’t be sold as a model going forward.","imageAttribution":"Vauxford (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":303.2,"endTime":308.5,"type":"concept","title":"hybrid","url":"/glossary/hybrid","quote":"...virtually ever Lexus is now also available as a hybrid. But this is interesting to me, and what's really interesting to me is if you look at these cars...","canonicalId":"concept:hybrid","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.95,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"A hybrid uses two power sources—typically a gasoline engine plus an electric motor—to improve efficiency and reduce fuel use. In the context of Lexus and Toyota, hybrids are a central strategy for meeting modern emissions and fuel-economy expectations.","simplifiedExplanation":"A hybrid uses both a gas engine and an electric motor. The goal is usually better gas mileage and lower emissions than a regular gas-only car."}},{"startTime":308.52,"endTime":318.82,"type":"car","title":"Toyota Crown","url":"/cars/toyota/crown","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/7f/2025_Toyota_Crown_Signia_Hybrid_Limited_%28United_States%29_front_view.png","quote":"...ses, but they also look very much like the Toyota Crown, which they are.  Basically how the ES used to be...","canonicalId":"car:toyota:crown","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"The Toyota Crown is a long-running Toyota nameplate that’s positioned as a more premium sedan than typical mainstream models. The podcast connects it to the Lexus ES by saying the ES used to be more or less a Camry, while the Crown is now more closely aligned with the ES’s direction. It’s discussed because it helps explain how Toyota’s branding and model positioning have shifted over time.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Toyota Crown is a Toyota sedan that’s meant to feel more upscale than a basic everyday model. The podcast mentions it to explain how another Toyota-related model’s role changed, and how the Crown fits that picture now.","imageAttribution":"Autosdeprimera (CC BY 3.0)"}},{"startTime":320.38,"endTime":324.94,"type":"car","title":"Toyota Camry","url":"/cars/toyota/camry","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/bc/%28USA-Massachusetts%29_Private_Toyota_Camry_NJ-Z22UKZ_rear_2024-06-06.jpg","quote":"...hich they are.  Basically how the ES used to be a Camry. Now the ES is more or less a Crown.  And that's ...","canonicalId":"car:toyota:camry","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"The Toyota Camry is a mainstream mid-size sedan known for practical everyday driving and strong sales. In the podcast, it’s referenced as a baseline for how the Lexus ES used to be more closely related to the Camry, before the ES moved further away in character. That makes it a useful “anchor” when discussing how Toyota’s lineup and platform relationships evolve.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Toyota Camry is a common, everyday car that’s built for comfortable commuting. The podcast mentions it because another Toyota-related model used to be closely tied to the Camry, and that helps explain how the lineup changed over time.","imageAttribution":"S5A-0043 (CC BY 2.0)"}},{"startTime":369.44,"endTime":375.12,"type":"car","title":"Toyota Corolla","url":"/cars/toyota/corolla","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/c6/1969_Toyota_Corolla_1200.jpg","quote":"Okay.  But I needed to drive a Corolla. It's one of the most popular cars in the U.S. th...","canonicalId":"car:toyota:corolla","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"The Toyota Corolla is a compact car that’s one of the most popular models in the U.S. The podcast brings it up in the context of Toyota’s hybrid strategy, noting Corolla as part of the lineup that sells well and supports the brand’s profitability. It’s discussed because it’s a key volume model and a common choice for buyers looking for efficiency and practicality.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Toyota Corolla is a small, widely sold car that many people buy. In the podcast, it comes up because there’s a hybrid version and it’s part of Toyota’s lineup that sells in large numbers.","imageAttribution":"TTTNIS (CC0)"}},{"startTime":402.0,"endTime":407.0,"type":"concept","title":"all-wheel drive (AWD)","url":"/glossary/all-wheel-drive-awd","quote":"But one of the things it didn't have and one of the things that the market sort of moved people towards was all-wheel drive. But for a few years now, you've been able to get all-wheel drive on the Corolla.","canonicalId":"concept:all-wheel-drive-awd","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"All-wheel drive (AWD) sends power to more than just the front wheels, improving traction in slippery conditions like rain or snow. The speaker notes that AWD has become available on the Corolla for a few years, reflecting changing buyer expectations.","simplifiedExplanation":"All-wheel drive means the car can send power to more than two wheels. It helps the car grip better when the road is wet or icy."}},{"startTime":424.7,"endTime":425.9,"type":"term","title":"EPA rated","url":"/glossary/epa-rated","quote":"Okay. It's EPA rated for like mid-40s.","canonicalId":"term:epa-rated","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.95,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"EPA rated refers to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s standardized fuel-economy testing and published estimates. Real-world mileage—especially in extreme cold—often differs from the EPA number.","simplifiedExplanation":"“EPA rated” is the official fuel-economy estimate from government testing. Your real mileage can be lower or higher depending on weather and how you drive."}},{"startTime":476.14,"endTime":481.12,"type":"car","title":"Nissan Sentra","url":"/cars/nissan/sentra","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/7b/1990-1994_Nissan_Sentra_Coupe.png","quote":"...the Sentra does not have all-wheel drive.","canonicalId":"car:nissan:sentra","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"The Nissan Sentra is a compact sedan that’s commonly discussed in the context of what drivetrains are available. In this segment, the host notes that the Sentra does not have all-wheel drive.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Nissan Sentra is a compact sedan. Here they’re saying it doesn’t offer all-wheel drive, which matters if you want better traction in snow.","imageAttribution":"LukaCali (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":540.5,"endTime":543.8,"type":"car","title":"Honda Civic","url":"/cars/honda/civic","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/23/2022_Honda_Civic_LX_Sedan%2C_front_right%2C_11-02-2022.jpg","quote":"Accord. Oh, and Civic doesn't have all-wheel drive. Does not.","canonicalId":"car:honda:civic","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"The Honda Civic is a compact car, and this segment notes that it does not have all-wheel drive. That’s a practical buying consideration for shoppers who want AWD in a smaller, lower-cost car.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Civic is a compact Honda. In this discussion, they’re saying it doesn’t offer all-wheel drive.","imageAttribution":"MercurySable99 (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":697.14,"endTime":697.14,"type":"car","title":"Toyota Avalon","url":"/cars/toyota/avalon","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/3a/TOYOTA_AVALON_China.jpg","quote":"And it very much replaces the Avalon in the Toyota lineup as an upscale sedan-ish vehicle.","canonicalId":"car:toyota:avalon","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"The Toyota Avalon was a traditional full-size-ish, upscale sedan in Toyota’s lineup. Saying the Crown Signia “replaces the Avalon” frames the Crown Signia as the brand’s new comfort-and-luxury direction for that segment.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Toyota Avalon was an older, more upscale Toyota sedan. Mentioning it helps explain where the Crown Signia is meant to fit in Toyota’s lineup.","imageAttribution":"Dinkun Chen (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":709.6,"endTime":758.4,"type":"car","title":"Toyota Crown Signia","url":"/cars/toyota/crown-signia","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/7f/2025_Toyota_Crown_Signia_Hybrid_Limited_%28United_States%29_front_view.png","quote":"And so, I have mixed feelings about the Crown Signia because I really like it as a vehicle. It's comfortable and it was really funny because when I picked this vehicle up at the airport,","canonicalId":"car:toyota:crown-signia","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.95,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"The Toyota Crown Signia is a new-ish Toyota model positioned as a more upscale, comfort-focused sedan-like vehicle. In this segment, the host discusses how it fits into Toyota’s lineup and how it compares to other Toyota sedans like the Camry and Avalon.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Toyota Crown Signia is a Toyota car meant to feel more upscale and comfortable than the basic sedans. The hosts are talking about how it’s supposed to replace an older model and how it drives in real life.","imageAttribution":"Autosdeprimera (CC BY 3.0)"}},{"startTime":811.8,"endTime":815.0,"type":"car","title":"Sienna","url":"/cars/toyota/sienna","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/d7/TOYOTA_SIENNA_%28XL40%29_China.jpg","quote":"And it's the same basic setup that's in the Sienna.","canonicalId":"car:toyota:sienna","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"The Toyota Sienna is a minivan that’s offered with Toyota’s hybrid system. Mentioning it here highlights that the same general hybrid architecture can be tuned for different vehicle types.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Toyota Sienna is a minivan. They’re saying the hybrid setup is related to what you’d find in the Sienna too.","imageAttribution":"Dinkun Chen (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":820.9,"endTime":825.3,"type":"concept","title":"tune it differently for every single application","url":"/glossary/tune-it-differently-for-every-single-application","quote":"But it's in everything and they tune it differently for every single application.","canonicalId":"concept:tune-it-differently-for-every-single-application","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"“Tuning” refers to calibrating how the hybrid system controls engine, electric motor, battery charging, and power delivery. Even with similar hardware, different vehicles (minivan vs SUV vs crossover) need different throttle feel, efficiency targets, and drivability.","simplifiedExplanation":"Even if two cars use a similar hybrid system, the computer can be set up differently. That tuning changes how the car responds and how it prioritizes efficiency versus feel."}},{"startTime":882.0,"endTime":887.1,"type":"term","title":"beveled edges","url":"/glossary/beveled-edges","quote":"And you look at the dials and controls on any Genesis vehicle and you've got beveled edges. You have really hard touch, you know, things that are solid and they just feel good.","canonicalId":"term:beveled-edges","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"Beveled edges are angled surfaces on trim pieces, dials, and control bezels that catch light and create a more refined look. They also often signal more careful design and finishing, which can make controls feel more premium.","simplifiedExplanation":"Beveled edges are the little slanted borders on parts of the dashboard. They make things look more finished and can make controls feel nicer to use."}},{"startTime":972.9,"endTime":975.9,"type":"concept","title":"powertrain","url":"/glossary/powertrain","quote":"The powertrain is good. The powertrain is really, really good.","canonicalId":"concept:powertrain","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"The powertrain is the combination of the engine (or engines), electric motors, transmission, and how power is delivered to the wheels. When a host says the powertrain is “really, really good,” they’re usually evaluating how smoothly it accelerates, how it behaves in everyday driving, and how well the hybrid system works.","simplifiedExplanation":"A powertrain is basically everything that makes the car move—like the engine and the hybrid/electric parts working together. They’re saying the Crown Signia’s setup feels strong and smooth."}},{"startTime":1070.8,"endTime":1076.1,"type":"concept","title":"base trim","url":"/glossary/base-trim","quote":"And it costs less than the Highlander because the Highlander doesn't have the base trim anymore.","canonicalId":"concept:base-trim","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"A “base trim” is the lowest-priced version of a model, usually with fewer features. The speaker notes the Highlander no longer has the base trim, which affects how its starting price compares to the Crown Signia.","simplifiedExplanation":"A “base trim” is the cheapest version of a car. The host is saying the Highlander’s cheapest option isn’t available anymore, which changes how the prices line up."}},{"startTime":1137.7,"endTime":1140.9,"type":"term","title":"Finishline Red","url":"/glossary/finishline-red","quote":"But it's called Finishline. Finishline Red. Yeah. It's a $475 option.","canonicalId":"term:finishline-red","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"Finishline Red is a specific paint color option mentioned for the Toyota model being discussed. The hosts note it costs $475 as an add-on, which is a common way automakers monetize color choices.","simplifiedExplanation":"Finishline Red is just the name of a particular paint color. They’re saying you can get it for an extra $475."}},{"startTime":1175.6,"endTime":1183.8,"type":"concept","title":"trim levels","url":"/glossary/trim-levels","quote":"So, Cygna, you mentioned this two trim levels.\n[1177.9s]  Exitally Unlimited, 46 grand, about, or about 50 grand.","canonicalId":"concept:trim-levels","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"Trim levels are different versions of the same model that bundle features at various price points. Here, the discussion is about how many options you can add, and how the price changes depending on which trim and packages you choose.","simplifiedExplanation":"Trim levels are like different “packages” of the same car. Some trims include more features, and that’s why the price can go up or down."}},{"startTime":1437.6,"endTime":1440.0,"type":"car","title":"Cadillac Escalade","url":"/cars/cadillac/escalade","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/b6/2021_Cadillac_Escalade_rear.jpg","quote":"I was able to put together a collection of four cranky old white Cadillacs. Three of them were escalades.","canonicalId":"car:cadillac:escalade","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"The Cadillac Escalade is a full-size luxury SUV from Cadillac. It’s known for its big dimensions, upscale interior, and popularity as a status-oriented family hauler.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Cadillac Escalade is a big luxury SUV. People buy it for the comfort and “premium” feel, and it’s also a common choice for a flashy, high-end look.","imageAttribution":"Baron Maddock (CC BY 4.0)"}},{"startTime":1445.0,"endTime":1446.3,"type":"term","title":"replaced fenders","url":"/glossary/replaced-fenders","quote":"What makes a car cranky? Replaced fenders. Okay.","canonicalId":"term:replaced-fenders","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"“Replaced fenders” means the front or rear fender panels were swapped out, usually after damage or rust. It can be a clue to prior body work and may affect panel alignment and paint matching.","simplifiedExplanation":"If the fenders were replaced, it usually means the car had damage and the body shop put on new metal/plastic. It can also mean the paint or panel fit might not match perfectly."}},{"startTime":1456.4,"endTime":1460.0,"type":"car","title":"Cadillac Seville","url":"/cars/cadillac/seville","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/00/1978_Cadillac_Seville_Elegante_%2828988042390%29.jpg","quote":"Also, I found a Cadillac Seville with a vinyl roof, which is kind of like the gold standard for kind of car spotter fun.","canonicalId":"car:cadillac:seville","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.95,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"The Cadillac Seville is a full-size luxury sedan from Cadillac, especially associated with late-20th-century styling. In collector talk, details like a vinyl roof can make a specific example more distinctive and desirable.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Cadillac Seville is a luxury car model made by Cadillac. People often get excited about certain features—like a vinyl roof—because they make the car look more “period-correct” and collectible.","imageAttribution":"Greg Gjerdingen from Willmar, USA (CC BY 2.0)"}},{"startTime":1534.5,"endTime":1544.2,"type":"term","title":"cladding","url":"/glossary/cladding","quote":"Too much cladding. It was like, let's take one of the least popular elements of the Aztec design and carry it forward. Oh man.","canonicalId":"term:cladding","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"Cladding refers to exterior coverings—often plastic or composite—that add protection and visual styling. The hosts are arguing that too much cladding can hurt curb appeal and increase repair costs because multiple pieces may need replacement after damage.","simplifiedExplanation":"Cladding is the extra outside covering/trim on a car. Too much of it can make the car look worse over time and can cost more if it gets damaged."}},{"startTime":1691.2,"endTime":1695.7,"type":"concept","title":"MSRP","url":"/glossary/msrp","quote":"The basically the MSRP minus advertised discounts. So, you know, big run up after the tariffs were announced, a little bit of drawback as they were pulled back.","canonicalId":"concept:msrp","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.95,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"MSRP is the “Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price,” essentially the sticker price automakers set for a vehicle. When the discussion says “MSRP minus advertised discounts,” it’s describing how the effective selling price is calculated from the list price after promotions.","simplifiedExplanation":"MSRP is the price the manufacturer lists on the car’s window sticker. Dealers may advertise discounts, so the “real” price you pay is often lower than MSRP."}},{"startTime":1926.3,"endTime":1934.6,"type":"car","title":"Toyota Prius","url":"/cars/toyota/prius","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/74/2014-2021_Toyota_Prius_%CE%B1_Touring_Selection.jpg","quote":"...focusing on what sells affordably and profitably, which for them is hybrids, you know, Prius, Corolla hybrid, Camry hybrid...","canonicalId":"car:toyota:prius","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.95,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"The Toyota Prius is one of the most influential hybrid cars ever, helping popularize gasoline-electric hybrid technology. In this segment, it’s used as an example of Toyota’s strategy: selling hybrids at scale while also investing in EVs.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Toyota Prius is a hybrid car, meaning it uses both a gas engine and an electric motor. The point here is that Toyota has been selling hybrids for a long time, so they’re comfortable with electrified powertrains.","imageAttribution":"TTTNIS (CC0)"}},{"startTime":2153.3,"endTime":2167.8,"type":"car","title":"2027 Toyota Highlander","url":"/cars/toyota/highlander","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/0b/2008_Toyota_Highlander.jpg","quote":"...I was really surprised when they revealed the 2027 Toyota Highlander as an EV only. I've had so many people being like...","canonicalId":"car:toyota:highlander","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.95,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"The segment discusses Toyota revealing the 2027 Highlander as an EV-only model. That’s a major product-policy shift because it removes the option of a conventional hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrain.","simplifiedExplanation":"They’re saying Toyota plans to make the 2027 Highlander electric only. That means it won’t be offered as a gas-electric hybrid or a plug-in hybrid.","imageAttribution":"IFCAR (Public domain)"}},{"startTime":2234.9,"endTime":2247.0,"type":"car","title":"Toyota Grand Highlander","url":"/cars/toyota/grand-highlander","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/e/e3/2024_Toyota_Grand_Highlander_Limited%2C_front_11.22.23.jpg","quote":"And then, you know, they offered the Grand Highlander. What do Americans always want? They want something bigger. So the Grand Highlander drew away most of the volume.","canonicalId":"car:toyota:grand-highlander","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.95,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"The Toyota Grand Highlander is a larger, higher-capacity version of the Highlander aimed at buyers who want more space. In this segment, it’s discussed as a volume driver that pulled sales away from the smaller Highlander.","simplifiedExplanation":"It’s a bigger Toyota Highlander meant for people who need more room. The host is saying it became popular enough to take sales from the smaller Highlander.","imageAttribution":"Kevauto (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":2280.3,"endTime":2287.4,"type":"concept","title":"solid-state batteries","url":"/glossary/solid-state-batteries","quote":"they're really investing in solid state. They're trying to get to, you know, thousands or a few tens of thousands within a few years.","canonicalId":"concept:solid-state-batteries","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"Solid-state batteries replace the liquid electrolyte in conventional lithium-ion packs with a solid material. The host frames Toyota’s investment as aiming for higher performance and/or faster charging, with a target timeline of reaching meaningful production scale.","simplifiedExplanation":"Solid-state batteries are a newer type of battery design. The idea is that they could improve performance compared to today’s batteries, and Toyota is investing heavily to get there."}},{"startTime":2452.1,"endTime":2456.9,"type":"concept","title":"gas prices go to unprecedented highs","url":"/glossary/gas-prices-go-to-unprecedented-highs","quote":"But if the war goes on and gas prices go to unprecedented highs, GM may decide to keep that vehicle around.","canonicalId":"concept:gas-prices-go-to-unprecedented-highs","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"When gas prices spike, consumers often shift toward more fuel-efficient vehicles and away from large, less-efficient ones. Automakers may respond by adjusting production plans, pricing, and marketing to match changing demand.","simplifiedExplanation":"If gasoline gets really expensive, people usually buy cars that use less gas. Car companies then change what they sell and how they sell it."}},{"startTime":2506.6,"endTime":2519.6,"type":"brand","title":"General Motors","url":"/glossary/general-motors","quote":"And it's, you know, inconceivable for General Motors. But there they are... Because, like I said, we were talking about Toyota and they have a plan...","canonicalId":"brand:general-motors","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.95,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"General Motors (GM) is one of the largest automakers in the world, with brands like Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac, and others. In the segment, the hosts are debating whether GM can quickly adapt its product strategy—especially around EVs and traditional vehicles.","simplifiedExplanation":"General Motors (GM) is a big car company that makes lots of different brands. The discussion here is about whether GM can change direction quickly when the market shifts, like moving toward electric cars."}},{"startTime":2792.5,"endTime":2807.8,"type":"company","title":"Intuit TurboTax","url":"/glossary/intuit-turbotax","quote":"If you're a small business owner, you already know what it takes to keep everything moving... Thankfully, taxes don't have to be one more thing on that list with Intuit TurboTax.","canonicalId":"company:intuit-turbotax","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"Intuit TurboTax is a tax-preparation service/product used to file taxes. The segment is an ad, but it’s relevant to the episode’s framing as a consumer guide for business owners.","simplifiedExplanation":"TurboTax is a tool/service that helps people prepare and file their taxes. This part of the show is promoting it for small business taxes."}}],"speakers":[{"id":"s1","name":"Consumer Guide Automotive","role":"host"},{"id":"s2","name":"Tom Appel","role":"host"},{"id":"s3","name":"Jill Ciminillo","role":"host"}],"transcripts":[{"url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/new-lexus-es-toyota-crown-signia-review-war-and-the-auto-industry/transcript.vtt","type":"text/vtt"}]}