Rumors, Hot Takes and Facts | The AutoGuide Show Ep. 109
About this episode
The latest episode dives into the automotive news of the week, featuring discussions on Rivian's R2, the Toyota Highlander EV, and the rising costs of new vehicles. Veteran journalist Jamie Butters shares insights on Rivian's financial challenges and the importance of the R2 for their future. The episode also touches on the impact of high vehicle prices on consumers and the shift in market demographics. Gear tests include the Toyo Celsius II All Weather tires, alongside reviews of the Ford Maverick Lobo and Kia EV4, rounding out the episode with listener questions.
Rivian R2
"...including the Rivian R2 and news out of Rivian. We'll also talk about the Toyota Highlander EV..."
The Rivian R2 is a new electric car that Rivian is planning to release. It's designed to be less expensive than their other models, making it more accessible to buyers.
The Rivian R2 is an upcoming electric vehicle from Rivian, a company known for its electric trucks and SUVs. The R2 is expected to be a more affordable option compared to Rivian's R1T and R1S models.
Toyota Highlander
"...We'll also talk about the Toyota Highlander EV and the ever rising cost of buying a car."
The Toyota Highlander EV is an electric version of the Highlander, which is a family SUV. This model shows that Toyota is making more electric cars.
The Toyota Highlander EV is an electric version of the popular Highlander SUV. It represents Toyota's move towards electrification in their vehicle lineup.
Ford Maverick
"In the AutoGuide garage, I recently tested the Ford Maverick Lobo and Mike sampled the Kia EV4."
The Ford Maverick Lobo is a type of small pickup truck that is designed to be affordable and practical. It's great for people who need a truck for work or everyday use without spending too much money.
The Ford Maverick Lobo is a variant of the Ford Maverick, a compact pickup truck known for its affordability and versatility. It offers a combination of utility and efficiency, appealing to a wide range of drivers.
Ford Lobo
"...Guide garage, I recently tested the Ford Maverick Lobo and Mike sampled the Kia EV4."
The Ford Lobo is just another name for the Ford F-150 truck, but it's mostly used in Mexico. It's a strong and useful truck that many people like for work and play.
The Ford Lobo is the name used for the Ford F-150 pickup truck in the Mexican market. It shares the same features and capabilities as the F-150, known for its strength, versatility, and popularity among truck buyers.
Kia EV4
"In the AutoGuide garage, I recently tested the Ford Maverick Lobo and Mike sampled the Kia EV4."
The Kia EV4 is an electric car made by Kia. It's designed to be environmentally friendly and offers a modern look and feel, making it a good option for those who want to drive a car that doesn't use gasoline.
The Kia EV4 is an electric vehicle that represents Kia's commitment to expanding its electric lineup. It combines modern design with eco-friendly technology, making it a popular choice among environmentally conscious consumers.
Volkswagen
"The deal with Volkswagen is really a lifeline, you know, providing up to $6 billion total, maybe even $2 billion this year, you know, which could really sustain things."
Volkswagen is a well-known car company from Germany that makes many different types of cars, including electric ones.
Volkswagen is a major German automotive manufacturer known for producing a wide range of vehicles, including the iconic Beetle and the Golf. The company is also heavily involved in electric vehicle development.
model three
"...they've got to get their model three, their model Y moment."
The Model 3 is an electric car made by Tesla that is cheaper than some of their other models, making it easier for more people to buy.
The Model 3 is a compact electric sedan produced by Tesla, designed to be more affordable and accessible to a broader market compared to the higher-end Model S and Model X. It plays a crucial role in Tesla's strategy to increase production and sales volume.
Tesla Model Y
"...here they've got to get their model three, their model Y moment. I think it's interesting, too, when you ..."
The Tesla Model Y is a battery-powered SUV that doesn't need gas. It's popular because it has a lot of space, great technology, and can go far on a single charge.
The Tesla Model Y is an all-electric compact SUV that shares many components with the Model 3 sedan. It represents Tesla's push into the growing SUV market, combining performance, range, and advanced technology, making it a significant player in the electric vehicle segment.
Lucid
"Lucid, of course, has the Saudi private investment fund as its main backer..."
Lucid is a company that makes luxury electric cars. They focus on high-quality and high-performance vehicles.
Lucid Motors is an American automaker that specializes in electric vehicles, particularly luxury sedans. Their flagship model, the Lucid Air, aims to compete with high-end electric cars like those from Tesla.
average price of a new car
"...average price of a new car is, like auto news has that for you. So, I mean, I'm curious, do you think like people are getting priced out of cars? You know, we're seeing that it's gotten to the point where like, I mean, it's mind blowing in some ways that, you know, halfway to 100,000..."
The average price of a new car is how much people usually pay for a brand-new vehicle. It has been increasing a lot lately, which can make it harder for some people to afford a new car.
The average price of a new car refers to the typical cost consumers pay for new vehicles in the market, which has been rising significantly in recent years. This figure is important as it reflects market trends, consumer purchasing power, and the overall health of the automotive industry.
average transaction price
"...average transaction price going up is this like just plethora of new trims. I mean, basically every model from almost every OEM..."
Average transaction price is how much people usually pay for new cars. It helps show if cars are getting more expensive or if people are buying different types of vehicles.
The average transaction price refers to the average amount paid by consumers for new vehicles, which can indicate market trends and consumer preferences. It reflects the pricing strategies of automakers and the demand for various vehicle types.
wilderness trim
"...I actually have really enjoyed things like the wilderness trim on Subaru is I think that's a really good application..."
The wilderness trim is a special version of some Subaru cars that makes them better for off-road driving. It has features that help it handle rough terrain.
The wilderness trim is a specific variant offered by Subaru that enhances the vehicle's off-road capabilities, featuring improvements in suspension, tires, and overall ruggedness for adventurous driving.
trail sport level
"...the trail sport level on Hondas. There's some other ones that maybe aren't quite worth your money..."
The trail sport level is a special version of some Honda vehicles that makes them better for driving on rough roads or trails. It has features that help with off-road driving.
The trail sport level is a trim offered by Honda that focuses on enhancing off-road performance and ruggedness, making vehicles more suitable for outdoor adventures and rough terrains.
jeepification
"...the jeepification of the of America's crossovers, right?"
Jeepification is when car companies make regular cars look and act more like Jeep vehicles, which are known for being tough and good for off-roading. It means adding features that help them drive on rough roads.
Jeepification refers to the trend of making vehicles, especially crossovers and SUVs, more rugged and off-road capable, often inspired by the design and features of Jeep vehicles. This trend includes adding features like higher ground clearance and all-terrain tires.
Ford Bronco
"...ybody wants a little of that, that joy and or the Bronco if you're, if you're Ford inclined, I guess. But..."
The Ford Bronco is a tough SUV designed for off-roading, meaning it can handle rough trails and outdoor adventures. It has a cool retro style and is great for people who love exploring nature.
The Ford Bronco is a classic American off-road vehicle that was reintroduced in 2020 after a long hiatus. It is celebrated for its rugged design and capability, appealing to adventure enthusiasts and those looking for a versatile SUV.
compact SUV
"Now the one counter narrative, right, is the compact compact SUV compact crossovers or that RAV4 CRV class."
A compact SUV is a type of vehicle that is bigger than a car but smaller than a full-size SUV. They are popular because they offer more space and a higher driving position.
Compact SUVs are a category of vehicles that combine the features of a car and an SUV, offering a higher driving position, more cargo space, and often better fuel efficiency than larger SUVs. They are popular among consumers for their versatility.
CR-V
"Now the one counter narrative, right, is the compact compact SUV compact crossovers or that RAV4 CRV class."
The CR-V is a compact SUV made by Honda. It's popular for its comfort and space, making it a great choice for many drivers.
The Honda CR-V is another leading compact SUV known for its spacious interior, comfort, and reliability. It often competes directly with the Toyota RAV4 in the compact SUV segment.
RAV4
"Now the one counter narrative, right, is the compact compact SUV compact crossovers or that RAV4 CRV class."
The RAV4 is a compact SUV made by Toyota. It's known for being reliable and having a good amount of space inside, making it a popular choice for families.
The Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV that has been a popular choice for consumers due to its reliability, spacious interior, and fuel efficiency. It competes in the compact SUV market alongside models like the Honda CR-V.
average price for new cars
"That is a truly frightening thought at average price for new cars, 60 grand."
The average price for new cars is how much most people pay when they buy a new car. This price has been going up a lot lately, and it's getting close to $60,000.
The average price for new cars refers to the typical cost consumers pay for a new vehicle, which has been rising due to various factors including demand, features, and production costs. As of recent years, this average has approached $60,000.
secure purchase
"everything's covered. It's all thanks to their new secure purchase ever try to buy a car and end up..."
Secure purchase is a way to buy a car safely, making sure the seller is real and that all the paperwork is taken care of. It helps you avoid scams and makes the buying process easier.
Secure purchase refers to a system that ensures the safety and legitimacy of buying a vehicle, minimizing risks associated with private sales. This includes verifying sellers, handling paperwork, and ensuring traceable payments.
DMV
"or maybe worst of all wait for hours at the DMV just to transfer the title."
The DMV is a government office where you go to register your car and get your driver's license. Many people find it takes a long time to get things done there.
The DMV, or Department of Motor Vehicles, is a government agency responsible for vehicle registration, title transfers, and issuing driver's licenses. It's often seen as a bureaucratic hurdle in the car buying process.
title transfer
"just to transfer the title. That era is over for years."
Title transfer means changing the official ownership of a car from the seller to the buyer. It's important so that the new owner is recognized as the legal owner of the vehicle.
Title transfer is the legal process of changing the ownership of a vehicle from one person to another. This is an important step when buying or selling a car to ensure that the new owner is recognized by the state.
eBay
"for years. eBay has been the go to for gear heads, collectors and DIYers because whatever you're into from classics to SUVs and trucks to imports, eBay's got it."
eBay is a website where you can buy and sell many things, including cars. It's popular because you can find lots of different types of vehicles there.
eBay is an online marketplace where users can buy and sell a wide variety of goods, including vehicles. It has become popular among car enthusiasts and collectors for its vast selection and auction-style sales.
Kia EV9
"What do you think, Jamie? Well, I'm glad I'm not the only one who is still kind of reeling and processing this. You know, I know they had hinted at it. And, you know, the idea was out there. But to actually have it be official, you know, I mean, the Highlander was such a mainstay for Toyota in the late 90s and early 2000s. And to see it, of course, its sales have gone down and down."
The Kia EV9 is a new electric SUV from Kia, designed to be spacious and suitable for families. It’s part of the trend where car companies are making more electric vehicles.
The Kia EV9 is an all-electric SUV that represents Kia's commitment to expanding its electric vehicle lineup. It competes in the growing market for electric family vehicles.
Toyota Camry
"...e of their key names have gone all hybrid, right? Camry and the minivan, right? They've taken, you know,..."
The Toyota Camry is a popular car that many people choose because it's dependable and gets good gas mileage. It's a comfortable sedan that works well for everyday driving.
The Toyota Camry is a midsize sedan known for its reliability, comfort, and fuel efficiency. It has been one of the best-selling cars in the United States for decades, making it a staple in the automotive market.
EVs
"But they've been kind of slow on the EVs because they don't make money on them."
EVs stand for electric vehicles, which are cars that run on electricity instead of traditional fuels like gas.
EVs, or electric vehicles, are cars that are powered entirely by electricity rather than gasoline or diesel. They are part of a growing trend towards sustainable transportation.
Inflation Reduction Act
"under when we had the Inflation Reduction Act and $7,500 tax credits."
The Inflation Reduction Act is a law that helps people save money when they buy electric cars by giving them tax credits.
The Inflation Reduction Act is a U.S. law that includes provisions for tax credits and incentives aimed at promoting clean energy and electric vehicles.
$7,500 tax credits
"under when we had the Inflation Reduction Act and $7,500 tax credits."
$7,500 tax credits are discounts you can get from the government when you buy an electric car, making it cheaper.
$7,500 tax credits refer to a financial incentive provided by the government to encourage the purchase of electric vehicles, effectively reducing the cost for buyers.
Hyundai Santa Fe
"I would compare this to the Hyundai Santa Fe redesign from a couple of years ago..."
The Hyundai Santa Fe is a family-friendly SUV that offers a lot of space and good safety features, making it a popular choice for many drivers.
The Hyundai Santa Fe is a mid-size SUV known for its spacious interior, safety features, and value for money, making it a popular choice among families.
Ford Flex
"...like Ford Flex type vehicle. People loved it. People hated it. But it really got a lot of attention and sales did, you know, I believe they increased and they got a lot of good press for it."
The Ford Flex is a large family car that looks a bit like a box on wheels. It has a lot of room inside for people and their stuff, making it good for families.
The Ford Flex is a full-size crossover SUV known for its boxy design and spacious interior. It was produced from 2008 to 2019 and aimed at families needing ample passenger and cargo space.
Dodge Charger
"...you could argue the same thing with the charger, but the charger quickly got a, you know, Hurricane straight six engine. It was an EV for about a model year."
The Dodge Charger is a big car that looks sporty and is known for being fast. It has been around for a long time and comes with different types of engines, some of which are very powerful.
The Dodge Charger is a full-size sedan that has been in production since the 1960s, known for its muscular styling and performance-oriented variants. It has undergone several redesigns and is currently available with various engine options, including a straight-six and V8 engines.
EV
"...It was an EV for about a model year. And that was probably the right play."
An EV, or electric vehicle, is a car that runs on electricity instead of gas. This means it doesn't produce exhaust fumes and can be better for the environment.
EV stands for electric vehicle, which is a type of vehicle that is powered entirely by electricity instead of gasoline or diesel. EVs are known for being environmentally friendly and often have lower operating costs compared to traditional vehicles.
Toyota BZ
"...there are a lot of Toyota loyalists and who want an EV, who want an EV from Toyota. And I, maybe the BZ isn't really what they were looking for..."
The Toyota BZ is a new electric car from Toyota. It's part of their effort to make more cars that run on electricity instead of gas, helping to reduce pollution.
The Toyota BZ is part of Toyota's new line of electric vehicles, aimed at providing a sustainable option for consumers looking for EVs. The BZ series represents Toyota's commitment to electrification and innovation in the automotive market.
Ferrari Luce
"...ruary, early March. They're teasing out the, the luce. I think I said that right. I'm Italian. We'll s..."
The Ferrari Luce is a new car that Ferrari is hinting at, and it's expected to be very luxurious and fast. Ferrari is known for making some of the best sports cars in the world.
The Ferrari Luce is a new model being teased by Ferrari, expected to showcase the brand's luxury and performance heritage. Details are still emerging, but it represents Ferrari's ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence in the supercar segment.
Mclaren Artura
"...posed to drive that car fast. I was in a McLaren Artura last fall and I don't think it was, it might have..."
The McLaren Artura is a super-fast sports car that uses both a regular engine and an electric motor. It's designed for incredible performance and is part of a new trend of cars that use electricity to go faster.
The McLaren Artura is a high-performance hybrid supercar that combines a twin-turbo V6 engine with an electric motor. It represents McLaren's shift towards electrification while maintaining the brand's focus on speed and handling.
Ford Taurus
"...ink that means anything about that there's like a Taurus in development. But honestly, I think I see a da..."
The Ford Taurus is a large car that used to be very popular for its roomy interior and comfortable ride. It was a good choice for families before it was stopped being made.
The Ford Taurus was a full-size sedan that gained popularity in the 1980s and 1990s for its spacious interior and smooth ride. Although it was discontinued in 2019, it remains a notable part of Ford's history in the sedan market.
Ford Fusion
"...ink I see a day where like probably a Taurus or a Fusion, like a name with a really strong name comes bac..."
The Ford Fusion is a car that was popular for being comfortable and good on gas. It was a good option for families and daily driving before it was no longer made.
The Ford Fusion was a midsize sedan that offered a blend of style, comfort, and efficiency. Although it was discontinued in 2020, it remains a popular choice in the used car market for its practicality and features.
Kia EV6
"...good idea how it drove because I really like the EV6, but we could get into that. So what is this thin..."
The Kia EV6 is a new electric car that doesn't use gas and has a modern look. It's designed to be efficient and has a good driving range, making it a great choice for those wanting to go electric.
The Kia EV6 is an all-electric crossover that showcases Kia's commitment to electric mobility. With its striking design, impressive range, and advanced technology, it aims to compete in the growing electric vehicle market.
Hyundai Ioniq 6
"...ems to be the sweet spot now, you know, leaf and Ioniq 6, I think the entry-level front-wheel drives aroun..."
The Hyundai Ioniq 6 is a new electric car that looks sleek and is designed to go far on a single charge. It's part of Hyundai's effort to make more eco-friendly cars.
The Hyundai Ioniq 6 is an all-electric sedan that emphasizes aerodynamics and efficiency. It is part of Hyundai's growing Ioniq lineup, aimed at providing sustainable transportation options without compromising on style or performance.
Kia EV5
"...ng as in Canada like we used to. But we have the EV5 and the EV4. So yeah, you can sort of mix and mat..."
The Kia EV5 is a new electric SUV that Kia is planning to release soon. It's designed to be a practical option for people who want an electric car with more space.
The Kia EV5 is an upcoming electric vehicle that is expected to expand Kia's electric lineup. While details are still limited, it aims to offer a practical and stylish option for consumers looking for an electric SUV.
Ford Mustang
"...so, you know, doesn't want to pop over to like a Mustang or something. Like if you want a truck, a commute..."
The Ford Mustang is a sporty car that's famous for being fast and fun to drive. It's a classic American car that many people love for its cool looks and powerful engine.
The Ford Mustang is an iconic American muscle car that has been in production since 1964. It is known for its powerful performance, distinctive design, and cultural significance, often symbolizing freedom and the open road.
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