Tahoe Power, Club Legends, Subaru Sense
About this episode
Mr. Mars shares his experience driving the 2026 Chevrolet Tahoe Premier, highlighting its impressive features, powerful 6.2-liter V8 engine, and luxurious interior. The discussion includes comparisons with competitors like the Ford Expedition and Toyota Sequoia, along with insights into car club culture and its evolution over the years. The episode also features a review of the 2025 Subaru Ascent, emphasizing its conservative design, comfortable ride, and practicality for families. Listeners will find a blend of vehicle reviews and automotive history in this engaging episode.
Power meets perspective from the street to the driveway. We start behind the wheel of the 2026 Chevrolet Tahoe Premier 4WD, unpacking what a modern full-size SUV gets right: a serene cabin, a 17-inch horizontal infotainment screen, a crisp 15-inch head-up display, and magnetic ride control that smooths rough pavement. The 6.2L V8 and 10-speed automatic serve up 420 hp and 460 lb-ft, real-world confidence for towing up to 8,200 pounds and threading parking lots without drama. We talk price reality too, from base LS to a Premier build that climbs with paint, 22-inch wheels, and comfort options, and we stack it against the Ford Expedition, Nissan Armada, Toyota Sequoia hybrid, and GMC Yukon.
Then we widen the lens to car culture and remember why we fell for this world. From the chopped and channeled customs of the 1950s and 1960s to rivalries that sometimes boiled over—like the 1959 Artesia Moose Lodge rumble—car clubs shaped style, speed, and community. That legacy lives on in quieter ways: charity cruises, skills shared over open hoods, and the unspoken code of friends rotating from one garage to the next. Personal stories bring it home, reminding us that culture isn’t just events and logos; it’s late-night fixes, bent pushrods, and the pride of making something run right.
To round it out, we jump into the 2025 Subaru Ascent Onyx Touring. Built in Indiana with standard all-wheel drive, Subaru’s three-row plays the long game with a conservative design, a stellar, easy-to-use infotainment interface, and thoughtful touches like retracting third-row headrests for a clear rear view. The 2.4L turbo flat-four and CVT deliver a smooth, efficient drive—around 23 mpg over a long stint—while keeping 5,000 pounds of towing in its back pocket. If the Tahoe is about power and presence, the Ascent is about calm and confidence: stable handling from a low center of gravity, high safety scores, and the kind of ride that makes family trips feel shorter.
If you enjoyed the blend of real-world reviews and car club heritage, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review—what are you driving, and which garage story still makes you smile?
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Chevrolet Tahoe
"And it is the 2026 Chevrolet Tahoe. I haven't driven one in a couple of years, so I was really happy to see that it..."
The 2026 Chevrolet Tahoe is a large SUV that's great for families and can carry a lot of cargo. It's known for being powerful and good for towing trailers.
The 2026 Chevrolet Tahoe is a full-size SUV known for its spacious interior and strong towing capabilities. It is popular among families and those needing a robust vehicle for various driving conditions.
trim levels
"it comes in six different trim levels, LS, LT, RST, E71, which is obviously the off-road suspension..."
Trim levels are different versions of a car that have various features. For example, one trim might have more luxury options than another.
Trim levels refer to the different versions of a vehicle that come with varying features and options. Each trim level can offer different performance, luxury, and technology packages.
four-wheel drive
"So we were driving the Premier, the four-wheel drive trim level. Now, this is considered by the government as a standard SUV..."
Four-wheel drive means that all four wheels of the car can get power from the engine. This helps the car drive better on rough or slippery roads.
Four-wheel drive (4WD) is a drivetrain system that allows all four wheels of a vehicle to receive power from the engine simultaneously. This enhances traction and control, especially in off-road or slippery conditions.
LED lighting
"Of course, it had LED lighting all the way around on the exterior, including the fog lights, daytime running lights, had the heated folding side mirrors, all the things you would expect off of a high-end SUV..."
LED lighting is a type of car light that uses small lights called diodes. They last longer and use less energy than regular light bulbs, making them popular in modern cars.
LED lighting refers to the use of light-emitting diodes for vehicle illumination, which is more energy-efficient and has a longer lifespan compared to traditional bulbs. In vehicles, LED lights are commonly used for headlights, taillights, and interior lighting.
power liftgate
"...power liftgate with power panoramic sunroof, power assist side steps with perimeter lighting."
A power liftgate is a door at the back of an SUV that can open and close automatically. You just press a button, and it does the work for you, which is handy when you have your hands full.
A power liftgate is a feature in SUVs and hatchbacks that allows the rear door to open and close automatically with the push of a button, providing convenience for loading and unloading cargo. This feature is especially useful when your hands are full.
power assist side steps
"...power liftgate with power panoramic sunroof, power assist side steps with perimeter lighting."
Power assist side steps are steps that pop out from the side of a vehicle when you open the door. They help you get in and out of tall cars easily and go back in when you're done.
Power assist side steps are retractable steps that automatically extend when the vehicle's doors are opened, making it easier to enter and exit taller vehicles like SUVs and trucks. They retract back into the vehicle when the doors are closed for a cleaner look.
power panoramic sunroof
"...power liftgate with power panoramic sunroof, power assist side steps with perimeter lighting."
A power panoramic sunroof is a big window on the roof of a car that can open and close with a button. It lets in a lot of light and gives you a nice view of the sky.
A power panoramic sunroof is a large sunroof that spans a significant portion of the roof of a vehicle and can be opened or closed electronically. It provides an expansive view of the sky and allows more natural light into the cabin.
22-inch polished aluminum wheels
"22-inch polished aluminum wheels were also an option that we had. Now, it did have the seating for seven..."
These are big, shiny wheels made from a lightweight metal called aluminum. They can make a car look nicer and help it drive better because they're lighter than other materials.
22-inch polished aluminum wheels are larger wheels made from aluminum, which is lightweight and resistant to corrosion. These wheels can enhance the vehicle's appearance and performance by reducing unsprung weight and improving handling.
17-inch infotainment screen
"It had a 17-inch infotainment screen up front. Now, this was not the vertical type of screen like some of the cars have."
This is a big screen in the car that shows maps, music, and other information. It's 17 inches wide, which is pretty large for a car screen.
A 17-inch infotainment screen is a large display in a vehicle that provides access to navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings. The size and orientation of the screen can affect usability and driver experience.
6.2-liter V8
"Now, this is a $2,400 option on it. The standard engine is a 5-point liter, and I'm thinking that that's probably a very adequate engine. But the 6.2-liter has 420 horsepower, 460 pound-feet of torque."
A 6.2-liter V8 engine is a powerful type of engine with eight cylinders. It's designed to provide a lot of strength, which helps in towing heavy loads like boats.
The 6.2-liter V8 is a type of engine configuration that features eight cylinders arranged in a V shape, with a displacement of 6.2 liters. This engine is known for delivering high power and torque, making it suitable for heavy-duty applications.
horsepower
"But the 6.2-liter has 420 horsepower, 460 pound-feet of torque. And putting that with a 10-speed automatic, it is rated to tow 8,200 pounds."
Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful an engine is. More horsepower usually means the car can go faster and perform better.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, commonly used to describe the power output of engines. It indicates how quickly work can be done, with higher horsepower generally translating to better performance.
pound-feet of torque
"But the 6.2-liter has 420 horsepower, 460 pound-feet of torque. And putting that with a 10-speed automatic, it is rated to tow 8,200 pounds."
Pound-feet of torque tells you how strong an engine is when it comes to moving things. More torque means the car can pull heavier loads more easily.
Pound-feet of torque is a measure of rotational force applied by an engine. It indicates how much twisting force the engine can produce, which is crucial for tasks like towing and acceleration.
towing capacity
"And putting that with a 10-speed automatic, it is rated to tow 8,200 pounds, which is a pretty good size load."
Towing capacity is how much weight a vehicle can pull safely. It's important for people who need to tow things like trailers or boats.
Towing capacity refers to the maximum weight that a vehicle can safely tow. It is determined by factors such as engine power, transmission, and vehicle design, and is crucial for those who need to haul trailers or heavy loads.
EPA
"The EPA says you should be looking for about 14 on the highway, 18, excuse me, 14 in the city, 18 on the highway, and with a combination of 16."
The EPA is a government agency that measures how much fuel cars use. They provide numbers that show how many miles a car can drive on a gallon of gas, which helps you know how efficient a car is.
The EPA, or Environmental Protection Agency, sets fuel economy standards and ratings for vehicles in the United States. Their ratings help consumers understand how efficient a vehicle is in terms of fuel consumption.
magnetic ride control
"I also like the magnetic ride control. I mean, that was that was some nice stuff there."
Magnetic ride control is a special type of suspension that can change how the car feels while driving. It uses a special fluid that can get thicker or thinner, helping the car handle better on different roads.
Magnetic ride control is an advanced suspension system that uses magnetorheological fluid to adjust the damping of the shocks in real-time. This allows for improved handling and ride comfort by adapting to road conditions and driving style.
base model price
"Now, the base model price, the LS base model price, $62,995. That's what it'll take to get into a Tahoe."
The base model price is the lowest price you can pay for a car without any extra features. It's like the starting point before you add anything else to it.
The base model price refers to the starting price of a vehicle without any additional options or upgrades. It serves as the foundation for the vehicle's pricing before any add-ons or higher trims are considered.
MSRP
"We did our MSR PS test. It was 92,000. So we had some options, like I say, the paint, the wheels, and lots of other things."
MSRP is the price that the car maker suggests you should pay for a new car. It's a good starting point when you are shopping for a vehicle.
MSRP stands for Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price, which is the price that the manufacturer recommends retailers sell a vehicle for. It's often used as a baseline for negotiations when purchasing a car.
Cadillac Escalade
"...ve been 192,000. Yeah, yeah, they'll be called an Escalade. If you're looking for something to compare this ..."
The Cadillac Escalade is a big, fancy SUV that has a lot of room inside and comes with many luxury features. People often talk about it because it's a popular choice for those who want a stylish and comfortable ride.
The Cadillac Escalade is a full-size luxury SUV known for its spacious interior, high-end features, and powerful performance. It has become a status symbol in the luxury vehicle market, often discussed for its blend of comfort and capability.
Ford Expedition
"If you're looking for something to compare this to, I mean, you could look across at the Ford Expedition of about the same size, $64,995 to get started."
The Ford Expedition is a big SUV that can carry a lot of people and their stuff. It's great for families and has features that make it easy to drive and use.
The Ford Expedition is a full-size SUV that offers ample seating and cargo space, making it ideal for families and large groups. It is known for its strong towing capabilities and advanced technology features.
Toyota Sequoia
"Toyota Sequoia, which is strictly all you're going to get there is a hybrid. You're not going to get a straight gasoline engine, but it's $64,000."
The Toyota Sequoia is a large SUV that can carry many passengers and has a hybrid engine option, which means it uses both gasoline and electricity to run, making it more efficient.
The Toyota Sequoia is a full-size SUV that offers a hybrid powertrain option, providing a balance of power and fuel efficiency. It's known for its spacious interior and off-road capabilities.
GMC Yukon
"Now, the GMC Yukon is the sister vehicle to the Tahoe, or the cousin, whatever you want to call it. And it'll start at about $69,000."
The GMC Yukon is a big SUV that is similar to the Chevrolet Tahoe. It's built for families and has a lot of space and features for comfort.
The GMC Yukon is a full-size SUV that shares its platform with the Chevrolet Tahoe. It is designed for families and offers a range of features for comfort and utility.
car clubs
"The existence of car clubs has kept the pursuit of building and restructuring cars popular to this day. Through the 50s and 60s, car clubs became immensely popular for building faster and the one-off looking cars."
Car clubs are groups of people who love cars and meet to talk about them. They help car lovers connect and learn from each other.
Car clubs are organizations where automotive enthusiasts gather to share their passion for cars, often focusing on specific makes, models, or types of vehicles. They play a crucial role in fostering community and knowledge sharing among car enthusiasts.
NASCAR
"The NASCAR and the Southern California Timing Association gained tremendous fan following."
NASCAR stands for the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing. It's a type of car racing that features specially built cars racing on oval tracks, and it has many fans in the U.S.
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 events. It has a significant fan base and hosts various racing series, including the NASCAR Cup Series.
Southern California Timing Association
"The NASCAR and the Southern California Timing Association gained tremendous fan following."
The Southern California Timing Association is a group that organizes races, especially for cars trying to achieve the fastest speeds on land. They are known for their events at places like the Bonneville Salt Flats.
The Southern California Timing Association (SCTA) is an organization that promotes and organizes land speed racing events, particularly at venues like the Bonneville Salt Flats. It has played a crucial role in the history of motorsports in Southern California.
street racing
"Street racing also arose from that time, within that time frame."
Street racing is when people race their cars on regular streets instead of on a racetrack. It's often illegal and can be dangerous, but it's popular among car enthusiasts.
Street racing refers to illegal racing that takes place on public roads, often involving modified cars. It emerged as a subculture in the automotive community, particularly in urban areas, and is associated with a desire for speed and competition.
hot rods
"...through building outstanding hot rods and the customs. While still having separate desires of what's cool and what's not,..."
Hot rods are cars that have been changed to go faster and look cooler. They usually come from older American cars and have special modifications to make them unique.
Hot rods are modified vehicles, typically American cars from the 1920s to the 1970s, that have been enhanced for performance and speed. They often feature powerful engines, custom bodywork, and unique styling that reflects the owner's personality.
customs
"...through building outstanding hot rods and the customs. While still having separate desires of what's cool and what's not,..."
Customs are cars that have been changed to look different and more stylish. People modify them to show off their personal taste and creativity.
Customs refer to cars that have been extensively modified for aesthetic purposes rather than just performance. This can include changes to the body shape, paint, and interior, often reflecting the owner's style and preferences.
Chevrolet 55 Chevrolet
"...or talk shop. We went over to Ross's house at his 55 Chevrolet and his hot ride engine and open headers"
The Chevrolet Corvette is a fast and stylish sports car that many people love for its cool looks and powerful engine. It's known for being one of the best American sports cars you can buy.
The Chevrolet Corvette is an iconic American sports car known for its performance, sleek design, and affordability compared to other high-performance vehicles. It has a rich history and is often celebrated for its engineering and racing pedigree.
open headers
"...his hot ride engine and open headers and all that stuff."
Open headers are a type of exhaust system that makes a car much louder because it doesn't have a muffler. This is often done to make the car sound more powerful.
Open headers refer to an exhaust system configuration where the exhaust pipes are not connected to a muffler, resulting in a louder and more aggressive sound. This setup is often used in performance vehicles to enhance power and sound.
Greasy Wrench Garage
"...But we call ourselves the Greasy Wrench Garage."
'Greasy Wrench Garage' is a fun name for a group of friends who like to fix and work on cars together. It shows that they enjoy getting their hands dirty while working on their vehicles.
The term 'Greasy Wrench Garage' suggests a community or group of car enthusiasts who work on their vehicles together, often in a casual, hands-on environment. It reflects a culture of camaraderie and shared passion for automotive projects.
Subaru Ascent
"... personally had a chance to drive the 2025 Subaru Ascent. Do we have pictures of that?"
The Subaru Ascent is a larger SUV that can fit a lot of people and their stuff, making it great for families. It's known for being safe and good in different weather conditions.
The Subaru Ascent is a mid-size SUV designed to accommodate families with its three-row seating and ample cargo space. It emphasizes safety and all-wheel drive capabilities, making it a popular choice for those seeking a reliable family vehicle.
midsize SUV
"...which is a subculture, so to speak, midsize, three row SUV. It will seat seven or eight human beings and a dog or two."
A midsize SUV is a type of car that's bigger than a small SUV but not as big as the largest ones. It's good for families because it has more room inside.
A midsize SUV is a vehicle that is larger than a compact SUV but smaller than a full-size SUV. It typically offers a balance of passenger space, cargo capacity, and fuel efficiency.
CVT transmission
"with a CVT transmission tow. It'll tow up to five thousand pounds, which is pretty darn good."
A CVT transmission is a special kind of automatic transmission that helps the car use fuel more efficiently and makes driving smoother.
A Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is a type of automatic transmission that can change seamlessly through a continuous range of gear ratios. This allows for smoother acceleration and improved fuel efficiency.
miles per gallon
"City gets nineteen miles per gallon in the city. Twenty five on the highway for combined of twenty one."
Miles per gallon tells you how far a car can go on one gallon of gas. The higher the number, the better the car is at using fuel.
Miles per gallon (MPG) is a measure of fuel efficiency that indicates how many miles a vehicle can travel on one gallon of fuel. Higher MPG values indicate better fuel efficiency.
price as tested
"Base trim price, fifty two thousand and fifty dollars price as tested fifty three thousand eight hundred and two dollars base model price is thirty nine nine ninety five competitors Toyota Grand for forty one three sixty."
Price as tested is the total cost of the car after adding all the extra features and options. It's what you would pay if you wanted that specific version of the car.
The phrase 'price as tested' indicates the final cost of the vehicle after including all options, packages, and additional features that were added for the review. This gives a more accurate representation of what a consumer might actually pay.
Willys Jeep
"...eek. We're going to review the twenty twenty five Jeep Wrangler S. I'm sorry, Jeep Wagoneer S limited fo..."
The Willys Jeep is a tough little vehicle that was first made for the military during World War II. It's known for being able to go almost anywhere, and it helped start the trend of making off-road cars.
The Willys Jeep, originally developed during World War II, is a compact and rugged off-road vehicle that became an iconic symbol of military and civilian utility. Its design laid the foundation for modern SUVs and off-road vehicles, making it a significant part of automotive history.
Jeep Wrangler
"...We're going to review the twenty twenty five Jeep Wrangler S. I'm sorry, Jeep Wagoneer S limited four by E."
Jeep Wagoneer
"...enty twenty five Jeep Wrangler S. I'm sorry, Jeep Wagoneer S limited four by E. And I've got some news on th..."
The Jeep Wagoneer is a big SUV that can handle rough roads and also has nice features for comfort. It's a great option for people who want a mix of luxury and adventure.
The Jeep Wagoneer is a full-size SUV that combines luxury with off-road capability, making it a versatile choice for both urban and rugged environments. Its recent revival has brought modern technology and comfort to a classic nameplate.
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