Talking cars, with Karl Brauer of www.iseecars.com
About this episode
Karl Brauer from iSeeCars joins John Paul to discuss the latest trends in the automotive market, focusing on reliable vehicles and optimal buying times. They delve into studies highlighting the most reliable new cars for the money, emphasizing small cars like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla for their longevity and lower ownership costs. The conversation also covers the best times to buy cars, revealing that winter months often yield better deals compared to summer. Additionally, they touch on popular used cars and EVs, showcasing consumer preferences and market shifts.
We are talking with iSeeCars.com executive analyst Karl Brauer. Todays topic - Most Reliable New Cars for the Money and America's 10 best-selling used cars & EVs in 2025. Tune in live every Sunday at 11a on 95.9 WATD FM or tell your wicked smart speaker you want to listen to WATD.
icars.com
"With us on the phone is Kyle Brower. He is the iccars.com executive analyst. They've done a bunch of studies lately including most reliable new cars for the money and America's 10 best selling used cars and EVs for last year."
icars.com is a website where you can buy or sell cars. It helps you find cars near you or anywhere in the country.
icars.com is an online marketplace that provides resources for car buyers and sellers, offering tools to filter listings based on location and other criteria.
new car incentives
"...I know you're not selling many cars. And I know you can't seem to sell this car. So let's talk to Mr. dealer man and you negotiate."
New car incentives are special deals that car companies give to help sell cars. They might offer cash back or lower monthly payments to make it easier for people to buy a car, especially when sales are slow.
New car incentives are promotions offered by manufacturers or dealers to encourage buyers to purchase vehicles, often during specific times of the year. These incentives can include cash rebates, low-interest financing, or special lease offers, and are typically more prevalent during slower sales periods, such as winter months.
Honda Civic
"For instance, the Honda Civic has a 13 and a half year lifespan, so it's longer than the average car and it costs on average $27,000..."
The Honda Civic is a compact car that many people trust because it lasts a long time and doesn't cost much to own each year.
The Honda Civic is known for its reliability and longevity, often lasting over a decade. It has a lower annual cost compared to the average new car, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Toyota Corolla
"Toyota Corolla, another one, 11.3 year lifespan, still a little more than the average car and 25,000..."
The Toyota Corolla is a small car that is very reliable and cheap to maintain, making it a good choice for many drivers.
The Toyota Corolla is another compact car known for its reliability and affordability. With a lifespan slightly above average, it offers a low annual cost of ownership.
Honda Accord
"...300 per year, Volkswagen Jetta 2313 and the Honda Accord 2489. So those are the top five. We've got all 2..."
Mazda 3
"... So it results in a $2,258 annual per year cost. Mazda 3, $2,300 per year, Volkswagen Jetta 2313 and the H..."
Mazda is a car company from Japan that makes cars known for being fun to drive and looking good. The Mazda3 is one of their popular models, and people often talk about Mazdas because they are enjoyable and efficient.
Mazda is a Japanese automaker known for its sporty and fun-to-drive vehicles, particularly the Mazda3 and MX-5 Miata. The brand emphasizes innovative engineering, such as its Skyactiv technology, which enhances fuel efficiency and performance. Mazda cars are often discussed for their engaging driving dynamics and stylish designs.
Volkswagen Jetta
"...r year cost. Mazda 3, $2,300 per year, Volkswagen Jetta 2313 and the Honda Accord 2489. So those are the..."
ownership costs
"...they get the advantage on ownership costs, they get the advantage on fuel efficiency..."
Ownership costs are all the money you spend on a car after you buy it. This includes things like gas, insurance, and repairs.
Ownership costs refer to all expenses associated with owning a vehicle, including purchase price, insurance, maintenance, fuel, and depreciation. Understanding these costs helps buyers make informed decisions.
reliability
"...if you were looking at reliability, predicted lifespan..."
Reliability means how well a car works over time without having problems. A reliable car is one that you can count on to run well and not need a lot of repairs.
Reliability refers to how consistently a vehicle performs without issues over time. A reliable car is less likely to break down and usually requires less maintenance, making it a preferred choice for many buyers.
Ford Expedition
"...ou know, they go out and they buy, you know, Ford Expedition and you're like, well, that wasn't the advice we ..."
The Ford Expedition is a large SUV that can fit a lot of people and stuff, making it great for families. It's also strong enough to tow trailers, which is why many people like it for road trips.
The Ford Expedition is a full-size SUV that offers spacious seating and strong towing capabilities, making it ideal for families and those needing extra cargo space. It features advanced technology and safety options, contributing to its popularity in the SUV market. The Expedition is often discussed for its balance of utility and comfort.
Ram
"...you saw what you expect F-150s and Silverados and Rams in terms of just overall."
Ram trucks are well-liked for their power and comfort, often used for both work and leisure.
Ram trucks are known for their strong performance, comfortable interiors, and innovative features, making them a popular choice among truck buyers.
Ford F150S
"You know, what was, what was that study like? What, what did, you know, what do we see for 2025? What were people buying? So, most popular used cars for 25, you know, you saw what you expect F-150s and Silverados and Rams in terms of just overall. But then when we broke it out by EVs, you know, you just see the cars that have the most market value."
Chevrolet Silverado
"... 25, you know, you saw what you expect F-150s and Silverados and Rams in terms of just overall. But then when..."
The Chevrolet Silverado is a big truck that people use for work and everyday driving. It's known for being strong and able to carry heavy loads, which makes it a favorite among truck buyers.
The Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pickup truck that is highly regarded for its strong performance, towing capacity, and versatility. It competes with other major trucks like the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500, making it a popular choice among truck enthusiasts and those needing a reliable work vehicle. Its significance in the market stems from its balance of capability and comfort.
Tesla Model 3
"... have the most market value. So you've got Tesla Model 3 and Model Y, Mustang Mach-E, Volkswagen ID-4. An..."
Tesla Model
"...s that have the most market value. So you've got Tesla Model 3 and Model Y, Mustang Mach-E, Volkswagen ID-4. ..."
Ford Mustang
"... value. So you've got Tesla Model 3 and Model Y, Mustang Mach-E, Volkswagen ID-4. And it's interesting be..."
Volkswagen Id4
"...you've got Tesla Model 3 and Model Y, Mustang Mach-E, Volkswagen ID-4."
The Volkswagen ID.4 is an electric SUV that has a lot of space inside and is good for daily use.
The Volkswagen ID.4 is an all-electric compact SUV that offers a spacious interior, advanced technology, and a range suitable for everyday driving.
Chevrolet Malibu
"...r market, just like new. Passenger cars, Camrys, Malibu, which just got canceled as we know. Corolla, Ul..."
The Chevrolet Malibu is a comfortable car that is good for families and daily driving. It has a nice amount of space inside and is known for being fuel-efficient, but it's being discontinued because more people are buying SUVs instead.
The Chevrolet Malibu is a mid-size sedan that has been a staple in the Chevrolet lineup for decades. It is known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and good fuel economy, making it a popular choice for families and commuters. The recent cancellation of the Malibu highlights the shift in consumer preferences towards SUVs and crossovers.
Toyota Camry
"... used car market, just like new. Passenger cars, Camrys, Malibu, which just got canceled as we know. Cor..."
wheel size
"...they use sort of a, they use a 18 inch wheel and it's on a 15590 tire. So, it has the same rolling diameter as..."
Wheel size is how big the wheel is on your car, measured in inches. It affects how your car drives and what size tires you can use.
Wheel size refers to the diameter of the wheel itself, typically measured in inches. It impacts the vehicle's handling, ride comfort, and the size of the tires that can be fitted.
tire size
"...they use sort of a, they use a 18 inch wheel and it's on a 15590 tire. So, it has the same rolling diameter as..."
Tire size tells you how big a tire is. It includes how wide it is and how tall it is compared to its width. For example, a tire size of 155/90 means it's 155 mm wide.
Tire size is typically expressed in a format that includes the width, aspect ratio, and diameter of the tire. For example, a tire size of 155/90 means it is 155 mm wide and has an aspect ratio of 90%.
rolling diameter
"...it has the same rolling diameter as, you know, whether it's a 17, 19, 20 or 21 inch wheel. So, it has the same overall diameter."
Rolling diameter is how big a tire is when it's on a car. It matters because it can change how fast your speedometer shows you're going and how your car drives.
Rolling diameter refers to the overall diameter of a tire when it is mounted on a wheel and inflated. It affects the vehicle's speedometer accuracy, handling, and overall ride quality.
internal combustion vehicle
"...but we just said people buy with their heart, not their brain. So, you can tell someone all day long why they're supposed to buy an EV and then when they go see a really cool internal combustion vehicle, they go buy it."
An internal combustion vehicle is a car that runs on gas or diesel, using an engine that burns fuel to make it go. This is the traditional type of car most people are familiar with.
An internal combustion vehicle is one that uses an internal combustion engine (ICE) to convert fuel into mechanical energy. This type of engine burns fuel to create power, which is then used to drive the vehicle, as opposed to electric vehicles that rely on electric motors.
plug-in hybrid
"But if you buy a hybrid or even better, a plug-in hybrid, now you're using it like an electric vehicle for, depending on what you're doing and how far you drive, some percentage, maybe even a very high percentage time."
A plug-in hybrid is a car that can use both electricity and gasoline. You can charge it by plugging it into a power outlet, which lets you drive on electricity for a while before it uses gas.
A plug-in hybrid is a type of hybrid vehicle that can be recharged from an external power source, allowing it to operate on electric power alone for a certain distance before switching to gasoline. This reduces fuel consumption and emissions compared to traditional vehicles.
battery technology
"...at least until we get to battery technology that charges in 10 minutes, which they're talking about, and goes hundreds and hundreds of miles and also an infrastructure that can support that."
Battery technology is about how batteries are made and improved. Better batteries can charge faster and let electric cars drive longer distances without needing to recharge.
Battery technology refers to the advancements and innovations in the design and functionality of batteries, particularly in electric vehicles. Improvements in battery technology can lead to faster charging times, longer ranges, and better overall performance of electric vehicles.
level 2 charger
"beyond the radius of your house where your level 2 charger is, then the market will go to electric vehicles."
A level 2 charger is a special plug that charges electric cars faster than a regular home outlet. It helps you charge your car in just a few hours instead of overnight.
A level 2 charger is a type of electric vehicle charging station that provides faster charging compared to a standard household outlet. It typically requires a 240-volt power supply and can charge an EV in a few hours.
Volkswagen Id Buzz
"...the ID buzz, which was, you know, the cutest EV on the market, I suppose, and that's going away..."
The ID. Buzz is a new electric car from Volkswagen that looks like the old VW bus. It's designed to be fun and eco-friendly, but it hasn't sold as well as expected.
The Volkswagen ID. Buzz is an electric vehicle that pays homage to the classic Volkswagen Microbus. It features a retro design and modern electric technology, aiming to attract both nostalgic customers and new EV buyers.
EV
"...the ID buzz, which was, you know, the cutest EV on the market, I suppose..."
An EV is a car that runs on electricity instead of gas. They are better for the environment because they don't produce exhaust fumes.
EV stands for electric vehicle, which is a car that runs on electricity instead of gasoline or diesel. EVs are often seen as more environmentally friendly due to lower emissions.
domestic assembly plant
"...Volkswagen's closed its first domestic assembly plant in the history of the company in the past six months..."
A domestic assembly plant is a factory in a country where cars are put together. If a car company closes one, it usually means they're having money problems or changing how they do business.
A domestic assembly plant is a factory located within a country where vehicles are assembled from parts, often to meet local market demands. The closure of such plants can indicate significant shifts in a company's strategy or financial health.
Lamborghini Temarario
"...I just had a Lamborghini Temarario and that's going to be up there soon."
The Lamborghini Temarario is a fancy sports car made by Lamborghini. It's known for being very fast and having a cool design, which makes it popular with car lovers.
The Lamborghini Temarario is a high-performance supercar known for its striking design and powerful engine. It represents Lamborghini's commitment to luxury and speed, making it a desirable model among car enthusiasts.
Aston Martin Vantage S
"...I'll be an Aston Martin Vantage S. So a lot of fun cars going up on there too."
The Aston Martin Vantage S is a luxurious sports car that looks great and drives really well. It's known for being fast and stylish, appealing to people who love high-end cars.
The Aston Martin Vantage S is a luxury sports car that combines elegant design with impressive performance. It features a powerful engine and is known for its handling and driving dynamics, making it a favorite among enthusiasts.
brake dust
"The dealership service center guy said they are from brake dust coming from other cars on the road..."
Brake dust is tiny bits of material that come off brake pads when you use the brakes. It can stick to your car's wheels and paint, and if it builds up, it can be hard to clean off.
Brake dust is the fine particles that are produced when brake pads wear down during braking. This dust can accumulate on wheels and paint, potentially causing damage if not cleaned regularly.
rail dust
"I suspect and I don't know this because I don't know how this vehicle is transported, but it sounds like rail dust..."
Rail dust is tiny pieces of metal that come from trains and can land on cars. If you don't clean it off, it can hurt the paint and cause rust.
Rail dust refers to tiny particles of metal that can come from trains and settle on vehicles. This dust can be particularly damaging to paint if not removed, as it can cause rust and corrosion.
Honda Crv
"I have two questions. I recently purchased a Honda CR-V Hybrid 2026 and it doesn't come with a spare tire, which I have a level of concern about. It just comes with the run-flat tires and then a kit that you use."
The Honda CR-V is a popular SUV that is great for families because it has a lot of space and is known for being dependable. It also comes in a hybrid version, which is better for the environment.
The Honda CR-V is a compact SUV that is known for its reliability, spacious interior, and fuel efficiency. It has been a top seller in its class for many years, appealing to families and individuals alike. The introduction of hybrid variants has also made it a topic of interest in discussions about eco-friendly vehicles.
Toyota Prius
"... was probably the first electric vehicle, but the Prius was really the first one that worked well. It's ..."
The Toyota Prius is a car that uses both gas and electricity to drive, making it very good on fuel. It's known for being one of the first hybrid cars and is popular among people who want to save money on gas and help the environment.
The Toyota Prius is a pioneering hybrid vehicle that has become synonymous with fuel efficiency and environmental consciousness. Launched in the late 1990s, it was one of the first mass-produced hybrids and has influenced the automotive industry towards more eco-friendly technologies. Its significance lies in its role in popularizing hybrid technology and reducing emissions.
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