Telsa Kills Models, Mitsubishi Outlander Review, Best Cars of 2026
About this episode
The episode dives into significant automotive news, including the discontinuation of Tesla's Model S and Model X, marking a pivotal moment in electric vehicle history. Jill and Tom discuss the implications of these changes, alongside a review of the Mitsubishi Outlander and predictions for the best cars of 2026. They also touch on the rise of software-defined vehicles, the comeback of minivans, and the evolving landscape of electric trucks. With insights on market trends and vehicle performance, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the current state of the auto industry.
Jill and Tom sift through an enormous amount of news this week, including the announced deaths of four car models, including two from Tesla. Other news items covered include a name for Ford’s new electric small truck, BMW’s new electric-car architecture, and the unexpected comeback of the minivan.
Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander small crossover. Listen in for her take.
In the second segment the hosts welcome Brian Moody of Kelly Blue Book to the show. Brian shares his take on the new-car market in 2026, as well as KBB’s Best Buy picks.
In the third segment Jill is subjected to Tom’s “How Red is It?” Quiz.
Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Toyota Corolla
"...but I drove the Corolla SE Hybrid all-wheel drive during the cold snap. It held up well."
The Toyota Corolla SE Hybrid is a version of the Corolla that uses both a gasoline engine and an electric motor to save fuel. The 'SE' means it has some extra sporty features compared to the regular Corolla.
The Toyota Corolla SE Hybrid is a variant of the popular Corolla model, featuring a hybrid powertrain for improved fuel efficiency. The 'SE' trim typically offers a sportier design and additional features compared to the base model.
all-wheel drive
"...the Corolla SE Hybrid all-wheel drive during the cold snap. It held up well. The whole drive system is excellent."
All-wheel drive means that power goes to all four wheels of the car instead of just two. This helps the car grip the road better, especially in bad weather like snow or rain.
All-wheel drive (AWD) is a drivetrain system that distributes power to all four wheels of a vehicle, enhancing traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. This feature is beneficial for driving in snow or rain.
heated seats
"...it doesn't have heated seats. So you want to make sure you're getting a Corolla that's available with heated seats for this."
Heated seats are seats in a car that can warm up to keep you comfortable when it's cold outside. They use electricity to heat the seat cushions.
Heated seats are a comfort feature in vehicles that use electrical heating elements to warm the seat cushions and backrests. This feature is particularly appreciated in cold weather, providing added comfort for passengers.
Toyota Corolla Cross
"...that the Corolla Cross, the small crossover is a little expensive. On the Corolla SE, getting all-wheel drive, $1,400."
The Toyota Corolla Cross is a small SUV that is based on the Corolla. It provides more room for passengers and cargo, making it a good choice for families or those needing extra space.
The Toyota Corolla Cross is a subcompact crossover SUV that combines the practicality of an SUV with the efficiency of a compact car. It offers more space and versatility compared to the standard Corolla.
Fords Model
"All right. First, Ford's model team moment. This new electric truck they're going to build."
Ford Maverick
"Has a name. Maverick EV. Okay."
The Ford Maverick EV is a new electric truck that Ford plans to release. It's designed to be a smaller, more efficient pickup that runs on electricity instead of gasoline.
The Ford Maverick EV is an upcoming electric version of Ford's compact pickup truck, the Maverick. It aims to combine utility with electric efficiency, appealing to consumers looking for a versatile vehicle with lower environmental impact.
Lexus LC
"This is the beautiful Lexus top of the line flagship sports car and sports car convertible."
The Lexus LC is a high-end sports car known for its stylish looks and luxury features. It's available as both a coupe and a convertible, making it a top choice for those who want a sporty yet comfortable ride.
The Lexus LC is a luxury sports car that combines performance with elegant design. It is available in both coupe and convertible variants, showcasing Lexus's flagship offerings in the sports car segment.
software-defined vehicles
"...we've been talking a lot about software-defined vehicles, SDVs. BMW has probably what's closest to an SDV coming out this year..."
Software-defined vehicles are cars that use software to manage many of their features. This means they can be updated remotely, similar to how apps on your phone get updates.
Software-defined vehicles (SDVs) are cars that rely heavily on software to control various functions, from driving dynamics to infotainment systems. This approach allows for over-the-air updates and enhanced features that can evolve over time.
BMW iX3
"...BMW has probably what's closest to an SDV coming out this year, and that is the iX3, which runs on their new Neue Classe architecture."
The BMW iX3 is an electric version of BMW's X3 SUV. It uses electricity instead of gasoline, making it more environmentally friendly.
The BMW iX3 is an electric SUV that represents BMW's shift towards electrification, featuring advanced technology and a focus on sustainability. It is part of BMW's broader strategy to offer electric versions of their popular models.
Neue Klasse architecture
"...the iX3, which runs on their new Neue Klasse architecture. It's an 800-volt architecture."
Neue Klasse architecture is a new design framework by BMW for building electric cars. It helps make the cars more efficient and allows for different styles and sizes.
The Neue Klasse architecture is BMW's new platform designed for electric vehicles, allowing for improved performance, efficiency, and flexibility in vehicle design. It supports various models and configurations, enhancing the brand's electric lineup.
800-volt architecture
"...It's an 800-volt architecture. Should charge very quickly."
An 800-volt architecture means the car can charge faster than most electric cars, which usually use 400 volts. This helps you spend less time at charging stations.
An 800-volt architecture in electric vehicles allows for faster charging and improved performance compared to traditional 400-volt systems. This technology can reduce charging times significantly and enhance overall efficiency.
Kia Telluride
"...the Kia Telluride, for example, is constrained by manufacturing limitations. So the fact that they sold 123,000 last year, which is a big number..."
The Kia Telluride is a popular SUV that offers a lot of space and features for families. It's well-regarded for being safe and a good value for the money.
The Kia Telluride is a mid-size SUV that has gained popularity for its spacious interior, advanced technology, and strong safety ratings. It is known for its value in the competitive SUV market.
Hyundai Palisade
"... sold more. It's just this is true of the Hyundai Palisade as well. And they import these boogers still."
Tesla Model
"Yeah. The Tesla Model X and the Tesla Model S. Yes."
Tesla Model S
"...The Tesla Model X and the Tesla Model S. Yes. Dead. Yes. And there's a lot here to unpack about this."
The Tesla Model S is a fancy electric car that looks like a regular sedan but is very fast and has a long battery life. It's packed with smart technology and is popular among electric car buyers.
The Tesla Model S is a luxury all-electric sedan that offers high performance, long range, and cutting-edge technology. It has been a benchmark for electric vehicles since its launch, known for its acceleration and innovative features.
Tesla Model X
"...The Tesla Model X and the Tesla Model S. Yes. Dead. Yes. And there's a lot here to unpack about this."
The Tesla Model X is a large electric car that can carry many passengers and has unique doors that open upwards. It's known for being very high-tech and fast.
The Tesla Model X is an all-electric SUV known for its distinctive falcon-wing doors and advanced technology features. It offers impressive performance and a spacious interior, making it a popular choice among electric vehicle enthusiasts.
electric vehicle
"But the Model S was probably the single most important electric vehicle in history. I would agree with that."
An electric vehicle is a car that runs on electricity instead of gas. The Tesla Model S is a famous example of this type of car.
An electric vehicle (EV) is a car that is powered by electricity instead of gasoline or diesel. The Tesla Model S is a significant example of an EV that has influenced the automotive industry.
charging network
"And Tesla built a charging network around this single vehicle."
A charging network is a group of places where electric cars can be charged. Tesla has built many of these stations so that people can travel long distances without running out of power.
A charging network refers to a system of charging stations that allow electric vehicle owners to recharge their cars. Tesla has developed a widespread network specifically for its vehicles, enabling long-distance travel.
Ford Falcon
"... them. The X was the wacky big crossover with the Falcon doors. Yeah."
crossover
"...the wacky big crossover with the Falcon doors..."
A crossover is a vehicle that mixes the features of a car and an SUV. They usually have a higher seating position and more space for passengers and cargo, making them popular for families.
A crossover is a type of vehicle that combines features of a car and an SUV, typically built on a car platform. Crossovers often offer a higher driving position, more cargo space, and a more comfortable ride compared to traditional SUVs.
Gullwing doors
"...The Gullwing doors. Which is kind of a stupid thing from the beginning..."
Gullwing doors are doors that open upwards instead of sideways. They are often seen on fancy sports cars and make it easier to get in and out of the car, especially in tight spots.
Gullwing doors are a type of car door that is hinged at the roof rather than the side, allowing the door to open upward. This design is often associated with high-performance and luxury vehicles, providing a distinctive look and easier access in tight spaces.
Tesla Cybertruck
"...e. So Tesla now sells two vehicles, excluding the Cybertruck, that are kind of getting old. And there's really..."
Chrysler minivan
"The Minivan is making a comeback. This has been a pretty small segment for a long time, which is part of the reason we haven't seen that much investment in the vehicles. Chrysler's been dragging its feet on a full redesign."
Chrysler minivans are family-friendly vehicles that offer a lot of space for passengers and cargo. They are popular for their convenience and comfort, especially for families with kids.
Chrysler minivans have been a staple in the family vehicle market, known for their spacious interiors and practicality. They have seen various redesigns over the years, but recent models have faced stiff competition from SUVs and crossovers.
Honda minivan
"Honda's been dragging its feet on a full redesign. Well, Nokia been doing some nice stuff, including adding a hybrid."
Honda minivans are vehicles designed for families, offering plenty of room for passengers and their belongings. They are known for being safe and reliable, which is why many families choose them.
Honda minivans, particularly the Honda Odyssey, are well-regarded for their reliability and family-friendly features. They often include advanced safety technologies and spacious interiors, making them a popular choice among families.
hybrid
"Well, Nokia been doing some nice stuff, including adding a hybrid."
A hybrid is a type of car that uses both a gasoline engine and an electric motor. This helps the car use less fuel and produce fewer emissions, making it better for the environment.
A hybrid vehicle combines a traditional internal combustion engine with an electric motor to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. They are increasingly popular as consumers seek more environmentally friendly options.
Ford Ranger
"When I bought my Ford Ranger in 1991, my father was mad at me and disappointed that I went with a four-year loan."
The Ford Ranger is a small truck that people use for work or personal use. It was first made in the early 1980s and is known for being tough and dependable.
The Ford Ranger is a compact pickup truck that has been popular for its versatility and reliability. It was first introduced in 1983 and has undergone several generations of redesigns, with the 1991 model being part of the second generation.
Mercedes-Benz Sclass
"Cool thing from Mercedes-Benz. They're redesigning their big S-class sedan. Okay."
Jeep Cherokee
"...y were going to build. They're going to build the Cherokee and the Compass. Uh-huh."
Hyundai Santa
"I'm listening. Hyundai Santa Cruz. Oh, yeah."
Hyundai Santa Cruz
"I'm listening. Hyundai Santa Cruz. Oh, yeah."
Rebel Rally
"And I mean, one of the things that we really tried to prove during the Rebel Rally, and if you're not familiar, it's R-E-B-E-L-L-E."
The Rebel Rally is a race where women drive off-road and find their way using maps instead of GPS. It's a fun and challenging event that tests driving skills.
The Rebel Rally is an all-women's off-road navigation rally that challenges participants to navigate through various terrains using only maps and compasses. It emphasizes adventure and skill in off-road driving.
off-road navigational challenge
"It's a women's off-road navigational challenge. Now I have to link to that."
It's a competition where people drive vehicles through tough, unpaved areas instead of regular roads. They have to find their way using maps or GPS, which can be quite challenging.
An off-road navigational challenge is an event where participants navigate through rough terrain without the use of traditional roads, often relying on maps or GPS. These challenges test both driving skills and navigational abilities in challenging environments.
skid plates
"We did put skid plates on it. There were a couple of modifications we did."
Skid plates are strong pieces of metal that you put under a vehicle to protect it from getting hurt when driving over rough ground. They help keep important parts safe.
Skid plates are protective metal plates installed on the underside of a vehicle to shield critical components from damage when driving over rough terrain. They are essential for off-road vehicles to prevent damage from rocks and other obstacles.
lift
"And this vehicle was a champ. And we did give it a lift."
When you lift a vehicle, you make it taller by changing its suspension. This helps it drive over rocks and bumps more easily when off-roading.
Lifting a vehicle refers to modifying its suspension to increase its height, which can improve ground clearance and off-road capability. This is especially useful for navigating rough terrains and obstacles.
Toyota Sienna
"And you've got the Sienna, which"
The Toyota Sienna is a type of minivan that's great for families because it has a lot of space inside. It also comes with features that make it easy to drive and comfortable for passengers.
The Toyota Sienna is a minivan known for its spacious interior and family-friendly features. It stands out in the minivan segment for its all-wheel drive option and hybrid powertrain, making it a practical choice for families.
Chrysler Pacifica
"What's the oldest? Pacifica. That feels like that's not interesting."
V6 engine
"...no longer a hybrid, but really smooth V6."
A V6 engine is a car engine that has six cylinders arranged in a V shape. It offers a good mix of power and fuel efficiency, which is why many cars use it.
A V6 engine is a type of internal combustion engine with six cylinders arranged in a V configuration. It is known for providing a good balance of power and efficiency, making it popular in many vehicles.
luxury vehicle
"And you can get one that is truly a luxury vehicle."
A luxury vehicle is a fancy car that has a lot of comfort and high-quality features. They are usually more expensive and offer a better driving experience.
A luxury vehicle is a high-end car that offers superior comfort, performance, and features compared to standard models. These vehicles often come with premium materials, advanced technology, and enhanced performance.
Kia Carnival
"So that's a nice Kia K4, I'm sorry, Kia Carnival."
The Kia Carnival is a new minivan that combines family-friendly features with a touch of luxury. It's designed to be spacious and comfortable for passengers.
The Kia Carnival is a modern minivan that offers a blend of practicality and luxury features, making it a strong competitor in the minivan market. It is designed for families and provides a comfortable ride with various tech features.
technology
"Yeah, it's the newest thing with all the coolest technology you can imagine."
Technology in cars includes all the cool features that make driving easier and safer, like touch screens, cameras, and safety systems that help you avoid accidents.
In the automotive context, technology refers to the various advanced features and systems integrated into vehicles, such as infotainment systems, safety features, and driver assistance technologies. These innovations enhance the driving experience and improve safety.
Mitsubishi Outlander
"... been a hot minute. Yeah, so you were driving the Outlander SEL. Correct."
Nissan Rogue
"..., very closely mechanically related to the Nissan Rogue. Correct."
Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
"...'m like, I just completely blanked on it. And the Eclipse Cross and the Outlander Sport are similar in size and p..."
Toyota Tercel
"...ut whether it was an Expo LRV or whether it was a Tercel ATM or whatever. There was that same thing for el..."
Honda Civic
"for sale right now. The Toyota Corolla, the Honda Civic, the Nissan Leaf, the Nissan Sentra, on and on."
Nissan Sentra
"...lla, the Honda Civic, the Nissan Leaf, the Nissan Sentra, on and on. There's many cars that are around or ..."
Nissan Leaf
"The Toyota Corolla, the Honda Civic, the Nissan Leaf, the Nissan Sentra, on and on. There's many cars ..."
Toyota Grand Highlander
"The Highlander now costs more money than the Grand Highlander because there's no longer, was it a base XL trim ..."
Toyota Camry
"whether they chose it or not. Like the Camry is a great example. I just want a good sedan."
Toyota Tacoma
"...e the Toyota Camry, the Toyota Sienna, the Toyota Tacoma, the Toyota RAV4,"
Toyota RAV4
"the Toyota Sienna, the Toyota Tacoma, the Toyota RAV4, I mean, that tells you something,"
Hyundai Kona
"... certain kinds of cars, Hyundai Palisade, Hyundai Kona, those kind of things, they're doing a good job"
Hyundai Ioniq 5
"...bout your EV choices here. Your EV choice was the Ioniq 5, and then your three-row crossover pick was the E..."
Hyundai Ioniq 9
"...ay. My personal choice for the money would be the Ioniq 9. It just makes a little bit more sense"
Rivian R1S
"like you have the Ioniq 9, you have the Rivian R1S that are similarly sized. I don't, BMW has the IX..."
Chevrolet Corvette
"...ng me saying, dad, do you know you can get a used Corvette for $12,000. Interesting."
Polestar 4
"...out. And right now I'm finishing my review of the Polestar 4. I love that car."
Jeep Wrangler
"...ig old crossover SUV, a direct competition to the Wrangler. So Broncler, not the Broncler Sport."
Dodge Charger
"I haven't fooled you at all. The Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack. That's the EV."
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.
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.