The 2025 SCR Car of the Year Is Here!
About this episode
The crew celebrates the one-year anniversary of Spike's Car Radio while discussing the nominees for the 2025 SCR Car of the Year. They present a list of eight contenders, including the Aston Martin Vanquish and the orange 356, and engage in a lively debate about their favorites. The episode also features humorous anecdotes about Thanksgiving, a discussion on the Rivian R1S, and a light-hearted segment on the 'Maggot of the Year.' With a mix of automotive insights and personal stories, this episode captures the camaraderie of car enthusiasts.
BMW M5
"the yellow M5, the uh that's a 2000 M5 with no miles"
The BMW M5 is a fast and powerful car made by BMW. The 2000 version is known for being very good at handling and performance.
The BMW M5 is a high-performance version of the BMW 5 Series, known for its powerful engine and sporty handling. The 2000 model is part of the E39 generation, which is highly regarded among enthusiasts.
Porsche 356
"...ari yellow, followed by the newest uh orange 1965 356 SC >> and I'm well represented. Good."
Mercedes-Maybach
"The new Mercedes Maybach that I drove which I really loved."
Mercedes-Maybach is a very fancy line of cars made by Mercedes-Benz. They are designed to be extremely comfortable and luxurious.
The Mercedes-Maybach is a luxury sub-brand of Mercedes-Benz, known for its ultra-luxurious vehicles that offer high levels of comfort and advanced technology.
Lamborghini Revuelto
"Lamborghini Revuelto, which both you and I absolutely really love."
The Lamborghini Revuelto is a supercar that is very fast and stylish. It's known for its powerful engine and modern technology.
The Lamborghini Revuelto is a high-performance supercar known for its striking design and advanced hybrid technology. It represents Lamborghini's commitment to combining luxury with cutting-edge performance.
Aston Martin Vanquish
"The Aston Martin Vanquish. Wow. Uh one of the listeners reminded me..."
The Aston Martin Vanquish is a fancy sports car that looks great and drives fast. It's designed for people who want both luxury and performance.
The Aston Martin Vanquish is a luxury grand tourer known for its elegant design and powerful V12 engine. It combines performance with a high level of comfort and style.
Porsche GTS Hybrid
"the Porsche GTS hybrid, which I also thought was an amazing car."
The Porsche GTS Hybrid is a car that uses both gas and electricity to drive. It’s designed to be fast while also saving on fuel.
The Porsche GTS Hybrid is a performance-oriented hybrid vehicle that combines the efficiency of hybrid technology with the sporty characteristics Porsche is known for. It offers a balance of power and fuel economy.
Porsche 718 Spider
"...the 718 Spider didn't make it, but we'll just see. Well, the ST is good enough..."
The Porsche 718 Spider is a sporty car that is designed for fun driving. It's light and quick, which makes it exciting to drive on the road or track.
The Porsche 718 Spider is a high-performance variant of the 718 series, known for its lightweight design and agile handling, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts.
Porsche 911
"Or 911 ST. There you go. Wow."
The Porsche 911 ST is a special version of the 911 sports car that was made for racing. It is lighter and faster than regular 911s, making it very popular among car fans.
The Porsche 911 ST is a variant of the iconic 911 model, known for its lightweight construction and enhanced performance features. It was designed for racing and is highly sought after by collectors.
2024 ST
"more insane than this ST. However, it's a 2024, you know. So, you know, I I I would have to give that the vote, but I can't because to me it's a model 2024 car and driver. This is we have our own rules. That's a valid point. >> I I would just I would say I I I drove the ST. I like the ST a lot. To me"
The 2024 ST is a sporty car from Ford that is designed for performance. It's known for being fun to drive and has a powerful engine that makes it exciting on the road.
The 2024 ST refers to a performance-oriented model from Ford, likely the Ford Focus ST or a similar variant. These models are known for their sporty handling and turbocharged engines, appealing to driving enthusiasts.
Porsche 911 GT3
"...a lot. To me though, like the the space between a GT3 and an ST, it's not that big of a hike."
The Porsche 911 GT3 is a super-fast sports car that many people love for its amazing speed and handling. It's built for people who really enjoy driving and want a car that feels great on the road or track. It's often talked about because it's one of the best cars for performance.
The Porsche 911 GT3 is a high-performance variant of the iconic 911 sports car, designed for track enthusiasts and serious drivers. It features a naturally aspirated engine, precise handling, and lightweight construction, making it a standout in the sports car segment. Its significance lies in its blend of everyday usability and extreme performance, often discussed in the context of racing and driving dynamics.
Ford Focus ST
"So now we have two Wait, but wait a second. We have two votes for the ST."
The Ford Focus ST is a sportier version of the regular Ford Focus. It has a turbocharged engine that makes it faster and more fun to drive.
The Ford Focus ST is a sporty version of the Ford Focus, featuring a turbocharged engine and performance enhancements that make it more engaging to drive compared to the standard model.
Toyota Corolla
"...the Toyota Corolla Hybrid had to be on this list. Johnny, do you agree with that?"
The Toyota Corolla Hybrid is a type of car that uses both gas and electricity to run, making it better for the environment and saving on fuel costs.
The Toyota Corolla Hybrid is a fuel-efficient compact car that combines a traditional gasoline engine with an electric motor for improved fuel economy and reduced emissions.
Mercedes-Benz G-Class
"...three brand new G Wagons. Yeah. With handicap placards all in the same parking garage."
The G-Class, or G-Wagon, is a fancy SUV made by Mercedes-Benz. It's known for being tough and stylish, making it popular among celebrities and wealthy buyers.
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class, often referred to as the G-Wagon, is a luxury SUV known for its rugged off-road capabilities and distinctive boxy design. It has a strong following and is often associated with wealth and status.
Tesla Cybertruck
"...I'm gonna say definitely the Cyber Truck and uh you know fake handicap placard people I don't like..."
The Tesla Cybertruck is a new type of electric truck that looks very different from regular trucks. It's made by Tesla and is designed to be tough and high-tech.
The Tesla Cybertruck is an all-electric pickup truck designed by Tesla, known for its distinctive angular design and durable exoskeleton. It aims to combine utility with advanced technology, including a high-performance electric powertrain.
Rivian R1S
"here, I guess we have the next generation of R1S. >> That's right."
The Rivian R1S is a new electric SUV that's made for people who love outdoor activities like camping and hiking. It has a lot of space inside and can drive on rough terrain, making it a great choice for adventures. It's important because it shows how electric cars can be fun and practical.
The Rivian R1S is an all-electric SUV designed for adventure and outdoor activities, featuring impressive off-road capabilities and a spacious interior. As part of Rivian's lineup, it represents a shift towards electric vehicles that cater to adventure seekers and families alike. The R1S is significant for its innovative technology and commitment to sustainability.
0-60 time
"Uh 0 to 60. 2.6 seconds. 2.5. We actually tested it. 2.5."
0-60 time is how long it takes for a car to go from a stop to 60 miles per hour. It's a way to measure how fast a car can speed up.
0-60 time refers to the time it takes for a vehicle to accelerate from a complete stop to 60 miles per hour. It's a common performance metric used to evaluate a car's acceleration capabilities.
Tesla Model Y
"...like my Model Y. Yeah. Well, I can tell you different CEOs, different CEOs. So, I charged this up to about 303 miles..."
The Tesla Model Y is a type of electric car that looks like a small SUV. It has a lot of space inside and uses electricity instead of gasoline to drive.
The Tesla Model Y is an all-electric compact SUV that offers a spacious interior and advanced technology features, including a high-tech infotainment system and impressive range.
Gen 2
"Well, so for Gen 2, uh it's all new motors um for both the truck and the SUV."
Gen 2 means the second version of a car model. It's usually better than the first version because it has updates and improvements.
Gen 2 refers to the second generation of a vehicle model, indicating a significant redesign or update from the first generation. This often includes improvements in performance, technology, and design.
suspension
"The suspension on the truck is identical, but they actually changed the rear suspension physically for the Gen 2 SUV."
Suspension is the part of a car that helps it ride smoothly over bumps and turns. It connects the car to the wheels and helps keep it stable.
Suspension refers to the system of springs, shock absorbers, and linkages that connects a vehicle to its wheels. It plays a crucial role in handling, ride comfort, and stability.
quarter mile
"...I forget the quarter mile, but it's like, you know, 10 seconds or something..."
The quarter mile is a common distance used in car racing to see how fast a car can go. It's about 1,320 feet long, and people often time how quickly cars can complete it.
The quarter mile is a standard drag racing distance of 1,320 feet (402 meters). It's often used to measure a car's acceleration and performance, with times recorded to see how quickly a vehicle can cover that distance.
top speed
"...the top speed riving limits the top speed to 110..."
Top speed is the fastest a car can go when everything is perfect. It's an important number for people who care about how fast a car can drive.
Top speed refers to the maximum speed a vehicle can achieve under ideal conditions. It's a key performance metric for many cars, especially sports and supercars.
launch mode
"unless you turn on launch mode and that'll [laughter] do then it'll do 130. What is this thing going to cost me?"
Launch mode helps cars accelerate quickly from a stop. It makes sure the tires grip the road well so the car can go fast without spinning out.
Launch mode is a feature in high-performance cars that optimizes acceleration from a standstill, allowing for maximum grip and minimal wheel spin. It typically adjusts throttle response and traction control settings to achieve the best possible start.
$125,000 - $130,000
"Um I think they're like 125 130 uh that neighborhood. I got I got to say I really like it."
This means the car costs between $125,000 and $130,000, which is a lot of money for a vehicle. Prices can change based on features and where you buy it.
This price range indicates the expected cost of the vehicle being discussed, which is typical for high-performance or luxury cars. MSRP (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price) can vary based on options and dealer fees.
Ford Bronco
"...maybe I don't hold on to the Bronco cuz it feels Broncos sized yet it is so together and"
The Bronco is a tough SUV made by Ford that can go off-road. It's popular for its strong build and outdoor adventures.
The Ford Bronco is a rugged SUV known for its off-road capabilities and classic design. It has been reintroduced in recent years with modern features while retaining its adventurous spirit.
software
"the architecture, the zonal architecture and the software to control it."
Software in cars is like the computer programs that help control things like music, navigation, and safety features. It makes the car smarter and easier to use.
In the automotive context, software refers to the programs and operating systems that control various functions of a vehicle, including infotainment, navigation, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).
Tesla charging network
"...you've got the Tesla uh charging network at your disposal."
The Tesla charging network is a series of stations where Tesla owners can quickly charge their cars. It's helpful for long trips because you can find places to recharge your battery.
The Tesla charging network is a system of fast-charging stations designed specifically for Tesla vehicles, allowing for convenient long-distance travel and quick recharging.
Porsche 918 Spyder
"The new Cayenne Turbo beats the 918."
The Porsche 918 is a super-fast sports car that uses both gas and electric power to go really fast while being more efficient. It's one of Porsche's most advanced cars.
The Porsche 918 is a plug-in hybrid supercar that combines high performance with advanced technology. It features a powerful V8 engine paired with electric motors, allowing for impressive acceleration and efficiency.
pure EV
"No, no, no. Pure pure EV. It's a pure EV."
A pure EV is a car that only uses electricity to run, without any gasoline engine. It charges up using electricity instead of filling up with gas.
A pure EV, or electric vehicle, runs entirely on electricity and does not have a gasoline engine. This means it relies solely on electric power for propulsion, making it more environmentally friendly compared to traditional vehicles.
aerodynamics
"Uh, you have to be in aerodynamics, but it's like the drag coefficient..."
Aerodynamics is how air moves around things, like cars. Good aerodynamics helps a car go faster and use less fuel by reducing air resistance.
Aerodynamics is the study of how gases interact with moving bodies. In automotive design, it refers to how a vehicle's shape affects its ability to move through air, impacting fuel efficiency and stability.
Toyota Prius
"...which is I think a Prius is about 0.25 and it has like 325 rear tires."
The Toyota Prius is a popular hybrid car that uses both gas and electricity to drive. It's designed to be very fuel-efficient, which means it can go a long way on a small amount of gas.
The Toyota Prius is a hybrid electric vehicle known for its fuel efficiency and low emissions. It features a unique aerodynamic design that contributes to its low drag coefficient, making it one of the most efficient cars on the market.
Bmw 30
"...ly nuts. BMW's first M car is up for sale. A 1972 BMW 30 CSL works development car. There it is right ther..."
The BMW 3.0 CSL is an older sports car that is very special because it was one of the first to be made for racing. It's known for being light and fast, and many collectors want to own one because of its history. People talk about it because it helped start BMW's reputation for performance cars.
The BMW 3.0 CSL is a classic sports car that is considered one of the first models to carry the M badge, representing BMW's performance division. Produced in the early 1970s, it is renowned for its lightweight construction and racing pedigree, making it a highly sought-after collector's item. The 3.0 CSL is often discussed for its historical significance and impact on BMW's motorsport legacy.
Bmw M
"...ignificant BMWs of all time. E9R1 is the original BMW M car and the first CSL that was fitted and used to..."
The BMW M Coupe (E36) is a sporty car that looks different from most cars because of its unique shape. It's known for being very fun to drive and has a strong engine, which makes it popular with car lovers. People talk about it because it's a cool mix of style and performance.
The BMW M Coupe (E36) is a high-performance version of the BMW Z3, known for its distinctive styling and engaging driving dynamics. Produced in the late 1990s, it features a powerful inline-six engine and a lightweight chassis, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts. The M Coupe is often discussed for its unique design and thrilling performance.
Porsche RSR
"What do we have there? Is that an RSR racing with it? Yeah. Or like a 934.5 or something. Is"
The Porsche RSR is a special racing version of the Porsche 911. It is designed to be very fast and light, which helps it win races.
The Porsche RSR is a high-performance variant of the Porsche 911, specifically built for racing. It is known for its lightweight design and powerful engine, making it a favorite in motorsport.
BMW New Class
"systems. And the law is also going to designate a new class of ultra highowered vehicles that you have to"
The BMW New Class is a group of cars made a long time ago that helped make BMW a well-known car brand. They were sporty and had modern features for their time, which helped BMW become popular. People talk about them because they are important in the history of the company.
The BMW New Class refers to a series of models produced in the 1960s and 1970s that helped establish BMW as a major player in the automotive market. These cars combined sporty performance with modern design and technology, paving the way for the brand's future success. The New Class is often discussed for its role in shaping BMW's identity and legacy.
Volkswagen This Volkswagen
"... of ads, I I want to talk about a California car. this Volkswagen >> Palisades Fire almost a year ago. Uh"
The Volkswagen Golf GTI is a sportier version of a regular Golf car, designed to be fun to drive while still being practical for everyday use. It has a powerful engine and handles really well, which is why many people enjoy it. It's often talked about because it's a great mix of speed and comfort.
The Volkswagen Golf GTI is a sporty version of the popular Golf hatchback, known for its performance, practicality, and everyday usability. It has a strong following among driving enthusiasts for its fun handling and turbocharged engine, making it a staple in the hot hatch segment. The GTI is often discussed for its balance of sportiness and everyday comfort.
Volkswagen Bus
"...re almost a year ago. Uh there was this beautiful Volkswagen bus that was uh iconically photographed in"
The Volkswagen Bus is a classic van that many people love because of its unique look and spacious interior. It became popular in the 1960s and is often associated with fun road trips and camping. People talk about it because it's a symbol of freedom and adventure.
The Volkswagen Bus, also known as the VW Type 2, is an iconic vehicle that became a symbol of the counterculture movement in the 1960s. Known for its spacious interior and distinctive design, it has a loyal following among enthusiasts and collectors. The Bus is often discussed for its cultural significance and versatility as a family vehicle or camper.
Mercedes 420
"...I drove. I didn't know how you knew I was in the Mercedes 420. My spies."
The Mercedes 420 is a luxury car made by Mercedes-Benz. It's known for being comfortable and powerful, often used by people who want a high-end driving experience.
The Mercedes 420 refers to the Mercedes-Benz 420, which is part of the S-Class lineup. It is known for its luxury features and performance, making it a popular choice among premium sedan buyers during its production period.
Bmw 525
"..., at least my dog, my dog likes, for example, the BMW 525, I think, is her favorite car. She and she"
The BMW 5 Series is a luxury car that is comfortable and fun to drive. It's been around for a long time and is known for having a lot of technology and space inside. People talk about it because it's a great choice for those who want a nice car that feels good to drive.
The BMW 5 Series is a mid-size luxury sedan known for its blend of performance, comfort, and advanced technology. It has been a staple in BMW's lineup since the 1970s and is often praised for its driving dynamics and spacious interior. The 5 Series is frequently discussed for its status as a benchmark in the luxury sedan segment.
BMW 323
"think, is her favorite car. She and she likes the 323. She likes BMW seats and she likes the smoothness..."
The BMW 3 Series is a smaller luxury car that many people enjoy because it's fun to drive and has nice features. It's been popular for a long time and is a good choice for both families and car lovers. People talk about it because it's considered one of the best in its class.
The BMW 3 Series is a compact luxury sedan that has been a cornerstone of BMW's lineup for decades, known for its sporty handling and premium features. It appeals to a wide range of drivers, from enthusiasts to families, due to its balance of performance and practicality. The 3 Series is often discussed for its reputation as a benchmark in the compact luxury segment.
BMW 2002 Bmw
">> I'm fine. Uh, are you ever going to get a 2002 BMW? Good question. I've always loved those, too."
The BMW 2002 is an older, classic car that many people love because it's fun to drive and looks great. It helped make BMW popular for making sporty cars. Car fans often talk about it because it's a piece of automotive history and many people want to own one.
The BMW 2002 is a classic compact car that played a significant role in establishing BMW's reputation for sporty and fun-to-drive vehicles. Produced in the late 1960s and 1970s, it is celebrated for its engaging driving experience and timeless design. The 2002 is often discussed among car enthusiasts for its impact on the automotive industry and its status as a collector's item.
Mercedes-Benz SL
">> No. >> Let's hear more about the 420 SL. Well, there's a car we should talk about. That"
The Mercedes-Benz SL is a fancy convertible car that you can take the roof off of to enjoy the sun while driving. It's known for being very comfortable and stylish, making it a popular choice for people who want a luxury car. People talk about it because it represents both luxury and fun driving.
The Mercedes-Benz SL is a luxury roadster that combines performance with elegance, known for its retractable hardtop and advanced technology. It has a long history as a symbol of luxury and sportiness, making it a favorite among enthusiasts and collectors. The SL is often discussed for its blend of comfort, style, and driving pleasure.
Chevrolet Silverado
"it can literally go anywhere. And you have the Silverado ZR2. Same thing. Just unstoppably good."
The Chevrolet Silverado is a big truck that can be used for many purposes, like work or outdoor adventures. It's known for being tough and reliable, which is why people like to talk about it when discussing trucks. The Silverado can handle rough roads and carry heavy loads easily.
The Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pickup truck known for its versatility, durability, and capability in various driving conditions. It's popular among both work and recreational users, offering a range of trims and features, including the off-road-focused ZR2 variant. The Silverado is often discussed for its ability to handle tough tasks while providing comfort and technology.
Skoda Octavia
"...ything. I like it more than my uh uh Cifert Hoyer Octavia that I have. This uh I've been just"
The Skoda Octavia is a compact car that is very practical and has a lot of space inside. It's known for being reliable and a good value, which makes it a popular choice for families. People talk about it because it's a smart option for everyday driving.
The Skoda Octavia is a compact car known for its practicality, spacious interior, and value for money. It has gained popularity in various markets for its reliability and efficiency, making it a sensible choice for families and commuters. The Octavia is often discussed for its blend of functionality and affordability.
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.