The King Ranch, Reliable Cars, Concours Destinations, and the Corolla Cross....
About this episode
The discussion covers a detailed review of the 2025 Ford Expedition King Ranch, highlighting its redesign, interior luxury, technology features, and driving experience. The hosts compare it to competitors like the Chevy Tahoe and Toyota Sequoia, emphasizing its strong performance and comfort. They also explore vehicle reliability, naming Toyota, Lexus, Honda, and Chevrolet as brands likely to reach 250,000 miles, while Dodge Ram, Jeep, and Tesla face reliability challenges. The episode concludes with a rundown of top concours car events in the U.S., offering enthusiasts travel and event planning insights.
Big SUVs don’t have to drive like buses. We put the 2025 Ford Expedition King Ranch through a real week of miles and came away surprised by the steering precision, quiet ride, and how easily the cabin tech fades into the background so you can actually enjoy the drive. From the panoramic roof and bronze 22-inch wheels to a 24-inch driver display and 13.2-inch touchscreen, this full-size three-row blends comfort with capability, towing up to 9,600 pounds while returning honest, real-world fuel economy.
We break down what matters for buyers: how BlueCruise and Co-Pilot360 2.0 help on long stints, how the B&O Unleashed 22-speaker audio fills the cabin, and why the second-row captain’s chairs and power-folding third row make life easier for families. Then we talk money and matchups. The Expedition’s pricing strategy ranges from a value-forward Active trim to the fully loaded King Ranch tested here, so cross-shopping the Chevy Tahoe, Nissan Armada, and Toyota Sequoia is essential. We explain who wins on base price, where hybrids shift the math, and why the Expedition’s driving dynamics could be the tiebreaker.
Durability fans get a deep dive into longevity. We outline why Toyota and Lexus dominate 250,000-mile lists, how Honda’s practical engineering earns consistent high-mile results, and where Chevrolet proves its mettle with Suburban and Silverado. We also call out the pain points that keep RAM and Jeep from climbing the charts and explore why Tesla’s older models struggle in used reliability rankings even as newer ones improve.
To round out the enthusiast calendar, we map five standout concours events—from The Amelia and Greenwich to Cincinnati, Pebble Beach, and Ironstone—so you can plan your year around the cars that made history.
Finally we look at the 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross, one of those SUVs that just makes sense. It’s compact enough for tight parking spots but roomy enough for groceries, road trips, or the daily commute. The hybrid option boosts fuel economy, the ride is smooth and quiet, and the tech is easy to use. It’s practical, affordable, and ready for everyday life without drama.
If you love smart car shopping, long-haul ownership tips, and a little dream-garage inspiration, you’re in the right place. Hit fol
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Ford Expedition
"Hope I didn't catch off-card, Mike. It's the Ford Expedition. I never catch you off-card, do I? I got it, Mike. Not hardly. More than once or twice a day. So yeah, so I had the chance to drive the 2025 Ford Expedition. Now, this is the cream-grant version that we had, and it is the new for 2025. It's been redesigned in 2025, and it actually kicks off the fifth gen of the new Expeditions."
The Ford Expedition is a big SUV that can carry lots of people and stuff. The 2025 version is the newest one with new features and different styles you can choose from.
The Ford Expedition is a full-size SUV known for its spacious interior and towing capabilities. The 2025 model marks the fifth generation of this vehicle, featuring a redesign and various trim levels to cater to different preferences.
trim levels
"Anyway, so it comes in seven trim levels. You've got the active, you've got the max active, which is the longer extended version, the platinum, the max platinum, again, the extended"
Trim levels are different versions of the same car that come with more or fewer features. You can pick the one that has what you want and fits your price.
Trim levels refer to different versions of a car model that offer varying features, equipment, and sometimes performance options. They allow buyers to choose a configuration that fits their needs and budget.
LED headlights
"It does have LED headlights up front, of course."
LED headlights are bright lights on a car that use special bulbs to help you see better at night and use less energy.
LED headlights use light-emitting diodes to provide brighter and more energy-efficient illumination compared to traditional halogen bulbs. They improve visibility and often last longer.
power-deploying running boards
"it's got some power-deploying running boards that work really well. They're pretty quick to kick-outs. You can open the door, and they're generally there by the time you want to step on it. You don't have to wait on them, and I thought that was really good."
Power-deploying running boards are steps that pop out when you open the car door to help you get in and then hide away when you close the door.
Power-deploying running boards are motorized steps that extend automatically when a door is opened to help passengers enter or exit a vehicle, then retract when the door is closed for better aerodynamics and appearance.
panoramic view roof
"It has the panoramic view roof. Now, this is the roof that opens up all the way back down and lets in lots of"
A panoramic view roof is a big glass roof on a car that lets in lots of light and can open up so you can get fresh air.
A panoramic view roof is a large glass roof panel that often spans most of the vehicle's roof, providing an open, airy feeling inside. It can usually open partially or fully to let in fresh air and light.
aluminum wheels
"It rolls on some nice 22-inch bronze aluminum wheels. We've got a bronze look to them"
The wheels are made from a light metal called aluminum, which helps the car use less gas and drive better.
Aluminum wheels are made from an aluminum alloy, which makes them lighter than steel wheels. This can improve fuel efficiency, handling, and braking performance.
driver info display
"Has the 24-inch driver info display. Now, this thing is massive. It goes all the way across there."
This is a big screen in front of the driver that shows important details about the car, like how fast you're going and how much gas you have.
A driver info display is a digital screen in front of the driver that shows important information like speed, fuel level, navigation, and vehicle status. A 24-inch display is notably large, providing clear and detailed information.
center stack touchscreen
"It's got a 13.2-inch center stack touchscreen that kind of ties into it to control all your infotainment and your convenience controls."
This is the big touch screen in the middle of the car's dashboard that controls music, maps, and other settings.
The center stack touchscreen is the main control screen located in the middle of the dashboard. It manages infotainment, navigation, climate control, and other convenience features.
heated and power-folding seats
"We had the heated and power-folding tip-and-slide bucket seats. Captain's chairs, whatever the proper term is these days, really again, really nice and comfortable to get in and out of."
These seats can warm up to keep you cozy, and they can fold down automatically to make more room or let people get in easier.
Heated seats provide warmth for comfort in cold weather. Power-folding seats can be electronically folded to increase cargo space or ease access to the rear seats.
wireless charging pad
"It's got the wireless charging pad. It's got touch screens."
A wireless charging pad is a spot in the car where you can place your phone and it charges without needing to plug it in.
A wireless charging pad allows compatible devices like smartphones to charge without plugging in cables, using inductive charging technology.
towing capacity
"It does have a 10-speed automatic transmission, and properly equipped, it will tow 9,600 pounds."
Towing capacity means how much weight the car can pull behind it, like a trailer or a boat.
Towing capacity is the maximum weight a vehicle can safely pull, important for hauling trailers, boats, or other heavy loads.
turning radius
"...the turning radius. It seemed like I was driving, or it felt like whenever I was turning the steering wheel, I was driving a much smaller vehicle."
Turning radius is how tightly a car can turn around. A smaller turning radius means the car can make sharper turns, which helps when driving in small spaces.
Turning radius refers to the smallest circular turn a vehicle can make. A smaller turning radius means the car can maneuver more easily in tight spaces, like parking lots or city streets.
Chevrolet Tahoe
"...g to compare this to, you might look at the Chevy Tahoe. $59,000 for the base entry level to get into th..."
The Chevrolet Tahoe is a big car that can carry a lot of people and stuff. It has a strong engine and is good if you want to tow trailers or boats. It costs about $59,000 for the basic version.
The Chevrolet Tahoe is a full-size SUV known for its spacious interior, strong towing capacity, and robust V8 engine options. It is often compared to other large SUVs for its blend of utility and comfort, making it a popular choice for families and those needing serious cargo space. The base model pricing around $59,000 reflects its positioning in the competitive large SUV market.
Nissan Armada
"...tely see you need to look at both of them. Nissan Armada, $57,520. It's been updated recently, but it's d..."
The Nissan Armada is a big SUV that can carry many people and has a strong engine. It was recently improved but costs quite a bit of money.
The Nissan Armada is a full-size SUV that offers a powerful V8 engine and spacious seating, recently updated to stay competitive. Despite its updates, it remains a less common choice compared to rivals, often noted for its strong performance but higher price point around $57,520.
Toyota Tacoma
"Lexus ES, Lexus IS, Lexus NX, and it goes on through that through the Toyota Camry, Toyota Tacoma, and the Toyota Tundra."
The Toyota Tacoma is a small pickup truck that is tough and good for driving off-road or carrying heavy stuff. It holds its value well and lasts a long time.
The Toyota Tacoma is a mid-size pickup truck known for its durability, off-road capability, and strong resale value. It is popular among truck enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.
Toyota Camry
"Lexus ES, Lexus IS, Lexus NX, and it goes on through that through the Toyota Camry, Toyota Tacoma, and the Toyota Tundra."
The Toyota Camry is a popular car that is known to last a long time and use gas efficiently. It's comfortable to drive and easy to maintain.
The Toyota Camry is a mid-size sedan known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and comfortable ride. It is one of the best-selling cars in the United States.
Lexus Nx
"Lexus ES, Lexus IS, Lexus NX, and it goes on through that through the Toyota Camry, Toyota Tacoma, and the Toyota Tundra."
The Lexus NX is a small luxury SUV that is comfortable and reliable. It has nice features and is good for families or city driving.
The Lexus NX is a compact luxury crossover SUV that combines premium features with a comfortable ride and good reliability. It is popular for urban and family use.
Lexus ES
"Lexus ES, Lexus IS, Lexus NX, and it goes on through that through the Toyota Camry, Toyota Tacoma, and the Toyota Tundra."
The Lexus ES is a nice, comfortable luxury car that is easy to drive and lasts a long time. Many people like it because it feels fancy inside and is reliable.
The Lexus ES is a mid-size luxury sedan known for its comfortable ride, reliability, and premium interior. It is one of Lexus's best-selling models and often praised for its smooth driving experience.
Lexus IS
"Lexus ES, Lexus IS, Lexus NX, and it goes on through that through the Toyota Camry, Toyota Tacoma, and the Toyota Tundra."
The Lexus IS is a smaller luxury car that is fun to drive and has nice features inside. It's a sportier choice if you want a luxury car that feels more agile.
The Lexus IS is a compact luxury sedan that offers sporty handling and a premium interior. It is positioned as a sportier alternative within the Lexus lineup.
Toyota Tundra
"... the Toyota Camry, Toyota Tacoma, and the Toyota Tundra. Brands approach the quality control and incremen..."
The Toyota Tundra is a big truck that many people trust because it lasts a long time and holds its value well. Toyota makes sure it is built carefully and keeps getting better over time.
The Toyota Tundra is a full-size pickup truck known for its reliability and strong resale value. Toyota's approach to quality control and incremental improvements over the years has helped the Tundra maintain a reputation for durability and dependability in the truck segment.
quarter million mile mark
"The Honda Odyssey pilot and Ridgeline are the 12th, 11th and 10th most likely vehicles to make it beyond the quarter million mile mark."
When a car drives 250,000 miles, it means it has lasted a really long time without major problems.
The quarter million mile mark refers to a vehicle reaching 250,000 miles, which is a benchmark indicating exceptional durability and longevity.
Honda Pilot
"The Honda Odyssey pilot and Ridgeline are the 12th, 11th and 10th most likely vehicles to make it beyond the quarter million mile mark."
The Honda Pilot is a big SUV that can carry many people and is known to last a long time.
The Honda Pilot is a midsize SUV known for its reliability, spacious seating, and versatile utility.
Honda Odyssey
"The Honda Odyssey pilot and Ridgeline are the 12th, 11th and 10th most likely vehicles to make it beyond the quarter million mile mark."
The Honda Odyssey is a big family van that is known to last a long time and be very practical.
The Honda Odyssey is a popular minivan known for its reliability, spacious interior, and family-friendly features.
Honda Ridgeline
"The Honda Odyssey pilot and Ridgeline are the 12th, 11th and 10th most likely vehicles to make it beyond the quarter million mile mark."
The Honda Ridgeline is a truck that is easy to drive and lasts a long time.
The Honda Ridgeline is a midsize pickup truck known for its comfortable ride, innovative features, and reliability.
proven technology
"Honda's approach to reliability mirrors Toyota's philosophy of consecutive updates and proven technology."
Proven technology means car parts and designs that have been used a lot and are known to work well.
Proven technology refers to automotive components and systems that have been tested and refined over time, ensuring reliability and performance.
Japanese stranglehold in longevity
"Only General Motors managed to break the Japanese stranglehold in longevity with the Chevrolet model showing a surprising durability"
This means Japanese car companies are known for making cars that last a very long time, more than most others.
The phrase refers to the dominance of Japanese automakers like Toyota and Honda in producing vehicles that last a long time.
Chevrolet Suburban
"The Chevrolet Suburban remains a reliable choice in the full size SUV category with a chance of reaching 250,000 miles. And its iconic SUV, which has been around since 1935, continues to be a favorite for families of those who need a vehicle built to last."
The Chevrolet Suburban is a big SUV that many families like because it lasts a long time and can drive a lot of miles without breaking down. It's been made for a very long time, since 1935.
The Chevrolet Suburban is a full-size SUV known for its durability and ability to reach high mileage, often favored by families needing a reliable large vehicle. It has been in continuous production since 1935, making it one of the longest-running SUV models.
Chevrolet Silverado
"The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 rounds out the chance of reaching 250,000 as the only American made half ton vehicle to make the list."
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is a big pickup truck made in America that many people trust because it can last a long time and do tough jobs.
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is a popular American-made half-ton pickup truck known for its capability and durability, making it one of the few American half-ton trucks with a strong chance of reaching 250,000 miles.
Chevrolet Equinox
"... the small SUVs. It's the Buick Encore, Chevrolet Equinox and Chevrolet Traverse all make that list conten..."
The Chevrolet Equinox is a smaller SUV that is easy to drive and saves gas. It has nice features that make it comfortable and fun to use every day.
The Chevrolet Equinox is a compact SUV that offers a comfortable ride, good fuel efficiency, and a user-friendly infotainment system. It competes in the popular small SUV segment alongside vehicles like the Buick Encore and Chevrolet Traverse, appealing to buyers looking for a practical daily driver.
Dodge Ram
"...the struggling long term reliability would be the Dodge Ram. Despite marketing emphasis, toughness and capab..."
The Dodge Ram is a big truck that is strong and can do a lot of work. But some people have had problems with it lasting a long time without repairs.
The Dodge Ram, now branded simply as Ram, is a full-size pickup truck known for its powerful engines and rugged capability. However, it has faced criticism for long-term reliability issues despite marketing efforts emphasizing toughness and durability.
Jeep
"Jeep's reputation for ruggedness doesn't translate to long term reliability with the brand consistently ranking near the bottom of dependability studies."
Jeep makes cars that can drive well on rough and rocky roads. People like them for adventures, but sometimes they can have problems if used a lot.
Jeep is an American automotive brand known for its off-road capable SUVs and rugged vehicles. It has a strong reputation for off-road prowess but has faced criticism for long-term reliability issues.
off-road capability
"The focus of off-road capability and lifestyles marketing hasn't resulted in the vehicle that rack up that many miles without significant mechanical issues."
Off-road capability means a car can drive on bumpy or rough ground, not just smooth roads. This is good for adventures in nature.
Off-road capability refers to a vehicle's ability to perform well on unpaved, rough, or uneven terrain, such as dirt, mud, rocks, or sand. It often involves specialized features like four-wheel drive, higher ground clearance, and durable suspension.
Tesla
"Tesla ranks the last place among 26 brands for its used model driven by numerous issues with older models. And while Tesla's new vehicles rank ninth across the new cars reliability..."
Tesla makes electric cars that run on batteries instead of gas. Newer Teslas are better, but older ones sometimes have problems.
Tesla is an American electric vehicle manufacturer known for its innovative technology and electric powertrains. While new Tesla models have improved reliability, older models have experienced various mechanical and software issues.
concours d'elegance
"Now, late summer, this is whenever you can start looking for the Pebble Beach concours de elegance. Now, this is out of Pebble Beach, California, of course. Now, this is considered the crown jewel of the American concours events."
A concours d'elegance is a fancy car show where very rare and special cars are shown off and judged to see which ones are the best kept and most beautiful.
A concours d'elegance is a prestigious event where rare and historically significant cars are displayed and judged for their condition, authenticity, and elegance. These events often attract collectors and enthusiasts from around the world.
Monterey Car Week
"Now, this is held during the Monterey Car Week, and it showcases the rarest and the historically significant cars in the world."
Monterey Car Week is a big car event in California where lots of car shows and races happen, ending with a famous fancy car show called Pebble Beach.
Monterey Car Week is an annual automotive event held in Monterey, California, featuring a series of car shows, auctions, and races, culminating in the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. It is one of the most important automotive gatherings in the world.
Toyota Corolla Cross
"...car review. Had a chance to drive the 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross built in Huntsville, Alabama. Comes in three tri..."
The Toyota Corolla Cross is a small SUV made in Alabama that is easy to drive and good on gas. It has different versions so people can pick what fits them best.
The Toyota Corolla Cross is a compact crossover SUV built in Huntsville, Alabama, offering a practical and efficient option in Toyota's lineup. It comes in multiple trim levels and combines the reliability of the Corolla name with the versatility of an SUV.
Toyota RAV4
"...iro, the Subaru Crosstrek hybrid, and the Toyota RAV4 hybrid, which is the most expensive in the compa..."
The Toyota RAV4 is a popular small SUV that many people like because it is reliable and saves gas, especially the hybrid version. It costs a bit more but helps you spend less on fuel.
The Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV that is one of the best-selling vehicles globally, known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and hybrid options. The RAV4 hybrid is often the most expensive in its class but offers excellent fuel economy and advanced safety features.
Subaru Crosstrek
"...0,000 mark. Competitors, the Keaniro, the Subaru Crosstrek hybrid, and the Toyota RAV4 hybrid, which is the ..."
The Subaru Crosstrek is a small SUV that comes with a special system to help it drive better on rough roads and in bad weather. It also has a version that uses less gas to save money.
The Subaru Crosstrek is a subcompact SUV that offers standard all-wheel drive and a hybrid option, making it popular for those seeking fuel efficiency and off-road capability. It competes with models like the Kia Niro and Toyota RAV4 hybrid, appealing to eco-conscious buyers.
Mazda 3
"...e in the comparisons. Next week, I'll review the Mazda 3 sedan. Yes, they still do. All right."
The Mazda RX-3 is an old sporty car that was special because of its unique engine and light weight. People who like cars often talk about it because it was different and fun to drive.
The Mazda RX-3 is a classic sports car from the 1970s known for its rotary engine and lightweight design, which made it popular among enthusiasts. While not directly related to modern comparisons, it is sometimes referenced for its historical significance in Mazda's lineup.
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