{"version":"1.0.0","episode":{"title":"The True Cost of Owning a Vehicle in 2026 ( What Drivers Actually Pay )","url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/the-true-cost-of-owning-a-vehicle-in-2026-what-drivers-actually-pay","audioUrl":"https://content.rss.com/episodes/340678/2506486/car-connection-workshop/2026_01_30_11_46_55_358954f9-8073-462c-9cbd-698febe4abb9.mp3","description":"The price of owning a vehicle isn't just the sticker anymore. In this episode, we break down the real cost of car ownership in 2026 - from insurance, fuel ,repairs, and maintenance to depreciation, financing, and hidden ownership traps most drivers ignore. Whether you're buying new , used or trying to keep your current vehicle alive longer, this is what it actually costs to drive today. Coming up Saturday's podcast: What Jeep Owners Do That Mechanics Hate 9 And It Gets Expensive) Come Join Us!More episodes and....project details & links ae available at Car Connection Business Network.com (ccbusnet.com) you'll find everything on our homepage if you'd like to follow the build/repair work we do & connect with our program partners/sponsors click their logo and connect Thank You! Grab some Car Connection Motormouth Merch, proceeds to Total Freedom Addiction Campuses Canada & USA , together lets help those struggling with addiction get the help they need, A New Life Awaits at Total Freedom. Tnx so much, Nile Motormouth Jenkins. Happy Motoring Friends, Tnx for watching & Listening, Following, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Always. NMJ   "},"annotations":[{"startTime":366.36,"endTime":372.56,"type":"car","title":"Ford Excursion","url":"/cars/ford/excursion","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/1/18/%2705_Ford_Excursion_Limousine_%28Vancouver_2010%29.jpg","quote":"...eks, two weeks of the year escaped for my fishing excursion and just  rest in relaxation. And that's still ki...","canonicalId":"car:ford:excursion","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Ford Excursion is a large SUV that was produced from 2000 to 2005, known for its massive size and towing capacity, making it ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. It was built on a heavy-duty truck chassis, which contributed to its ruggedness and ability to handle tough terrains. The Excursion is often discussed for its spacious interior and capability, especially for those who need a vehicle for towing or off-road adventures.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Ford Excursion is a really big SUV that can carry a lot of people and stuff, making it great for road trips or towing trailers. It's built tough like a truck, so it can handle rough roads and heavy loads. People mention it when talking about vehicles that are good for family outings or outdoor activities.","imageAttribution":"Bull-Doser (Public domain)"}},{"startTime":456.6,"endTime":465.6,"type":"car","title":"Chevy Traverse","url":"/cars/chevrolet/traverse","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/a2/0_Chevrolet_Traverse_%28C1XX%29_0.jpg","quote":"...I looked up a Chevy Traverse and compared it to a Corolla 2025 model series...","canonicalId":"car:chevrolet:traverse","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Chevy Traverse is a midsize SUV known for its spacious interior and family-friendly features. It's designed to accommodate larger families or groups with ample cargo space and seating capacity.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Chevy Traverse is a type of SUV made by Chevrolet. It's popular for families because it has a lot of room inside for passengers and luggage.","imageAttribution":"Benespit (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":456.64,"endTime":464.36,"type":"car","title":"Toyota Corolla","url":"/cars/toyota/corolla","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/c6/1969_Toyota_Corolla_1200.jpg","quote":"...I looked up a Chevy Traverse and compared it to a Corolla 2025 model series...","canonicalId":"car:toyota:corolla","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Toyota Corolla is a compact car known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and affordability. It's one of the best-selling cars worldwide and is often recommended for first-time car buyers.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Corolla is a small car made by Toyota. It's known for being dependable and good on gas, making it a popular choice for many drivers.","imageAttribution":"TTTNIS (CC0)"}},{"startTime":471.9,"endTime":481.1,"type":"concept","title":"SUV","url":"/glossary/suv","quote":"...So gas sport utility vehicle, that's what I looked up...","canonicalId":"concept:suv","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"SUV stands for Sport Utility Vehicle, which is a versatile vehicle designed for both on-road and off-road use. SUVs typically offer higher ground clearance, spacious interiors, and the ability to carry more passengers and cargo compared to sedans.","simplifiedExplanation":"An SUV is a type of vehicle that is bigger than a regular car and can hold more people and things. They are often used for family trips or driving in rough conditions."}},{"startTime":1103.5,"endTime":1110.8,"type":"term","title":"driving record","url":"/glossary/driving-record","quote":"...your driving record, right? Your abstract. People don't realize that, you know, you're pounding it up and down the highway...","canonicalId":"term:driving-record","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A driving record is a history of a driver's performance on the road, including any traffic violations, accidents, and license status. It is used by insurance companies to determine risk and set premiums.","simplifiedExplanation":"A driving record shows how well you drive, including any accidents or tickets you've gotten. Insurance companies look at this to decide how much to charge you for coverage."}},{"startTime":1103.5,"endTime":1110.8,"type":"term","title":"insurance premium","url":"/glossary/insurance-premium","quote":"...your driving record, right? Your abstract. People don't realize that, you know, you're pounding it up and down the highway...","canonicalId":"term:insurance-premium","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"An insurance premium is the amount you pay for your insurance coverage, which can vary based on factors like your driving record, the type of vehicle, and your location. A higher risk of accidents or claims can lead to higher premiums.","simplifiedExplanation":"An insurance premium is the money you pay to have car insurance. If you get into accidents or have tickets, your insurance might cost more in the future."}},{"startTime":1258.4,"endTime":1270.6,"type":"term","title":"annual maintenance","url":"/glossary/annual-maintenance","quote":"Maintenance, $232 to $700 for the year. I think it's a little low, but anyways, it's average.","canonicalId":"term:annual-maintenance","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Annual maintenance refers to the regular servicing and repairs needed to keep a vehicle in good working condition. This can include oil changes, tire rotations, and other necessary inspections.","simplifiedExplanation":"Annual maintenance is the care and check-ups your car needs every year to keep it running well. This includes things like changing the oil and checking the brakes."}},{"startTime":1429.02,"endTime":1435.26,"type":"car","title":"Ford Bronco","url":"/cars/ford/bronco","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/c1/2022_Ford_Bronco_2.jpg","quote":"...you've got the new Ford Bronco. You've got crossovers. You know, everyone seems to have a crossover now.","canonicalId":"car:ford:bronco","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Ford Bronco is a rugged SUV known for its off-road capabilities and distinctive styling. It has a rich history dating back to the 1960s and was recently reintroduced with modern updates.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Ford Bronco is a type of SUV that is designed for off-road driving. It has a tough look and is built to handle rough terrains, making it popular among adventure seekers.","imageAttribution":"Calreyn88 (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":1430.0,"endTime":1431.0,"type":"term","title":"crossover","url":"/glossary/crossover","quote":"...You've got crossovers. You know, everyone seems to have a crossover now.","canonicalId":"term:crossover","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A crossover is a type of vehicle that combines features of cars and SUVs, typically offering a higher driving position and more cargo space than a sedan, while maintaining car-like handling.","simplifiedExplanation":"A crossover is a kind of vehicle that mixes the features of a car and an SUV. It usually has more space and a higher seat position than regular cars, making it popular for families."}},{"startTime":1433.0,"endTime":1434.0,"type":"brand","title":"Honda","url":"/glossary/honda","quote":"...Honda, Subaru, Toyota, they all got it.","canonicalId":"brand:honda","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Honda is a well-known Japanese automotive manufacturer that produces a variety of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and motorcycles. They are recognized for their reliability and fuel efficiency.","simplifiedExplanation":"Honda is a car company from Japan that makes many different types of vehicles, including cars and SUVs. They are known for making reliable and fuel-efficient cars."}},{"startTime":1434.0,"endTime":1435.0,"type":"brand","title":"Subaru","url":"/glossary/subaru","quote":"...Honda, Subaru, Toyota, they all got it.","canonicalId":"brand:subaru","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Subaru is a Japanese automotive manufacturer known for its all-wheel-drive vehicles and rugged SUVs. They are popular for their safety features and performance in various driving conditions.","simplifiedExplanation":"Subaru is a car company from Japan that is famous for making vehicles that can handle tough weather and road conditions. Many of their cars come with all-wheel drive, which helps with traction."}},{"startTime":1436.0,"endTime":1437.0,"type":"brand","title":"Lexus","url":"/glossary/lexus","quote":"...Honda, Subaru, Toyota, they all got it. Lexus.","canonicalId":"brand:lexus","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Lexus is the luxury vehicle division of the Japanese automaker Toyota. Known for their high-quality interiors and advanced technology, Lexus vehicles often feature a smooth ride and strong reliability ratings.","simplifiedExplanation":"Lexus is a luxury car brand that is part of Toyota. They make high-end cars that are known for being comfortable and having lots of advanced features."}},{"startTime":1446.6,"endTime":1447.6,"type":"term","title":"annual mileage","url":"/glossary/annual-mileage","quote":"...I thought I asked an average sport utility vehicle. Gas, of course. Annual mileage again, 10 to 15k for the year.","canonicalId":"term:annual-mileage","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Annual mileage refers to the total distance a vehicle is driven in one year, typically measured in miles or kilometers. This figure can impact vehicle maintenance costs and insurance premiums.","simplifiedExplanation":"Annual mileage is how far you drive your car in a year. It helps determine things like how much maintenance your car might need and how much insurance will cost."}},{"startTime":1456.3,"endTime":1457.3,"type":"term","title":"cost per year","url":"/glossary/cost-per-year","quote":"...the cost per year, I was actually shocked, but not odd. Just shocked. Cost per year, $2,678.57.","canonicalId":"term:cost-per-year","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Cost per year refers to the total expenses associated with owning and operating a vehicle over a year, including fuel, maintenance, insurance, and other costs.","simplifiedExplanation":"Cost per year is how much money you spend on your car in a year. This includes things like gas, repairs, and insurance."}},{"startTime":1543.0,"endTime":1557.3,"type":"term","title":"depreciation","url":"/glossary/depreciation","quote":"...The depreciation. Yeah, 60% per year. 60% depreciation. Maintenance is 13% and fuels 27%...","canonicalId":"term:depreciation","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Depreciation refers to the reduction in value of a vehicle over time, typically due to wear and tear, age, and market demand. For vehicles, it can be significant, especially in the first few years of ownership.","simplifiedExplanation":"Depreciation is how much a car loses its value as it gets older. Most cars lose a lot of their value in the first few years after you buy them."}},{"startTime":1557.3,"endTime":1563.7,"type":"term","title":"fuel costs","url":"/glossary/fuel-costs","quote":"...Maintenance is 13% and fuels 27%. That's based on a pie chart...","canonicalId":"term:fuel-costs","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Fuel costs refer to the expenses incurred from purchasing gasoline or diesel to power a vehicle. This can vary widely based on fuel prices and a vehicle's fuel efficiency.","simplifiedExplanation":"Fuel costs are how much money you spend on gas to keep your car running. It can change depending on gas prices and how much gas your car uses."}},{"startTime":1627.66,"endTime":1632.66,"type":"car","title":"Toyota Fj","url":"/cars/toyota/fj-cruiser","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/86/TOYOTA_FJ_CRUISER_China_%282%29.jpg","quote":"I always use premium fuel, period. That's it. I want every single BTU I can squeeze...","canonicalId":"car:toyota:fj-cruiser","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Toyota FJ Cruiser is a retro-styled SUV known for its off-road capabilities and rugged design. It features a powerful engine and is popular among adventure enthusiasts.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Toyota FJ Cruiser is a tough-looking SUV that can handle rough roads and off-road adventures. It's built for people who like to explore outdoors.","imageAttribution":"Dinkun Chen (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":1630.0,"endTime":1635.0,"type":"term","title":"premium fuel","url":"/glossary/premium-fuel","quote":"I always use premium fuel, period.","canonicalId":"term:premium-fuel","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Premium fuel is a higher-octane gasoline that can help improve engine performance and efficiency, particularly in high-performance or luxury vehicles. It typically has an octane rating of 91 or higher.","simplifiedExplanation":"Premium fuel is a special type of gasoline that helps some cars run better. It's usually more expensive than regular gas."}},{"startTime":1641.0,"endTime":1646.0,"type":"term","title":"ethanol","url":"/glossary/ethanol","quote":"as long as it doesn't say it contains up to 10% ethanol, you can keep that crap...","canonicalId":"term:ethanol","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Ethanol is a type of alcohol used as a fuel additive to reduce emissions and increase octane levels. It's often blended with gasoline, but some drivers prefer to avoid it due to potential impacts on fuel efficiency.","simplifiedExplanation":"Ethanol is a kind of alcohol that is sometimes mixed with gasoline to help cars run cleaner. Some people don't like it because it can make their car use more gas."}},{"startTime":1747.4,"endTime":1751.1,"type":"term","title":"fuel economy","url":"/glossary/fuel-economy","quote":"...Average fuel economy, and this is where it blows it out the door. Okay, so if...","canonicalId":"term:fuel-economy","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Fuel economy refers to the distance a vehicle can travel per unit of fuel consumed, typically measured in liters per 100 kilometers or miles per gallon. It's an important factor for consumers looking to save on fuel costs.","simplifiedExplanation":"Fuel economy tells you how far a car can go on a certain amount of gas. It helps you understand how much money you'll spend on fuel when driving."}},{"startTime":1751.12,"endTime":1757.62,"type":"car","title":"Kia Niro","url":"/cars/kia/niro","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/53/Kia_Niro_%28SG2%29_HEV_IMG_8251.jpg","quote":"...  an average sport utility vehicle based on a Kia Niro, what are you driving backwards?  Fuel per year, ...","canonicalId":"car:kia:niro","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Kia Niro is a compact crossover SUV that is known for its fuel efficiency and eco-friendly design, available in hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric versions. It stands out in the market for its practicality and affordability, making it a popular choice for environmentally conscious drivers. The Niro's versatility and low running costs are often discussed in the context of daily commuting and family use.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Kia Niro is a small SUV that is designed to save fuel and be good for the environment. It comes in different versions, including one that runs on electricity, which means you can drive it without using gas. People talk about it because it's a smart choice for families who want to save money on gas.","imageAttribution":"Alexander-93 (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":1758.4,"endTime":1769.8,"type":"term","title":"liters per 100 kilometers","url":"/glossary/liters-per-100-kilometers","quote":"...average fuel economy for that vehicle, 4.85 liters to get 100 kilometers. Let's back up the bus for a minute...","canonicalId":"term:liters-per-100-kilometers","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Liters per 100 kilometers (L/100km) is a metric measurement used to express fuel consumption. It indicates how many liters of fuel a vehicle uses to travel 100 kilometers, with lower numbers indicating better fuel efficiency.","simplifiedExplanation":"Liters per 100 kilometers is a way to measure how much gas a car uses. A lower number means the car is better at saving fuel."}},{"startTime":1796.0,"endTime":1807.6,"type":"term","title":"fuel mileage","url":"/glossary/fuel-mileage","quote":"...Fuel mileage, that's what I wanted. No, not there. $0.32 a kilometer for the Corolla...","canonicalId":"term:fuel-mileage","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Fuel mileage is a term often used interchangeably with fuel economy, referring to the distance a vehicle can travel on a specific amount of fuel. It is a crucial metric for evaluating a vehicle's efficiency.","simplifiedExplanation":"Fuel mileage tells you how far you can drive your car with a certain amount of gas. It's important for knowing how much you'll spend on fuel."}}],"speakers":[{"id":"s1","name":"Nile Jenkins","role":"host"}],"transcripts":[{"url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/the-true-cost-of-owning-a-vehicle-in-2026-what-drivers-actually-pay/transcript.vtt","type":"text/vtt"}]}