Torch update, and Subaru tells us all about the new Forester and BRZ
About this episode
The latest episode dives into the recent unveiling of the 2025 Subaru Forester at the LA Auto Show, featuring insights from Subaru's Carline Planning Manager, Bill Stokes. The discussion highlights the Forester's practicality, safety features, and design improvements while contrasting it with the performance-oriented WRX and BRZ. The hosts also share personal anecdotes about Subaru ownership, touching on common issues faced by owners, and reflect on the brand's unique appeal. Additionally, there's a light-hearted update on co-host Jason Torchinsky's health scare, adding a personal touch to the episode.
First, Matt and DT talk updates on Torch and his bum heart, then they begin pathetically groveling for membership and a top it off with a preamble to a short but sweet Subaru chat at the Los Angeles Auto Show.
Here's to Torch getting his carburetor back to optimum performance!
Happy Holidays, Autopians!
Mentioned in this episode:
BMW 8 Series
"I drove a an eight series, you know, the sort of wedge nose BMW recently way more baller than I ever would have guessed."
The BMW 8 Series is a fancy car that looks great and drives really well. It's designed for people who want a mix of luxury and sportiness.
The BMW 8 Series is a luxury grand tourer known for its sleek design and powerful performance. It combines comfort with sporty handling, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts.
catalytic converter
"I also drove a Dodge Nitro with a hacked out catalytic converter."
A catalytic converter helps clean up the car's exhaust so it's less harmful to the environment. If it's removed or damaged, it can cause problems and make the car illegal to drive.
A catalytic converter is an essential component of a vehicle's exhaust system that reduces harmful emissions by converting them into less harmful substances. Hacking it out can lead to increased emissions and legal issues.
Chang Li
"...using a chainsaw to cut out the batteries from his Chinese Chang Li electric car. I think that's unlikely, but anyway,..."
The Chang Li is a very inexpensive electric car from China. It's small and mainly used in cities, making it easy to drive around town.
The Chang Li is a small electric vehicle produced in China, often noted for its low cost and compact size. It's primarily designed for urban use and is popular for its affordability.
Pontiac Fiero
"...s or what? It doesn't explain all of them like a fiero in space, but like it explains a lot of like, ho..."
The Pontiac Fiero is a sports car from the 1980s that was different from most American cars because it had its engine in the middle and a body made of plastic. It was meant to be a fun and affordable car, but it had some problems that made it less popular. People talk about it because it's an interesting part of car history.
The Pontiac Fiero was a mid-engine sports car produced in the 1980s, notable for its unique design and being one of the first American-made sports cars to feature a plastic body. It aimed to provide an affordable sports car experience, but production issues and mixed reviews affected its legacy. Its significance is often discussed in the context of automotive innovation and the challenges faced by American manufacturers during that era.
Honda Pilot
"And if we had written about most other cars, like we had said, here's the new Honda pilot. I'm not sure we would have gotten 130 comments."
The Honda Pilot is a family-sized SUV that has a lot of space and is known for being safe and reliable. It's a popular choice for people with kids.
The Honda Pilot is a midsize SUV known for its family-friendly features, spacious interior, and reliability. It is often chosen by families for its comfort and safety ratings.
four-speed automatic
"On the 2010, a miserable four speed automatic."
A four-speed automatic is a kind of car transmission that helps the car change gears automatically. It has four different gear settings, which can make it less efficient than newer cars with more gears.
A four-speed automatic transmission is a type of transmission that has four gears for the engine to use. It shifts automatically based on speed and load, but can be less efficient than newer transmissions with more gears.
CVT
"On the 2014, a CVT that feels like a rubber band."
A CVT, or Continuously Variable Transmission, is a special type of automatic transmission that helps the car use fuel more efficiently. It can change gears smoothly without the usual shifting you feel in other cars.
A Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is a type of automatic transmission that can change seamlessly through a continuous range of effective gear ratios. This allows for smoother acceleration and better fuel efficiency compared to traditional automatic transmissions.
rear wheel bearings
"I have replaced both rear wheel bearings at 50,000 miles and 60,000 miles. The rear bearings on once I didn't even last 50 and the other ones were still screaming, but I was just too mad about it."
Rear wheel bearings help the wheels turn without too much friction. If they fail, it can cause noise and make driving unsafe.
Rear wheel bearings are crucial components that allow the wheels to rotate smoothly. They support the weight of the vehicle and reduce friction between the wheel and the axle.
lower control arms
"He says, all we do on these cars all the time is replace front lower control arms and rear bushings."
Lower control arms are parts of a car's suspension that help connect the wheels to the body of the car. They play a key role in how the car handles and rides on the road.
Lower control arms are crucial components of a vehicle's suspension system, connecting the chassis to the wheels. They help maintain proper wheel alignment and handling characteristics.
Kia Soul
"Like for a car that's 70,000, my dad's Kia Soul. I just want to point out, which we've written about a few times because"
The Kia Soul is a small car that has a distinctive boxy shape. It's known for being practical and affordable, making it a popular choice for many drivers.
The Kia Soul is a compact crossover known for its unique boxy design and practicality. It offers a spacious interior and is popular for its affordability and reliability.
spark plugs
"But he, we just replaced the spark plugs in it at 170 something, 180,000 miles."
Spark plugs help start the engine by creating a small spark that ignites the fuel. They need to be changed regularly to keep the engine running smoothly.
Spark plugs are essential components in gasoline engines that ignite the air-fuel mixture, enabling the engine to run. Regular replacement is crucial for maintaining engine performance and efficiency.
Subaru Brat
"...because I had a brat. My parents had a brat and thought the thing was awesome."
The Subaru Brat is a small truck made by Subaru that was popular for its unique look and ability to handle rough terrain. It was made from the late 1970s to the early 1990s.
The Subaru Brat is a compact pickup truck produced by Subaru from 1978 to 1994. It is known for its distinctive design and versatility, often favored for its off-road capabilities.
all-wheel drive
"...all wheel drive works well in snow. But like, you could buy a Toyota and not have to do those wheel bearings..."
All-wheel drive means that all four wheels of the car get power from the engine. This helps the car grip the road better, especially in bad weather like snow.
All-wheel drive (AWD) is a drivetrain system that provides power to all four wheels of a vehicle simultaneously, improving traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions like snow.
Ford Maverick
"...my two front runners were replacing it, which I'll probably do before it gets to 100,000 miles are an all wheel drive hybrid Maverick..."
The Ford Maverick is a small truck that is designed to be practical and fuel-efficient, making it a good choice for city driving. It also has a hybrid version that uses both gas and electricity to save on fuel.
The Ford Maverick is a compact pickup truck known for its efficiency and versatility, especially in urban settings. It has gained popularity for its hybrid variant, which offers better fuel economy.
hybrid
"...the all wheel drive hybrid isn't too expensive. It's, if it's comfortably priced..."
A hybrid car uses both a gas engine and an electric motor to help save fuel and produce less pollution than regular cars.
A hybrid vehicle combines a traditional internal combustion engine with an electric motor, allowing for improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions compared to conventional vehicles.
Toyota Corolla
"...the front wheel drive hybrid is cheaper than even an XLT is cheaper than a Corolla cross hybrid SCXSE."
The Toyota Corolla Cross is a small SUV that is easy to drive and has a good reputation for being reliable and fuel-efficient.
The Toyota Corolla Cross is a compact SUV that combines the practicality of an SUV with the reliability and efficiency of the Corolla lineup, making it a popular choice for urban drivers.
Dodge Nitro
"... I ever would have guessed. I also drove a Dodge Nitro with a hacked out catalytic converter. And that ..."
The Dodge Nitro is a type of SUV that looks tough and can handle rough roads. It has a lot of space inside for passengers and cargo, making it good for families or trips. People mention it because of its strong look and ability to drive in different conditions.
The Dodge Nitro is a mid-size SUV that was produced from 2007 to 2012, known for its bold styling and off-road capabilities. It features a spacious interior and a rugged design, appealing to those who need a vehicle for both urban and adventurous settings. Discussions about the Nitro often focus on its unique appearance and the driving experience it offers.
Ford Gt
"Hubert Meese, who is a designer behind the Tesla Model S suspension, the Ford GT."
The Ford GT is a super-fast sports car that looks really cool and is built for racing. It's a modern version of a classic car.
The Ford GT is a high-performance sports car that pays homage to the original GT40. It features a powerful engine and advanced aerodynamics, making it a standout in the supercar category.
Tesla Model S
"... Hubert Meese, who is a designer behind the Tesla Model S suspension, the Ford GT suspension, the Lincoln ..."
Tesla Model
"...rets. Hubert Meese, who is a designer behind the Tesla Model S suspension, the Ford GT suspension, the Lincol..."
suspension
"suspension, the Lincoln LS, and he's going to tell you how suspensions work on some of the most legendary cars of all time."
The suspension is the part of a car that helps it ride smoothly over bumps and keeps the wheels in contact with the ground. It makes driving more comfortable and safe.
The suspension system in a vehicle is crucial for providing a smooth ride and maintaining vehicle control. It connects the vehicle to its wheels and absorbs shocks from the road.
Lincoln LS
"suspension, the Lincoln LS, and he's going to tell you how suspensions work on some of the most legendary cars of all time."
The Lincoln LS is a fancy car made by Lincoln, which is part of Ford. It was built to be a comfortable and stylish sedan, similar to luxury cars from Europe.
The Lincoln LS is a luxury sedan produced by Lincoln, a division of Ford. It was known for its rear-wheel-drive layout and was designed to compete with European luxury cars.
Subaru Crosstrek
"Maybe I drove a Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness or really could have been any of them that just threw it out there randomly."
The Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness is a special version of the Crosstrek that is made for off-roading. It has features that help it drive better on rough surfaces, like higher ground clearance and tougher tires.
The Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness is an off-road-oriented variant of the Crosstrek, designed for enhanced capability in rugged terrain. It features upgraded suspension, increased ground clearance, and all-terrain tires for better performance off the beaten path.
off-roading
"...I have an expertise in certain areas, including off-roading, including engineering."
Off-roading is when you drive a vehicle on rough surfaces that aren't paved, like dirt or rocks. Vehicles made for off-roading are built to handle these tough conditions better than regular cars.
Off-roading refers to driving a vehicle on unpaved surfaces, such as dirt, mud, sand, or rocky terrain. It requires vehicles that are specifically designed or modified to handle rough conditions, often featuring enhanced suspension, traction, and durability.
Subaru WRX
"Yeah, I'm a carline planning manager for Forrester WRX and BRZ."
The Subaru WRX is a fast car that is great for driving on different types of roads, especially in tough weather. It's popular among people who love cars and racing.
The Subaru WRX is a high-performance variant of the Subaru Impreza, known for its rally heritage and all-wheel-drive capabilities. It appeals to driving enthusiasts looking for a sporty and agile car.
Subaru BRZ
"...t's awesome. And I'm trying to get my dad into a BRZ too, but it's always a challenge. So yeah, it's ..."
The Subaru BRZ is a small sports car that's really fun to drive. It has a sporty design and is built to handle well on the road, making it a favorite for people who love driving. It's also not too expensive compared to other sports cars.
The Subaru BRZ is a lightweight sports coupe that emphasizes driving enjoyment with its rear-wheel-drive layout and balanced handling. Developed in collaboration with Toyota, it offers a thrilling experience for enthusiasts while maintaining practicality for everyday use. Its significance is highlighted by its focus on driver engagement and affordability in the sports car segment.
Subaru Forrester
"...nd of the big debut at the LA Auto Show, the 2025 Subaru Forrester. Can you tell us a little about it?"
The Subaru Forester is a compact SUV that has a lot of space inside and is great for families. It can drive well on different types of roads, including rough ones, and is known for being safe and reliable. Many people like it for everyday use and for going on trips.
The Subaru Forester is a compact SUV that offers a blend of practicality, safety, and all-wheel drive capability, making it a popular choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts. With a spacious interior and advanced safety features, it is designed for both urban and off-road driving. The Forester's significance is highlighted by its consistent performance in safety ratings and reliability.
Toyota RAV4
"...things like CR-V and RAV4, which are very much the stalwarts in that compact SUV segment."
The Toyota RAV4 is also a compact SUV like the Subaru Forester and Honda CR-V. It's popular because it's dependable and has a lot of features for families.
The Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV known for its reliability, practicality, and a variety of trims that cater to different customer needs, making it a popular choice among consumers.
Subaru Outback
"...ou'll have a WRX owner that has a Forrester or an Outback or a Crosstrak as the other car in the family."
The Subaru Outback is a type of car that looks like a mix between a car and an SUV. It's great for people who like to go on adventures because it can handle rough roads and has a lot of space for gear. Many families like it because it's safe and reliable.
The Subaru Outback is a versatile crossover SUV known for its all-wheel drive capability and rugged design, making it popular among outdoor enthusiasts. It combines the practicality of a wagon with the features of an SUV, providing ample cargo space and a comfortable ride. Its significance lies in its reputation for reliability and safety, appealing to families and adventure seekers alike.
Bricklin SV-1
"... was the very first one that came in with Malcolm Bricklin. It's just an absolute..."
The Bricklin SV-1 is a rare sports car from the 1970s that looks very different from most cars because it has doors that open upwards. It was designed to be safe and fast, but not many were made, which makes it special. People talk about it because of its unique style and the interesting story behind it.
The Bricklin SV-1 is a unique sports car produced in the 1970s, known for its distinctive design and innovative features like safety-focused construction and gullwing doors. It was created by entrepreneur Malcolm Bricklin and aimed to combine performance with safety, although it faced production challenges and limited availability. Its significance lies in its rarity and the ambitious vision behind its creation.
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