Trust, Recalls, And The Real Cost Of Cool
About this episode
The discussion kicks off with a review of Consumer Reports' top vehicles for 2026, highlighting hybrids like the Honda Civic and Toyota Camry for their efficiency and comfort. The hosts dive into various categories, including the best compact SUV, luxury vehicles, and electric options, emphasizing the growing trend of hybrid powertrains. The episode also addresses recent recalls affecting models like the Ford Explorer and Hyundai Palisade, before transitioning to a fun segment guessing car sale prices, featuring classic models like the 1957 Cadillac El Dorado and 2006 Ford GT.
Hybrids aren’t the backup plan anymore—they’re the headline. We break down Consumer Reports’ 2026 winners, from the Civic Hybrid’s sharp steering and 44 mpg to the Camry’s 48 mpg and old-school tactile controls that make daily driving easier. Subaru’s Crosstrek and Forester win on ride quality, visibility, and confidence in bad weather, while Toyota’s mid-sized SUV pick nails cargo space and comfort with an easygoing 35 mpg hybrid. For luxury shoppers, the Lexus NX balances a calm cabin with intuitive controls and a hybrid that smooths the surge.
Trucks and EVs share the spotlight too. The Ford Maverick proves you can get real utility without parking-lot fatigue, pairing a spacious cabin with hybrid efficiency that saves cash every week. The F-150 continues to deliver with a gem of a V6 and smart touches like a tailgate that doubles as a workbench. On the electric side, Tesla’s Model Y refresh aims squarely at daily comfort—acoustic glass, a calmer ride, better materials—while keeping the speed, range, and Supercharger access that define its appeal.
We also cover the news drivers need now: recalls for windshield bonding, high-voltage battery risks, failing displays, and rearview camera glitches. A quick VIN check at safercar.gov can save a headache later. Then we have some fun with auction shockers: a $710K Ford GT, a six-figure classic Bronco, and attainable icons like a ’49 Chevy 3100 and a ’73 Super Beetle that prove charm still sells. Along the way, we touch on dealer trust rankings, shifting work policies at major automakers, and a heartwarming dealership story that turned a driver’s clapped-out Civic into a fresh start.
Hit play to get smart on what to buy, what to avoid, and what might tempt your heart more than your wallet. If you enjoy the show, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who’s shopping their next car.
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Art Morrison
"There's a company that is actually redoing. You buy one, you find one and you want it done like it was brand new. They're like, you know, $250,000. Art Morrison, Chessie."
Art Morrison is a company that makes parts and frames for classic cars. They help people restore or modify their cars to make them look and drive better.
Art Morrison is a company known for building high-quality chassis and components for classic cars and hot rods. They specialize in custom fabrication to enhance performance and aesthetics.
Honda Civic
"...the best small car for 2026, according to consumer reports. And that would be the civic hybrid. I, for some reason, I mentioned this last week when we were at the auto show. ..."
The Honda Civic Hybrid is a version of the Civic that uses both gas and electric power to save fuel. It's known for being fun to drive and having a lot of room inside, which is why it's recommended as one of the best small cars for 2026.
The Honda Civic Hybrid is a fuel-efficient version of the popular Civic model, featuring a hybrid powertrain that combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor. It is recognized for its responsive handling and spacious interior, making it a top choice for small cars in 2026.
miles per gallon
"...also gets 44 miles per gallon consumer reports test and has refined power delivery..."
Miles per gallon (MPG) tells you how many miles a car can drive using one gallon of gas. Higher MPG means the car is more fuel-efficient and will save you money on gas.
Miles per gallon (MPG) is a measure of how far a vehicle can travel on one gallon of fuel. It's an important metric for assessing a car's fuel efficiency and overall operating costs.
zero to 60
"...another 50 horsepower that powers a two second bump in its speed from zero to 60 compared with the gasoline version..."
'Zero to 60' is a way to see how fast a car can go from a complete stop to 60 miles per hour. It's often used to compare how quickly different cars can speed up.
The 'zero to 60' time measures how quickly a vehicle can accelerate from a complete stop to 60 miles per hour. It's a common performance metric used to evaluate a car's acceleration capabilities.
Toyota Camry
"...best mid sized car. The Toyota Camry. That's one that I haven't had in a long time for some reason."
The Toyota Camry is a well-known car that is comfortable and reliable. The newest versions are hybrid cars, which means they use both gasoline and electricity to save fuel.
The Toyota Camry is a popular midsize sedan known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. The latest models are now offered exclusively as hybrids, achieving impressive fuel economy ratings.
hybrid
"...The Camry is now exclusively sold as a hybrid and reached 48 miles per gallon in the consumer reports test. Reviewers liked its user friendly controls..."
A hybrid car is one that uses both a regular gas engine and an electric motor. This helps the car use less fuel and be better for the environment.
A hybrid vehicle uses both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. This technology allows for better mileage compared to traditional gasoline-only vehicles.
Subaru Crosstrek
"...Best subcompact SUV, the Subaru Crosstrak. Tell you what, man, that's Subaru brand. They have really killed it here in the past few years."
The Subaru Crosstrek is a small SUV that can handle rough roads and is great for outdoor adventures. It's popular because it's practical and has a tough design.
The Subaru Crosstrek is a subcompact SUV that is known for its all-wheel drive capabilities and versatility. It has gained popularity for its rugged design and practicality for outdoor activities.
Ford Excursion
"... said it was comfortable even during off pavement excursions. I don't know why you would do that. They also c..."
The Ford Excursion is a really big SUV that can fit a lot of people and their gear. It’s known for being comfortable and strong enough to handle rough roads. People like to talk about it because it’s great for family trips or adventures.
The Ford Excursion is a large SUV that was produced from 2000 to 2005, known for its spacious interior and towing capacity. It is often discussed for its comfort and capability, especially during off-road excursions. Its size and power make it a popular choice for families and those needing a robust vehicle.
Subaru Forester
"Best compact SUV, Subaru Forester. Reviewers liked the Forester's visibility, comfort, safety credentials, spacious interior and the hybrid's unique combination of a 2.5 liter engine and electric motor with mechanical full time all wheel drive."
The Subaru Forester is another small SUV that is known for being safe and comfortable. It has a lot of space inside and comes in a hybrid version that uses both gas and electricity.
The Subaru Forester is a compact SUV praised for its visibility, comfort, and safety features. It offers a spacious interior and a hybrid variant that combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor for improved efficiency.
all-wheel drive
"Reviewers liked the Forester's visibility, comfort, safety credentials, spacious interior and the hybrid's unique combination of a 2.5 liter engine and electric motor with mechanical full time all wheel drive."
All-wheel drive means that all four wheels of a car can get power from the engine at the same time. This helps the car grip the road better, especially when it's slippery.
All-wheel drive (AWD) is a drivetrain system that provides power to all four wheels of a vehicle simultaneously. This enhances traction and stability, especially in challenging driving conditions like rain or snow.
Toyota Grand Highlander
"It's a Toyota. It's the Grand Highlander, which is the one that's bigger than the Highlander."
The Grand Highlander is a bigger SUV from Toyota that can fit more people and their stuff, making it great for families or trips.
The Toyota Grand Highlander is a larger version of the standard Highlander, designed to offer more space for passengers and cargo, making it a popular choice for families.
Lexus NX
"And it's going to be the Lexus NX."
The Lexus NX is a fancy small SUV that looks good and has a nice inside, making it a popular pick for people who want something upscale.
The Lexus NX is a luxury compact SUV known for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and advanced technology features, making it a popular choice in the luxury SUV market.
Ford Maverick
"Small pickup. I'm not going Maverick. Maverick pops into mind. Well, guess what?"
The Ford Maverick is a small truck that is easy to drive and park, perfect for city living. It’s known for being affordable and comes with a hybrid option, which means it can save you money on gas. People talk about it because it’s a practical choice for those who need a truck without the bulk.
The Ford Maverick is a compact pickup truck that was reintroduced in 2021, designed to appeal to urban drivers looking for versatility and efficiency. Its significance lies in its affordability and hybrid option, making it a practical choice for those needing a small truck for everyday use. The Maverick is often discussed for its innovative design and value proposition in the crowded pickup market.
BMW X5
"Best luxury mid-sized SUV. BMW X5. Oh, wow."
The BMW X5 is a fancy SUV that is known for being comfortable and stylish. It's popular among people looking for a luxury vehicle that can also handle everyday driving.
The BMW X5 is a luxury mid-sized SUV that combines performance, comfort, and technology. It has been well-received for its high-quality interior and driving dynamics, making it a popular choice in its segment.
Tesla Model
"Best electric vehicle. Tesla Model Y. The Model Y got accolades for its practical yet sleek design..."
The Tesla Model Y is an electric SUV known for being fun to drive and having a lot of space inside. It can be charged at special Tesla charging stations.
The Tesla Model Y is a compact electric SUV that has gained popularity for its performance, practicality, and access to Tesla's extensive Supercharger network.
Ford F-150
"And finally, the best full-size pickup truck. Ford F-150."
The Ford F-150 is a popular pickup truck that is known for being tough and useful for many different tasks, like hauling and towing.
The Ford F-150 is a full-size pickup truck known for its durability, versatility, and strong performance, making it one of the best-selling vehicles in the U.S.
blind spot monitors
"Reviewers liked improvements such as blind spot monitors and a flat tailgate that can double as a workbench."
Blind spot monitors help drivers see cars that are hard to notice when changing lanes. They usually make a sound or light up to warn you if there's a car nearby.
Blind spot monitors are safety features that alert drivers to vehicles in their blind spots, helping to prevent accidents during lane changes. They typically use sensors to detect nearby vehicles.
V6 engine
"The V6 engine is a gem and the hybrid version prioritizes brawn over efficiency."
A V6 engine is a car engine with six cylinders that are shaped like a 'V'. It offers a nice 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.
Ford Explorer
"Inadequate windshield bonding on the Ford Explorer for 2026. In other words, Martha?"
The Ford Explorer is a popular SUV that offers a lot of space and power. The 2026 version has some new features that make it even better.
The Ford Explorer is a midsize SUV known for its spacious interior and strong performance. The 2026 model includes updates and features that enhance its reliability and functionality.
Volkswagen Id4
"...-voltage battery may catch fire on the Volkswagen ID4 for 23 and 24. Oh, wow."
The Volkswagen ID.4 is a new electric SUV that runs on batteries instead of gas. There have been some worries about the batteries catching fire in certain models, which is important to know if you're thinking about buying one. It’s a big step for Volkswagen as they move towards making more electric cars.
The Volkswagen ID.4 is an all-electric SUV that represents Volkswagen's push towards electric mobility. Recent concerns about battery fires in the 2023 and 2024 models have raised safety discussions among potential buyers. Its significance lies in its role in the growing electric vehicle market and Volkswagen's commitment to sustainability.
Volkswagen Bus
"...those? A garage fire? No, I've seen an ID with a Volkswagen bus. Man, that's not good because it goes pretty qui..."
The Volkswagen Bus is a classic van that is famous for its unique shape and is often associated with fun road trips and the 1960s. It has a lot of space inside, making it great for families or groups of friends. People love to talk about it because it brings back memories of a different time.
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. Its unique design and spacious interior made it popular for families and road trips. Discussions often focus on its cultural significance and nostalgia, as well as its classic status among vintage car enthusiasts.
Hyundai Palisade
"It'll slap you upside the head. The Hyundai Palisade 2020 to 2025, it's being recalled. Tell you what..."
The Hyundai Palisade is a large SUV that can fit a lot of people and their stuff, making it great for families. It has a lot of safety features to keep everyone safe while driving. Recently, there have been some recalls, which means the company is asking owners to bring their cars in for fixes.
The Hyundai Palisade is a mid-size SUV that has gained attention for its spacious interior, advanced safety features, and overall value. The mention of recalls from 2020 to 2025 highlights the importance of staying informed about potential issues that could affect ownership. It's significant for families looking for a reliable and comfortable vehicle.
Toyota Tundra
"Tell you what, a Tundra 24 and 25 in the Tundra hybrid rear of your camera image may not display."
The Toyota Tundra is a big truck that can handle tough jobs and is also good for off-road driving. The newer models have a hybrid version that saves on gas.
The Toyota Tundra is a full-size pickup truck known for its durability and off-road capabilities. The 2024 and 2025 models include hybrid options for improved fuel efficiency.
Cadillac El Dorado
"Okay. The 1957 Cadillac El Dorado, if we can get that up there. Mr. Morris."
The Cadillac Eldorado is a fancy car that was made a long time ago and is known for being stylish and luxurious. The 1957 version is especially popular among collectors because it looks great and represents a time when cars were made with a lot of attention to detail. People talk about it because it’s a classic piece of American car history.
The Cadillac Eldorado is a classic luxury car that was produced from the 1950s to the early 2000s, known for its distinctive styling and high-end features. The 1957 model is particularly celebrated for its design and is often sought after by collectors. Discussions about the Eldorado often revolve around its status as a symbol of American luxury and automotive history.
Cadillac El
"Okay. The 1957 Cadillac El Dorado, if we can get that up there. Mr. Morris."
The Cadillac ELR is a fancy car that can run on electricity and gas, making it a hybrid. It has a stylish look and some cool technology inside. People talk about it because it was one of Cadillac's attempts to make a modern, eco-friendly luxury car.
The Cadillac ELR is a luxury plug-in hybrid coupe that was produced from 2014 to 2016, known for its sleek design and advanced technology. It combines electric power with a gasoline engine, offering a unique driving experience. Discussions often center around its innovative features and the challenges it faced in the market.
200 grand
"...That's going to be, I'm going to go 200 grand."
'200 grand' means $200,000. It shows how much someone thinks a really nice car, like the Cadillac El Dorado, could be worth.
'200 grand' refers to a price of $200,000. In the context of classic cars, this indicates the high value and desirability of certain models, especially well-maintained or rare examples.
Ford Gt
"Jeff, this is all about you. A 2006 Ford GT. They have on here GT40."
The Ford GT is a super-fast sports car that looks really cool and was made to celebrate Ford's racing history. The 2006 version is especially famous for being powerful and stylish, which makes it a favorite among car collectors. People often talk about it because of its speed and the story behind it.
The Ford GT is a high-performance sports car that pays homage to the legendary Ford GT40, known for its racing success in the 1960s. The 2006 model is particularly notable for its striking design and powerful engine, making it a collector's item. Discussions often revolve around its performance capabilities and historical significance in motorsports.
Ford GT40
"A 2006 Ford GT. They have on here GT40. It's a GT40 livery painted on it."
The Ford GT40 is a famous race car that won a lot of races back in the 1960s. It was built to be super fast and has a cool design that people love. It’s talked about because it represents Ford's success in racing and is a big part of car history.
The Ford GT40 is a legendary race car that dominated endurance racing in the 1960s, particularly at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Its design and engineering were groundbreaking for the time, and it has become a symbol of Ford's racing heritage. Discussions often focus on its historical significance and the impact it had on automotive performance.
Barrett-Jackson
"They're crossing a block of Barrett's like around two and a quarter."
Barrett-Jackson is a famous car auction where people buy and sell special cars. It's known for having some really cool and expensive cars up for bid.
Barrett-Jackson is a renowned auction company that specializes in the sale of collector cars. Their auctions attract car enthusiasts and collectors from around the world, often featuring rare and valuable vehicles.
$710,000
"But this car sold for $710,000. Yeah."
$710,000 is the amount someone paid for a car. It's a very high price, suggesting the car is special or valuable.
This figure represents the sale price of a car, indicating a high-value transaction, likely for a rare or collectible vehicle.
bid
"That was going to be my next bid. Yeah."
A bid is how much money someone is willing to pay for something at an auction. People raise their bids to try to win the item they want.
A bid is an offer made by a participant in an auction to purchase an item at a specified price. In automotive auctions, bids can escalate quickly as buyers compete for desirable cars.
Chevrolet 3100
"No idea, $9,999. So in 1959, Chevy, $3,100. Now, is that going to be, is that a three quarter ton?"
The Chevrolet 3100 is an old pickup truck that was made a long time ago and is loved for its classic look. It’s known for being tough and reliable, which makes it popular among people who like to restore old cars. People talk about it because it’s a piece of American history.
The Chevrolet 3100 is a classic pickup truck produced in the late 1940s and early 1950s, known for its timeless design and durability. It is often discussed among classic car enthusiasts for its historical significance and the role it played in American automotive history. The 3100 is a favorite among collectors and restorers due to its iconic styling.
locking hubs
"...It's a 59. Got the locking hubs on it."
Locking hubs let you control whether the front wheels are connected to the engine. This helps save gas when you don't need four-wheel drive.
Locking hubs are mechanisms that allow the driver to engage or disengage the front wheels from the drivetrain. This is particularly useful in four-wheel-drive vehicles, allowing for better fuel efficiency when four-wheel drive is not needed.
restomod
"It's a resto mod because it's been jacked up. Yeah."
A restomod is an old car that has been fixed up and updated with new parts or technology. It looks classic but drives like a modern car.
A restomod is a vehicle that has been restored and modified, typically combining classic styling with modern performance and technology. This approach allows enthusiasts to enjoy the aesthetics of vintage cars while benefiting from contemporary reliability and features.
Ford Bronco
"... one for you. Now we know that the original Ford Bronco sells for stupid money these days. Yep."
The Ford Bronco is a tough SUV that can handle rough terrains like mountains and trails. It was first made a long time ago and has become really popular again recently. People talk about it because the older models are now worth a lot of money.
The Ford Bronco is an iconic off-road vehicle that was originally produced from the 1960s until the 1990s and was reintroduced in 2020. Its significance stems from its rugged design and capability, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts and collectors alike. The original Bronco has become a sought-after classic, often fetching high prices at auctions.
straight six
"So it probably have a straight six in it and a three speed on the column. And I may be wrong, could have a, you know, one of those rock crushers that I had in mind and mine was a 54."
A straight six is a type of car engine that has six cylinders lined up in a row. It's known for running smoothly and providing good power.
A straight six, or inline-six engine, is a type of internal combustion engine with six cylinders arranged in a straight line. This configuration is known for its smooth operation and good power delivery.
three-speed transmission
"So it probably have a straight six in it and a three speed on the column. And I may be wrong, could have a, you know, one of those rock crushers that I had in mind and mine was a 54."
A three-speed transmission is a system in a car that lets you choose from three different speeds while driving. It's often found in older cars and helps control how fast you go.
A three-speed transmission is a type of gearbox that allows the driver to select from three different gear ratios for driving. This setup is common in older vehicles and provides basic acceleration and speed control.
running boards
"It's got running boards on it. It's got, you know, moon hub caps on it."
Running boards are flat steps on the side of some cars, especially older ones, that help people get in and out of the vehicle more easily.
Running boards are narrow steps or platforms attached to the sides of a vehicle, typically found on trucks and older cars. They provide easier access to the cabin and are often a stylistic feature.
moon hub caps
"It's got, you know, moon hub caps on it. Ah, 30, 30."
Moon hub caps are shiny covers for car wheels that make them look cool and stylish. They're often seen on classic cars.
Moon hub caps are a type of decorative wheel cover that is often associated with classic cars and hot rods. They are typically shiny and have a distinctive design that gives vehicles a retro look.
gas filler tank
"It's got, you know, moon hub caps on it. Ah, 30, 30. Yeah. It looks like it's still got the original gas filler tank in the back of the panel there."
The gas filler tank is where you put fuel into your car. In older cars, it could be located in unusual places, like behind the seat.
The gas filler tank is the part of a vehicle where fuel is added. In older cars, it was often located in less convenient places, such as behind the seat, compared to modern designs that typically place it near the rear of the vehicle.
Volkswagen Beetle
"Next up, for all you Beetle fans, 73 Volkswagen Super Beetle. There's nothing super about it, but that's what they called it back then because everything was super this and super that."
The Volkswagen Super Beetle is a version of the original Beetle car that was made in the 1970s. It had some improvements, like more trunk space and a better ride, but some people think it wasn't as good looking.
The Volkswagen Super Beetle is an upgraded version of the classic Beetle, introduced in the early 1970s. It features a larger front trunk and improved suspension, making it more comfortable and practical than its predecessor.
Gulf Coast Auto Shield
"Well, why not let Gulf Coast Auto Shield protect it? Houstonian John Gray invites you to his state of the art facility to introduce you to his specialist team of auto enthusiasts."
Gulf Coast Auto Shield is a company that helps protect and improve the look of your car. They offer services to make your car's paint look new and add protective layers to keep it safe.
Gulf Coast Auto Shield is a facility that specializes in automotive protection services, including paint restoration and protective coatings. They cater to car enthusiasts looking to maintain or enhance their vehicle's appearance.
Dodge Ram
"...ber one has been tied by Chrysler Dodge Jeep and Ram and Nissan as the least trusted brands. Ow."
The Dodge Ram is a big truck that’s great for hauling heavy loads and towing trailers. Recently, it has been mentioned as one of the brands that people trust the least, which means some owners have had issues with it. It’s popular among people who need a strong truck for work or play.
The Dodge Ram, now known as the Ram Truck brand, is a full-size pickup truck recognized for its strong performance and towing capabilities. Recent discussions about it being one of the least trusted brands highlight concerns about reliability and customer satisfaction. Its significance lies in its popularity among truck enthusiasts and its role in the competitive pickup market.
Jeep Cherokee
"...the dealership, signing paperwork for a 2014 Jeep Cherokee. The price he paid?"
The Jeep Cherokee is a small SUV that can go off-road, which means it can drive on rough paths and trails. The 2014 version has had some issues, so it’s important to check if those have been fixed before buying one. People like it because it’s tough but also good for everyday driving.
The Jeep Cherokee is a compact SUV known for its off-road capabilities and versatility, making it a popular choice among adventure seekers. The 2014 model year has been noted for some reliability concerns, which can be a topic of discussion for potential buyers. Its significance lies in its blend of ruggedness and everyday usability.
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