Two Seats, Big Grins; Three Rows, Bigger Payments
About this episode
A detailed review of the 2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata highlights its stunning design, impressive handling, and spirited performance. The hosts discuss the car's compact size, interior quirks, and the joy of driving it, especially with its smooth manual transmission. They also compare it to competitors like the Toyota GR86 and Subaru BRZ, while touching on the practicality challenges of a two-seater. The episode transitions into a review of the 2025 GMC Acadia Denali, emphasizing its spacious interior, advanced tech features, and towing capacity, along with a discussion on classic car ownership challenges.
We wrap up the year with two radically different drives, one honest verdict. We put the 2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata through its paces to see if a featherweight roadster with a manual top and a “butter” shifter still delivers peak driving joy in a world of screens and mega-SUVs. Then we jump into the 2025 GMC Acadia Denali to test whether a quiet, tech-rich, seven-passenger family hauler can feel premium without feeling ponderous, and how its turbo power, towing rating, and Denali hardware stack up against segment favorites.
We start with design that tells the truth. The Miata’s long hood, short deck shape and crisp fender lines aren’t nostalgia plays; they’re a blueprint for balance and feedback. Inside, space is tight by intent, storage is minimal, and everything you touch feels straightforward and well judged. The two-liter engine’s 181 horsepower rides an ideal power-to-weight ratio, delivering real-world pace, great fuel economy, and handling that begs for backroads. We underline who it fits, who it doesn’t, and why its clarity of purpose is its superpower.
From there, we scale up to the Acadia Denali and its different kind of promise: room for seven, quiet cruising, and tech that actually helps. The 15-inch center display, 11-inch driver cluster, surround-view cameras, rear camera mirror, and one-touch folding third row raise daily ease. The turbo 2.5 with 328 horsepower and a 5,000-pound tow rating brings capability, while the Denali’s suspension tuning keeps it poised. We parse real-life fuel economy, pricing that climbs with options, and comparisons to the Kia Telluride and Chevrolet Traverse to help you decide if the Denali premium is worth it.
We close by getting real about classic cars: rare parts, higher maintenance costs, limited safety, storage and theft risks, and why resto-mods can be both dream and headache. Plus, a tour through banned, crushed, and forgotten muscle legends that almost changed the landscape. If you love driving feel, need family flexibility, or dream of garage icons, this review gives you the tradeoffs and the wins. Enjoy the ride, then share your pick, subscribe for more real-world reviews, and leave a rating to help other car lovers find the show.
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Mazda Mx5
"Had a chance to drive the 2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata, final assembly location Hiroshima, Japan. Yes, home of the atomic bomb."
The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a small sports car that seats two people. It's known for being fun to drive and is very popular among car lovers.
The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a lightweight two-seater sports car known for its agile handling and fun driving experience. The 2025 model continues the tradition of this iconic roadster, which has a strong following among car enthusiasts.
fourth generation
"Well, it is part of the fourth generation that was originally introduced in 2016. This is the best-looking Mazda MX-5 Miata that has ever been in existence as far as I'm concerned."
The fourth generation means this is the latest version of the Mazda MX-5 Miata, which has been updated since it first came out. Each generation usually brings new features and improvements.
The fourth generation of the Mazda MX-5 Miata, known as the ND, was introduced in 2016 and features various updates in design and technology compared to previous generations.
horsepower
"Two-liter four-cylinder engine turns out 181 horsepower, 151 pound-feet of torque. But let me tell you this."
Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful an engine is. The higher the horsepower number, the more work the engine can do, which usually means the car can go faster or accelerate better.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, commonly used to describe the output of engines. It indicates how much work an engine can perform over time, with higher numbers generally representing more powerful engines.
torque
"Two-liter four-cylinder engine turns out 181 horsepower, 151 pound-feet of torque. But let me tell you this."
Torque measures how much twisting force an engine can produce. It's important for how quickly a car can start moving and how much weight it can pull. Higher torque means better acceleration and towing ability.
Torque is a measure of rotational force, often used to describe how much pulling power an engine has. It is crucial for acceleration and towing capacity, with higher torque values providing better performance in these areas.
two-liter four-cylinder engine
"Two-liter four-cylinder engine turns out 181 horsepower, 151 pound-feet of torque. But let me tell you this."
A two-liter four-cylinder engine is a type of car engine that has four cylinders and can hold two liters of fuel. It's often found in smaller cars and helps them run efficiently while providing decent power.
A two-liter four-cylinder engine refers to an internal combustion engine with four cylinders and a total displacement of two liters. This size is common in many compact and mid-size cars, offering a balance of power and fuel efficiency.
power-to-weight ratio
"That is all about the fact, power-to-weight ratio. The car weighs nothing."
Power-to-weight ratio tells you how much power a car has compared to how heavy it is. If a car is light and has a lot of power, it can go faster and accelerate better.
The power-to-weight ratio is a measure of performance that compares the power output of a vehicle's engine to its weight. A higher ratio typically means better acceleration and overall performance.
miles per gallon
"Manufacturers set up as far as miles per gallon is concerned, 26 city, 34 highway for combined at 29."
Miles per gallon tells you how efficiently a car uses fuel. The higher the number, the less fuel the car needs to travel a certain distance, which is better for your wallet and the environment.
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 fuel efficiency and can vary based on driving conditions and vehicle type.
purpose-built sports car
"This is a purpose-built sports car that can cut a rug around a road course racetrack."
A purpose-built sports car is made just for driving fast and handling well, usually not meant for everyday use like family cars.
A purpose-built sports car is designed specifically for performance and handling, often sacrificing comfort and practicality for speed and agility on the track.
road course racetrack
"This is a purpose-built sports car that can cut a rug around a road course racetrack. And if you want to go and have some real fun,"
A road course racetrack is a track with turns and straight parts where cars can race. It's different from oval tracks and is used to see how well cars handle.
A road course racetrack is a type of racing circuit that features a combination of turns and straight sections, designed for high-performance vehicles to test their handling and speed.
base trim price
"Here's the pricing. Base trim price is 37,485."
Base trim price is the lowest price you can pay for a car model before adding any extra features or upgrades. It's like the starting point for the car's cost.
The base trim price refers to the starting price of a vehicle model without any additional options or packages. This is the most basic version of the car that includes standard features.
tested price
"Price is tested, 37,435. Now, I don't know what happened to the $50 there."
Tested price is the amount that a specific car was sold for during a review, which might include extra features that aren't in the basic version.
The tested price refers to the actual price at which a vehicle was evaluated or reviewed, which may differ from the base trim price due to additional features or options included during testing.
base model price
"Base model price, you can get in one of these for 29,530."
The base model price is the lowest price you can pay for a car without adding any extra features or options.
The base model price refers to the starting price of a vehicle without any additional options or upgrades, which serves as a benchmark for potential buyers.
Toyota GR86
"The Toyota GR86 starts at 30,400."
The Toyota GR86 is a small sports car that is fun to drive and has a rear-wheel-drive system, which means the power goes to the back wheels for better handling.
The Toyota GR86 is a lightweight sports coupe known for its agile handling and rear-wheel-drive layout, making it a popular choice among driving enthusiasts.
Subaru BRZ
"It's cousin, the Subaru BRZ starts at 33,210."
The Subaru BRZ is a compact sports car that is designed for driving enjoyment, similar to the Toyota GR86, and it also has a rear-wheel-drive setup.
The Subaru BRZ is a sports coupe that shares its platform with the Toyota GR86, offering similar performance and handling characteristics, appealing to driving enthusiasts.
Mazda MX-5 Miata
"That's my review of the 2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata. Love the car."
The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a small sports car that seats two people. It's known for being fun to drive and is popular among car enthusiasts.
The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a lightweight two-seat roadster known for its agile handling and fun driving experience. The 2025 model continues this tradition with modern updates and features.
2025
"That's my review of the 2025 Mazda MX-5 Miata. Love the car."
2025 is the year when this specific version of the Mazda MX-5 Miata will be sold. Car models often have a year associated with them to show when they were made.
The year 2025 refers to the model year of the Mazda MX-5 Miata being discussed, indicating the version of the car that will be available for sale in that year.
Mazda 3
"And a step up from that would be what the Mazda 3 to be a little bit larger vehicle kind of. Yes, I guess. But it's size-wise."
The Mazda 3 is a small car that is fun to drive and looks good. It comes in two styles: a regular car shape and a hatchback, which has a rear door that opens upwards.
The Mazda 3 is a compact car known for its sporty handling and stylish design. It is available in both sedan and hatchback configurations, appealing to a wide range of drivers.
GMC Acadia
"... joining us, we... I'm talking about the 2025 GMC Acadia Denali. No, you're going to be talking about it."
The GMC Acadia is a large SUV that can fit a lot of people and their stuff. It's designed to be comfortable for families and has many modern features.
The GMC Acadia is a mid-size SUV that has been in production since 2006, known for its spacious interior and family-friendly features. It offers a comfortable ride and modern technology, making it a popular choice for families.
all-wheel drive
"The Denali all-wheel drive version of this vehicle. Now, this is a mid-sized crossover SUV."
All-wheel drive means that the car can send power to all four wheels at the same time. This helps the car grip the road better, especially when it's rainy or snowy.
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. This is particularly beneficial for SUVs like the GMC Acadia.
trim levels
"Now, this is a mid-sized crossover SUV. It comes in three trim levels."
Trim levels are different versions of the same car that have different features and prices. For example, some might have more luxury options than others.
Trim levels refer to the different versions of a vehicle model that come with varying features, options, and price points. The GMC Acadia offers several trim levels, including the Elevation, AT4, and Denali, each catering to different customer preferences.
panoramic sunroof
"...you've got a panoramic sunroof. You've got roof rails on it..."
A panoramic sunroof is a big glass window on the roof of a car that lets in a lot of light and can sometimes open up for fresh air.
A panoramic sunroof is a large glass panel that extends over a significant portion of the roof of a vehicle, allowing for more natural light and an open feel inside the cabin. It can often be opened or tilted for ventilation.
auto-sense power liftgate
"...you've got a auto-sense power liftgate that works pretty good. And then you've got a 22 by 8 1⁄2 inch aluminum wheels..."
An auto-sense power liftgate is a back door of a car that opens automatically when you wave your foot or press a button, which is helpful when your hands are busy.
An auto-sense power liftgate is a feature that allows the rear hatch of a vehicle to open automatically, often triggered by a foot gesture or a button press, making it easier to load and unload cargo, especially when your hands are full.
22 by 8 1⁄2 inch aluminum wheels
"...you've got a auto-sense power liftgate that works pretty good. And then you've got a 22 by 8 1⁄2 inch aluminum wheels..."
These are the car's wheels that are 22 inches wide and 8.5 inches across. They are made of aluminum, which is lighter than regular steel wheels, helping the car perform better.
These wheels are specified by their diameter and width, with '22 by 8 1⁄2 inches' indicating a 22-inch diameter and 8.5-inch width. Aluminum wheels are lightweight and often enhance performance and fuel efficiency compared to steel wheels.
8-speed automatic transmission
"...8-speed automatic transmission. Did you lose your place?"
An 8-speed automatic transmission helps your car change gears automatically, making it easier to drive and often saving fuel.
An 8-speed automatic transmission is a type of gearbox that automatically changes gears in a vehicle, providing smoother acceleration and improved fuel efficiency compared to older transmissions with fewer gears.
tow rating
"...it's rated to tow 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. Now that's where the trailer and package comes in"
Tow rating is how much weight a car can pull safely, like a trailer or boat, without causing problems.
Tow rating refers to the maximum weight a vehicle can safely tow when properly equipped. This is important for ensuring that the vehicle can handle the load without risking damage or safety issues.
MSRP
"Now, based on the price on a vehicle like this, 42,900. The base trim price is 55,900. Six. And MSRP, as we got it, was 64,410."
MSRP means the price that the car maker suggests you should pay for a new car. It's like a guide for how much the car should cost when you buy it.
MSRP stands for Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price, which is the price that the manufacturer recommends for the vehicle. It's often used as a starting point for negotiations at dealerships.
Ford Explorer
"So it's kind of up there when you look at the Ford Explorer that starts at 39.7."
The Ford Explorer is a popular SUV that has a lot of space for passengers and cargo, making it great for families or road trips.
The Ford Explorer is a mid-size SUV known for its spacious interior and versatility, making it popular among families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Honda Pilot
"The Honda Pilot starts at 40,200."
The Honda Pilot is a family-friendly SUV that has three rows of seats, making it ideal for larger families or those who need extra space.
The Honda Pilot is a midsize SUV that offers three rows of seating and is known for its reliability and family-friendly features.
Kia Telluride
"The Kia Telluride, which I happen to like that vehicle as well, 36,390."
The Kia Telluride is a stylish and spacious SUV that is well-liked for its features and good price.
The Kia Telluride is a midsize SUV that has gained popularity for its stylish design, spacious interior, and value for money.
Denali
"but again, you're talking about this is the Denali, so it does have a lot of extra things on it, a lot of extra touches that are considered upgrades in it."
Denali is a special luxury version of GMC vehicles that comes with extra features and upgrades for a more comfortable ride.
Denali is a trim level offered by GMC that signifies luxury and premium features, often including enhanced technology and comfort options.
Chevrolet Tahoe
"Oh no, it's a Tahoe."
The Chevrolet Tahoe is a big SUV that can carry a lot of people and is good for towing things like boats. It's a popular choice for families and outdoor activities.
The Chevrolet Tahoe is a full-size SUV that offers a balance of power, space, and technology. It's popular for its towing capacity and off-road capabilities, making it suitable for both family use and outdoor adventures.
Chevrolet Suburbans
"...ng, you know, you see all these guys in the black Suburbans and all their black suits on TV, you know,"
The Chevrolet Suburban is a large vehicle that can carry many passengers and lots of cargo. It's often used by families or for work, and you might see it in movies or TV shows because it's popular with security teams.
The Chevrolet Suburban is a full-size SUV that has been in production since 1935, making it one of the longest-running nameplates in automotive history. Known for its spacious interior and robust towing capacity, it is often used by families and businesses alike, as well as by government and security agencies, which is why you might see them in black on TV.
climate-controlled environment
"These vehicles often require climate-controlled environment to prevent rust, mold and other forms of deterioration, rot, rot and you've got animals, creatures and rodents..."
A climate-controlled environment is a place where the temperature and humidity are kept at specific levels. This helps protect classic cars from getting damaged by things like rust and mold.
A climate-controlled environment is a space where temperature and humidity are regulated to protect sensitive items, like classic cars, from damage. This is crucial for preserving the condition of classic cars, as it helps prevent rust, mold, and other forms of deterioration.
Renault
"Is that a renault? I don't know."
Renault is a car company from France that makes different types of vehicles, like small cars and SUVs. They are known for being creative and have a history in racing.
Renault is a French automobile manufacturer known for producing a wide range of vehicles, including compact cars, sedans, and SUVs. The brand has a reputation for innovation and has been involved in motorsport as well.
Chevrolet Corvette
"...ng to get in the show car business and get the 77 Corvette that I had driven for two, three years off the ro..."
The Chevrolet Corvette is a fast and stylish sports car that many people admire. It's known for being powerful and is often seen in car shows or racing events.
The Chevrolet Corvette is a high-performance sports car that has been an American icon since its introduction in 1953. Known for its sleek design and powerful engines, the Corvette represents the pinnacle of American automotive engineering and is often discussed for its racing heritage and cultural significance.
resto-mod
"it was basically a rest-o-mod. One of the mechanics over at Richardson Chevrolet had dropped a small block V8 in it..."
A resto-mod is a classic car that has been fixed up and updated with new parts to make it better to drive while still looking like the original.
A resto-mod is a vehicle that has been restored to a certain level of originality while also incorporating modern components and technology. This approach allows for improved performance and comfort while retaining classic aesthetics.
small block V8
"One of the mechanics over at Richardson Chevrolet had dropped a small block V8 in it..."
A small block V8 is an engine with eight cylinders that are arranged in a V shape. It's popular because it provides a good mix of power and fuel efficiency.
A small block V8 is a type of engine configuration that features eight cylinders arranged in a V shape with a smaller displacement compared to larger V8 engines. This design is known for its balance of power and efficiency.
Oldsmobile Cutlass
"Don't. I had a cutlass that was brown. It was chestnut brown from Cadill..."
The Oldsmobile Cutlass is a car that was made for many years and came in different styles. It was popular because it was practical and offered a good mix of features.
The Oldsmobile Cutlass was a mid-size car produced from 1961 to 1999, known for its versatility and popularity in the American market. It was available in various body styles and configurations, making it a favorite among consumers during its production run.
Ford Torino
"...private collections and not used. So next one, 71 Ford Torino King Cobra. Ford's response to the Dodge Charger ..."
The Ford Torino is a car that was made in the late 1960s and 1970s and is known for being sporty and fun to drive. It was popular during a time when many people loved fast cars.
The Ford Torino was a mid-size car produced from 1968 to 1976, known for its sporty design and performance options. It gained popularity in the muscle car era and is remembered for its role in racing and pop culture.
Shelby Cobra
"...ns and not used. So next one, 71 Ford Torino King Cobra. Ford's response to the Dodge Charger Daytona and..."
Dodge Charger Daytona
"...d Torino King Cobra. Ford's response to the Dodge Charger Daytona and then put the Superbird was the Torino King Co..."
The Dodge Charger Daytona is a special version of the Charger that was built for speed and racing. It's famous for its unique look and is very popular among collectors.
The Dodge Charger Daytona is a high-performance version of the Charger, produced in the late 1960s and early 1970s, known for its aerodynamic design and racing success. It is a highly sought-after collector's item due to its limited production and iconic status in muscle car history.
Pontiac Catalina
"It's a museum piece. 65 Pontiac Catalina 2 plus 2, 421 high output. I remember these."
The Pontiac Catalina is a big car that was made for families and is known for being comfortable. It had a classic look and was popular for many years.
The Pontiac Catalina was a full-size car produced from 1950 to 1981, known for its spaciousness and comfort. It was a popular choice for families and is remembered for its classic styling and performance options.
Pontiac GTO
"muscle cars, but overshadowed by its GTO sibling. So it's a little bit smaller on the GTO ..."
The Pontiac GTO is a classic car known for being very fast and powerful. It was one of the first cars to be called a 'muscle car' and is still popular with collectors today.
The Pontiac GTO, often referred to as the original muscle car, was produced from 1964 to 1974 and is celebrated for its powerful performance and aggressive styling. It played a significant role in the muscle car movement of the 1960s and remains a highly sought-after collector's item.
American Motors Corporation (Amc) Matador
"...ext one we're going to go to, Mike, is the 71 AMC Matador machine. The machine."
Ford Fairlane
"It could be. 1966 Fairlane GTX prototype. This Fairlane was a Ford prototype..."
Plymouth GTX
"It could be. 1966 Fairlane GTX prototype. This Fairlane was a Ford prototype cre..."
The Plymouth GTX is a powerful car that was made in the late 1960s and early 1970s. It's known for being fast and stylish, and many people who love classic cars really admire it.
The Plymouth GTX was a high-performance muscle car produced from 1967 to 1971, known for its powerful engines and sporty design. It was marketed as a premium version of the Plymouth Roadrunner and is highly regarded among collectors today.
Ford Mustang
"...d prototype created to bridge the gap between the Mustang and the full-sized Galaxy."
The Ford Mustang is a popular car known for being fast and fun to drive. It's often seen as a symbol of American cars and has a lot of fans who love its sporty look.
The Ford Mustang is a classic American muscle car that debuted in 1964 and has become a symbol of freedom and performance. Its combination of sporty design and powerful engine options has made it a favorite among car enthusiasts and collectors.
Ford Galaxy
"...ge the gap between the Mustang and the full-sized Galaxy. So what do you have?"
The Ford Galaxy is a big car that was made for families, offering lots of space and comfort. It was popular back in the day for being a reliable choice for long drives.
The Ford Galaxy is a full-size car that was produced from 1959 to 1975, known for its spacious interior and family-friendly design. It was popular in its time for offering comfort and performance, making it a staple in American households.
Plymouth Roadrunner
"...o, but if you think about the later models of the Roadrunner and stuff, they had hoods too."
The Plymouth Roadrunner is a fast car that was popular in the late 1960s and 1970s. It was known for being fun to drive and had a cartoon character as its mascot.
The Plymouth Roadrunner, produced from 1968 to 1980, is a classic American muscle car known for its performance and distinctive cartoon-themed branding. It became famous for its affordability and speed, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts.
Pontiac Transam
"Somebody has that car. 73 Pontiac Transam SD455 with an aluminum block or as they say, alum..."
The Pontiac Trans Am is a sporty version of the Firebird that many people love for its cool look and speed. It became famous in movies and is a favorite among car fans.
The Pontiac Trans Am is a performance version of the Pontiac Firebird, produced from 1969 to 2002, and is famous for its distinctive styling and powerful engines. It gained popularity in the 1970s and 1980s, especially due to its appearances in movies and pop culture.
Chevrolet Camaro
"...gh it was just a regular Transam at the time or a Camaro or Firebird, whatever. All the externals."
Pontiac Firebird
"...just a regular Transam at the time or a Camaro or Firebird, whatever. All the externals."
The Pontiac Firebird is a sporty car that was made for several decades and is known for being powerful and stylish. It became really popular in movies and has a strong fan base.
The Pontiac Firebird, produced from 1967 to 2002, was a classic American muscle car known for its performance and distinctive styling. It gained fame in the 1970s and 1980s, particularly with the Trans Am variant, which became a cultural icon through movies and TV shows.
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