Ugly Grills, Great Cars
About this episode
Exploring the intersection of automotive design and performance, this episode dives into Toyota's ambitious plans for a new high-performance brand, GR, and its potential supercar, the GRGT. The hosts also discuss recent recalls affecting popular models like the Jeep Wrangler and Mazda CX-50, highlighting quality control issues. Additionally, they engage in a lively car auction game, guessing the sale prices of classic vehicles, revealing surprising values and stories behind iconic models. With a mix of humor and expert insights, this episode offers a unique take on current automotive trends.
Some faces you can’t forget. We kick off with a sharp, entertaining tour of automotive front ends that sparked love, hate, and head-scratching in equal measure—from the Jeep Cherokee KL’s split lighting and the Lincoln MKT’s controversial split wing to the Dodge Nitro’s gym-bro stance and the Chevy SSR’s retro grin. The thread through all of them is clear: when the nose leads the story, it can amplify a car’s character or drown out everything it does well.
Then we pivot to a grounded, detail-rich review of the 2025 Jeep Wagoneer in its two-row electric 4xe configuration. We break down the sleek seven-slot grill, the long-wheelbase proportions, and a cabin that feels more expensive than the price tag suggests. Think full-length dash, integrated displays, ambient lighting, and upscale seating that deliver daily comfort without forcing a third row. On the road, direct-drive electric power brings up to 600 horsepower potential, stout torque, and an up-to-300-mile range target, with the quiet, planted ride you’d expect from a 5,600-plus-pound SUV. Towing up to 3,500 pounds adds weekend flexibility, and for gas loyalists, the Hurricane inline-six in the L variant keeps the door open.
We compare pricing and positioning against the Cadillac Lyriq, Lexus RZ 450e, and Genesis GV70 Electric, and we talk honestly about the complexity of trims and badges across Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer. The takeaway: design should match purpose, and the Wagoneer’s balance of refined styling, practical space, and real-world range makes a strong case in a crowded field.
If you’re into car design hot takes and want straight talk on whether the new Wagoneer belongs in your driveway, you’ll feel right at home here. Enjoy the ride, and if this sparks a memory of your favorite ugly grill or seals your next test-drive plan, share it with a friend. Subscribe, rate, and leave a review to help more car lovers find the show.
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Buick Century
"... Y O D A stood on a stage before an amber colored century coupe concept. It laid out a new vision"
The Buick Century is a comfortable car that has been around for a long time and is often chosen by families. It's known for being smooth to drive and easy to get in and out of.
The Buick Century is a mid-size car that has been produced in various forms since 1936, known for its comfort and smooth ride. It has often been associated with a more traditional, family-oriented market and has undergone several redesigns throughout its history.
Daihatsu
"...while Dhatsu will fill in the bottom end. Did they buy Dhatsu? Apparently they did at some point. I thought they were always part of something like that."
Daihatsu is a car company from Japan that makes small and affordable cars. They are popular in many countries, especially in Asia.
Daihatsu is a Japanese automotive manufacturer known for producing small cars and compact vehicles. It has a strong presence in various markets, particularly in Asia.
Lexus LFA
"the spiritual successor to the Lexus LFA. You ever seen an LFA in person?"
The Lexus LFA is a luxury sports car made by Lexus, famous for its powerful engine and unique looks. It's rare and very popular among car enthusiasts.
The Lexus LFA is a high-performance supercar produced by Lexus, known for its striking design and advanced technology. It features a V10 engine and was produced in limited numbers, making it a highly sought-after collector's item.
GR subbrand
"...Toyota has used GR as a subbrand similar to TRD Pro to denote performance models within the Toyota lineup..."
The GR subbrand is a special name Toyota uses for their faster and sportier cars. It shows that these cars are designed for better performance than regular ones.
The GR subbrand stands for Gazoo Racing and is used by Toyota to identify their performance-oriented vehicles. It signifies enhancements in power, handling, and overall driving experience compared to standard models.
Toyota Corolla
"...models within the Toyota lineup, including the GR Corolla hot hatch. Most recently, the new GR Sport"
Toyota GR Corolla
"...to denote performance models within the Toyota lineup, including the GR Corolla hot hatch. Most recently, the new GR Sport"
The Toyota GR Corolla is a sportier version of the regular Corolla, made for people who love fast cars. It has special features that make it more fun to drive.
The Toyota GR Corolla is a high-performance variant of the standard Corolla, designed for enthusiasts who seek sporty driving dynamics and enhanced features. It is part of Toyota's Gazoo Racing (GR) lineup, which focuses on performance-oriented models.
Gazu Racing
"is an acronym for the automaker's in-house motorsports arm, Gazu Racing, where Toyota himself drives under the pseudonym Morizo."
Gazu Racing is Toyota's racing team that helps make their cars more exciting and sporty, showing their dedication to motorsports.
Gazu Racing is Toyota's in-house motorsports division, focused on developing performance vehicles and participating in various racing events. It reflects Toyota's commitment to motorsports and enhancing the excitement of their vehicles.
GR brand
"In addition to the question of financial viability for franchises, the automaker and the fledgling GR brand will also have to address another tricky matter. Will dealers awarded a GR franchise have rights to market and sell other GR vehicles under the Toyota brand?"
The GR brand is Toyota's special line of performance cars. They make cars that are faster and more fun to drive, like the GR Corolla and GR Sport RAV4.
The GR brand, or Gazoo Racing, is Toyota's performance division that focuses on enhancing the performance and driving experience of their vehicles. It includes models like the GR Corolla and GR Yaris, which are designed for enthusiasts who seek sporty and agile driving characteristics.
GR Sport RAV4
"...the affforementioned GR Corolla and the GR Sport Rav 4. And if not, why"
The GR Sport RAV4 is a sportier version of the regular RAV4 SUV. It has some design upgrades and features that make it feel more dynamic and fun to drive.
The GR Sport RAV4 is a performance-oriented variant of the Toyota RAV4, which is a popular compact SUV. This version includes sporty design elements and enhancements that improve its driving dynamics.
Buick Skylark
">> But this is a brand >> like Skylark Century. >> Yeah. So anyway, big news I think is"
The Buick Skylark is a car that has been made for many years and is known for being both stylish and comfortable. Older models are especially loved by collectors.
The Buick Skylark is a nameplate that has been used for various models since 1953, known for its blend of performance and luxury. It has become a classic car, especially the models from the 1960s and 1970s, often celebrated for their stylish design and comfortable ride.
four-cylinder engine
"...four-cylinder engine used in the Jeep Wrangler and the Jeep Grand Cherokee uh 4xe hybrids is at the center..."
A four-cylinder engine is a type of engine that has four parts called cylinders. It's usually smaller and more fuel-efficient than bigger engines, making it good for everyday driving.
A four-cylinder engine is an internal combustion engine with four cylinders, which typically provides a balance of power and fuel efficiency. It's commonly found in smaller vehicles and can be designed for various performance levels.
Jeep Grand
"...used in the Jeep Wrangler and the Jeep Grand Cherokee uh 4xe hybrids is at the center..."
The Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe is a hybrid SUV that uses both gas and electric power. This helps it save fuel and reduce pollution while still being able to drive off-road.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe is a plug-in hybrid version of the Grand Cherokee, combining a traditional gasoline engine with an electric motor for improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. It offers off-road capability along with modern technology and comfort features.
Jeep Wrangler
"behind. four-cylinder engine used in the Jeep Wrangler and the Jeep Grand Cherokee uh 4xe hybrids is at ..."
Jeep Cherokee
"Jeep Wrangler and the Jeep Grand Cherokee uh 4xe hybrids is at the center of a recall cover..."
The Jeep Cherokee is a type of SUV that can handle rough roads and is great for outdoor adventures. It's popular because it combines a tough look with comfort for daily driving.
The Jeep Cherokee is a compact SUV that has been in production since 1974, known for its off-road capabilities and rugged design. It has evolved over the years to include modern features and technology, making it a popular choice for both adventure seekers and everyday drivers.
recall
"of a recall covering nearly 113,000 vehicles per Stalantis and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration bulletin."
A recall happens when a car company asks people to bring their cars back because there might be a problem that could be dangerous. It's like a safety check.
A recall is a request to return a product, in this case, vehicles, to the manufacturer due to safety concerns or defects. This is often initiated when a safety issue is identified that could harm consumers.
Stellantis
"vehicles per Stalantis and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration bulletin. The risk is a loss of power..."
Stellantis is a big car company that makes many different brands of vehicles, like Jeep and Dodge. It was created when two companies merged together.
Stellantis is a multinational automotive manufacturing corporation formed from the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group. It owns several well-known automotive brands, including Jeep, Dodge, and Peugeot.
sand contamination
"The culprit is sand contamination. Oh boy. during the block casting process which left debris in the engines."
Sand contamination means that sand got into the engine when it was being made, which can cause big problems like the engine not working properly or even catching fire.
Sand contamination refers to the presence of sand or debris in engine components, which can lead to serious mechanical issues, including engine failure or fire. This can occur during manufacturing processes if proper quality control measures are not in place.
Mazda Cx50
"other recalls, Mazda CX-50 and CX-50 hybrid for 2025 front suspension bolts not tightly."
The Mazda CX-50 is a small SUV that is good for driving in cities and on outdoor trips. The 2025 version has new features to make it safer and more enjoyable to drive.
The Mazda CX-50 is a compact SUV that offers a blend of performance and practicality, designed for both urban and outdoor adventures. The 2025 model includes various updates and features aimed at enhancing driver experience and safety.
Kia Tellide
"Kia Sorento and Kia Tellide incorrect spare tire 25 and 26. How do you do that?"
The Kia Telluride is a bigger SUV that can fit more people and has a lot of nice features. It's known for being a good value for families looking for space and comfort.
The Kia Telluride is a larger SUV that has gained popularity for its upscale interior, advanced technology, and strong performance. It is often praised for its value in the three-row SUV segment.
Kia Sorento
"Kia Sorento and Kia Tellide incorrect spare tire 25 and 26. How do you do that?"
The Kia Sorento is a type of SUV that can carry many passengers and has a lot of space for cargo. It's a good option for families or anyone needing extra room.
The Kia Sorento is a midsize SUV known for its spacious interior and versatile seating configurations. It offers a range of engines and features, making it a popular choice among families.
Honda Civics
">> Oh, that's what my is. Yeah. >> Yeah. Civics on the Civics, right? >> No, he's"
The Honda Civic is a small car that many people like to drive because it doesn't use a lot of gas and is very dependable. It's been around for a long time and is often recommended for anyone looking for a good, affordable vehicle.
The Honda Civic is a compact car that has been in production since 1972 and is known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. It has become one of the best-selling cars in the world, often praised for its value and performance, making it a popular choice among drivers of all ages.
Bmw X5
"...on the BMW X5 2000 to 20. Another Martha..."
The BMW X5 is a high-end SUV made by BMW. It's known for being comfortable and having good performance, which makes it a favorite for many drivers.
The BMW X5 is a luxury midsize SUV that has been produced since 1999. It is known for its blend of performance, comfort, and technology, making it a popular choice among luxury SUV buyers.
Cadillac El
"...at car sold for. So, here we go. Ready? 1976 Jeff Cadillac El Dorado is huge for"
The Cadillac El Dorado is a fancy car that was made for a long time and is known for being very luxurious and stylish. It's often seen as one of the best American cars for comfort and looks.
The Cadillac El Dorado is a luxury coupe that was produced from 1953 to 2002, known for its distinctive design and high-end features. It represents the pinnacle of American luxury cars and is often discussed for its elegant styling and powerful performance.
Cutlass
"When my when my cutless got hit, I took it into the dealer, my dealer that I was working at, uh, Kurt Trova, and they painted it chestnut brown Cadillac color."
The Cutlass is a car made by Oldsmobile, a brand that was part of General Motors. It was a popular car for many years and came in different styles and versions.
The Oldsmobile Cutlass is a mid-size car that was produced by General Motors under the Oldsmobile brand. It was popular in the United States from the 1960s through the 1990s and is known for its various body styles and trims.
Chevrolet Impala
"...ormation on this one. This is a 1961 >> Chevrolet Impala convertible, white with a red vinyl interior."
The Chevrolet Impala is a big car that many families like because it has a lot of room inside and is comfortable to drive. The 1961 model is especially loved for its stylish look.
The Chevrolet Impala is a full-size car that has been a staple in American automotive history since its debut in 1958. Known for its spacious interior and smooth ride, the Impala has been popular among families and is often celebrated for its classic design, especially the 1961 convertible model.
four-speed manual transmission
"four-speed manual transmission with"
A four-speed manual transmission means the driver has to change gears manually and can choose from four different speeds. This gives the driver more control over how fast the car goes.
A four-speed manual transmission allows the driver to manually shift through four different gears, providing better control over the vehicle's speed and power delivery. It's a common feature in performance cars.
Ferrari 348
"I had been checking off the list, the 348 and the trip. There's no there's no bubble top convertible. Well, I know, but I mean they made them."
The Ferrari 348 is a sports car made by the Italian company Ferrari. It was built in the late 1980s and early 1990s and is known for being fast and stylish.
The Ferrari 348 is a mid-engine sports car produced by Ferrari from 1989 to 1995. It features a distinctive design and is known for its performance and handling.
horsepower
"...the uh engine uh at 350 horsepower. Okay."
Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful an engine is. The higher the horsepower, the faster and stronger the car can be.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, commonly used to quantify the power output of engines. In automotive terms, it indicates how much work an engine can perform over time.
Jeep J
"floor like I was. >> So, the 84 Jeep J series sold for $18,900."
The Jeep J Series is a line of big trucks that Jeep made a long time ago. They are known for being tough and good for driving on rough terrain.
The Jeep J Series refers to a line of full-size pickup trucks produced by Jeep from the 1960s to the 1980s, known for their ruggedness and off-road capabilities. These trucks have become collectible due to their unique styling and the brand's strong off-road heritage.
Plymouth P15
"...his is Yeah, this is a nice car. 1946 >> Plymouth P15. We would call it a woody >> uh because uh the si..."
The Plymouth P15 is an old car from the late 1940s that has a unique look with wood on the sides. It's considered a classic and is appreciated for its design from that time.
The Plymouth P15, produced in the late 1940s, is notable for its post-war design and represents a shift in American automotive styling. Often referred to as a 'woody' due to its wood paneling, it has become a classic example of the era's automotive design.
woody
"This is a nice car. 1946 Plymouth P15. We would call it a woody because uh the side panels were actually made of wood..."
A 'woody' is a type of car that has wooden sides. This was common in older cars, especially in the 1940s and 1950s, when wood was used instead of metal for some parts.
A 'woody' refers to a vehicle that features wooden panels, typically on the sides, which was a popular design in the mid-20th century. This style is often associated with classic cars and station wagons.
Oldsmobile F85
"here's George's car up next. The 63 Oldsmobile F85. Remember the F85? >> I had one of those."
The Oldsmobile F85 is a small car that was made in the 1960s and is known for being light and easy to drive. It helped start the trend of making smaller cars that use less gas.
The Oldsmobile F85 was a compact car produced in the 1960s, known for its innovative design and use of lightweight materials. It played a significant role in the shift towards smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles during that era.
215 V8
"215 V8 all aluminum block and heads. Oo. 215. Big one."
The 215 V8 is a type of engine that has eight cylinders arranged in a V shape. It's made of aluminum, which makes it lighter and helps the car go faster.
The 215 V8 is a lightweight, all-aluminum V8 engine produced by General Motors. It is known for its performance and efficiency, making it a popular choice in various vehicles during the 1960s.
Ford Model
"... had no clue how much these cars were worth. 1922 Ford Model T. Obviously, black."
The Ford Model T is one of the first cars that regular people could afford to buy. It was made a long time ago and helped change how cars were made, making them easier to get for everyone.
The Ford Model T, produced from 1908 to 1927, is often regarded as the first affordable automobile, revolutionizing transportation and manufacturing with its assembly line production. Its significance lies in making car ownership accessible to the masses, changing the landscape of American society.
Oldsmobile 88
"...h. No, I'm good. And last but not least, the 1978 Oldsmobile 88. Now, we used to call this the Delta 88."
The Oldsmobile 88 is a big car that was made for many years and is known for being very comfortable to drive. It's a popular choice for families because it has a lot of room inside.
The Oldsmobile 88, produced from the 1940s to the 1990s, is a full-size car that became synonymous with American automotive culture. Known for its spacious interior and smooth ride, it has been a favorite among families and is often remembered for its classic styling.
wheel covers
"See those wheel covers? Yeah. Those were my winter wheel covers on my Nova."
Wheel covers are the round pieces that go over the wheels of a car. They make the wheels look nicer and help protect them from dirt and damage.
Wheel covers, also known as hubcaps, are decorative discs that fit over the wheel rim of a vehicle. They serve both aesthetic and protective purposes, helping to enhance the appearance of the wheels while protecting them from dirt and damage.
Chevrolet Nova
"Those were my winter wheel covers on my Nova. Those wire wheels wire wheel covers were on my Nova for the winter."
The Chevrolet Nova is a small car made by Chevrolet. It was popular in the 1960s and 70s for being affordable and easy to drive.
The Chevrolet Nova is a compact car that was produced by Chevrolet from 1962 to 1979. It is known for its simple design and affordability, making it a popular choice among car buyers during its production years.
Texas Muscle Car Challenge
"appreciate it. Texas Muscle Car Challenge season's pretty much over for everything. Uh we're right now we're in the last event for NH."
The Texas Muscle Car Challenge is a car event in Texas where people show off and race muscle cars. It's a fun way for car fans to come together and enjoy these powerful vehicles.
The Texas Muscle Car Challenge is an automotive event that showcases muscle cars, typically featuring various competitions and races. It's a popular gathering for car enthusiasts to celebrate American muscle cars and their performance.
Formula 1
"cuz they got a massive storm coming in Formula 1. There's only two more races left."
Formula 1 is a top-level car racing series where the fastest cars compete in races around the world. It's famous for its exciting races and high-tech cars.
Formula 1 is a premier international auto racing sport known for its high-speed races and advanced technology. It features a series of races called Grands Prix, held on various circuits around the world.
Alfa 1900S
"up to 1908 and it's fascinating in the early 1900s the way these companies buy and sell that are mon..."
The Alfa Romeo 1900 is an old car from the 1950s that is known for its beautiful design and good performance. It was one of the first cars made in a way that made it lighter and easier to handle.
The Alfa Romeo 1900, produced from 1950 to 1959, is significant as one of the first mass-produced cars to feature a unitary body design. It is celebrated for its stylish appearance and performance, representing a blend of Italian craftsmanship and engineering.
automotive market
"...put Dodge on the map and becoming a serious competitor in America's growing automotive market."
The automotive market is the business of making and selling cars and trucks. It includes all the companies that build vehicles and the places that sell them.
The automotive market refers to the industry involved in the design, manufacture, and sale of motor vehicles. It encompasses a wide range of businesses, including automakers, parts suppliers, and dealerships.
Studebaker Presidents
"...two Studebaker presidents. That's the car model. They averaged 85 miles an hour during a 24-hour run..."
The Studebaker President was a popular car made by the Studebaker company in the early 20th century. It was known for being luxurious and fast for its time.
The Studebaker President was a full-size car produced by Studebaker from the 1920s to the early 1940s, known for its luxury features and performance. It was one of the company's flagship models during its production run.
Studebaker
"...why they should buy a Studebaker. Then in 1960,..."
Studebaker was a car company in America that made cars from the 1850s until the 1960s. They are known for their interesting designs and are a part of automotive history.
Studebaker was an American automobile manufacturer known for its innovative designs and was active from the 1850s until the 1960s. The brand is often remembered for its unique styling and contributions to automotive history.
Ford Mustang
"...d together that came up with these ideas like the Mustang and and they were all just considered this"
The Ford Mustang is a famous sports car that many people love because it's fast and looks really cool. It's been around since the 1960s and is often seen as a symbol of American cars.
The Ford Mustang is an iconic American muscle car that was first introduced in 1964. It represents a blend of performance and style, becoming a symbol of freedom and rebellion in American culture, often discussed for its powerful engines and sporty design.
General Motors Ev1
"first automaker to really get it into the EV1. >> But that won an award. Did you know"
The General Motors EV1 was one of the first electric cars made by a big car company. It was important because it showed that cars could run on electricity instead of gas.
The General Motors EV1 was one of the first electric vehicles produced by a major automaker, introduced in the 1990s. It is significant for its role in the early development of electric cars and has become a symbol of the potential for sustainable transportation.
Ford Maverick
"...cle classes to the lineup. The SUV series and the Maverick series. The Maverick class of cars pays homage to"
The Ford Maverick is a small truck that is designed to be easy to drive and use for everyday tasks. It's a newer model that many people are excited about because it doesn't cost too much and is good on gas.
The Ford Maverick is a compact pickup truck that was reintroduced in 2021, aimed at providing a more affordable and efficient option in the truck market. It has gained attention for its versatility and fuel efficiency, appealing to a new generation of drivers.
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