What Makes A Great Truck And A Great Drive, From Highways To Parking Lots
About this episode
The discussion kicks off with a detailed review of the 2025 Ford F-150 STX SuperCrew, highlighting its multiple trim levels, engine options, and practical features like a 12-inch center screen and a powerful 5.0-liter V8. The hosts compare pricing and capabilities with competitors like Ram and Chevy. The conversation then shifts to ideal family spring break road trips across the U.S., including scenic drives like the Grand Canyon loop, Pacific Coast Highway, Great Smoky Mountains, Utah’s Mighty Five National Parks, and classic Route 66. Finally, the episode explores parking lot design, covering various parking angles, space dimensions, and their impact on maneuverability and capacity.
Want a truck that works hard without the luxury price tag? We take the 2025 Ford F-150 STX SuperCrew 4x4 on real roads to see how its 5.0-liter V8, 10-speed automatic, and direct steering stack up against the high-trim hype. With 12,700 lbs of towing, 1,685 lbs of payload, and a standard 12-inch center screen, this “lower” trim still brings serious muscle and everyday comfort. We break down the maze of trims, cabs, beds, and engines, then map the pricing landscape against Ram 1500, Toyota Tundra, and Chevy Silverado to pinpoint where the value truly lives.
From there, we trade spec sheets for scenery with five family-ready spring break road trips. Base out of Flagstaff for a Grand Canyon loop with Sedona red rocks and Route 66 neon, or chase ocean air on California’s Pacific Coast Highway with Monterey and Santa Cruz stops. Prefer forests and wildlife? The Great Smoky Mountains deliver waterfall pullouts, easy hikes, and a Cades Cove loop with deer and black bear sightings. Desert dreamers get a cooler-season window into Utah’s Mighty Five—Zion, Bryce, and Arches—where short hikes lead to vast views. And if nostalgia calls, string together Route 66 segments for vintage motels, classic diners, and Americana in motion.
We also pull back the curtain on parking lot design. Why do angled spaces feel easier? When does perpendicular packing backfire? We explain 30, 45, and 60-degree tradeoffs, one-way flow, door clearance, and ADA considerations so you can pick smarter spots and keep your doors ding-free.
Finally, we put the 2026 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus under the microscope. With 227 hp, 310 lb-ft, upscale materials, and a compact footprint, it’s a lively daily driver—though a small trunk opening and fussy infotainment hold it back. We compare it with Civic, Corolla, and Elantra to help you choose the right compact for your roads.
If this helped you sort your next truck or plan a better road trip, follow the show, share it with a friend, and drop a quick review—what would you drive first, the F-150 STX or the Mazda 3?
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Ford F-150
"We're talking about the 2025 Ford F-150 4x4. It's a super crew with the STX package on it. Now, this is the 14th generation of the F-150, long-standing big seller. This was introduced in 2021 for this uh generation of it."
The Ford F-150 is a big truck that many people use for work and everyday driving. The 2025 version is the latest model with many choices for how it looks and what engine it has.
The Ford F-150 is a full-size pickup truck and one of the best-selling vehicles in the United States. The 2025 model is part of the 14th generation, introduced in 2021, featuring multiple trim levels and engine options.
4x4
"We're talking about the 2025 Ford F-150 4x4."
4x4 means the truck can send power to all four wheels, which helps it drive better on rough or slippery roads.
4x4 refers to four-wheel drive, a drivetrain system that powers all four wheels simultaneously to improve traction, especially in off-road or slippery conditions.
STX package
"It's a super crew with the STX package on it."
The STX package is a set of features and looks that make the truck a bit sportier and nicer than the basic version.
The STX package is a trim or option package for the Ford F-150 that typically includes sporty styling elements and certain convenience features, usually positioned as an entry-level or mid-level option.
super crew
"It's a super crew with the STX package on it."
Super Crew means the truck has a big back seat with four full doors, so more people can sit comfortably inside.
Super Crew is a cab configuration for pickup trucks that features four full-size doors and a spacious rear passenger area, offering more comfort and seating capacity.
trim levels
"It actually comes in considered available six standard trim levels: the XL, the STX, XLT, the Lariat, Platinum, and then you get the King Ranch."
Trim levels are like different versions of the same car that come with more or fewer features. You can pick the one that has what you want and what you can afford.
Trim levels refer to different versions of a vehicle model that offer varying features, equipment, and sometimes engine options. They allow buyers to choose a configuration that fits their needs and budget.
LED reflector headlamps
"Up front, we had the LED reflector headlamps, had LED fog lamps, got a power tailgate lock."
These are bright lights on the front of the truck that use special bulbs called LEDs to help you see better at night.
LED reflector headlamps use LED bulbs combined with a reflector housing to illuminate the road. They are energy-efficient and provide bright, clear light.
power tailgate lock
"Up front, we had the LED reflector headlamps, had LED fog lamps, got a power tailgate lock."
This is a lock on the back door of the truck that you can control with buttons or a key fob to keep your stuff safe.
A power tailgate lock is an electronically controlled lock on the truck's tailgate, allowing it to be locked or unlocked remotely or automatically for added security.
22-inch aluminum wheels
"We were rolling on some really nice 22-inch aluminum wheels."
These are big, shiny wheels made from a light metal that help the truck look good and drive well.
22-inch aluminum wheels are large diameter wheels made from aluminum alloy, which are lighter than steel and can improve vehicle handling and aesthetics.
12-inch center stack screen
"Now the interior, we had the 12-inch, all of the F-150s now come with a 12-inch center stack screen. That's just standard across the trim levels, the whole line."
This is a big touch screen in the middle of the truck's dashboard that lets you control music, maps, and other features.
A 12-inch center stack screen is a large touchscreen display located in the center of the vehicle's dashboard, used for infotainment, navigation, and vehicle controls.
column shifter
"Now, because we were in the STX, we had the column shifter, not the console shifter. We also had to use a key, not a push button."
A column shifter is the stick you use to change gears that is attached near the steering wheel, instead of between the seats. This gives you more room in the middle of the truck.
A column shifter is a gear selector mounted on the steering column, common in trucks and older vehicles. It frees up space in the center console area compared to a console-mounted shifter.
pushbutton start
"We also had to use a key, not a push button. So this was kind of damn. Are you complaining?"
Pushbutton start means you can start the truck by pushing a button instead of turning a key. It's a newer way to start a car or truck.
Pushbutton start is a modern ignition system that allows the driver to start the vehicle by pressing a button, usually when the key fob is inside the vehicle, instead of using a traditional key.
5.0 liter V8 engine
"And the thing is, it had the 5.0 liter V8 under the hood. So we had 400 horsepower up to around 6,000 RPM, had a 10-speed automatic transmission."
This is a big engine with eight cylinders that helps the truck go fast and pull heavy things. The 5.0 means how big the engine is inside.
The 5.0 liter V8 is a powerful eight-cylinder engine with a displacement of 5.0 liters, commonly found in Ford trucks and performance cars. It delivers strong horsepower and torque, making it suitable for towing and performance driving.
10-speed automatic transmission
"So we had 400 horsepower up to around 6,000 RPM, had a 10-speed automatic transmission. Nice. So it ran well, and this was a great driving truck."
This is the part that changes gears automatically so the truck can drive smoothly and use fuel better. Having 10 speeds means it can pick the best gear for the situation.
A 10-speed automatic transmission is a gearbox with ten forward gears that automatically shifts to optimize performance and fuel efficiency. More gears allow smoother acceleration and better fuel economy.
Ram 1500 Longhorn Edition
"Well, because the only reason I say that is because I've got the Ram 1500 Longhorn Edition sitting in the driveway. $86,000 worth of pickup truck."
The Ram 1500 Longhorn Edition is a fancy version of a big truck that can carry heavy loads and has a nice inside with comfortable seats.
The Ram 1500 Longhorn Edition is a luxury trim of the Ram 1500 full-size pickup truck, offering upscale interior materials and advanced features while maintaining strong towing and hauling capabilities.
half-ton truck
"Again, this is a half-ton truck."
A half-ton truck is a type of pickup truck that is made to carry about 1,000 pounds of stuff. It's a way to describe how big and strong the truck is.
A half-ton truck refers to a light-duty pickup truck designed to carry approximately 1,000 pounds of payload, though modern half-ton trucks often exceed this rating. It's a common classification for trucks like the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500.
EPA fuel economy ratings
"Now, the EPA says you should be looking for 16 in the city, 24 out on the highway, 19 combined."
EPA fuel economy ratings tell you how far a car or truck can go on one gallon of gas when driving in the city, on the highway, or a mix of both.
EPA fuel economy ratings are estimates provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to indicate how many miles a vehicle can travel per gallon of fuel in city, highway, and combined driving conditions.
Ford F-150 STX
"Now,thebasetrimpricefortheuhSTXis$51,230. ... Butthisisareallynicedrivingtruck. Itisapickuptruck,it'snotaluxurytruck,butitwillserveyourpurposesreallywell."
The Ford F-150 STX is a type of pickup truck that is good for work and everyday use. It has enough features to be comfortable but isn’t very fancy or expensive.
The Ford F-150 STX is a trim level of the popular Ford F-150 pickup truck, known for balancing features and price. The STX trim offers a good mix of utility and comfort without luxury features, making it a practical choice for many truck buyers.
Toyota Tundra
"TheTundra,$40,900. IactuallymetsomebodythatdrivestheTundratheotherday."
The Toyota Tundra is a large truck that is very reliable and can handle tough jobs. Many people like it because it lasts a long time.
The Toyota Tundra is a full-size pickup truck known for its durability and strong resale value. It is often praised for reliability and off-road capability.
Chevrolet Silverado
"AndthenyoucanlookattheChevySilverAutor$40,300. Again,it'sbacklikeyouweretalkingabouttheotherreview."
The Chevrolet Silverado is a big truck that can be used for work or everyday driving. It comes in many versions depending on what you need.
The Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pickup truck that competes with the Ford F-150 and RAM 1500. It offers a range of engines and trims to suit different needs.
US Route 66
"you can pick up on stretches of US Route 66 where you go through Williams and you kind of step back in time with the neon signs, the vintage diners, and a lot of roadside attractions."
US Route 66 is an old famous road in America where you can see cool old signs and restaurants. People like to drive it to see history and fun places.
US Route 66 is a historic highway in the United States known for its cultural significance and classic Americana roadside attractions, including neon signs and vintage diners.
Pacific Coast Highway
"And then from there, we could go to California's Pacific Coast Highway. This comes up a lot because of what it is. I mean, if you're into coastal scenery, this is just it's a legendary drive that's hard to beat."
The Pacific Coast Highway is a famous road in California that goes along the ocean. People drive it to see beautiful views of the sea and cliffs.
The Pacific Coast Highway is a scenic highway along the California coast known for its stunning ocean views, cliffs, and iconic bridges. It is a popular route for road trips and sightseeing.
perpendicular parking
"Many parking lots use perpendicular parking to try to fit as many spaces in the lot as possible. That's like putting a button seat at a theater or something. You gotta get them in there."
Perpendicular parking means parking your car straight into a spot that is at a right angle to the road or driving lane. This way, cars park side by side facing the lane where cars drive.
Perpendicular parking refers to parking spaces arranged at a 90-degree angle to the driving aisle, allowing cars to park side by side facing the aisle. This layout maximizes the number of parking spaces in a given area and is common in high-traffic locations like grocery stores.
angled parking
"Essentially, it is a balanced option for the angled parking, which is good to know. 60 degree parking is another one."
Angled parking means the cars park at a slant instead of straight across. It makes it easier to get in and out of the spot but takes up more space than parking along the curb.
Angled parking refers to parking spaces arranged at an angle to the driving lane, typically between 30 and 60 degrees. This design allows easier entry and exit compared to perpendicular parking but uses more space than parallel parking.
ADA compliant spots
"Perpendicular parking is the worst choice for accessibility outside of an ADA compliant spots, which is the handicapped spots. All vehicle doors could be close to one another..."
ADA compliant spots are special parking spaces for people with disabilities. They are bigger and easier to get in and out of, usually close to building entrances.
ADA compliant parking spots are designed to meet the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act, providing extra space and accessibility features for people with disabilities. These spots are wider and often located near entrances for easier access.
parallel parking
"Then you got straight parking or parallel parking, or common areas where it could be difficult to install and driving tests. Yeah, that's exactly what it is. They're most common along the edges of the streets..."
Parallel parking means parking your car along the side of the street, lined up with the road. It can be tricky to do, but it's common in cities.
Parallel parking is when cars park parallel to the road, usually along the street edges. It requires skill to maneuver into the spot and is common in urban areas where space is limited.
buses
"Then you can get into the other specialty parking like semi-trucks, motorcycles, and buses. They each have their own routes of doing that. And then you got buses which are about 60 feet long."
Buses are big vehicles that carry many people. They are very long and need special places to park because they can't fit in normal car spots.
Buses are large passenger vehicles, often about 60 feet long, requiring specialized parking spaces and routes due to their size and passenger capacity.
motorcycles
"Then you can get into the other specialty parking like semi-trucks, motorcycles, and buses. They each have their own routes of doing that. Motorcycles, you can put more motorcycles in a regular parking spot than you could in a parking spot designated for a motorcycle."
Motorcycles are like small cars with two wheels. You can park more motorcycles in a regular car parking space than in a special motorcycle spot.
Motorcycles are two-wheeled motor vehicles that can fit into smaller parking spaces. More motorcycles can fit into a regular car parking spot than in spaces designated specifically for motorcycles.
semi-trucks
"Then you can get into the other specialty parking like semi-trucks, motorcycles, and buses. They each have their own routes of doing that. Semi-trucks are about 30 feet long."
Semi-trucks are big trucks used to carry goods. They have two parts: the front part that drives and the back part that carries stuff. They need special places to park because they're so big.
Semi-trucks are large commercial trucks with a tractor unit and a trailer, typically around 30 feet long or more. They require special parking and routes due to their size and maneuverability.
2026 Mazda3
"Timenowforthishour'scarreview. 2026Mazda3. Thisisthefour-doorcompactsedan."
The Mazda3 is a small car that comes as a four-door sedan or a hatchback. The 2026 version is the newest model with updated looks and features.
The Mazda3 is a compact car available in sedan and hatchback body styles. The 2026 model refers to the latest version, which continues Mazda's focus on sporty design and premium features in the compact segment.
2.5 turbo
"Ihadthe2.5 turbopremiumplustopoftheline. Compactfour-doorsedan,seatsfive."
A 2.5 turbo engine is a type of engine that uses a small device called a turbocharger to make the car more powerful and faster.
The 2.5 turbo refers to a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine option available in the Mazda3. Turbocharging increases engine power and efficiency by forcing more air into the combustion chamber.
horsepower
"2.5 liter, four-cylinder engine, 227 horsepower, 310 pound feet of torque."
Horsepower tells you how strong the car's engine is and how fast it can go.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement that indicates the engine's power output, affecting how fast and strong a car can perform.
torque
"2.5 liter, four-cylinder engine, 227 horsepower, 310 pound feet of torque. Torque. 310 pound feet of torque."
Torque is how much twisting power the engine has to help the car speed up or pull heavy things.
Torque is a measure of rotational force produced by the engine, important for acceleration and pulling power, especially at lower speeds.
miles per gallon (MPG)
"23 miles per gallon city, 32 highway for a combined at 27 miles per gallon over 525 miles. Oops, 25 miles over."
MPG tells you how far your car can go before it needs more gas. The higher the number, the less often you have to fill up.
Miles per gallon (MPG) measures how far a car can travel on one gallon of fuel, indicating fuel efficiency.
sedan
"I don't know if it's possible or not, but that's as slick like sedan. What I liked about it, the sporty nature of the sedan."
A sedan is a type of car that has four doors and a separate space in the back for luggage.
A sedan is a passenger car with a separate trunk, typically seating four or more people comfortably with four doors.
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