What Makes A Vehicle Of The Year, Really
About this episode
Exploring the North American Car and Truck of the Year awards, the episode features guest Jack Nerad, who shares insights on the selection process and criteria for evaluating vehicles. The discussion highlights finalists like the Dodge Charger, Ford Maverick, and Hyundai Palisade, emphasizing their unique qualities and market significance. Additionally, the hosts delve into the fascinating world of drivable tunnels and notable car museums across the U.S., making for an engaging blend of automotive culture and industry analysis.
Awards shape buyer decisions more than most of us realize, so we sat down with veteran juror and radio host Jack Nerad to peel back how North American Car, Truck, and Utility of the Year actually get chosen. Fifty independent journalists, a year of testing, multiple voting rounds, and a marathon drive event near Detroit all lead to three names everyone talks about. We walk through the process, the politics (or lack thereof), and the real criteria that separate buzz from substance: class leadership, value, significance, innovation, and everyday usability.
The car finalists tell a story of contrast—Nissan Sentra updates, a reborn Honda Prelude, and a radically flexible Dodge Charger that spans two and four doors, a potent turbo six, and an all-electric variant. Hear why the jury rallied behind the Charger’s breadth and execution. On the truck side, the Ford Maverick Lobo edged out Ram 1500 and Ram 2500 by pushing the compact pickup idea further, balancing capability with size, price, and clever packaging for daily life. And in the most crowded arena of all, the Hyundai Palisade claimed Utility of the Year by delivering family comfort, available hybrid efficiency, and true bang for the buck in a segment where buyers vote with their wallets.
We also tackle EV realities. Charging gaps remain a friction point—even in California’s backyard and especially across Texas—so vehicles that offer both electric and gasoline paths are resonating. Jack explains how the jury weighs those infrastructure challenges against performance and innovation without drifting into tech cheerleading. To round things out, we shift gears with Jeff’s Car Culture—five of the longest drivable tunnels in the U.S.—and Mike’s Driving Destinations, highlighting five standout car museums from the Petersen to the Henry Ford.
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Tesla Semi
"Then there's another couple series of votes one semi finalists choose semi finalists three in each cat..."
The Tesla Semi is a big electric truck that Tesla is making for transporting goods. It's designed to be very efficient and safe, which could change how trucks are used on the roads.
The Tesla Semi is an all-electric truck designed for freight transport, aiming to revolutionize the trucking industry with its impressive range and performance. It features advanced technology and safety features, making it a significant development in sustainable transportation.
Lucid Gravity
"...e vehicles, but uh, for example, we had the lucid gravity as one of our utility vehicle finalists"
The Lucid Gravity is a new electric SUV that will be made by a company called Lucid Motors, which is known for making fancy electric cars. This SUV is designed to be fast and have a lot of space inside, making it a strong option for people looking for electric vehicles.
The Lucid Gravity is an upcoming electric SUV from Lucid Motors, a company known for its luxury electric vehicles. It aims to combine high performance with spaciousness and advanced technology, making it a noteworthy contender in the electric SUV market.
Dodge Charger
"...the finalists were the dodge charger now. Are you talking about the new dodge charger? We are yeah, these are all new cars..."
The Dodge Charger is a large car that looks sporty and powerful. It's popular for its strong engines and modern features, making it a good choice for people who want a fun car to drive.
The Dodge Charger is a full-size sedan known for its muscular design and performance-oriented variants. The latest generation features modern styling and advanced technology, appealing to both performance enthusiasts and everyday drivers.
Honda Prelude
"...the new design and the Honda prelude and the Nissan centra..."
The Honda Prelude is a two-door car that was known for being fun to drive and stylish. It was popular in the past but is no longer being made, making it a classic choice for car lovers.
The Honda Prelude is a sporty coupe that was popular for its agile handling and performance. Although it has been discontinued, it remains a favorite among enthusiasts for its unique design and driving experience.
Nissan Sentra
"...the Honda prelude and the Nissan centra..."
The Nissan Sentra is a small car that is easy to drive and usually costs less than many other cars. It's a good option for people looking for a reliable and affordable vehicle.
The Nissan Sentra is a compact sedan known for its affordability and practicality. The latest models feature modern technology and safety features, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Mazda 3
"...good as or better than the Behind a civic or the Mazda 3 or the Toyota Corolla. I think those vehicles are..."
Mazda is a car company from Japan that makes cars known for being fun to drive and looking good. The Mazda 3 is a small car that many people like, and it's often compared to other popular small cars like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla.
Mazda is a Japanese automaker known for producing stylish and fun-to-drive vehicles, with the Mazda 3 being one of its most popular compact cars. The brand often emphasizes sporty handling and innovative design, making it a significant player in the compact car segment, often compared to rivals like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla.
Toyota Corolla
"... the Behind a civic or the Mazda 3 or the Toyota Corolla. I think those vehicles are the equal of the cent..."
turbocharged six-cylinder engine
"...or with a really interesting turbocharged six-cylinder engine of immense horsepower..."
A turbocharged six-cylinder engine is a type of engine that has six cylinders and uses a turbo to make it more powerful without being bigger.
A turbocharged six-cylinder engine uses a turbocharger to increase the engine's power output without significantly increasing its size. This allows for better performance and efficiency.
gasoline engine
"The proponents of the fact that you could get the electric or you could get the gasoline engine"
A gasoline engine is what most cars used to have. It runs on gasoline, which is a type of fuel that you put in the car to make it go.
A gasoline engine is an internal combustion engine that burns gasoline to create power. It is the traditional engine type found in most cars before the rise of electric vehicles.
electric vehicle
"So the fact that you could get that as an electric vehicle"
An electric vehicle is a type of car that uses electricity to run instead of gasoline. They are often better for the environment and can save money on fuel.
An electric vehicle (EV) is a car that runs on electricity instead of gasoline. EVs are known for being environmentally friendly and often have lower operating costs compared to traditional gasoline vehicles.
Ford Maverick
"So you've got the ford maverick logo. It's a some reason they call it a compact pickup..."
The Ford Maverick is a smaller pickup truck that is easier to drive in the city. It's good for people who need a truck but don't want something too big.
The Ford Maverick is a compact pickup truck that offers a versatile option for those looking for a smaller truck. It is designed for urban driving while still providing utility for light hauling and towing.
Ram 2500
"...and a ram 2500. So you got two rams on there granted one is the heavy duty and one is the light duty pickup truck..."
The Ram 2500 is a bigger and stronger pickup truck compared to the Ram 1500. It's built for heavy work and can carry more weight.
The Ram 2500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck designed for more demanding tasks, such as towing and hauling heavier loads. It features robust construction and powerful engine options.
light duty pickup truck
"...one is the heavy duty and one is the light duty pickup truck and they're competing against the..."
Light duty pickup trucks are smaller trucks that are good for regular driving and light work, like moving furniture or carrying small loads.
Light duty pickup trucks are designed for everyday use and lighter hauling tasks. They typically have lower towing capacities compared to heavy-duty trucks.
Ram 1500
"...know what I voted for most most strongly the ram 1500 was essentially the ram of before that had gotte..."
The Ram 1500 is a big truck that people use for work and everyday driving. It's known for being powerful and comfortable, with lots of features that make it easy to use, especially if you need to haul things.
The Ram 1500 is a full-size pickup truck that has gained a reputation for its strong performance, comfortable ride, and upscale interior. It is often praised for its towing capabilities and innovative features, making it a popular choice among truck enthusiasts and those needing a reliable work vehicle.
V8 engine
"...that had gotten rid of the v8 engine and then the v8 engine came back..."
A V8 engine is a type of engine that has eight cylinders. It helps the vehicle go faster and pull heavier loads, making it popular in trucks and sports cars.
A V8 engine is an eight-cylinder engine arranged in a V configuration, known for providing a good balance of power and smooth operation. It is commonly used in larger vehicles like trucks and performance cars.
Ford Lobo
"..., exactly And what I found was with the maverick lobo, which is a different version of the maverick It..."
The Ford Lobo is just the name for the Ford F-150 truck in Mexico. It's a big truck that people use for many things, like work and fun, and it has similar features to the F-150 sold in the United States.
The Ford Lobo is the name used for the Ford F-150 in the Mexican market, representing the same full-size pickup truck known for its versatility and capability. It shares many features with its U.S. counterpart, making it a popular choice for both work and leisure in its region.
Hyundai Santa Cruz
"...arguably the Hyundai Santa Cruz is right there with it in turbo form..."
The Hyundai Santa Cruz is a small truck that looks like a mix between a car and a traditional pickup. It has a comfortable interior and can carry things in its truck bed, making it useful for different tasks.
The Hyundai Santa Cruz is a compact pickup truck that combines the utility of a truck with the comfort of an SUV. It features a modern design and offers various engine options, including a turbocharged variant for enhanced performance.
Hyundai Palisade
"...the Hyundai Palisade was the winner. Um, and again, I think the Hyundai Palisade is available now with a hybrid..."
The Hyundai Palisade is a type of family vehicle called an SUV, which is larger than a regular car and has more space for passengers and cargo. It's known for being comfortable and having many features that families appreciate.
The Hyundai Palisade is a midsize SUV known for its spacious interior and family-friendly features. It has gained popularity for its comfort and technology offerings, making it a strong contender in the SUV market.
Nissan Leaf
"You know, the Nissan Leaf was the other vehicle. It's arguably not even an SUV... But it's an all electric very small vehicle"
The Nissan Leaf is a small electric car that is popular for city driving. It doesn't use gasoline, making it environmentally friendly and cheaper to run.
The Nissan Leaf is a compact all-electric hatchback known for its practicality and efficiency. It is designed primarily for urban commuting and is one of the best-selling electric vehicles worldwide.
Gilmore Car Museum
"...the gilmore car museum in hickory corners, michigan. Now this is one of the largest museums in north america. It's set on a 90 acre campus..."
The Gilmore Car Museum is a big place where you can see many different cars from different times in history. It's located in Michigan and has cars that are very old as well as some that are more modern.
The Gilmore Car Museum is one of the largest automotive museums in North America, located in Hickory Corners, Michigan. It features a vast collection of over 400 vehicles, showcasing the evolution of automotive history from the brass era to post-war icons.
brass era cars
"...over 400 vehicles that run from the brass era cars up through the classic american iron..."
Brass era cars are very old cars made between the late 1800s and early 1900s. They often have shiny brass parts and were some of the first cars ever made.
Brass era cars refer to automobiles produced from the late 1890s to about 1915, characterized by their brass fittings and early engineering designs. This period is significant in automotive history as it marks the transition from horse-drawn carriages to motor vehicles.
classic American iron
"...up through the classic american iron and even into post war icons..."
Classic American iron means older American cars that are really popular and loved, usually made from the 1920s to the 1970s. They are known for their cool designs and powerful engines.
Classic American iron refers to American-made cars that are considered classic, typically produced from the 1920s to the 1970s. These vehicles are celebrated for their design, performance, and cultural significance in automotive history.
Model A Ford
"...dedicated to the cadillacs, Pierce arrow the model a ford and even some others..."
The Model A Ford is an old car made by Ford between 1927 and 1931. It was very popular because it was affordable and worked well for many people.
The Model A Ford is a classic car produced by Ford Motor Company from 1927 to 1931. It was the successor to the Model T and is known for its affordability and reliability, making it one of the most popular cars of its time.
automotive design engineering
"They specify or they they look a lot at the automotive design engineering and motorsports. So they kind of bring a lot of stuff in and out."
Automotive design engineering is about creating cars and making them look good while also being safe and functional. It combines art and engineering to build vehicles that people want to drive.
Automotive design engineering involves the process of designing and developing vehicles, focusing on aesthetics, functionality, and safety. This field combines engineering principles with artistic design to create vehicles that are both visually appealing and efficient.
concept vehicles
"Hollywood cars are very easy to get to a lot of concept vehicles here. It's really one of the more famous museums in the country."
Concept vehicles are special cars made to show new ideas and designs that car companies are thinking about. They are not usually for sale but help people see what might come in the future.
Concept vehicles are prototype cars that manufacturers create to showcase new ideas and technologies. They often feature innovative designs and advanced features that may not yet be available in production models.
Ford Model T
"It just got everything from the model t's historic race cars presidential vehicles. I mean there is just so much there that"
The Ford Model T is a famous car made by Ford from 1908 to 1927. It was the first car that many people could afford, changing how people traveled and worked.
The Ford Model T, produced from 1908 to 1927, is one of the most significant cars in automotive history. It was the first mass-produced car, making automobiles affordable for the average American and revolutionizing transportation.
Indianapolis Motor Speedway
"Then uh, the indianapolis motor speedway museum. Now, this is of course in speedway indiana. It's inside the indianapolis motor speedway and it's all about motorsports..."
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is a famous racetrack in Indiana where many important car races happen, including the Indianapolis 500. It's a popular place for fans of racing to visit.
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is a famous racetrack located in Speedway, Indiana, known for hosting the Indianapolis 500, one of the most prestigious automobile races in the world. The track has a rich history in motorsports and is a significant site for racing enthusiasts.
Indy 500
"...collection over the indy 500 winners. Got some legendary race cars some paced cars a lot of the trophies..."
The Indy 500 is a famous car race that happens every year at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. It's one of the biggest and most important races in the world.
The Indy 500, officially known as the Indianapolis 500, is an annual automobile race held at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. It is one of the oldest and most prestigious events in motorsports, attracting a large audience and featuring a diverse array of race cars.
Gulf Coast Auto Shield
"You own a car you love why not let gulf coast auto shield protected... We promise you'll be impressed"
Gulf Coast Auto Shield is a place where you can take your car to get special treatments that help protect its paint and windows. They help keep your car looking new and safe from damage.
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 the appearance and integrity of their vehicles.
ceramic coating
"...whether you're looking to massage your original paint to a like new appearance apply a ceramic coating install a paint protection film..."
Ceramic coating is a special liquid that you put on your car's paint to protect it. It helps keep the car clean and shiny by making water and dirt slide off easily.
Ceramic coating is a liquid polymer applied to the exterior of a vehicle, providing a protective layer that enhances shine and protects against environmental contaminants. It creates a hydrophobic surface that repels water and dirt.
paint protection film
"...apply a ceramic coating install a paint protection film..."
Paint protection film is a clear cover you can put on your car's paint to keep it safe from scratches and damage. It helps your car look good for longer.
Paint protection film is a transparent, durable layer applied to a vehicle's paint to protect it from scratches, chips, and other damage. It helps maintain the car's appearance over time.
nano ceramic window tint
"...install a paint protection film nano ceramic window tent or new windshield protection called exo shield..."
Nano ceramic window tint is a special film you can put on your car windows to keep the heat and harmful sun rays out. It helps keep the inside of your car cooler and protects your skin.
Nano ceramic window tint is a type of window film that uses advanced ceramic technology to block UV rays and heat while maintaining visibility. It provides better heat rejection and durability compared to traditional tints.
Exo Shield
"...install a paint protection film nano ceramic window tent or new windshield protection called exo shield..."
Exo Shield is a special film that you can put on your car's windshield to help protect it from getting damaged. It makes the glass stronger and safer.
Exo Shield is a type of windshield protection film designed to enhance the durability of the glass and protect it from chips and cracks. It helps maintain visibility and safety while driving.
curbed wheels
"Curved your wheels instead of buying new one i'd have them repaired"
Curbed wheels are wheels that got scratched or damaged when hitting a curb. It can make your wheels look bad and might cause problems when driving.
Curbed wheels refer to wheels that have been damaged by scraping against a curb or other hard surface. This can affect both the appearance and performance of the wheels.
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