Your Wallet Called: It Wants A Kia
About this episode
A deep dive into the best cars for the money, featuring insights from Alex Quinton of U.S. News and World Report. The discussion highlights Kia's impressive performance, winning seven awards this year, and the evolving landscape of affordable vehicles. The hosts also touch on the challenges of finding base models, the impact of rising car prices, and the importance of total cost of ownership. Additionally, a review of the new Polestar 4 showcases its unique design and electric capabilities, sparking conversation about the future of EVs and consumer preferences.
New-car prices keep climbing, loan terms keep stretching, and shoppers are left to figure out what “value” really means. We bring on Alex from U.S. News & World Report to unpack the Best Cars for the Money awards, where expert road tests meet five-year ownership costs and real transaction data. The result is a practical shortlist of vehicles you can actually buy and enjoy without fearing the next payment or repair bill.
We walk through the standouts. Kia’s dramatic rise from budget to benchmark shows up across gas, hybrid, PHEV, and EV segments, with thoughtful packaging and long warranties that protect your wallet. In compact cars, the K4 challenges class leaders on price and coverage. For SUVs, we parse needs honestly: the Nissan Murano shines as a two-row value with style and standard safety, while the Kia Sorento makes sense as a smaller, occasional-use three-row that trims fuel and purchase costs. For buyers who truly need bigger rigs, Ford’s Expedition and F-150 deliver lower lifetime costs relative to peers without skimping on core features at the entry point.
We also go deep on EV reality. Regional charging, climate, and daily mileage matter, which is why compact options like the Chevy Equinox EV can be a sweet spot in cities, while larger families may see the Kia EV9 as the right fit. Then we get hands-on with the Polestar 4 Dual Motor: big power, clean design, a camera-based rear view, and a minimal interface that trades knobs for screens. We talk range, charging time, and how a dimmable glass roof feels in hot sun, plus how it stacks up against Tesla Model Y and Hyundai’s Ioniq lineup.
Looking for clarity in a confusing market? You’ll get data-backed picks, real-world buying tips, and straight talk on how to stretch your dollars without hating your daily drive. If this helped your search, follow the show, share with a friend who’s car-shopping, and leave a quick review to tell us your favorite value pick.
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Polestar 4
"Jeff has his motor minute and i'll review the all new Polestar four... What yes, all new vehicle all new brand"
The Polestar 4 is a new electric SUV made by Polestar, a brand that is part of Volvo. It's designed to be eco-friendly and offers good performance.
The Polestar 4 is an all-electric SUV from Polestar, a performance brand that originated from Volvo. It represents a new entry in the growing electric vehicle market, focusing on performance and sustainability.
warranty
"...even including with the stupid warranty that she bought..."
A warranty is like a guarantee that the car will be fixed for free if something goes wrong within a certain time. However, it doesn't cover everything, so it's good to read the details.
A warranty is a promise from the manufacturer or seller to repair or replace a product if necessary within a specified period. It often covers defects but may not cover all types of damage or wear.
MSRP
"...this year MSRP's were up this year obviously sales..."
MSRP is the price that car makers suggest you should pay for a new car. It's like a starting point for negotiations at a dealership.
MSRP stands for Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price. It's the price that the manufacturer recommends for a vehicle before any additional fees or discounts are applied.
electrification
"You know, they've made a huge investment in technology and style In electrification there's gas kia. There's hybrid kias on this list"
Electrification means using electricity to power cars instead of just gasoline. This includes electric cars, hybrid cars that use both gas and electricity, and plug-in hybrids that can be charged from an outlet.
Electrification refers to the process of incorporating electric power into vehicles, which includes electric vehicles (EVs), hybrids, and plug-in hybrids. This shift aims to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lower emissions, reflecting a broader trend in the automotive industry towards sustainability.
hybrid
"There's gas kia. There's hybrid kias on this list and there's plug-in hybrid kias on this list"
A hybrid car uses both a regular gas engine and an electric motor. This helps the car save fuel and produce fewer emissions than a regular gas-only car.
A hybrid vehicle combines a traditional internal combustion engine with an electric motor to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. Hybrids can operate using either the gasoline engine, the electric motor, or both, depending on driving conditions.
electric vehicle
"and there's an electric kia on this list"
An electric vehicle is a car that runs only on electricity and has no gas engine. It doesn't produce any exhaust fumes, making it better for the environment.
An electric vehicle (EV) is powered entirely by electricity, using batteries to drive electric motors. EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, making them a cleaner alternative to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.
Kia Niro
"...the last one when I drove was the Kia Niro...it's a subcompact hybrid SUV...I got 50 miles per gallon out of it"
The Kia Niro is a small SUV that uses a hybrid engine, which means it combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor to save fuel. It's a good option if you want a car that is easy to drive and gets great gas mileage.
The Kia Niro is a subcompact hybrid SUV known for its fuel efficiency and practicality. It offers a comfortable ride and is designed to be an economical choice for drivers looking for a smaller SUV.
subcompact SUV
"...best subcompact SUV for the money this year...it's a subcompact hybrid SUV..."
A subcompact SUV is a small type of SUV that is easier to drive and park than bigger SUVs. They are great for people who want some extra space without the bulk of a larger vehicle.
A subcompact SUV is a smaller version of a sport utility vehicle, designed to be more fuel-efficient and easier to maneuver than larger SUVs. They typically offer a higher driving position and more cargo space than sedans.
miles per gallon
"...I got 50 miles per gallon out of it"
Miles per gallon (MPG) tells you how far a car can go on a gallon of gas. The higher the number, the better the car is at saving fuel.
Miles per gallon (MPG) is a measure of how far a vehicle can travel on one gallon of fuel. Higher MPG ratings indicate better fuel efficiency, meaning the vehicle can travel further on less fuel.
Kia K4
"...even like the Kia K4 is our best compact car for the money for 2026 that starts at like 22 for or something like that..."
The Kia K4 is a new compact car that offers good value for money. It's expected to be popular because it has a lower starting price compared to other cars in its class.
The Kia K4 is a compact car that is noted for its value, particularly in the base model trim. It is expected to be a strong contender in the compact car market for 2026.
out-the-door price
"...even that is out the door under 30k and they just added the Kia K4 hatchback..."
The out-the-door price is the final amount you pay when buying a car, including everything like taxes and fees. It's important to know this number so you understand the total cost.
The out-the-door price refers to the total cost of purchasing a vehicle, including taxes, fees, and any additional costs, rather than just the sticker price. This gives buyers a clearer picture of what they will actually pay.
Honda Civic
"...ontenders with compact car We had the k4 and the civic and the Corolla and you know the civic is great ..."
The Honda Civic is a small car that many people like because it's dependable and saves on gas. It's a good choice for those who want a car that's easy to drive and maintain.
The Honda Civic is a compact car known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. It has been a popular choice among consumers for decades, often praised for its balance of performance and comfort, making it a strong contender in the compact car segment.
Toyota Corolla
"We had the k4 and the civic and the Corolla and you know the civic is great vehicle and someo..."
The Toyota Corolla is a small, affordable car that people trust to last a long time. It's known for being easy to drive and not costing too much to keep running.
The Toyota Corolla is another compact car that has gained a reputation for its durability and affordability. It is often discussed alongside the Honda Civic as a top choice for budget-conscious buyers looking for a reliable vehicle.
trim level
"...if you're looking for it, much more in a trim level for the same amount of money granted the warranty generally isn't there..."
A trim level is like a version of a car that comes with different features. For example, one version might have more luxury options than another, and that can change how much the car costs.
A trim level refers to a specific version of a car model that includes certain features, options, and styling elements. Different trim levels can offer varying levels of equipment and luxury, which can affect the price and overall appeal of the vehicle.
Chevrolet Trax
"And you know, there are a couple of domestic small crossovers like the Chevy Trax is one of our nominees for best subcompact SUV"
The Chevy Trax is a small SUV made by Chevrolet. It's designed to be affordable and easy to drive in cities.
The Chevy Trax is a subcompact SUV produced by Chevrolet, known for its small size and affordability, making it a popular choice among urban drivers.
Nissan Kicks
"I think it it's one of the runners up the Nissan Kicks is the winner there"
The Nissan Kicks is a small SUV made by Nissan. It's known for being stylish and a good value for money.
The Nissan Kicks is a subcompact crossover SUV that has gained popularity for its stylish design and efficient use of space, often praised for its value in the small SUV segment.
certified pre-owned car
"...I say buy a certified pre-owned car. I bought pre-owned cars in the past in fact, I have a certified pre-owned Buick in my driveway..."
A certified pre-owned car is a used car that has been checked and approved by the manufacturer or dealer. It usually comes with a warranty, so it's a safer option to buy.
A certified pre-owned car is a used vehicle that has been inspected, refurbished, and certified by a manufacturer or dealer, often coming with a warranty, making it a safer choice for buyers.
Kia EV9
"...the Kia EV9 is the best mid-size electric SUV for the year..."
The Kia EV9 is a new electric SUV that is larger than many other electric vehicles. It's designed to be spacious and practical for families.
The Kia EV9 is a mid-size electric SUV that has been recognized for its value and features in the electric vehicle market.
Chevy Equinox EV
"...we were particularly surprised at the Chevy Equinox EV that that beat out like the Hyundai ionic 5 and you know..."
The Chevy Equinox EV is a new electric version of the Chevrolet Equinox, which is a popular SUV. It's designed to be a good choice for people who want an electric car with plenty of space and features.
The Chevy Equinox EV is an electric vehicle version of the popular Chevrolet Equinox, offering a practical option for those looking for an electric SUV with good range and features.
Hyundai Ionic 5
"...that beat out like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and you know little heavy hitters..."
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a new electric car that looks modern and has a lot of cool technology. It's a good option for people looking for an electric vehicle that stands out.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is an all-electric compact crossover that has received praise for its design, technology, and performance, making it a strong competitor in the EV market.
Ford Expedition
"...e best large SUV category for the money With the expedition and they also won the best full-size truck for th..."
The Ford Expedition is a big SUV that can fit a lot of people and their stuff. It's great for families who go on trips or need extra space.
The Ford Expedition is a large SUV that offers ample passenger and cargo space, making it ideal for families and long trips. It is often recognized for its strong towing capacity and advanced technology features.
Chevrolet Suburban
"...was the best vehicle for the money there the ship suburban is close behind but"
The Chevrolet Suburban is a big SUV that can carry a lot of people and stuff. It's great for families or anyone who needs a lot of space in their car.
The Chevrolet Suburban is a full-size SUV that has been a staple in the American automotive market for decades. Known for its spacious interior and towing capacity, it is often favored by families and those needing a vehicle for both work and leisure.
Ford F150
"but You know and the the Ford f-150, you know, if you need a full-size truck, you need a full-size truck, right? A lot of people want a full-size truck and full-size trucks are probably"
The Ford F-150 is a large truck that many people buy because it can do a lot of heavy work, like towing trailers or carrying big loads. It's popular because it's tough and reliable.
The Ford F-150 is one of the best-selling full-size trucks in the United States, known for its versatility, power, and capability. It is often highlighted for its strong performance in towing and hauling, making it a favorite among truck enthusiasts and workers alike.
Toyota Tundra
"...e money and uh, you know, like I think uh, Toyota tundra was second there It's a hybrid so you're you're ..."
The Toyota Tundra is a big truck that can handle tough jobs and rough roads. It's also available as a hybrid, which means it can save on gas while still being strong.
The Toyota Tundra is a full-size pickup truck that stands out for its reliability and off-road capabilities. As a hybrid option, it has gained attention for offering better fuel efficiency while still providing the power expected from a truck.
Kia Sorento
"...the key Sorento is our best three row mid-size SUV...the Sorento is fairly small for a three row SUV..."
The Kia Sorento is a type of SUV that can fit up to seven people, but it's smaller than many other SUVs that can also carry that many. It's a good option for families who don't need a huge vehicle all the time.
The Kia Sorento is a mid-size SUV that offers both two-row and three-row seating configurations. It's known for its relatively compact size compared to other three-row SUVs, making it a popular choice for families who occasionally need extra seating.
Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport
"...it beat out the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport..."
The Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is a smaller SUV that looks sporty and is good for families. It has a lot of technology features and is comfortable to drive.
The Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is a compact SUV that combines sporty styling with practicality. It offers a comfortable ride and a range of tech features, making it a competitive option in its class.
Audi Q8
"...at probably deserves more attention looks like an Audi q8 doesn't quite drive like one But it's pretty goo..."
The Audi Q8 is a fancy SUV that looks good and has a lot of nice features inside. It's a comfortable ride for people who want something upscale.
The Audi Q8 is a luxury SUV that combines style, performance, and advanced technology. It is known for its spacious interior and high-quality materials, appealing to those looking for a premium driving experience.
third generation
"...GM will build the third generation Buick Envision in America..."
'Third generation' means it's the latest version of a car model. This version usually has new designs and better features than the older ones.
The term 'third generation' refers to the latest iteration of a vehicle model, indicating improvements and updates over previous versions. The Buick Envision's third generation signifies a new design and features compared to earlier models.
Chevrolet Equinox
"...the Buick Envision in America. It will be built alongside the Chevrolet Equinox at the Fairfax assembly plant..."
The Chevrolet Equinox is a small SUV that is popular for being roomy and good on gas. It's made in the same factory as the Buick Envision, which shows that GM is focusing on making more SUVs.
The Chevrolet Equinox is a compact SUV known for its spacious interior and fuel efficiency. It is built at the same Fairfax assembly plant as the Buick Envision, highlighting GM's focus on SUV production.
Polestar 3
"It becomes in several versions the Polestar two three and four"
The Polestar 3 is an electric SUV, which means it's a bigger car that can carry more people and stuff. It's designed to be comfortable and eco-friendly.
The Polestar 3 is an all-electric SUV that emphasizes performance and luxury, featuring advanced technology and a spacious interior. It is part of Polestar's lineup of electric vehicles.
glass roof
"Uh, it does have a glass roof And there is no shape now"
A glass roof is a roof made of glass instead of metal. It lets in more light and can make the inside of the car feel more spacious. Some glass roofs can even change how much light comes through.
A glass roof is a type of vehicle roof made from glass, allowing for more natural light inside the cabin and a more open feel. Some glass roofs can also have features like dimming or tinting to reduce heat and glare from the sun.
dimming roof
"Well because it was turned off. Okay, if you turn it on it's got one of those roofs that dims"
A dimming roof is a special type of glass roof that can change how much light comes through it. You can make it darker to block out the sun, which helps keep the car cooler.
A dimming roof refers to a glass roof that can change its transparency, usually through an electronic mechanism, to reduce sunlight and heat entering the vehicle. This feature enhances comfort by allowing drivers to control the amount of light and heat inside the car.
Dodge Charger
"... personally What could use improvement a level 2 charger in my garage would be nice So next time you send..."
The Dodge Charger is a big car that looks sporty and can go really fast. It's a good option for people who want something fun to drive but still need space for passengers.
The Dodge Charger is a full-size sedan known for its muscular design and powerful engine options. It combines performance with everyday usability, making it a popular choice for those who want a sporty car that can also serve as a family vehicle.
level 2 charger
"What could use improvement a level 2 charger in my garage would be nice. So next time you send me one of those down to drive, please install that charger"
A level 2 charger is a device that charges electric cars faster than regular home outlets. It's usually installed in garages and can fully charge a car in a few hours.
A level 2 charger is a type of electric vehicle (EV) charging station that provides faster charging compared to a standard household outlet. It typically requires a 240-volt outlet and can charge an EV in a few hours, making it ideal for home use.
Tesla Model
"Hyundai Ioniq 6 sedan 37 850 and the Tesla Model Y SUV starts at 44"
The Tesla Model Y is a popular electric SUV that can drive long distances on a single charge. It has many high-tech features and is known for being very efficient.
The Tesla Model Y is an all-electric compact SUV that offers impressive range, performance, and advanced technology features, including Autopilot. It shares many components with the Model 3 sedan, making it a popular choice among electric vehicle buyers.
Toyota Suprac
"...t does have competition next week i'll review the toyota suprac with 400 horsepower Through that bmw straight si..."
The Toyota Supra is a fast sports car that's fun to drive. It has a powerful engine and a cool design, making it popular among car enthusiasts.
The Toyota Supra is a sports car that has made a comeback with a modern design and impressive performance capabilities, including a powerful engine. It is often discussed for its exciting driving experience and strong heritage in the sports car community.
Houston Auto Show
"Make a splash live the dream it all happens at the houston auto boat of show at energy center. Check out classic autos to today's cars and trucks experience off-road adventures with polaris ram and camp cheap."
The Houston Auto Show is a big event where you can see many different cars and trucks. It's a fun place to learn about new vehicles and even try out some off-road experiences.
The Houston Auto Show is an annual event that showcases a wide range of vehicles, from classic cars to the latest models. Attendees can explore various automotive innovations and participate in off-road adventures.
Ram
"Check out classic autos to today's cars and trucks experience off-road adventures with polaris ram and camp cheap. Explore five acres of the newest sport boats fishing boats and much more."
Ram makes tough trucks that are great for work and everyday driving. They're known for being strong and reliable, making them a favorite among truck lovers.
Ram is a brand of trucks known for their strength and capability. They offer a range of models that are popular for both work and personal use, emphasizing performance and utility.
Polaris
"Check out classic autos to today's cars and trucks experience off-road adventures with polaris ram and camp cheap. Explore five acres of the newest sport boats fishing boats and much more."
Polaris makes vehicles that are great for off-roading, like ATVs and side-by-sides. They're popular for outdoor adventures and are built to handle tough conditions.
Polaris is a well-known manufacturer of off-road vehicles, including ATVs and UTVs. They are recognized for their performance and durability in rugged terrains.
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