Car Stuff Podcast
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Car Stuff Podcast

Consumer Guide Automotive, Tom Appel, Jill Ciminillo

Updated 4 days ago
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Whether you drive a car, need a car, or just occasionally bum a ride with friends, you’ve come to the right place. Join the editors of Consumer Guide Automotive as they break down everything that’s going on in the auto world. New-car reviews, shopping tips, driving green, electric cars, classic cars, and plenty of great guests. This is the Consumer Guide Car Stuff Podcast.

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Episodes (330)

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New Lexus ES, Airbag Thefts on the Rise, Best Adventure Vehicles

Tom opens the show by acknowledging the passing of jazz saxophone legend Sonny Rollins. Sonny was the last living performer to have appeared in the 1958 Esquire magazine photo A Great Day in Harlem. The image appears on the Car Stuff Podcast Facebook Page. The hosts discuss the return of the Volkswagen ID. Buzz retro-themed electric themed minivan for 2027. Though little changed mechanically, the Buzz may be packaged to improve the pricey van's perceived value. Jill talks about a marked increase in airbag thefts in the Chicago area, especially among certain Honda models. The hosts address one possible way to dissuade would-be airbag thieves. Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the all-new 2026 Lexus ES midsize sedan, which now comes only in hybrid and all-electric trim. Listen in for her take on this long-term brand staple. In the second segment, the hosts welcome John Vincent of U.S. News to the podcast. John walked the hosts through the outlet's 2026 "Best Adventure Vehicles" list. In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom's "Is it Built There?" quiz.     Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

E329 Jun 02, 2026 62 min 145 annotations

2026 Consumer Guide Best Buys

This week's episode is dedicated to the 2026 Consumer Guide Best Buy pics. In total, 32 vehicles in 13 individual categories are covered. You can check out the complete 2026 Best Buy list here. For a look further back, click here for the 2025 Best Buy list.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

E328 May 26, 2026 64 min 148 annotations

Buick's New Sedan, 1000-Pound Caterham, Elon is Distracted

The hosts open the show discussing Jill's recent interview with the head of Infiniti USA regarding--among other things--the possible comeback of the humble sedan. This conversation dovetails nicely with Tom's news regarding the likely comeback of a Buick midsize sedan---and a possible Camaro, as well. Jill shared impressions of a would-be annual Land Rover event dubbed Defender Trophy Competition. The event would mirror the legendary Camel Trophy competitions of the Seventies and Eighties. Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the Range Rover SE premium large crossover. Listen in for her take on this off-road-ready luxury hauler. In the second segment, the hosts chat with Caterham's Simon Sproule about the carmaker's tiny sports cars. Listen in for details regarding the history of Caterham, as well as U.S. availability of these storied automobiles. In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom's "Which Sold Better?" quiz, including a special Talking Heads bonus question. After the quiz, Tom talks about Elon Musk, and how apparently distracted he was from from developing his core automotive products.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

E326 May 18, 2026 56 min 104 annotations

An Interview with Infiniti's Eric Ledieu (Bonus Episode)

In this special bonus episode of the Car Stuff Podcast, Jill sits down with Vice President of INFINITI Americas Eric Ledieu for a conversation about the all-new QX65 fastback luxury crossover, Future Infiniti products, and a possible resurgence in buyer interest in sedans. How will Nissan and Infiniti differ moving forward? Listen in for details.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

E326 May 17, 2026 16 min 27 annotations

Honda Delays Updates, Pricey Lucid, After-Market Paint Protection

Sam Fiorani of AutoForecast Solutions sits in for Tom this week. Jill and Sam open this episode of the podcast touching on Sam's recent involvement with the 2026 Greenbrier Concours d'Elegance, a classic car show held in West Virginia each spring. The conversation turns to car news, with the hosts touching on Chinese car makers setting up show in Canada, Tesla producing its last Model S sedan, and Honda deferring much needed of key models--including the Odyssey minivan. Listen in for details. Still in the first segment, Jill discusses her participation in the first Trinitē Road Rally, and her time behind the wheel of the $250,000 Lucid Air Sapphire electric sedan. In the second segment, Jill and Sam are joined by EXPEL Product Manager James Melfi. EXPEL produces, among other things, car-finish Paint Protection Film (PPF). James shares information related to the value, cost, installation, and longevity of EXPEL's PPF productions. In the last segment Jill shares sad news regarding the show's long-time producer Randy. In his honor Jill subjects Sam to a Pontiac Fiero quiz. Sam wraps up the show sharing some news about the Boyertown Museum of Historic Vehicles.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

E325 May 12, 2026 56 min 77 annotations

Stellantis "Core" Brands, Forester Wilderness, Used EV Prices

Paul Herrold of the Sons of Speed sits in for Jill this week, as she participates in the Trinitē Road Rally. Follow the link here for details. The hosts open the show with a number of topics, including blue-dyed diesel fuel, and Tom's one-mile test drive of the Mitsubishi Outlander SEL. Paul and Tom go on to discuss Stellantis's "Four Core Brand" strategy, which prioritizes a few of the carmaker's high-volume brands, in terms of product development and positioning. Tune in to hear what this means for lower-volume marques. Still in the first segment, Tom reviews the 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness. In the second segment, Paul and Tom are joined by iSeeCars.com Executive Analyst Karl Brauer. Karl walks the hosts through some used-EV price data, noting especially interesting price swings for pre-owned Tesla models. In the last segment Paul is subjected to Tom's "Best Seller" quiz. Also, Paul shares his review of the Ferrari Roma. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

E324 May 04, 2026 54 min 157 annotations

Nissan Restructures, Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid, Canadian Tesla Adventure

Car guy Dave Piluski of RTM Engineering Consultants sits in for Jill this week. Tom opened the show by complaining about contemporary country music, especially someone named Luke Combs. This because Tom did not have time to Bluetooth connect with his new test car prior to recording. Dave and Tom discuss two major news items: Ford's constricted F-150 pickup supply, and Nissan's newly revealed turnaround plan. Because of the Iran Conflict, Ford is struggling to source aluminum for the F-150's body panels, and Nissan is working to rebuild sales in the U.S. and globally. Listen in for details. Tom also reviews the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid Calligraphy. Turns out there's little here not to like. In the second segment Dave and Tom are joined by friend of the show Robert Colangelo. Robert shared the details--some horrifying--of his recent Model Y voyage from Northwest Indiana to Canada to catch a Guess Who concert. You don't want to miss this. In the last segment Dave is subjected to Tom's "Which Came First: Eighties Edition: quiz. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

E323 Apr 20, 2026 56 min 136 annotations

Chinese Cars in Austria, New Jeep Cherokee, Consumer Reports Top Picks

The hosts open the show by discussing Tom's new refrigerator, and his inability to keep Subaru's suite of new electric vehicles straight. Jill agrees to help him keep the Subaru EVs straight. Jill and Tom go on to cover a number of news items, including the discontinuation of the Volkswagen ID.4 electric crossover, Chinese cars being built in Austria, and Kia's plan to build a midsize EV in American by the 2030 model year. In related news, a listen from New Zealand checks in to let the hosts know that he owns a Leapmotor EV (discussed last episode) and is very happy with it. Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the all-new Jeep Cherokee. In the second segment, Jill and Tom welcome Alex Knizek, Director of Auto Test Development at Consumer Reports, to the Car Stuff Podcast. Alex describes the process by which Consumer Reports evaluates new vehicles, and walks the hosts through the outfits 2026 Top Picks list. In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom's "Dead Brand" quiz. Listen in to hear how she scored. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

E322 Apr 13, 2026 56 min 31 annotations

Chinese Cars in Canada, RAV4 Review, Looking at Kia's Newest Rides

Tom opens the show with news regarding Stellantis' joint venture with China's Leapmotor. Stellantis currently distributes Chinese Leapmotor-built electric vehicles in Europe, and may be looking to build Leapmotor models in its idle Brampton, Ontario factory. Listen in for more details. Jill gives a quick rundown of the new-product reveals seen at this week's New York Auto Show. A number of noteworthy introductions are covered, including models and concepts from Chrysler, Hyundai, Kia, and Subaru. Still in the first segment Jill reviews the redesigned Toyota RAV4, which is now offered exclusively with a hybrid powertrain. With gas prices rising, will the RAV4 Hybrid be in especially high demand? In the second segment, Jill and Tom welcome James Bell, Kia Head of Corporate Communications, to the show. James discusses the new Kia products seen at the New York Auto Show, as well as the redesigned Telluride midsize crossover. James also shares some insights regarding Kia's sales success in the U.S. In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom's "Muscle Car Engine" quiz. Jill also discusses in depth the Hyundai Boulder off-road concept vehicle seen at the New York Show. Tom has some doubts about the show car's viability as a production model.         Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

E321 Apr 06, 2026 54 min 33 annotations

Sony-Honda JV Dead, Mercedes Crossover Impresses, New Mazda CX-5 Tech

The hosts open the show noting that the power-seat recall affecting the Hyundai Palisade has expanded to the mechanically similar Kia Telluride. Listen in for details. As predicted in a previous episode, Tom shares news of the dissolution of the Afeela electric-vehicle brand. Afeela was a Honda/Sony joint venture nearing production of a premium midsize sedan built in the U.S. Tom also discussed the potential impact of E15 fuel, which has been federally approved for national distribution. E15 gasoline has 5 percent more ethanol content than E10, which is common in most states. The blended fuel may help lower gasoline pump prices, but has its downsides. Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the Mercedes-Benz GLE450 midsize crossover. Listen in for her review. In the second segment, Jill and Tom welcome Matthew Valbuena to the show. Mathew is Mazda Project Manager of In-Vehicle Technology, and shares with the hosts a number of connectivity features found in the all-new 2026 CX-5 small crossover. In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom's "CVT or Automatic" quiz, featuring a bonus question about radishes. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

E320 Mar 30, 2026 55 min 30 annotations

New Lexus ES, Toyota Crown Signia Review, War and the Auto Industry

Jill opens this week's show with a correction. Listen in for her begrudging mea culpa. The hosts go on to discuss briefly Tom's time in the Toyota Corolla Hybrid SE AWD. Toms's review of the car is live now on ConsumerGuide.com. Tom shares a few details of the coming redesigned Lexus ES midsize sedan. New for 2026 is an EV variant of the popular model, while other examples of the ES will be hybrid only. Listen in for details. Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the Toyota Crown Signia. Both hosts are fans of the wagon-like midsize car, but agree that it may be slightly over promoted as a luxury vehicle. In the second segment, Jill and Tom welcome Jamie Butters of the Butters Bureau to the show. Jamie shares his take on how the Iran conflict will impact U.S. auto sales. Jamie also talks about Toyota's counterintuitive move deeper into EV sales at a time the rest of the industry is recoiling. Listen in for details. In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom's "It's a Fact!" quiz, after which Tom shares some interesting Porsche sales statistics.     Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

E319 Mar 23, 2026 56 min 32 annotations

Honda Drops 2 Models, Audi Q3 Reivew, Buying a Car in Uncertain Times

Jill and Tom open the show again sharing word of electric-vehicle cancellations. This time EVs from Honda and Volvo are being dropped. Tom discusses a new Texas DMV law which makes it difficult for undocumented shoppers to register a new or used vehicle. Though the regulations are relatively new, some area dealers are reporting small but measurable downturns in sales. Tom notes having recently reviewed the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited, which was priced at $40,000. Tom made the point that in an era of $50,000-60,000 midsize crossovers, a midsize sedan--especially in hybrid trim--might make a lot of sense. Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the subcompact Audi Q3 crossover. The price-leading Audi has been redesigned for 2026, and features updated connectivity features, more power, and tweaked styling. Listen in for Jill's complete review. In the second segment, the hosts welcome Sean Tucker of Autotrader to the show. Sean talked about the volatility in the new- and used-car marketplace, but suggested that, despite economic uncertainty, this may be a good time to make a vehicle purchase. Listen in for details. In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom's "100,000" quiz. Jill also shared news of an important Hyundai recall involving faulty 2nd-row seat sensors in the Palisade midsize crossover which my fail to detect the presence of a person in the path of seat travel. One death has been attributed to this defect.   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

E318 Mar 16, 2026 57 min 32 annotations

Two Dead Models, Chrysler's Uncertain Future, Cadillac's "Air Bridge"

Jill and Tom open the show discussing the sudden resignation of Chrysler CEO Chris Feuell. Tom thinks Feuell's departure prefaces the end of the Chrysler brand. Jill is not so sure. Listen in for details. The hosts go on to share news of two car models that will disappear after the 2026 model year. One is no surprise, the other a little bit sad. Still in the first segment, Jill and Tom review the 2026 Mazda CX-70 midsize crossover. The hosts have driven a lot of similar-size crossovers recently, listen in to hear how this big Mazda compares. In the second segment, Jill and Tom welcome veteran auto writer Gary Witzenburg to the the podcast. Garry's new book Legends in Motion is a collection of the author's favorite reviews and stories written over the past four decades of his career. From the book, Gary shares details of the Cadillac Allanté Air Bridge, and the legendary Cannonball Rally. In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom's "Just a Gosh Darn Minute" quiz. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

E316 Mar 09, 2026 54 min 69 annotations

Leno Law, Toyota Takes EVs Off-Road, Understanding the Software Defined Vehicle

Jill is back in the co-host seat this week, having spent some time in Canada intentionally driving Volvo vehicles in snow and on ice. Tom opens the show with a mea culpa. Listen in to see what he got wrong last week. The hosts discuss a number of news items, including some reported delays in the delivery of Tesla's newly discounted Cybertruck, Lamborghini backing away from electric vehicles, and the proposed Jay Leno Law. Listen in for the whole story. Still in the first segment, Jill reviews Toyota's new bZ Woodland, an electric vehicle with an off-road vibe. In the second segment, Jill and Tom are joined by Ken Chester, host of the Tech Mobility Podcast. Ken share his take on the the next stages of automotive computerization, and what, exactly, is meant by "software-defined vehicle." It's a good conversation. In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom's "Model Year 2020" quiz. Listen in and try to beat Jill's score. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

E316 Mar 02, 2026 57 min 53 annotations

Cheaper Cybertruck, Lexus TX Review, Japanese Micro Cars for America

Brendan Appel of the Sons of Speed sits in for Jill this week. Brendan and Tom open the show talking about the changing character of car engines, and how small turbocharged examples lack the character—especially exhaust note—of older, larger engines. Tom shares news regarding deep price cuts on the Tesla Cybertruck. Per Elon Musk, the new, cheaper Tesla pickup may not be available long, so interested shoppers may want to act quickly. Brendan and Tom discuss what the price adjustment might mean for the resale value of existing examples of the controversially designed pickup truck. Still in the first segment, Tom reviews the 3-row Lexus TX luxury crossover. Listen in for his take. In the second segment Brendan and Tom welcome Zack Pradel of Shooting Cars to the show. Zack is just back from Japan where he drove a number of the country’s “kei” micro cars. As it has been suggested that kei cars could be the answer to rising new-car sticker prices in the U.S., Zack’s take on these tiny vehicles is especially interesting. In the last segment Zack joins Brendan for this weeks quiz. The show warps up with a quick look at the current Polestar lineup. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

E315 Feb 23, 2026 56 min 57 annotations

Cheaper Jeep V8, Alfa Stelvio Reivew, Infiniti Jeans-Wearing Robot

No donuts today as Jill isn't feeling well (listen to her voice) and Tom says he's on a diet. The hosts open the show by discussing big Toyota news: The Highlander is going EV only for 2027. Listen in for Jill and Tom's take on this announcement. Also discussed is Jeep's new lower-cost V8 Wrangler model. Next, Tom shares a brief take on the very-affordable Chevrolet Trax in topline Activ trim. Should entry-level shoppers take a look at Chevy's least-expensive model? Listen in. Still in the first segment, the hosts co-review the sporty Alfa Romeo Stelvio Intensa small crossover. Jill and Tom agree that there is a lot here to like here, though the very-engaging Italian model is not without its compromises. In the second segment, Jill and Tom are joined by Evan Frank, Seat Engineering Manager for Nissan. Evan explains why denim especially is so tough on car and truck seats, and how Infiniti has been using a jeans-clad robot to test vehicle seats for long-term wear resistance. It's a great conversation. In the final segment, Jill is subjected to Tom's "Even More Spelling" quiz, plus, the duo discusses Cadillac's surprising commitment to electric vehicles, and a North American Car of the Year/Society of Automotive Engineers-sponsored scholarship program. Listen in for details. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

E314 Feb 16, 2026 54 min 49 annotations

Classic Nissan Returns, Redesigned Subaru Outback, Funding Dealer Expansion

Jim Obrill of the Chicago Auto Show drops by for a quick update on the show. The show includes a number of surprise displays including the $400,000 Cadillac Celestiq electric sedan. Tom owns up to an error in last weeks show, listen in to find out what he got wrong. Jill and Tom continue to share several news items, including the return of the rugged Nissan Xterra SUV. Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the all-new 2026 Subaru Outback. Tom laments the passing of the Outback’s traditional station-wagon design; however, Jill's takes is overwhelmingly positive. Listen for details. In the second segment, the hosts are joined by Mark LaNeve, Partner at Franchise Equity Partners. Mark walks Jill and Tom through the auto dealership acquisition process, and explains how dealer principals fund growth, and new sales point purchases. In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Was it a Pickup” quiz, and Tom talks about his daughter’s recent new-car purchase. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

E313 Feb 09, 2026 57 min 38 annotations

Telsa Kills Models, Mitsubishi Outlander Review, Best Cars of 2026

Jill and Tom sift through an enormous amount of news this week, including the announced deaths of four car models, including two from Tesla. Other news items covered include a name for Ford’s new electric small truck, BMW’s new electric-car architecture, and the unexpected comeback of the minivan. Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander small crossover. Listen in for her take. In the second segment the hosts welcome Brian Moody of Kelly Blue Book to the show. Brian shares his take on the new-car market in 2026, as well as KBB’s Best Buy picks. In the third segment Jill is subjected to Tom’s “How Red is It?” Quiz. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

E312 Feb 03, 2026 57 min 62 annotations

Buick Leaves China, Kia K4 Hatchback, A Conversation with Steve Saleen

Jill and Tom open the show acknowledging a few foreign cities in which there are Car Stuff Podcast listeners. Listen in for the list. Stories this week include news that Mercedes-Benz is dropping its Drive Pilot semi-autonomous driving system in the U.S., and Buick is moving production of the U.S.-market Envision small crossover out of China. Tom also shares the results of his very unscientific “Most American” car poll. Did the Corvette, Mustang, or Wrangler win? Listen in for details. Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the 2026 Kia K4 Hatchback. Does the hatch make for a better compact Kia? Signs point to “yes.” In the second segment, Jill and Tom are joined by automotive legend Steve Saleen. Steve talks about the development of the S7 super car, modifying Mustangs and F-150s, and his super-car show at the LeMay Museum in Tacoma, Washington. It’s a great conversation. In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom’s “2025 Car Sales” quiz. The hosts close the show discussing the impact of cold weather on the Lucid Air, and the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

E311 Jan 27, 2026 57 min 62 annotations

Buick Leaves China, Kia K4 Hatchback, A Conversation with Steve Saleen

 Jill and Tom open the show acknowledging a few foreign cities in which there are Car Stuff Podcast listeners. Listen in for the list. Stories this week include news that Mercedes-Benz is dropping its Drive Pilot semi-autonomous driving system in the U.S., and Buick is moving production of the U.S.-market Envision small crossover out of China. Tom also shares the results of his very unscientific “Most American” car poll. Did the Corvette, Mustang, or Wrangler win? Listen in for details. Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the 2026 Kia K4 Hatchback. Does the hatch make for a better compact Kia? Signs point to “yes.” In the second segment, Jill and Tom are joined by automotive legend Steve Saleen. Steve talks about the development of the S7 super car, modifying Mustangs and F-150s, and his super-car show at the LeMay Museum in Tacoma, Washington. It’s a great conversation. In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom’s “2025 Car Sales” quiz. The hosts close the show discussing the impact of cold weather on the Lucid Air, and the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. 

Jan 27, 2026 57 min 58 annotations

Chinese Car Prices, Nissan Leaf Design, Driving the Silverado EV

Jill and Tom open a topic-packed show acknowledging the winners of the 2026 North American Car of the Year voting. Listen in for complete list. Moving on, Tom noted that General Motors CEO Mary Barra said publicly something he had long feared regarding plug-in hybrids. Barra suggest the news will impact future product development. Subsequent to last week’s Zeekr conversation, Tom shared some interesting news regarding the prices of the Chinese cars in Mexico versus the maker’s home market. Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the 2026 Chevrolet Silverado EV in high-end Trail Boss trim. Listen in for her complete review. In the second segment, the hosts welcome Eric Ruble of Nissan to discuss the design of the all-new 2026 Leaf electric crossover. Eric shared a number of insider details related to the Leaf’s overall look, including some fun insights related to hidden Easter eggs hidden in the vehicle’s trim. In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom’s “2026 Honda Accord” quiz, including a Mexican Burger King bonus questions. After the quiz, Jill shares her impressions of riding in a Waymo autonomous taxi. 

E310 Jan 20, 2026 57 min 52 annotations

Jeep 4Xe is Dead, Zeekr Test Drive, The Real Power Grid Problem

Jill is back in the co-host seat this week for a topic-packed episode. Tom opens the show asking if $61,000 seems like a lot for a Hyundai—any Hyundai. The hosts discuss the Korean maker’s luxury/value equation, and note that Tom’s test car, a 2026 Palisade Calligraphy Hybrid is, without question, a luxury vehicle. Listen in for more of the conversation. Tom goes on to share his frustration with Stellantis for killing all of Jeep’s “4Xe” plug-in hybrids, along with the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid. Listen in for some crankiness. Still in the first segment, Jill details her CES Chinese-car adventure. Jill was able to take short drives in a number of luxury electric Zeekr models (a division of Volvo’s parent company Geely) and came away very impressed. Her quick takes on these vehicles are worth a listen. Are these premium EVs coming to the U.S? here’s the scoop. In the second segment, Jill and Tom are joined by friend of show and sustainability expert Robert Collangelo. Robert addresses the fallacy that EVs are a threat to the U.S. electric grid, and details the real power-consumption challenges that lay ahead for the country. It’s a great conversation you don’t want to miss. In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Is it a Dodge?” quiz. 

E309 Jan 13, 2026 56 min 43 annotations

Nissan Kicks Review, Confused by the Hemi, Boldy Looking into 2026

For the first show of 2026, Paul Herrold of the Sons of Speed sits in for Jill who is traveling. Paul and Tom address a number of topics to open the show, including annoying helper AI bots on dealership websites, the death of the Karma Revero (once known as the Fisker Karma), and the return of the Hemi engine to the Ram 1500 lineup. Still in the first segment, Tom reviews the 2026 Nissan Kicks. Tom is impressed by just how much equipment can be had on this small, practical crossover. In the second segment, Paul and Tom are joined by Tim Healey of The Truth About Cars. The guys dare to predict what’s coming for the car industry in 2026, especially for electric cars and Cadillac; they also address vehicle affordability and sales. In the last segment Tim joins Paul for Tom’s “Best Sellers of 1976” quiz. Listen in to hear who won. Paul wraps up the show with a surprisingly long list of vehicles that didn’t return for 2026. 

E308 Jan 06, 2026 57 min 79 annotations

2025 Year in Review, Dodge Charger Sixpack Review, Automotive Bucket List

Jill and Tom open the last show of 2025 by discussing how Christmas gift expectation change with age. Tom, for example, noted how happy he was to receive a Brita water filter. The hosts went on to process the biggest auto-related stories of 2025, including tariffs, tax credits, Ford recalls, and the return of the Hemi V8 engine. In the second segment, Jill and Tom welcome Sam Fiorani, AutoForecast Solutions Vice President of Global Forecasting, to the show. Sam shares his automotive “bucket list,” noting a number of fun and rewarding things car folks should consider trying in the near future. Tom contributes his own suggestions, many of which cannot be described as safe. In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Two Tons?” quiz. Jill also shares a quick review of the Dodge Charger Sixpack, A new gasoline-powered variant of the redesigned charger, which for 2025 had only been offered as an electric vehicle. 

E307 Dec 29, 2025 55 min 52 annotations

F-150 Lightning Killed, ID. Buzz Halted, Restoring Classics Rides for Modern Drivers

Jill and Tom open the show addressing two high-profile electric vehicle cancellations announced this past week. First the hosts discuss the end of production for the Ford F-150 Lighting, which came as something of a surprise to both Jill and Tom. Also covered is news that Volkswagen will not be importing a 2026 edition of the spunky ID. Buzz electric minivan. Will the ID. Buzz be back for 2027? Jill and Tom speculate. Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the Ford Maverick Lobo. Lobo is a new sporty Maverick variant, and it sounds like fun. Listen in for Jill’s take on the potentially entertaining-to-drive small pickup truck. In the second segment, the Hosts welcome Rob Howard, CEO of Kindred Motorworks to the podcast. Kindred restores classic cars, some of which become battery powered in the process. Rob talks about the restoration process, and the level of engineering that is invested in each new model the company adds to its lineup. Listen in for details. In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Is it a Mercury?” quiz. 

E306 Dec 23, 2025 56 min 44 annotations
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