Car Stuff Podcast

Jill and Tom open the show discussing today’s big Ford news, an announcement the company refers to as its “Model T Moment.” The news, delivered by Ford CEO Jim Farley, includes plans for a new electric pickup truck, new manufacturing processes, and a surprising target price point. Listen in for details. Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the redesigned 2026 Hyundai Palisade midsize crossover. The new vehicle is updated inside and out, and is also slightly larger. In the second segment Jill and Tom welcome Robby Degraff of consultancy AutoPacific. Robby shared his thoughts on today’s Ford announcement, plus talked about AutoPacific research regarding what features budget-conscious shopper really want on their new vehicles. In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Which Sold Better?” quiz, complete with a Denny’s appetizer bonus question.

Jill and Tom open the show covering a few news items, including: · Tesla has stopped exporting a couple of models to Europe · Engine stop/start may be dropped from future vehicles · The Ineos Grenadier SUV is now available via the Costo car-buying service Tom also discussed his surprise at how likable the 2025 Alfa Romeo Tonale—not the plug-in hybrid—is. Still in the first segment, Jill reviewed the electric, new-for-2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ. Per Jill, the new EV version of the Escalade lives up to the luxury and refinement standards of the original Escalade. Listen in to learn about range, charging, and prices. In the second segment, the hosts welcome Bill Stokes of Subaru to the show. Bill talked about the all-new Subaru Forester Hybrid, which Jill and Tom are both very impressed with. Listen in to learn more about prices, fuel economy, and availability. In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Fake Chinese Car” quiz. Tom wrapped up the show citing an X poll suggesting that Car Stuff Podcast listeners do not want to hear more about running. (Be sure to follow the Car Stuff Podcast on Facebook.)

Brendan Appel of The Sons of Speed sits in for Jill this week. Brendan and Tom opened the show by complaining about the extreme heat lingering over the Chicago area. Tom then noted that Jill was correct last week when she suggested that Toyota had a 20-percent stake in Subaru. Tom had suggested a lower figure. Still in the first segment, Brendan and Tom acknowledged the passing of the TLX, Acura’s excellent midsize sedan which has struggled in the marketplace for several year. The sporty 4-door will be discontinued after the 2025 model year. Brendan shared details of a video just posted at We Are Motor Drive (host site to the Sons of Speed). Brendan and “Sons” partner Paul Herrold spent time with the all-new, electric, Dodge Charger Daytona sedan. Brendan and Paul were generally delighted with the new Dodge EV, but have some thoughts on how Dodge can make the vehicle more generally appealing. In the second segment, Brendan and Tom welcome Ram Executive Vice President of Retail and Commercial Demand, Nate Buelow to the show. Nate updated the hosts on a number of important changes to the Ram line, including a new drivetrain warranty, more-affordable trim levels, and the return of the Hemi V8 engine. Nate also discussed Ram’s return to the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series for 2026. In the last segment, Brendan is subjected to Tom’s “Dodge!” quiz, and someone mentioned the Chrysler Cordoba.

Jill and Tom open the show by discussing a rumored new Tesla product for the Chinese market, and the impact of tariffs on Tesla prices in Canada. The hosts also chat briefly about how Chinese EV builder NIO is dealing with battery-swapping “cheaters” in its home market. Still in the first segment, Jill and Tom review the Subaru Forester in new-for-2025 hybrid trim. The hosts find themselves in complete agreement on this small crossover. In the second segment Jill and Tom welcome Chrysler CEO Chris Feuell to the Car Stuff Podcast. Chris talks about how the brand is celebrating its 100th anniversary as a carmaker, key products in the marque’s history, and what comes next for the storied automaker. Chris shares updates on some additions coming to the Chrysler lineup in the near future. In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Was it a Chrysler?” quiz, which includes a bonus question about Bolivian fast food. Jill wrapped up the podcast with a brief tribute to a longtime writer/colleague who passed away last week.

Jill and Tom opened the show with a brief acknowledgment of the podcast’s apparent popularity in Sweden. Amusingly, the show is described on Poddtroppen—a Swedish podcast download site—as a “Komedie.” Moving on, the hosts discussed yet another—massive—Ford recall. Tom suggests a reason why Ford might be in the trouble its in. Still in the first segment, the hosts dig into Volvo’s recently announced decision to layoff 15-percent of its U.S. workforce. Next, Jill reviews the 2025 Subaru WRX tS, with manual transmission. In the second segment Jill and Tom welcome Jennifer Stockburger of Consumer Reports to the show. Jennifer discussed the Consumer Reports recently published Best Cars for Teens lists, and what went into creating them. In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Saab!” quiz—which includes a Swedish-themed bonus question. And, as the show wraps up, Jill pledged to try and get passed Apple CarPlay.

Jill and Tom opened the show discussing the demise of the federal electric-vehicle tax credit. The new and used credits expire on September 30. As a result of the credit situation, Nissan has officially announced the delay of two EV crossovers, one each for Nissan and Nissan luxury-division Infiniti. The hosts also discussed Q2 EV sales results. Tom noted a significant increase in electric-vehicle sales at General Motors, while Tesla sales continue to decline. Jill and Tom discussed the impact—or lack thereof—of recent product updates by Tesla. Listen in for details. In the second segment Jill and Tom welcome Brian Yoeckel of Nissan to the show. Brian shared plans for the recently redesigned Armada premium large SUV, including the new-for-2026, high-performance Armada NISMO. Listen in for details. In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom’s “60 Second” quiz. How many Mercury models can Jill name in one minute? Tom wrapped up the show updating Jill and listeners on his Volkswagen Taos/Apple CarPlay experiment.

Tom and Jill opened the show welcoming new listeners to the program. June proved to be the Car Stuff Podcast’s best download month yet. Tom went on to share news of hydrogen pockets located underground. Tom noted that were these pocket large enough, and easily accessed, it’s possible that fuel-cell vehicles may play a significant role in future mobility. Still in the first segment, Jill reviewed the 2026 Honda CR-V in new Trailsport trim. The compact CR-V becomes the fourth vehicle in the Honda lineup to receive the Trailsport treatment. Listen in for Jill’s take. In the second segment, Jill and Tom welcome Joe Ligo to the program. Joe is director and producer of the acclaimed six-part documentary “The Last Independent Automaker.” The program, which chronicles the rise and fall of American Motors, is available for viewing on YouTube at no cost. Tom highly recommends taking the time to watch the series. In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Was it an AMC?” quiz. Tom wrapped up the show discussing connectivity issues he experienced in the otherwise delightful Volkswagen Golf R. (Also, Tom showed off his Chrysler Cordoba key chain.)

Jill and Tom opened up the show by clarifying a point made last week. Indeed, the only Mercedes-Benz wagon offered for sale in the U.S. is the “All-Terrain” variant of the midsize E-class. Tom noted similar wagon offering limitations in the Volvo, Audi, and BMW lineups. The hosts also chatted briefly about Ram’s extended powertrain warranty which takes effect for the 2026 model year. Listen in to hear how the new protection plan, combined with the newly available Hemi engine, might spark sales for the truck maker. Still in the fist segment, Jill reviews the Cadillac Optiq electric compact crossover. In the second segment Jill and Tom welcome Patrick Masterson of Cars.com. Patrick shared findings found in Cars 2025 American Made Index. Which vehicles are the “most American?” Listen in for details. In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Honda CR-V Hybrid or Not?” quiz. Jill wrapped up the show discussing an elderly acquaintance’s troubling dealership experience.

Jill opened the show briefly recapping here recent travels. Jill’s been on the road training for the next edition of the Rebelle Rally, this time with a new driver/partner and new vehicle. Listen in for details. Tom shared details of a major industry merger, though most consumers won’t be affected. Still, it does involve Mercedes-Benz and Toyota. Tom shared news regarding the 2026 Chevrolet Blazer EV. One version goes away; one seriously high-performance variant is added to the lineup. Both hosts shared their takes on the all-new 2025 Nissan Murano midsize 2-row crossover. For the most part the new midsize crossover is an upgrade over the previous edition, though Jill has a specific complaint. In the second segment, Jill and Tom are joined by Patrick George of InsideEVs. Patrick recently spent a couple of weeks in China learning about the country’s EV products and market environment. Listen in for some fascinating insights regarding how the Chinese are succeeding at building and selling electric vehicles. In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Q1 Sales!” quiz.

Paul Harrold of the Sons of Speed sits in for Jill this week. Tom opened the show noting Ram’s decision to return the Hemi-brand V8 to the 1500 powertrain lineup. Ram had replaced the engine with a more powerful and efficient turbocharged six, but customers have rejected the new motor. Still in the first segment, Paul recaps his time in the 2025 Rolls-Royce Phantom II. Paul and Sons of Speed partner Brendan Appel share a video of their test drive of the ultra-luxury British sedan below. In the second segment Sam Fiorani of AutoForecast Solutions joins the show. Sam shared his insights into the new, Jeff Bezos-backed Slate Auto EV start-up. The new company is scheduled to have vehicles ready to sell by the end of 2026. Sam also shared his thoughts on the autonomous Tesla Cybercab. The 2-seat, driverless taxi—at least in concept form—has no steering wheel. Tesla plans to have Cybercabs operating in Austin, Texas in the near future. In the last segment, Paul is subjected to Tom’s “Dead or Alive for ‘25” quiz.

Jill and Tom are joined in-studio this week by colleague Ed Piotrowski. Ed recently wrote a piece for Consumer Guide regarding premium small crossovers he spent time with at this year’s Midwest Automotive Media Association Spring Rally. Ed shared his impressions of the new Acura ADX, sporty Alfa-Romeo Tonale, and speedy BMW X3. Jill also attended the Rally, and shared her impressions of the electric Cadillac Escalade IQ and BMW iX. Listen in for her impressions. In the second segment Jill, Tom, and Ed are joined by Mike Hanley of Cars.com. Mike walked the crew through Cars’ just published “What’s the Best Compact SUV for 2025?” report. Big surprises on the top and bottom of the seven-vehicle comparison test list. In the last segment Jill and Ed are subjected to Tom’s “HQ?” quiz. Do you know where Stellantis is headquartered? Listen in.

Tom is flying solo this week. He opened the show noting that Tesla is now accepting the Cybertruck in trade, though owners aren’t happy about the trade-in values, which are running around 60 percent of original prices. Tom noted that EV sales have been strong in the first quarter of 2025, though may finally be slowing down. Tom shared a list of the best-selling EV makers of 2025 so far, the number-2 company may come as a surprise. Tom shared what he knows about the all-new 2026 Toyota RAV4. There’s big powertrain news coming for Toyota’s best-selling model. Listen in for details. In the second segment Tom welcomes Ford’s Alex Shelton to the show. Alex is Ford Philanthropy Portfolio Manager for Education, and joined the show to discuss the maker’s auto-technician scholarship opportunities. Listen in to hear why Alex calls work in automotive maintenance “future proof.” In the last segment Producer Randy is subjected to Tom’s “Fiero!” quiz. Listen in.

Jill and Tom opened the show by talking about Toyota’s new-for-2026 electric-vehicle lineup. The changes include revised model names, and smaller and larger companions for the maker’s existing—and also updated—bZ compact EV. Tom talked about a recently published article which claims that the Tesla Cybertruck is wearing through tires in as little as 7000 miles. Per the article, replacement tires cost around $400 each. Tom also noted an interesting news piece suggesting that German consumers are not open to purchasing Chinese-brand EVs. Listen in for details. Still in the first segment, Jill shared her impressions of the all-new Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator. Both vehicles have been treated to fresh styling and updated infotainment systems. In the second segment Jill and Tom welcome Dan Passe of Passe Consulting to the program. With a communications resume that includes both Nissan and Nikola, Dan talked about the difference between legacy automakers and start-up companies. In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom’s “25 MPG!” quiz. Tom wrapped up the show with a list of the best-selling vehicles in the premium large-SUV segment.

Tom opened the show with an apology for two mistakes he’s made in the past couple of weeks. Listen in for the corrections. Jill and Tom went on to share a tariff update, as well news regarding one of the strangest recalls…ever. So, what’s wrong with the Volkswagen ID. Buzz’s back seat? Listen in for details. Still in the first segment, Jill shares her take on the updated-for-2026 Genesis GV70 small crossover. Updated styling and a revised cabin are part of the news. In the second segment the hosts welcome Zack Pradel, host and founder of YouTube Channel Shooting Cars. Zack spends most of his time creating review videos of other peoples’ cars. Discussed here are the Mercedes-Benz 380 SEC, Buick Park Avenue Ultra, and Chevrolet C-30 “high rail.” Zack has created more than 1800 videos; be sure to check them out. In the last segment Jill and Zack are subjected to Tom’s “GT or No GT” Quiz. This one was close. The crew wrapped up the show talking about Buc-ee’s Beaver Nuggets, a bag of which Jill brought to the studio.

Jill and Tom opened the show noting that of all the car brands affected by the trade tariffs, Buick and Volvo are in a particularly tough spot. Listen in to hear why. Tom made note of all the EV fast charging news of late, and suggests that listeners not get too excited by the hype. Per Tom, the nation's current electric grid will not be easily tapped for additional power, regardless of how quickly a vehicle is capable of being charged. Still in the first segment, the hosts discussed the newly introduced Kia K4 Hatchback, which Jill insists is a wagon. Jill reviewed the off-road Sasquatch package, newly available for certain Ford Bronco Sport trim levels. Listen in for Jill's take on the new equipment group. In the second segment, the hosts welcome Chris Martin, Technology Communications Manager for Honda, to the show. Chris updated listeners on Honda's plans for hands-free driving, and made clear the important differences between level-2 and level-3 autonomous driving. Expect to see advanced hands-free systems first on Honda's new "O Series" (Zero Series) electric cars due in showrooms soon. In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom's "Buick versus Chrysler" quiz. The hosts wrapped up the show taking note of plunging Tesla resale values. Listen in for the list.

Join Tom and guest host Brendan Appel of the Sons of Speed for this year’s Consumer Guide Best Buy episode of the Car Stuff Podcast. Tom and Brendan run down the list of 37 vehicles in 16 classes, each of which deserves a place on your new-car shopping list. If you are currently shopping for a new car, you need to listen to this episode. Following the Best Buy discussion, Brendan shared big news: The Sons of Speed and the folks from We are Motor Driven are teaming up to produce a podcast which begins airing next month. Brendan also shared details of a video he and fellow Sons of Speed contributor Paul Herrold produced from Ford’s Off-Roadeo. Listen in!

Jill and Tom opened the show talking about Jill’s recent move. Good news, she’s now closer to the studio. Tom went on to discuss British sports-car maker/engineering firm Lotus, which has been owned by a number of carmakers over the years. It appears that Lotus is again up for sale. The hosts also discussed a new round of Tesla Cybertruck price cuts, and the brand’s sales share in California, one of its most-important markets. Still in the first segment, Jill shared her impressions of the new-for-2025 Ford Maverick Lobo, a sporty trim level that boasts a number of driving-enthusiast features. In the second segment, the hosts welcome fellow journalist Joel Feder to the Car Stuff Podcast. Joel shared sad news regarding the shuttering of a popular auto-review website, and his insights into a number of topics, including the Subaru Forester redesign and current styling trends. In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Subaru!” quiz.

Jill opened the show talking about her new Rebelle Rally team. Listen in for details. Tom shared some information about a not-for-profit organization that packages sundry products for patients undergoing Chemotherapy. The packages include items to help recipients deal with chemo side effects, including loss of taste, dry skin, and dehydration. You can check out Lemons of Love at lemonsoflove.org. The hosts went to discuss the Cybertruck. The polarizing Tesla pickup is no longer being accepted in trade by Tesla, a thing which will likely impact resale value. Also, Tesla has introduced a new, less expensive Cybertruck trim level, which may lure some shoppers back into showrooms. Tom noted the addition of a more affordable trim level to the GMC Sierra EV lineup. The new model lowers the cost of entry for a Sierra EV considerably. Still in the first segment, Jill and Tom talked about Jeff Bezos’ new EV startup Slate Auto. The new company is gearing up to produce small, $25,000 electric pickup trucks meant to be customized by the end user. Production begins as early as late next year. In the second segment, the hosts welcome veteran auto journalist Gary Witzenburg to the show. Gary talked about a pair of articles he recently wrote, both about 2-seat Pontiacs. The first, which appeared recently in Collectible Automobile, covered the Fiero. The latter, which appeared on the Haggerty website, covered the brand’s Solstice small sports car. Listen in for fascinating insights into both cars. In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Sixty More Seconds” quiz. How did she do? Listen in.

Jill and Tom opened the show addressing the industry confusion brought on by the recent implementation of federal import tariffs. Tom ran down a list of known carmaker reactions to the regulations. Tom followed up the tariff talk with a brief review of the 2025 BMW M35i Grand Coupe, which he described as “delightful,” but noted several tech glitches which cut into the fun. Still in the second segment, Jill share her impressions of the all-new Pirelli Scorpion XTM off-road performance tires. In the second segment the hosts welcome Matt Smith of CarGurus.com, who shared some pointers for consumers trying to decided between buying a gas, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or electric vehicle. This is an excellent primer for folks considering some level of electrification in their next vehicle. In the last segment Jill is subjected to a “best-selling cars by state” quiz. Tom followed the quiz with the results of an X poll he recently conducted regarding what folks listen to in the car. Talk Petty To Me A pithy anthology series focused on our favorite petty moments from life & pop culture Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

The hosts opened the show by discussion Rivian’s “micromobility” operation, which was recently spun off from the parent company. "ALSO," as the new concern is called, is headquartered in California, and will focus on designing and building e-bikes, scooters, and other small electric vehicles. Tom also briefly addressed the tariff situation, which is likely to become much bigger news in the next day or so. The hosts also lamented the violence being wrought upon Tesla cars and showrooms. Tom expressed his surprise regarding the general excellence of the new-for-2025 Kia K4 small sedan. A replacement for the brand’s Forte model, the K4 is efficient, fun to drive, and also surprisingly affordable. Jill reviewed the 2025 Lexus NX 450h+, a plug-in hybrid version of the Japanese luxury carmaker’s compact crossover. Though Jill balked at the price, her impressions were mostly positive. Listen in for her full review. In the second segment, Jill and Tom welcome Derek Kravitz of Consumer Reports to the show. Derek shared research conducted by Consumer Reports regarding car data privacy, and what consumers can do to protect themselves from makers sharing their personal information. In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Fake Paint” quiz.