Car Stuff Podcast

The show opens with a brief, and completely off-topic, conversation about whether or not Tom smells spicy. Listen in for the verdict. Tom shared brief impressions of the 2025 Lexus RX 500h F Sport Performance AWD, noting that the premium midsize crossover was over-named by a few syllables. That said, Tom is very impressed with the vehicles. The hosts went on the talk about Ram’s decision to kill—before introduction—the Ram REV electric pickup truck. The story gets a little complicated. Listen in for details. Among other news, Tom shared information regarding Chinese carmakers turning to Magna International, and its Steyr manufacturing facility in Austria, for regional production. Chinese EV builders are looking to dodge European tariffs by assembling cars on the continent. Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the 2025 Honda Civic Hybrid, noting that the maker’s compact car lineup is now mostly hybrid powered. In the second segment, Jill and Tom welcome Don Sikora of Collectible Automobile to the show. Don shared highlights of the October 2025 issue of the classic-car magazine, which is on newsstands now. A feature story about the 1969 Chevrolet Camaro, written by podcast regular Sam Fiorani, was discussed at length. See our Facebook page for information regarding subscribing to the magazine. In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Partridge or President” quiz, in which she must determine if a given person was a cast member of “The Partridge Family,” or a former Ford CEO.

Jill and Tom open the show by sharing information about a Chicago event, Electrify Chicago, coming to the area September 12-13. Next, Tom shares some news about Chinese new-car door handles, and how some of them will soon be illegal. The hosts also discussed the relationship between the Toyota Highlander and Grand Highlander. With the “Grand” gaining popularity, the Japanese maker is tweaking the standard Highlander’s trim-level lineup—making it more expensive for 2026. Listen in for more details. Likewise, Tesla is raising prices on its slow selling Cybertruck pickup truck, specifically the top-trim Cyberbeast. The EV maker is raising the Cyberbeast base price by $15,000, but making a number of options and features standard. Jill and Tom discuss Telsa’s motives for adjusting Cybertruck prices. Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the compact Volkswagen Tiguan crossover. Listen in to get Jill’s take on the top-trim SEL R-Line. In the second segment, the hosts welcome Toyota production engineers Samantha Barber and Becky Brophy to the show. Both guests are veterans of the Rebelle Rally, and share how Toyota learns from motorsports, and how returning to the event each year contributes to product development. In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Spelling!” quiz. Listen in to see if Jill can spell BISCAYNE, as well as four other tricky model names.

Jill and Tom open the show talking about “launch colors,” basically the color which new vehicles are initially presented in for media reveals, advertising, and promotion. Tom still remembers the copper color the redesigned Mitsubishi Eclipse was unveiled in for 2000. Tom shared his early impressions of the electric Volvo EX30 subcompact crossover. So far, Tom is delighted by the Volvo, and surprised by its price. The hosts turn the discussion to the coming 2026 Jeep Compass; a vehicle Tom and Jill both feel the maker badly needs in its lineup. The Discussion continues to include clarification on the topic of Japanese “kei” cars, including proper pronunciation, and a brief chat regarding the heritage-trimmed Stroppe Edition of the Ford Bronco. In the second segment the hosts are joined by AutoForecast Solutions Vice President Sam Fiorani. Sam shared insights related to the current tariff situation, and what the elimination of “carbon credits” means to EV makers including Tesla, Rivian, and Lucid. Sam also shares news regarding the Boyertown Museum of Historic Vehicles. In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Red!” quiz, in which she is challenged to identify fake car colors.

The hosts open the show briefly discussing Tom’s experiences car shopping with his 25-year-old daughter. After test driving five cars, and much careful consideration, a car has been purchased. Listen in for details. In the news, Jill and Tom talk about Audi tariff-related price increases, Chrysler’s crazy Grizzly Peak minivan concept vehicle, and the Dodge Durango going V8 only for 2026. Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the updated 2026 Subaru Solterra, which now enjoys more power and greater range. In the second segment, the hosts are joined by Justin Tunny, CEO of Everrati. Everrati restores classic cars, fitting them with modern electric powertrains. Listen in to learn what cars the company is currently restoring, and what it costs to bring a vintage Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, or Porsche 911 back to life with an all-electric drivetrain. In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom’s “LX” trim-level quiz. The hosts closed out the show discussing the 2026 Solterra’s off-road ability and AWD drivetrain.

Jill and Tom open the show discussing the poor first-half financial returns of EV startups Lucid and Rivian, and the surprising impact recent emissions deregulation will have on their bottom lines. The hosts also touch on the slow sales start of Lucid’s new Gravity EV crossover. Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the subcompact Acura ADX crossover. Jill likes the vehicle, but questions if it's refined and powerful enough to be an Acura. Listen in for her complete review. In the second segment Jill and Tom welcome Green Sense Show host Robert Colangelo to the program. Robert talked about his show—surprise news—and how shrinking cities may impact the auto industry and transportation in general. In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Korean or Japanese?” quiz. To close the show, Tom shared some highlights from an iSeeCars list of fastest-depreciating vehcicles.

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.