Car Stuff Podcast

Jill and Tom cover a lot of topics this week, plus review the 2026 Lexus RX.

Tom briefly comments on the 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, agreeing with Jill's earlier assessment that the plug-in hybrid's drivetrain is smooth in operation. Additionally, Tom notes that the compact crossover is generally comfortable and refined.

Also covered: news from General Motors regarding new hybrid variants of the maker's popular large crossovers, the Chevrolet Traverse, GMC Acadia, and Buick Enclave. Listen in for expected delivery dates.

Tom shares a list of the five most-commonly purchased vehicles via the Costco new-car shopping program. Listen in to hear the cars and trucks Costco shoppers want the most.

Also discussed, Audi's recent announcement regarding the company's plans to build a new factory in Georgia. The new facility will have the capacity to assemble up to 200,000 vehicles a year, roughly half of which will be exported outside of the U.S.

Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the 2026 Lexus 500h F Sport Performance midsize crossover. Listen in for her thoughts on the popular Lexus model.

In the second segment, Jill and Tom welcome Jamie Butters of Autotown to the show. Jamie shared his thoughts on the General Motors hybrid move, Audi's new U.S. factory, and the midterm elections. Listen in for his insights. Jamie also discussed the dangers of drowsy driving.

In the last segment, Jill is subject to Tom's "35 MPG" quiz, and shares her quick impressions of the all-new Rivian R2 compact crossover.

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In this bonus episode of the Car Stuff Podcast, Jill sits down with Mazda North American President and CEO Tom Donnelly. The conversation covers a broad range of topics, including Mazda's joint-venture factory in Huntsville, Alabama, the importance of the CX-50 in the maker's lineup, and the significance of plug-in hybrids (PHEVs).

Also addressed: The Future of the MX-5 Miata.

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The hosts open the show with a quick discussion regarding the Toyota/Mazda joint-venture assembly facility in Huntsville, Alabama. The factory currently produces the Toyota Corolla Cross and the Mazda CX-50.

Tom shares news from Porsche; the German sports car maker has revealed a concept car foreshadowing an addition the the lineup which would be positioned above the mainstay 911 in terms of price and performance. The Mission S could appear in brand dealerships for the 2029 model years.

The hosts also review the Jeep "12-by-12" program, during which a new special-edition Wrangler was rolled out each month. Listen in for a list of the special Wranglers, and some thoughts on how well they sold.

Also discussed: "red diesel," and Subaru's European woes.

Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the 2027 Honda Passport in rugged Trailsport trim. The Trailsport was updated for the new year, and promises even greater off-road capability.

In the second segment, Jill and Tom welcome Mazda Crashworthiness Program Manager Christina Smith to the podcast. Christina discusses Mazda's safety philosophy, and the systems currently in place in the maker's products.

In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom's "Which States Buy the Most Pickup Trucks?" quiz, including a bonus question about Star Trek's Walter Koenig.

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The hosts open the show discussing Tom's tidy new haircut. Tom heartily endorses the LoCascio's Barber Shop in Arlington Heights, IL.

Getting down to work, Tom notes that EV startup Rivian enjoyed its best-ever sales quarter in Q3. The maker's new R2 compact crossover contributed to the sales growth.

Also discussed, the BMW "Neue Klasse" 3-Series, which has been completely redesign for 2027. While the hosts like the look of the new compact BMW sedan, there is some question regarding how much it looks like a traditional BMW.

Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the redesigned 2027 Volkswagen Atlas. The 3-row midsize crossover returns for the new year with a host of design and technical updates. Listen in for details.

In the second segment, safety-seat expert Jennifer Newman of Cars.com joins the show. Jennifer brings the hosts up to speed regarding trends in seat design, and the vehicles most safety-seat accommodating. Please share this episode with any first-time expecting parents.

In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom's "Which is Longer?" quiz, including a bonus question about the Burger King Whaler.

Jill and Tom wrap up the show with a discussion of small-crossover affordability, and questioning whether first-time buyers might be better served by compact sedans.

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Jill and Tom open the show by talking about the Jeep Grand Cherokee's new engine, the Hurricane inline 6-cylinder engine found in Ram trucks. The engine replaces the Hemi V8 as the Cherokee's top-dog motor.

Jill went on to share her concern that the Slate EV will not arrive in customer driveways before the end of the year. Tom questions--again--the viability of a 2-door vehicle in the U.S. market, even if the price is right.

In the second segment, the hosts welcome veteran auto journalist Tim Healey to the show. A number of topics are covered, including vehicles that should sell better. Tim's pick is interesting.

In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom's "Was it a Buick?" quiz, and Jill reviews the Nissan Pathfinder Rock Creek.

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Jill and Tom open the show by discussing Bentley's new, first-ever electric vehicle, the Torcal midsize crossover. The new model is roughly the same size as the British luxury maker's gas-powered Bentayga, but is promised to cost slightly less.

The hosts also discuss a bill being routed through Congress which would limit the extent to which a car company doing business in the U.S. can be Chinese owned. Of interest is the fact that German luxury carmaker Mercedes-Benz is 20-percent owned by Chinese entities, which is in excess of the parameters outlined in the bill. Listen in for details.

More news: Dodge has a small sedan in the sales top-ten, just not in the U.S. What is the Dodge Attitude? Listen in.

Still in the first segment, Jill and Tom share news of a Ram sales first. This one is interesting.

And before the break, Jill reviews the 60th-anniversary edition of Ford's off-road ready Bronco. Is this special edition Bronc' worth the extra money? Listen in for details.

In the second segment, Jill and Tom welcome TJ Campbell of Tirerack.com to the podcast. The returning guest discusses the best tire options for folks in the Snowbelt with which to face a potentially rough winter, and what to do to make winter tires work best financially. It's a great conversation.

In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom's "McDonald's vs. Chevy" quiz. Which came first, the Egg McMuffin or the Chevy Blazer? Listen to find out.

Finally, Jill shares details of the the all-new Hyundai Tucson, which arrives in brand stores later this year. look for all-new styling, and an off-road ready XRT model.

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Jill is back in the co-host seat this week, and joins Tom for a number of fresh news stories. First up, the Volkswagen ID. Buzz, which skipped the 2026 model year here in the U.S., will also be skipping 2027. The German automaker promises that the retro-themed electric van will be back for 2028. Listen in for details.

Jill and Tom note that Tesla is no longer exporting the popular Model Y from the U.S. to Canada, and is instead bringing the small crossover into the country from German, where the EV maker has a large assembly facility.

Speaking of Tesla, it has become clear that the maker is building versions of its autonomous Cybercab equipped with steering wheels. The company has not confirmed this, but Car Stuff Podcast listeners report seeing the steering-wheel-equipped vehicles on the road in several cities. Thanks to listener Celio for reporting his Miami sitings to us.

Still in the first segment, Jill talks about Korean tire maker Nexen, and the brand's move to gain acceptance in the U.S. market.

In the second segment, Jill and Tom welcome Nissan Senior Manager for Vehicle Performance Development, Chris Fischer. Chris shares the surprising backstory of the modern cupholder, specifically those found in the Infiniti QX65 premium midsize crossover. There's much more to this story than you might imagine.

In the final segment, Jill is subjected to Tom's "Where is it Built?" quiz, including a bonus question about clown movies. Really. Tom wraps up the show with his quick impressions of the sporty Subaru WRX.

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Paul Herrold of the Sons of Speed sits in for Jill this week. Paul and Tom open the show discussing Volvo's deal with Chinese car builder Geely to distribute the latter's Lynk & Co brand products in Western Europe. Volvo will retail and service the vehicles, which will be positioned below like-segment Volvo products in price and content.

Tom shares a story regarding the sighting of a Cybercab equipped with a steering wheel. Tesla's new ride-hailing autonomous vehicle was designed without a steering wheel or pedals, so the recently spotted example opens the door to much speculation.

Still in the first segment, Tom reviews the Lexus LX 600 SUV which is both pricey and satisfying to drive. Listen in for details.

In the second segment, the hosts welcome Larry Vellequette of Automotive News to the show. Larry shares news regarding the induction of long-time Toyota steward Akio Toyoda into the Automotive Hall of Fame. Listen in to a great conversation about Mr. Toyoda and his history of thoughtful corporate leadership.

In the last segment Paul is subjected to Tom's "State of the Nation" quiz. After the quiz Paul shares his first-hand account of a recent Ferrari-owners event at Wisconsin's legendary Road America race track.

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Jill and Tom open the program by welcoming Jim OBrill of the Chicago Auto Show to the program. The producers of the Chicago Show have put together a public test-drive event for licensed drivers 18 years of age or older running October 1-4 in Oak Brook, Illinois. Click here for more information.

Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the redesigned 2027 Kia Seltos. The small crossover has grown for '27, and boasts more space and a new hybrid drivetrain. Listen in for details.

In the second segment, the hosts welcome Patrick Masterson of Cars.com to the show. Patrick walks the hosts through the outlet's 2026 American Made Index, which includes a ranking of U.S. market cars by percent of domestic content. Listen in for a few surprises, including Tesla's position on the chart.

In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom's "Is it a Lincoln?" quiz. The hosts go on to discuss future-car news as reported by Automotive News, and a number of vehicles which are being discontinued after the 2026 model year, per Car and Driver magazine.

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Jill and Tom open the show discussing the market place viability of the onslaught of midsize pickup trucks due to arrive on the U.S. in the next few years. Tom believes the segment is already crowded, while Jill thinks there is space for makers to differentiate their trucks and claim a little market share.

Tom shares his disappointment in the announced range of the coming Jeep Recon electric SUV. The off-roader boasts big power numbers, but not as much battery range as some consumer may want or need. Listen in for details.

Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the 2026 Subaru Ascent midsize crossover. While generally impressed by the largest Subaru, Jill found a few issues which may concern shoppers. Listen in for details.

In the second segment, the hosts are joined by Sam Fiorani of AutoForecast Solutions. Sam discusses the state of the Canadian auto industry, and points out a critical automotive flaw in the hit TV show Psyche. Sam also shares news regarding the Boyertown Museum of Historic Vehicles.

In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom's "Is it Built in Canada?" quiz, which includes a bonus question regarding marijuana-infused soda.

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Jill and Tom open the show discussing Ford's decision to import from China the compact Lincoln Corsair, this after briefly dropping the model due to manufacturing complications here in the U.S.

The hosts go on to discuss news that Acura will be bringing to the North American market a 3-row crossover larger than the brand's popular midsize MDX. Note that the MDX is also offered with 3rd seating row, though the accommodations are less than generous.

Also discussed in the first segment is Nissan's plan to pull ahead the launch of the redesigned Rogue compact crossover. Already rescheduled from a mid-2027 rollout to a January introduction, the Rogue is now expected as early as this October. Listen in to learn why this updated crossover is so important to the Japanese carmaker.

Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the all-new Mercedes-Benz CLA250+ EV sedan. Jill's range was surprising, as was the compact Mercedes' base price.

In the second segment the hosts welcome Tim Esterdahl of Pickup Truck plus SUV Talk. Tim shares insights into the massive ongoing Toyota-truck V6-engine recall, which will in some cases require a complete engine replacement. How long does it take to replace a truck engine? Listen in for details.

Tim also shares news regarding his new We Talk Cars project, which expands his coverage beyond trucks and crossovers, and will include car reviews, consumer information, and buying guides.

In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom's "Ten Years Later" quiz. Tom also shares some insights regarding EV startup carmaker Lucid, and its construction of a car factor in Saudi Arabia.

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Tom opens the show listing for Jill a series of possible names for future off-road oriented crossover trim levels. Staying on topic, the hosts discuss plans for Lincoln to introduce a body-on-frame off-road model based on Ford's popular Bronco SUV. The new truck may arrive in showrooms before 2030.

Tom talks briefly about the 2026 RAV4 Woodland PHEV he recently evaluated. He is very impressed by the ride and handling, less so with the compact crossover's big-guy space. Listen in for details.

Still in the first segment, Jill reviews Kia's most affordable model, the K4 compact car. Her test vehicle came in sporty GT-Line Turbo trim in new-for-2026 hatchback guise. What does Jill think of her $32,000 ride? Listen in for details.

In the next segment Jill and Tom are joined by Chip Lupo of WalletHub. Chip shares results of a WalletHub study identifying the U.S. states in which consumers are making the highest car payments relative to that state's median income. Listen in to hear a list of the top-ten states.

In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom's "Fake Plymouth" quiz. Listen in to hear how Jill does.

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Jill and Tom open the show by admitting that they are less than startled by the news of a 4-door Mustang, which rumor has it, will arrive by the 2029 or 2030 model year. While Mustang loyalists may resent the use of the Mustang name on a sedan, it has, as Jill points out, already been used on the Mustang Mach-E electric crossover.

Tom notes that the Volvo lineup has been pared down for 2027, listen in to learn what body type has been dropped entirely in this market by the Swedish carmaker.

Tom spoke briefly about the "Yen Crisis," which has the U.S. dollar soaring in value relative to the Japanese currency. Short term, the weakened Yen means greater profit for Japanese carmakers, the low valuation also means that imported parts and raw materials are becoming more expensive.

Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the 2026 Ford Explorer in new Tremor off-road trim. The Tremor trim level includes more trail-ready equipment than many similar-mission crossovers--for a price. Listen in for Jill's complete review.

In the second segment, the hosts welcome Harvey Briggs of automotive news and review site https://ridesanddrives.com/. Harvey talks about the state of Indycar racing, and the upcoming Freedom 250 race in Washington D.C. Harvey has three podcasts planned to cover the event.

In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom's "Gone in 60 Seconds" quiz. Tom wraps up the show with some quick thoughts on the redesigned Chrysler Pacifica minivan.

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Jill and Tom open the show discussing Ford's just named $30,000 small electric pickup, the Fathom. Ford did not share pictures of its "Model T Moment" new model, but promised that deliveries will begin by the end of 2027.

Tom discussed the GMC Jimmy, a Toyota 4Runner-like body-on-frame SUV rumored for production around 2030. A companion model does not appear to be in the cards for Chevrolet.

Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the Dodge Durango midsize crossover. Dodge's long-lived family-friendly model has been given a new lease on life--this due to rolled back fuel economy standards--and now boasts a slate of exciting engine options. Listen in to hear Jill's take.

In the second segment the hosts welcome John Vincent of U.S. News and World Report. John has written a pair of stories recognizing the 50th anniversary of the Honda Accord. John has owned several Accords, and has a lot to say about the car's importance in U.S. automotive history. Listen in for a great conversation.

In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom's "30 MPG?" quiz. And, as an addendum to last week's Honda Prelude review, Tom clarifies a couple of points regarding varying hybrid systems.

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Jill and Tom open this week's show addressing rumors of a coming Honda Accord model designed to compete directly with the popular Subaru Outback. The Honda wagon would--per rumor--enjoy a raised ride height, off-road trim, and standard AWD. Honda denies the rumor, though sources suggest the new Accord could be in showrooms for the 2030 model year.

Also discussed this week is Audi's new large crossover, the Q9. With its new largest model, the German luxury carmaker looks to woo shoppers away from the likes of the BMW X7, Lexus LX, and Mercedes-Benz GLS. Listen in for prices and trim-level information.

Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the 2026 Honda Prelude. The sporty 2-door to some degree replaces the discontinued Civic coupe in Honda showrooms, and is offered only as a hybrid. Listen in for Jill's take on this all-new Honda with a heritage name.

In the second segment, the hosts welcome Dave Thomas of CDK Global to the podcast. Dave shares insights gleaned from a number of research projects conducted by CDK, including an owner study which suggests that EV operators are far happier with their vehicles than is commonly understood. Listen in for details.

In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom's "Is it Turbocharged?" survey, which includes a Jack-in-the-Box menu-item bonus question.

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Jill and Tom open the show by wishing Chicago radio friend and legend Steve King a happy birthday. Steve shares his birthday with none other than Mick Jagger.

Tom shares details--what few there are--regarding a new Range Rover model due in U.S. showrooms within the next 36 months. The Range Rover GT is a sedan-like midsize/large crossover that will debut as an EV, and be made available later as a gasoline/hybrid model. Given its low profile, Tom questions the extent to which the GT will be a true off-road performer, like other Range Rover models.

The hosts talk about the planned hiatus of the Honda Ridgeline midsize pickup truck. The truck is schedule to disappear from Honda showrooms after the 2026 model year, reappearing for the 2028 or 2029 model year. The new Ridgeline will be completely redesigned, and is said to feature a hybrid V6 powertrain.

Still in the first segment, Jill and Tom review the new Lucid Gravity electric midsize crossover. The high-design EV mostly impresses, but a few software glitches left the hosts scratching their heads.

In the second segment Jill and Tom welcome industry analyst Jamie Butters to the program. Jamie shares news regarding his new radio show, and walks the hosts through a number of big stories that broke this past week, including Ford opening a factory in Spain to Chinese-car production.

In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom's "Which is Cheaper?" quiz, and the duo chat with producer Margaret about the team's group visit to Chicago's legendary Superdawg Drive-in. Listen in to hear what Tom, a vegetarian, orders at the Midwest's most-popular Drive-in.

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Jill and Tom open the show reviewing news from the city of Toledo where three members of a family perished in a crossover last week as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning. Little is known at this point regarding the tragedy, except that the vehicle was running with the air conditioning in use.

The hosts also discussed recent news that potential EV shoppers no long worry about vehicle range as much as they do home charging. Listen in for why this might be the case.

Tom notes that, five years into its run, the Ford F-150 PowerBoost (hybrid) does not seem to be generating as much consumer interest as might have been initially expected. Price may be an issue, or just a general lack of interest in hybrids by large-Pickup buyers.

Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the redesigned Mazda CX-5 compact crossover. Has the CX-5 lost some of its "Mazdaness?" Listen in for details.

in the second segment, the hosts welcome Jeremy Barnes of Mitsubishi to the show. Jeremy talks about the the maker's updated Outlander compact crossover, as well as its Mitsubishi Motors Momentum 2030 business plan. Mitsubishi plans to roll out a new model every year until 2030 in the U.S. market. Listen in for details.

In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom's "Is it a VW Trim Level?" Quiz. Listen in to see how she scored.

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In place of the traveling Jill, Tom is joined this week by Brendan Appel of the Sons of Speed. Tom and Brendan open the show discussing updates to the 2027 Corvette, including a new base engine which lifts the cars top speed to 200 mph.

The hosts go on to discuss Volkswagen's sales and financial woes. Though relatively healthy here in the U.S., the German carmaker is feeling the impact of poor sales in Europe and in China. Volkswagen is looking to cut manufacturing capacity from about 12 million units to 9 million, but faces stiff push back from European labor unions.

In the second segment, Tom and Brendan welcome Bodie Grimm, host of the Kilowatt podcast. Bodie shares his insights into the EV market place, and looks ahead as carmakers struggle to sell electric vehicles in the U.S. and other markets. Bodie also shares a music listening suggestion for Tom.

In the last segment, Brendan is subjected to Tom's "Corvette!" quiz. Brendan also talks about shopping for a 3/4-ton truck with which to do some towing. Did Brendan make a truck purchase? Listen in for details.

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Jill and Tom open the show by acknowledging that the Subaru Outback, now less wagonlike, is reportedly selling well, despite the break with its design roots. Tom was worried it might not.

The hosts turn their attention to a series of spy photographs depicting what is claimed to be the Chrysler brand’s next products, the Airflow compact crossover, and the Arrow and Arrow Cross subcompact crossovers. Word has it the Airflow will arrive for the 2028 model year, and the Arrow and Arrow Cross shortly after that.

Tom turned the conversation to the bizarre news that Ferrari will offer a fake manual transmission in an upcoming version of the brand's 12Cylindri sports car. The 819-horsepower Ferrari will feature a conventional 8-speed automatic transmission, but also include a gated chrome shifter and functional clutch pedal. No word yet as to how the system feels relative to a conventional manual shifter, but we do know that European-market prices start just under $700,000.

Tom changed topics and wondered aloud if part of what is driving new-car transaction prices higher is the increase in the number of hybrid vehicles being purchased in the U.S. Jill isn’t so sure.

Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the compact Lexus IS sporty sedan.

In the second segment, the hosts welcome Sam Fiorani of AutoForecast Solutions to the show. Sam shares his take on the demise of Polestar, what to expect from the USMCA negotiations, and what’s new at the Boyertown Museum of Historic Automobiles.

In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Was it a Car Part” quiz.

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Jill and Tom open the show by discussing the shocking news that the Polestar brand will be leaving the U.S. at the end of this model. Tom questions why Polestar is not pushing back against this Commerce Department security decision.

Jill notes that as information regarding the all-new Chevrolet Silverado 1500 pickup is released, GMC has begun sharing tidbits--mostly photography--of the redesigned Sierra 1500. These launches are hugely important to General Motors, as the two trucks combined account for roughly one third of the carmaker's annual revenue.

In the 2nd segment, Jill and Tom talk to Jimmy Douglas of Plug, an online remarketer of used EVs. Listen in to learn how dealers are acquiring inventory of late-model used electric vehicles, and why this might be a good time to sell your EV. Also, it turns out that Jimmy is a big fan of the Volkswagen VR6 engine discussed recently by Tom.

In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom's "Bogus Blue" quiz, and has time to review the redesigned 2027 Kia Telluride 3-row crossover, which can now be had in hybrid form.

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