Best Consumer Guide Automotive Podcasts (2026)

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Nissan Kicks Review, Confused by the Hemi, Boldy Looking into 2026 57:49

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1d ago57:49

57:49

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 fi…

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2025 Year in Review, Dodge Charger Sixpack Review, Automotive Bucket List 55:18

8d ago55:18

55:18

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 segme…

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F-150 Lightning Killed, ID. Buzz Halted, Restoring Classics Rides for Modern Drivers 56:58

15d ago56:58

56:58

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 electr…

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Operation Frodo 32:28

15d ago32:28

32:28

In this episode we meet with Nik Miles to discuss Operation Frodo, a dog rescue/transport operation started by Miles back in 2022. It all started with one dog. Frodo, one of the first pups to be rescued by Animal Rescue Rigs, inspired a cross-country mission that now saves dozens of dogs every winter — a journey of love, hope, and second chances.” …

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Failing EV Startups, Redesigned Kia Seltos, Chicago Auto Show News 55:45

22d ago55:45

55:45

Jill and Tom open this week’s show acknowledging that Vietnamese EV startup VinFast is likely to cease U.S. operations in the very near future. The hosts also note that another EV startup, Bollinger Motors, has called it quits. Tom discusses his time in the Jeep Wrangler, this example powered by the available 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, instead …

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Polestar Price Cuts, Ram 2500 Review, Best Films of the Past 40 Years 55:49

29d ago55:49

55:49

Jill and Tom open the show by discussing the recently rolled-back federal fuel-economy standards, and the implication for carmakers in the near term. Tom then shares—to his great amusement--the long, complicated, and multinational route by which the Polestar 4 crossover arrives in the United States. Hint: Five countries are involved. The hosts also…

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2026 Automotive Predictions 46:03

30d ago46:03

46:03

In this week’s episode we pull out the crystal ball to look at what might be coming down the automotive pipeline in 2026. From new tech to new cars, to sales numbers and everything in between, we take an in-depth look at what the future may hold. And, of course, we would love to hear what new cars or new tech you might be looking forward to in the …

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Lucid Gravity Review, Jeep Recon Reveal, Winter Driving Deep Dive 56:27

1M ago56:27

56:27

Jill and Tom open the show acknowledging a listener’s concerns regarding recent donut selections by Tom. This involves an apology to Producer Randy. (See the Car Stuff Podcast Facebook page for pictures of recent donut selections.) Tom discusses some issues he had driving the excellent 2026 Nissan Leaf EV crossover. Tom’s issues include getting sno…

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2026 Consumer Guide Best Buys 53:03

1M ago53:03

53:03

In this week’s episode we speak with Consumer Guide Automotive’s Tom Appel on the company’s 2026 Consumer Guide Best Buys. This is a comprehensive and insightful list covering everything from subcompact crossovers to SUVs and pickups to sporty cars and more. The list doesn’t just name one best buy either, it gives you a few options in each category…

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BMW X3, Future of Hands Free Driving, Jeep's New Engine 58:38

1M ago58:38

58:38

Jill and Tom open the show accepting the challenge of a listener. Tom was tasked to purchase more exciting donuts than the usual collection of double chocolates and powdered cinnamons. Listen in for this week’s expanded options list. Tom shares some interesting Jeep news. The updated 2026 Grand Cherokee will be optionally powered by Stellantis’ new…

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The Return of the HEMI (again)! 35:03

1M ago35:03

35:03

Inspired by the return of the ubiquitous HEMI, in this episode we discuss the best sounding engines of all time…and why it is the V10 from Porsche’s Carrera GT. At least in Jennifer’s opinion! What is it that makes a good sounding engine? Listen in as we discuss the living, breathing nature of engines and what makes them such an important part of t…

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2027 Kia Telluride, All-New Polestar 4, Plotting the Future of Infiniti 55:58

2M ago55:58

55:58

Tom opens the show by recapping briefly his time in the Lucid Air Touring electric luxury sedan. Tom is impressed by the Lucid, but does have one (big) complaint. The hosts go on to discuss rumors that Tesla will be ADDING the Apple CarPlay feature to some or all of its models in the near future. A huge new Honda recall will affect the owners of ce…

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Pain in the Gas 45:59

2M ago45:59

45:59

This week's episode takes a little political turn as we discuss Americas roadways, gas taxes, road use taxes, wheel taxes, and pretty much all the taxes on taxes that we pay to maintain our roadways. It's a rip-roaring romp that we hope you enjoy! Make sure to leave your comments on what you think about all these taxes and how we might make things …

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Celebrating 300 Episodes! Biggest News Stories of the Past 6 Years, Best $30,000 New Vehicles 56:48

2M ago56:48

56:48

To celebrate the 300th episode of the Car Stuff Podcast, Jill and Tom are joined by Jennifer Newman and Damon Bell of Cars.com. Jennifer was the podcast’s first guest, and Damon was co-host for the first three years of the show. Jennifer and Damon share the Cars.com picks for the best vehicles under $30,000. That conversation dovetailed nicely with…

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Automotive Advertising 43:54

2M ago43:54

43:54

In this episode we dig into Harvey’s background working for agencies that created some memorable ads for the auto industry. We also discuss some of our favorite automotive ads both in print and commercial formats. Here are links to some of the ads we discuss: Jeep Grand Wagoneer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wOyfMeqtFPk Imported From Detroit http…

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New Ram SUV, Subaru BRZ Review, Audi's High-Tech Headlights 58:03

2M ago58:03

58:03

Jill and Tom open the show discussing Tom’s take on the future of Apple CarPlay. You can read Tom’s recent blog post on the topic here. The hosts also discuss Ram’s new SUV, which is due sometime as a 2028 model. Expect the truck to be mechanically similar to the Jeep Grand Wagoneer. Next topic is a trio of boundary-pushing Lexus concept cars seen …

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Killing CarPlay, Driving the McLaren GT, Fuel Cells for Big Trucks 56:06

2M ago56:06

56:06

Paul Herrold of the Sons of Speed sits in for Jill this week. Jill will be back for next week’s show. Paul and Tom open the show by discussing consumer-battery maker Duracell’s foray into electric-vehicle charging. Duracell branded car chargers are showing up now in the U.K., and are expected to arrive in the U.S. in the not-to-distant future. The …

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Ford's "i-Pod" Steering Wheel, VW Golf R, Stellantis Manufacturing Shakeup 57:22

3M ago57:22

57:22

Jill returns this week after a two-show absence to participate in the 2025 edition of the Rebelle Rally. After Jill wraps up her thoughts on the event, Tom shares news regarding Toyota launching a new premium brand to be positioned above Lexus in the maker’s corporate portfolio. Tom goes onto complain about/fawn over the new steering wheel controls…

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Chevrolet Bolt Returns, Driving an Electric Lotus, Talking Big Pickups 56:53

3M ago56:53

56:53

Paul Herrold of the Sons of Speed sits in for Jill this week. The hosts open the show by discussing the reborn Chevrolet Bolt small electric crossover. Pricing comes in about $5000 below the least-expensive Chevy Equinox EV, at around $30,000. Paul and Tom also discussed the new Tesla Model 3 and Model Y “Standard" models, which are both priced aro…

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Jeep Drops Wagoneer, Cadillac Optiq Review, ChargePoint Hones Charging Network 56:25

3M ago56:25

56:25

Brendan Appel of the Sons of Speed sits in for Jill this week. Brendan and Tom open the show discussing rumors of the Jeep Wagoneer’s demise, which would leave just the Grand Wagoneer in Jeep’s lineup. The hosts share sales numbers for large SUVs--listen in to hear which large ute is the best-selling. Brendan shares his thoughts on the post-federal…

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Lexus Drops Model, Driving the Redesigned Leaf, Polestar Deep Dive 56:12

3M ago56:12

56:12

Jill and Tom open the show noting that the well-regarded Hyundai Kona EV small electric crossover is only offered in a dozen states, so availability is very limited. This point comes into play as the hosts discuss the redesigned Nissan Leaf later in the show. Tom shares news regarding new tariffs, this time on heavy-duty trucks. Interestingly, big-…

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Nissan Kills EV, Driving the Audi SQ8, Shopping for Car Insurance 54:50

4M ago54:50

54:50

Tom opens the show correcting two errors he made recently. Listen in to hear what he got wrong. Tom then shares the results of an X poll he conducted on Ferrari colors. Turns out white is NOT a popular choice for the Italian sports cars. The hosts also acknowledge the end of production for the Subaru Legacy midsize sedan. Jill notes that the car ne…

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Honda Civic Hybrid, Ram Kills EV, 1969 Camaro 56:24

4M ago56:24

56:24

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 hos…

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Chinese Door Handles, Volkswagen Tiguan Review, Toyota Learns from Motorsports 55:41

4M ago55:41

55:41

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” gaini…

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New Jeep Cherokee, Bronco Stroppe, Tariff Turmoil Explained 54:25

4M ago54:25

54:25

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. …

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Audi Price Hikes, Driving the New Solterra, Restoring Classic Cars as EVs 56:39

4M ago56:39

56:39

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 t…

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EV Startups Struggle, Acura ADX Review, Shrinking Big Cities and the Future of Mobility 55:46

5M ago55:46

55:46

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 cros…

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Ford's "Model T Moment," 2026 Palisade Review, Features Most Important to Value Shoppers 57:09

5M ago57:09

57:09

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 …

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Surprising Costco Car, Driving the Electric Escalade, All About the Subaru Forester Hybrid 56:37

5M ago56:37

56:37

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 hybr…

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Best Rides of 2025! 56:30

5M ago56:30

56:30

In this episode we discuss our personal favorite drives in the most recent model year. Some of these may be a surprise to you so stay tuned for the whole thing! Here are links to some of the video reviews of models we discuss: VW ID.Buzz: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XSHM2uisHPo&list=PLYkbK3AM742Uj6QPSXH9_I-zDRPLY_4SR&index=4&t=320s VW Golf R Co…

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Acura Drops Model, Dodge EV Impresses, Big Ram Changes for 2026 54:51

5M ago54:51

54:51

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 an…

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Hot Pursuit! Car chases and why we love them! 51:56

6M ago51:56

51:56

In this episode we get a little emotional about not only our favorite TV and movie car chases, but the cars themselves and how they become beloved characters just like the stars that drive them. What is your favorite movie or TV car chase? What about your favorite movie or TV car? Let us know in the comments below! For more: www.wearemotordriven.co…

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New Forester Hybrid, A Conversation with Chrysler CEO Chris Feuell 57:02

6M ago57:02

57:02

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-…

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Do Electric Vehicles Still Suck?! 1:00:17

6M ago1:00:17

1:00:17

In this week's episode, we discuss (vent about?) electric vehicles, the lack of infrastructure, and the government's push for OEM's to move to EVs. We agree that their are use cases for EVs, but they simply won't work for all applications. What are your thoughts on EVs? Would you buy one? If so, which one? Let us know in the comments! For more: www…

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Massive Ford Recalls, Subaru WRX, Best Cars for Teen Drivers 57:30

6M ago57:30

57:30

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 seg…

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General Motors EV Sales, Driving the BMW iX, Nissan Armada Deep Dive 56:21

6M ago56:21

56:21

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. To…

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Trucks! 1:12:49

6M ago1:12:49

1:12:49

Three out of four We Are Motor Driven podcast hosts have recently purchased pickup trucks. Why?! In this episode we discuss pickup trucks and why they are so popular in America. Special guest Aaron Bragman, Detroit Bureau Chief for Cars.com, educates us on some of the reasoning behind the success of pickup trucks. Our question of the week: Which pi…

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I Can't Drive 55 - Speed Limits 45:30

6M ago45:30

45:30

Do you speed? Should you speed? Are speed limits high enough in the US? Does Brendan get mad at left lane squatters? We answer all these questions and many more in this episode of the WAMD podcast. Tempers flare, attitudes are checked, and we have one of our most animated conversations yet in this fast-paced discussion on all things speed. Question…

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Future for Fuel Cells, New Honda CR-V Trailsport, Remembering American Motors 56:05

6M ago56:05

56:05

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 mob…

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Leave It on the Track with guest Randy Pobst 1:20:58

7M ago1:20:58

1:20:58

In this week's episode we discuss how to step up your performance driving game. From autocross to full-on racing we talk about what it takes to prepare for these experiences and how they will make you a better driver. And speaking of better drivers, we also have a chat with Randy Pobst on his racing experiences and his thoughts on performance drivi…

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Ram Sweetens Pot, Cadillac Optiq Review, Ranking the Most American Made Vehicles 56:10

7M ago56:10

56:10

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 t…

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Give Me Buttons, or Give Me Death! Tech in cars 46:33

7M ago46:33

46:33

In this episode, we discuss technology in cars. Is it making things "safer" for drivers, or is it really enabling drivers to be more distracted? From touchscreens to sifting through menus for your HVAC controls, we have a little heated discussion on what does and doesn't work in modern car technology. This week's question for our listeners: What te…

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Blazer EV Tweaks, Nissan Murano Review, China's Massive EV Machine 56:28

7M ago56:28

56:28

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. T…

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And then they killed it! Car brands that have disappeared 56:32

7M ago56:32

56:32

In this week's episode, we discuss several defunct car brands and why they may have disappeared. From Packard to DeLorean, Vector to Oldsmobile...even Paul, Brendan, and Harvey's favorite Eagle...we have a heated discussion on how and why these brands went away. Our hosts also ponder which current car brands should, perhaps, go away. Question for t…

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Hemi is Back, Cybercab Realities, Driving the Rolls-Royce Ghost 55:43

7M ago55:43

55:43

Paul Herrold 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 Ro…

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You've Got the Look - Car Design 1:03:07

7M ago1:03:07

1:03:07

In this episode we talk about the most beautiful and impactful car designs. From posters on bedroom walls, to magazine covers, to the cars that were TV stars, what is it that makes a car attractive? We also speak with Alessio Minchella who currently works at Automobili Pininfarina...one of the most well-known design houses in the world...to hear wh…

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Three Quick SUV Reviews, Huge Ford Recall, Best Small Crossovers of 2025 56:27

7M ago56:27

56:27

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 t…

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EV Sales Growth, All-New RAV4, Ford Auto-Tech Scholarships 53:40

8M ago53:40

53:40

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…

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Work it baby, work it! Saving the manual transmission! 1:00:47

8M ago1:00:47

1:00:47

In this episode we discuss the three-pedal option...the manual. Why are they going away? Why won't OEM's give enthusiasts what they want? We also bring in Megan Closset, Sales Operations Manager at Volkswagen Group of America...and manual transmission supporter...for an expert opinion on this hot topic. Don't forget to visit https://www.youtube.com…

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Cybertruck Tires, New Ford Expedition, Working at a Start-up Auto Company 57:01

8M ago57:01

57:01

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…