Episodit

  • Jill and Tom opened the show addressing a couple of future topics: Federal incentives for used electric vehicles, and the number of Chinese-built models sold in Mexico by Chevrolet. Next, Tom apologized to Sam Fiorani for making yet another model-year mistake. Tom also shared his preliminary take on the updated-for-2025 Ford Explorer midsize crossover.

    Still in the first segment, Jill shared news regarding her new ride for this year’s Rebelle Rally, and walked listeners through the list of vehicles eligible for the 2025 North American Car of the Year awards. The list is crowded; listen in for details.

    In the second segment Jill and Tom welcome Jamie Butters, Executive Editor of Automotive News to the show. After sharing his take on the recently announced, but as yet undefined, General Motors and Hyundai cooperative effort, Jamie shared insights from AN’s Future Product Pipeline series. Jamie also shared his thoughts on the future of the Jaguar brand in the U.S.

    In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Stellantis!” quiz. Jill also wrapped up this week’s show with her review of the new all-electric Volvo EX90 midsize electric crossover.

  • Sitting in for Jill this week is Tom’s friend, engineer and car guy David Piluski. Dave and Tom opened the show addressing a mistake Tom made—called out by Tom’s mother—last week. Tom misidentified the longtime singer of the classic “See the U.S.A. in Your Chevrolet” ad/song as Doris Day, though as noted by his mom, the song was sung by Dinah Shore. Listen in to hear a clip of the song.

    Dave and Tom addressed a second error from last week, this one called out by listener Celio. Dave went on to share a story about how a rental Dodge Shadow Convertible—back in the early Nineties—suffered from so much body flex that the doors would not close on a gentle incline.

    Still in the first segment, Tom shared his impressions of the all-new—and surprisingly luxurious—Mazda CX-70 2-row midsize crossover. Tom also reviewed the exotic-looking Lexus LC 500 Convertible. Tom is baffled that the car does not sell better. Listen in for the full review.

    In the second segment, Dave and Tom are joined by comic, podcaster, and legendary Chicago radio host Steve Cochran. Steve talked about his podcast, and then shared stories about his first cars and learning to drive. Learn why Steve once gave away a car he owned at a radio-station promotional event.

    In the last segment Dave is subjected to Tom’s “1983!” quiz. To wrap up the show, Dave shared news regarding a California bill (SB961) now before Governor Gavin Newsom, which would require cars to alert drivers when the speed limit was being exceeded by more than 10 mph. Dave also talked about his own podcast.

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  • Jill and Tom are Joined in-studio by Brendan Appel this week. In the first segment Jill and Brendan respond to Tom’s impressions of the updated Genesis GV80 midsize crossover. The trio also discussed the pending engine-replacement recall facing owners of all 2022 and 2023 Toyota Tundras. The recall is reportedly going to require up to 24 hours of labor per vehicle.

    Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the 2024 AMG Mercedes-Benz GLC 43 Coupe. Jill was generally impressed by the “coupe” version of Mercedes’ compact crossover. Listen in for her complete take.

    In the second segment, the hosts welcome Mikhael Farah of Rivian to the program. Mikhael walked the crew through a number of news items, including Volkswagen’s investment in Rivan, coming small and subcompact Rivian crossovers, and the updated-for-2025 R1S and R1T models, which are on sale now.

    In the third segment, Jill and Brendan are subjected to Tom’s “Porsche Price” quiz.

  • Jill and Tom opened the show covering a couple of news stories, including how Mazda used substantial incentives to boost recent U.S.-market sales performance, and a how Volvo is extending its embargo of drive impressions of the 2025 EX90 electric midsize crossover, pushing back Jill’s official review.

    Still in the first segment Jill shared her impressions of the GMC Cayon midsize pickup truck in off-road-ready AT4X trim and equipped with the extreme AEV package. Though generally impressed, Jill shared a number of concerns regarding use of the Canyon as a daily driver, especially in urban environments.

    In the second segment the hosts are joined by friend Brendan Appel of the Sons of Speed. Brendan shared highlights of a couple of videos recently produced by the Sons, including a new addition to the outlet’s “The Lap” series featuring a Ford Mustang Dark Horse lapping Road America.

    Brendan shared his thoughts on the Mustang, and the car’s position in history, and it’s uncertain future.

    Brendan opted to join Jill for Tom’s “Was it a Pontiac?” quiz. Brendan wrapped up the show sharing a few thoughts on electric muscle cars, and the future of Dodge performance vehicles.

  • Jill and Tom opened the show with a brief acknowledgement of Ford’s plan to add 4-door and off-road “Baja” variants to the Mustang lineup. The hosts also discussed the trimmed-down model lineup and reduced prices of the 2025 Jeep Compass. Compass prices have been slashed by up to $2000 for '25.

    Also in the first segment, Jill reviewed the Honda Ridgeline TrailSport midsize pickup truck. Though the least-capable—in terms of payload and towing capacity—model in the segment, the Ridgeline shines in terms of room, comfort, and handing. Listen in for Jill’s complete review.

    In the second segment the hosts welcome Stellantis Vice President of Advanced Colors and Material La Shirl Turner to the show. In a conversation primarily about car colors, La Shirl shared insights into how new colors are developed, and what her favorite current Stellantis colors are. (We will post examples on our Facebook page.)

    In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom’s “One or Two” car-price quiz, and Jill talked about her recent travels with eBay motors.

  • Tom opened the show complaining about people who spend too much time considering their selections at donut shops, specifically at Spunky Dunkers in Palatine, IL, when Tom is trying to pick up a 6-pack on his way to the studio.

    In a follow up to last week’s Ford Explorer review, Jill and Tom turned their attention to cars, and the news that GMC will be reducing the number of Terrain compact crossover trim levels to three for 2026, and just one for 2025. This is a follow up to Jill’s Explorer review from last episode, in which the hosts noted that Ford is slashing the number of that vehicle’s trim levels from eight to just four.

    Jill shared her drive impressions of the new-for-2025 Genesis GV80 Coupe. The 4-door midsize crossover deviates from the existing GV80 with its rakish roofline, more upscale trappings, and unique, higher-performance engine.

    In the second segment, Jill and Tom welcome Dan Sampson of the Los Angeles Auto Show to the podcast. During a great conversation, Dan addressed the notion that auto shows are going through a period of decline, shared news about new and returning brands to the show, and shared details regarding online access to the proceedings. The L.A. Show kicks off in late November.

    In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Real or Fake Auto Show” quiz, including a pumpkin-spice bonus question.

  • Jill and Tom opened the show noting that Chinese electric-car maker BYD is exploring developing a retail network in Canada. Tom explained why the Canadian market would be friendlier to Chinese imports than the U.S. The hosts went on to discuss recent U.S.-market sales growth for Mazda. The Japanese maker had recently made public it’s intention to take the Mazda brand upmarket, and early sales of its CX-50 and CX-90 models suggest that the project is successful. Tom also shared some fun data on the cities in which the Car stuff Podcast is most popular. (Hint: City number five isn’t in the U.S.)

    Jill shared her take of the freshened 2025 Ford Explorer, the maker’s popular midsize 3-row crossover. Jill shared her drive impressions, plus explained why the updated SUV is offered in fewer trim levels for 2025.

    In the second segment, Jill and Tom are joined by Ford Heritage Brand Manager Ted Ryan. Ted shared the history of Ford’s Chicago Assembly plant. The historic factory turned 100 years old this year, and is steeped in brand history. Listen in for a list of Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles built at the plant.

    In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Was it a Ford?” quiz. Tom also briefly shared his impressions of the Lexus LC 500, and Nissan Z Nismo.

  • Jill and Tom opened the show talking about the new ZR1 Corvette model. That new king-of-the-hill ‘Vette boasts a reported 1064 horsepower, and should hit showrooms later next year. The hosts each made base-price predictions. Tom read a listener letter, and chatted briefly about the wool seats in his test Volvo XC60 Recharge small crossover.

    Tom also shared his impressions of the all-new 2025 Infiniti QX80 large SUV. Tom had called the previous-generation QX80 the worst vehicle in its class. What does he think of the new version? Listen in.

    In the second segment Jill and Tom are joined by Don Sikora of Collectible Automobile magazine. Don walked the hosts through the current issue, and shared some insights into the 1994-1996 Chevrolet Impala SS featured this month. Don was also forced to indulge Tom’s reading of a series of potential feature cars for upcoming issues.

    In the last segment Jill is forced to endure Tom’s “Which Sold Better?” quiz, featuring a bonus question about the snacks available at Buc-ee’s.

  • Jill and Tom are both in studio this week. The show opened with Tom reading an email from a listener. Apparently Tom’s Studebaker history is a little shaky. The conversation turned to a number of topics, including too-long model names, the sale of 3000 Fisker crossovers to a ride-hailing-vehicle lessor, and a surprisingly hot-selling Jeep model.

    Still in the first segment, Jill shared her impressions of the 2024 Acura TLX premium midsize sedan. Both hosts agree that the slow-selling 4-door is underappreciated. Listen in for Jill’s complete review.

    In the second segment Jill and Tom welcome Sam Abuelsamid, Analyst with Guidehouse Insights to the show. Sam walked the hosts through the current state of the EV market, and talked about what to expect in the second half of 2024. Sam also talked about the pace of new-technology EV battery development, including solid-state cells.

    In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Mo’ Spellin’” quiz. To close out the show, jill highlighted an article she posted recently regarding General Motors’ move away from Apple CarPlay.

  • Jill and Tom are both in studio this week. The conversation opened with a summary of cars being dropped by Jaguar and Nissan in the near future. Effective almost immediately, Jaguar is dropping all but one model from its lineup. Listen in for the full list. Likewise, Nissan is dropping two of its three remaining U.S.-market sedans beginning next year.

    In other news, the hosts discussed IONNA--the carmaker-backed charging network with stations going live later this year—and the addition of Toyota to the roster car companies supporting the program. Still in the first segment, Jill shared her impressions of the updated-for-2025 Acura MDX premium midsize crossover.

    In the second segment, Jill and Tom welcome Patrick Masterson of Cars.com to the show. Patrick walked the hosts through Car’s 2024 American Made Index. This list is—again—full of surprises. How American is the new car you’re looking at? Listen in for details.

    In the third segment Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Is it a Chrysler” quiz.

  • Jill and Tom opened the episode discussing the “Velocity Package” available for the Cadillac Lyriq. Available as an over-the-air software update (no dealer visit required), the package increases power and performance for $1200. Is it worth the money? Listen in.

    The hosts discussed the new, lower, price of a Fisker Ocean—just approved by a bankruptcy court. Second-quarter sales figures are coming in, and Jill and Tom shared a few highlights, including disappointing Jeep numbers, and surprisingly strong EV figures.

    In the second segment Jill and Tom welcome Toyota Product-Education Specialist Thomas Sondej to the show. Thomas updated the crew on the all-new Toyota Crown Signia, a wagon-like variant of the Crown sedan being added to the brand lineup for 2025. Per Thomas, the Crown Signia is due in showrooms shortly.

    In the third segment Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Which Weighs More?” quiz. The Hosts wrapped up the show chatting about Jill’s seat time in the freshened-for-2025 Lexus UX, the most-affordable vehicle in the luxury brand’s lineup.

  • Jill and Tom are in-studio this week for a far-reaching number of topics. Tom quickly updated everyone on the CDk Global/dealership-hacking crisis, which will reportedly be resolved later this week. The hosts briefly discussed Tesla’s second quarter of disappointing sales, this while overall EV sales are projected to rise.

    Still in the first segment, Jill and Tom chatted about the Rivian/Volkswagen deal, which sees Rivian infused with a quick $1 billion—with the promise of additional funding at later dates—and VW gaining access to Rivian’s EV software architecture.

    In the second segment, Jill and Tom are joined by Sam Fiorani of AutoForecast Solutions. Sam updated the hosts on several of the most-prominent—and most threatening to Western automakers—Chinese carmakers.

    Sam’s tutorial included makers BYD, Chery, Geely, and Great Wall. Sam warns that Western carmakers dismiss these up-and-coming global players at their own risk.

    In the last segment, Jill is subject to a spelling quiz, tasked with spelling model names including Avanti, Reatta, and Ciera.

  • Jill and Tom are both in studio today. The hosts began the program discussing the week’s big news, a malicious attack on the network of CDK Global, a dealership-services company which provides critical software support for roughly half of the nation’s 30,000 new-car dealers. Down since last week, CDK has not, as of this recording, made public an estimated restoration time/date for the network.

    Jill shared her impressions of the new-for-2025 Toyota Camry. The nation’s best-selling sedan features a number of surprises, including an all-hybrid powertrain lineup.

    Still in the first segment, Jill and Tom discussed a potential consumer worry point: COVID Cars. Cars which were built during the auto-industry COVID slowdown were often assembled minus key features, this to maintain production during the epidemic-related microchip shortage. Some of those cars are now returning to market, and may be missing certain equipment--which may affect value and desirability. How can consumers protect themselves? Listen in.

    In the second segment Jill and Tom are joined by freelance auto journalist and industry expert Ed Piotrowski. Ed spent some time behind wheel recently of some very-expensive, but surprisingly capable, luxury crossovers and SUVs. Listen in to get Ed’s take on the vehicles, and the expanding movement to offer off-road-ready variants of popular midsize crossovers.

    Ed joined Jill for this week’s “More Fake Trim Levels” quiz. Both contestants did well, but only one won.

  • Jill is back in studio this week, and recounted for Tom her recent travels and product evaluations. Tom went on to share what he has learned from a series of brief conversations with Amazon delivery drivers who have spent time with the Rivian EDV electric van; the feedback is interesting.

    Still in the first segment, the hosts discussed Jeep’s recently announced $25,000 electric vehicle. To be called Renegade, the subcompact electric crossover is due to arrive for the 2027 model year. Jill then shared her impressions of the all-new Chevrolet Equinox EV compact electric crossover. Jill’s take is mostly positive, though she has serious concerns regarding connectivity. Listen in to hear Jill discuss her issues. The Equinox EV starts at less than $30,000 once the federal tax credit is applied.

    In the second segment Jill and Tom welcome Joe Ligo, producer of The last Independent Automaker, a documentary about carmaker American Motors. Joe walked the hosts through the formation and early days of American Motors, as well as the maker’s decision to produce its lineup of Eagle AWD vehicles. Listen in for details regarding the documentary’s release day.

    In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Under $60,000?” quiz, featuring a bonus question about the Jackson Five. The hosts then quickly shared a list of a dozen cars that will soon be discontinued.

  • Larry Nutson of The Auto Channel sits in for Jill this week. Larry and Tom opened the show discussing one of Tom’s random X/Twitter polls, which included the option of owning a Fisker ocean. Listen in for details.

    Among the many first-segment topics covered by the hosts, Larry talked about renting an electric vehicle, a process he found generally pleasant and uneventful. Larry and Tom also discussed a recent decision by the Governor of the State of Virginia to back out of its agreement with the State of California to enact and maintain the latter state’s zero-emissions vehicle rules and adoption targets.

    In the second segment, Larry shares an update on the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program (NEVI), enacted as part of the Inflation Reduction Act. Responding to critics’ complaints that the EV charging-infrastructure program is moving too slowly, Larry broke down the process by which individual states must develop plans and obtain federal approval to access funding.

    In the last segment, Larry is subjected to Tom’s “Men of the Auto Industry” quiz. Do you know what the “P” in Walter P. Chrysler stands for?

  • In for Jill this week is long-time friend of the Show Damon Bell of Cars.com. Damon and Tom opened the show talking about Car.com's long-term Tesla Model Y, and its replacement in the Cars fleet, the all-new 3-row Kia EV9 electric crossover. While the Model Y was generally reliable, small glitches compromised its overall appeal to the Cars staff; listen in for more details. As for the Kia, Damon is so far impressed. Cars will publish regular updates of the EV9's performance and utility. (Visit the Car Stuff Podcast Facebook page for a link.)

    In the second segment, the hosts welcome CDK Global Director of Content Marketing Dave Thomas. Dave shared insights into dealer attitudes toward electric vehicles and EV marketing, and their optimism--or lack thereof--regarding the near- and mid-term success of carmaker EV programs.

    In the last segment Damon is subject to Tom's "Is it a Lexus?" Quiz.



  • Jill and Tom are both in studio this week. The conversation started with a brief acknowledgment of the IRS-approved federal mileage reimbursement rate. Is it still the same as the cost of a first-class stamp?

    The hosts went on to discuss the hyper-affordable Chinese-built BYD Seagull, a $10,000 electric car that could be on a journey to the American market. Jill and Tom also went on to discuss the current new-vehicle redesign cadence, which has grown very long for some vehicles, including the Toyota 4Runner. Jill also shared her take on the Genesis GV80 premium midsize crossover.

    In the second segment the hosts welcome Ed Kim, President and Chief Analyst at AutoPacific. Ed shared the results of a study recently conducted by his firm regarding American consumer attitudes towards Chinese vehicles. The results are surprising.

    In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Fake Option Package” quiz.

  • Jill is out this week driving electric Chevys. In her place are both Sons of Speed, Paul Herrold and Brendan Appel. The conversation opened with Tom noting Jill’s dismay regarding Chevy’s decision to drop Apple CarPlay connectivity from coming EV products. Brendan echoed Jill's sentiment, noting that the move would likely alienate a certain number of consumers.


    Paul shared his take on the recent NHRA Nationals event at Route 66 Raceway in Elwood, Illinois. He described the sound--and the palpable engine pounding--that defines an NHRA event. Paul recommends making use of the free earplugs.

    Paul and Brendan discussed a new review video available on TikTok. The guys recently posted a quick overview of the Genesis G70 small sedan. Brendan applauded the car’s excellent steering feel, among other virtues.

    Tom shared his impressions of the Volvo S90 Recharge plug-in hybrid sedan he recently reviewed. Tom’s impressions are mostly favorable, but the car is far from perfect. Still, it looks great.

    In the second segment the crew welcome Kirk Bell of Motor Authority to the show. Kirk shared his insights regarding the state of the super-car market, and what it is that defines a vehicle as a super car. Kirk also discussed his take on the electrification of high-performance vehicles.

    It the third segment Paul and Brendan are subjected to Tom’s “Still Stick?” quiz. The crew went on to discuss recent EV sales numbers, noting that though Tesla sales are in steep decline, the pioneering electric-car maker still dominates the North American market. That said, Ford’s recent EV sales improvement should be recognized.

    Note: Links to all of these reviews and articles can be found on the Car Stuff Podcast Facebook page, and at Consumerguide.com.

  • Jill and Tom opened this week’s show by bidding farewell to the Chevrolet Malibu. The long-running midsize model, available only as a sedan in recent years, is being discontinued by General Motors to make production space for an all-new Chevrolet Bolt EV.

    The hosts also expressed their confusion regarding Tesla’s recent dismissal of the company’s charging-network staff. Tom commented on a rumor that Tesla may be positioning the charging division for a possible spinoff.

    Still in the first segment, Jill shares her impressions of the updated Subaru Forester, which features freshened styling, upgraded cabin appointments, and improved connectivity. The 2025 Forester goes on sale soon.

    In the second segment the hosts welcome Christian Appel of Nikola to the program. The Global Head of Product and Programs at Nikola, Christian talked about the company’s new hydrogen fueling stations, its current fuel-cell and electric trucks, and future plans for the zero-emissions vehicle manufacturer.

    In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Is it a Pontiac?” quiz, and the hosts chatted briefly about the ongoing Nissan-product fire sale, which includes massive incentives on popular models.

  • Paul Herrold of the Sons of Speed sits in for Jill this week. The hosts opened the show talking about the Genesis G70 small sedan which Paul is currently evaluating. He is generally pleased with the vehicle, which is popularly considered an alternative to the BMW 3-Series.

    The hosts went on to discuss new—and needed—federal guidelines for Emergency Automatic Braking systems, which all vehicles will be required to be equipped with for the 2029 model year. There is currently a confusing array of systems offered, with varying degrees of functionality.

    Still in the first segment Tom had Paul guess which small crossovers were voted most popular in a recent series of Twitter/X polls. Listen in to hear how Paul did.

    In the second segment Paul and Tom welcome Sam Fiorani of AutoForecast Solutions back to the show. After talking about the recent uptick in hybrid sales, Sam explained the significance of a recent deal forged between Stellantis and Chinese EV start-up Leapmotors. Sam also explained why carmakers and trade wonks are so concerned about Chinese auto-related manufacturing in Mexico, and the potential impact of cars such as the $10,000 BYD Seagull on the U.S EV market.

    In the last segment Paul is subjected to Tom’s “Fake Trim Level” quiz, after which the hosts discussed the new Chevrolet Blazer EV PPV police vehicle.