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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.