Wheel Bearings

This week Robbie has the GMC Hummer EV SUV and Sam has the Kia Telluride X-Pro SX Prestige.In the news, Hyundai announces at its investor day that the Santa Fe will be its first EREV and Lincoln is bringing the Corsair back as a hybrid from China. Rivian R1s are getting a software update Honda is waiting to see what happens with US trade decisions before it finallizes plans for another factory. The Ford Maverick is getting both cheaper and more expensive and Nevada is getting up to 8,000 robotaxis.McDonalds won't serve a Benz patent motorwagen in the drive through and Aptera gets independent testing of its solar charging capability. Waking up from the Dreame Dream.LinksHyundai Motor Company Charts Profit-Driven Growth Roadmap at 2026 CEO Investor DayMore for Every Drive: Inside the 2027 Lincoln Corsair HybridRivian EVs Are Getting A Software Update That Makes It Easier To Dodge The CopsHonda's Next U.S. Factory Could Hinge On USMCA - JalopnikJeep Is Returning to China to Build Electric SUVs for the World - Autoblog2027 Ford Maverick EcoBoost Prices Cut By Up To $4,270 - CarsDirectDreame’s dream of a rocket-powered car is dead | The VergeToyota Celica set to be revived as AWD hybrid | AutocarNew 2028 Lotus Esprit to offer V6 in addition to hybrid V8 | AutocarAptera's Solar-Powered EV Can Go 47 Miles On Sun Power Alone—In TheoryBMW Just Hit 2 Million EVs Sold, And The iX3 Is Carrying The TeamDoes Ultra-Fast Charging Ruin An EV Battery? BYD Did It 350 Times In 9 Days To Find OutNo Food for You: McDonalds REJECTS the World's Oldest CarTesla, Uber, and Waymo all get the OK to operate thousands of robotaxis in NevadaAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week Robbie and Sam are joined by Craig Cole who has his own thoughts on the 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV. Robbie tells us about hauling band gear in the new Subaru Outback and Sam pontificates on the BMW XM.In the news, why are some automakers using NACS only for DC charging with a J1772 port of AC? Chinese regulators are forcing a recall of millions of cars with manual door latch backups that are too hard to find. Cadillac's midsize crossover finally gets a PHEV, but only in China for now. A recent rash of thefts from cars has Sam thinking about Faraday bags for key fobs. The next Mini cooper might ditch front wheel drive for the first time ever. Genesis launches a new 3-row electric SUV, the GV90 and puts a hybrid into the GV80 while Hyundai shows a new Tucson. Jalopnik highlights some of the wild machines created by George Barris and now you can protect the tax dollars you paid by putting a Flock Sock on a camera to keep the UV rays away.LinksGreenCars Review of the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV\New Bad Trend: NACS Ports That Can Only DC Fast Charge - YouTubeChinese Regulators Recall Millions Of EVs Because Their Mechanical Door Handles Are Too Hard To FindCadillac Launches XT5 PHEV in ChinaWhat Is a Faraday Bag and Do You Need One? | CarwowGet a Faraday BagWhy the Next MINI Cooper Might Ditch Front-Wheel DriveA NEW ICON’S ARRIVAL, GENESIS UNVEILS GV90 FLAGSHIP SUVGenesis Reveals Details on the Upcoming GV80 Hybrid’s Powertrain10 George Barris Custom-Built Cars Every Gearhead Should Know - JalopnikHot Album Drops Tied to Fatal Crash Rate Increases: Study2027 Hyundai Tucson First Look: Bigger, Boxier, Bolder3D-Printed Flock Sock Covers Flock Cameras To, Uh, Protect Them From UV Rays - JalopnikAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week Robbie and Sam are joined by Perry Stern. Perry has two cars to compare that are basically the same, the Lamborghini Revuelto and Chevrolet Bolt. Sam had the new Subaru Outback and Robbie drove the Dodge Charger R/T SixPack.Sam and Perry also drove the 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, mild hybrid and Eclipse Sportback. Kia has dropped price and range details for the EV3, GM cancelled the battery venture with Samsung, and is expanding its charging network with EVGo. Who buys Mansory cars? There's some new stuff from Acura, Cadillac and McLaren from Monterey car week. Also rich guys spent insane amounts of money at the Monterey auctions. The Ford Fathom is going to longer than we thought and Sam talks with Travis Wattles and Kevin Sittner from Mitsubishi.LinksAll-new 2027 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport revealed with head-turning design, rewarding features, and smarter techThe 2027 Kia EV3 Is Almost Here—With 280 Miles Of Range For The AWD Models2027 Kia EV3 Starts At Just $31,385, And The Model With 321 Miles Of Range Is $36,485 - JalopnikGM Walks Away From $3.5B Battery Factory, Leaving Samsung SDI In Full ControlMansory Turned the Ford GT Into a $1.8 Million Supercar Nobody Asked For - AutoblogFord Fathom on Track: Universal EV Production System Comes to Life at LAPAcura NEXERA Vision Debuts at Monterey Car Week, Redefining the Future of Acura DesignIntroducing the McL 6GT - YouTubeMcLaren McL 6GT: The new realisation of Bruce McLaren’s supercar dreamRace Bred, Street Cred: The Two Pedigrees of the Mustang Dark Horse SCCadillac unveils V-ONE conceptGM and EVGo open new Flagship Charging StationAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week Robbie and Sam are joined by Stephanie Brinley. Stephanie drove the Mercedes-Benz CLA and Lexus ES350e, Robbie had the Subaru Uncharted and Sam had the Jeep CherokeeSam also had a conversation with Dodge CEO Matt McAlear about the new new Super Bee and what's happening with the brand.LinksA2 e-tron sets new efficiency benchmark at AudiElectric Ford Fathom to Be Priced From $29,945 | GreenCarsThe 'Freedom Car' Aims The Right Idea At The Wrong VillainMercedes Boss Says The Auto Industry Went 'Too Far' With Removing ButtonsGrenading Ford 1.0-Liter Engines Pose 'Unreasonable Risk To Motor Vehicle Safety,' NHTSA Probe Finds - JalopnikEVgo SuperchargersDodge Charger Super BeeStellantis ARDCSRT eBoost AirThe Hyundai Ioniq 5 N Has A Range Problem. Smaller Wheels Helped A LotGM, Chinese automaker extend joint venture for 20 years despite geopolitical tensions with U.S.Get the Lectron Vortex PlusAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

It's just Sam and Robbie this week and Robbie has the BMW M5 Touring while Sam drove the Rivian R1T Quad.Audi took the wraps off its new Q9 three-row SUV this week while Mercedes-Benz went for the opposite end of the scale with the new GLA crossover. Zoox got a NHTSA waiver for its robotaxi and the feds are finally going to start working on AV regulations. Nissan and Honda are expected to partner on next-generation software platforms. If a bill in congress goes through, Mercedes-Benz could get booted from the US market and Jim Farley expects the Chinese to be here within a decade anyway. BYD is launching its new Racco Kei EV in Japan and NHTSA may also try to make door handles safer. Walmart is pushing ahead with deployment of its charging network while Florida wants to use EV charging funds to build infrastructure for eVTOL air taxis. LinksThe 2027 Audi Q9 Is the Largest Model In Automaker’s History and Its New FlagshipShaq’s One-Off Electric Coupe Just Turned Up In A Salvage Yard - Autoblog2027 Mercedes-Benz GLAZoox granted first-ever NHTSA commercial exemption for purpose-built robotaxiHonda and Nissan to jointly develop next-generation car operating system - The Japan TimesWalmart Is The Future Of EV Charging In America - The AutopianFord’s Jim Farley Warns Staff Chinese Cars Could Hit America Within 5-10 Years | CarscoopsUnder pressure over China backers, Mercedes CEO pledges to defend U.S. businessAurora reports Q2 results, details per-mile pricing - FreightWavesBYD launches the 'world's first' SDV kei EV, starting at just $13,000It Was a Trap? Electronic Car Door Handles May Finally Get SaferFlorida Got $200 Million For EV Chargers. It Wants To Spend It On Air Taxis InsteadAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week Sam had nothing scheduled so he drove his 1990 Miata around. Robbie joined in a bit late to tell us about the Lucid Gravity and Kia Telluride X-Pro SX Prestige while Nicole shared some thoughts on driving her spouse's Wrangler PHEV.Jalopnik provided a reader listicle on concepts that didn't translate well to production. Recurrent provided some data on rising prices of used EVs. Ford invited us out to Michigan Speedway to sample some products from its custom garage and see the new Bronco Desert Rising Edition. Ford also announced a partnership with GenerLink to make connecting an F-150 to the house for power backup easier. Ford is also going to be the first automaker to use Apple Maps in its upcoming Universal Electric Vehicle platform. Stellantis is adopting Mobileye's REM maps to enhance its ADAS systems and Mobileye CEO Amnon Shashua is retiring. Honda teased the next-gen Ridgeline that is still 2 years away and has stopped producing the Civic Si and Integra A-Spec with manual transmissions. We also have some listener emails.Finally we end the episode with some sad news, but don't worry, the show is going on.LinksThese Concept Cars Spawned The Most Disappointing Production Vehicles - JalopnikThese Are The 5 Best Used EV Deals For Range: StudyUsed EV values climbingApple Maps to Power the Navigation Experience for the Ford Universal Electric Vehicle PlatformDitch the Extension Cord Spaghetti: An Easier, More Affordable Way to Power Your HomeMobileye to Supply Cloud-Enhanced ADAS for Select Future Stellantis VehiclesSome People Love DIY Customization. Ford Built a Shortcut for Everyone ElseHow Utah's Desert Landscape Inspired New, Bold Ford Bronco DesignMobileye announces planned leadership transitionHonda Confirms Third-Generation Ridgeline Midsize Pickup with More Rugged Design, Arriving Within Two YearsHonda Civic Si And Manual Acura Integra Are Going To Die, But Only For A Little While - JalopnikHyundai’s 2027 Kona Shows Boxy Exterior Look, New Cockpit Design in Fresh Renderings - autoevolutionAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week Robbie has been driving the Ford Mustang Mach-e GT and Sam had the Ford F-150 Lariat PowerBoost HybridThere's lots of news including a Ford patent that could immobilize cars, a proposal for a VW Thing revival as an EREV and an Abarth version of the Fiat Topolino. A wagon version of the Polestar 4 has been spotted testing with a rear window and Volvo is planning to bring sedans and wagons back to the US. Horse has a range extender system with an axial flux motor and VW is considering building its China developed EVs in Germany.Sam drove the Rivian R2 and got a demo of the new interface from Wassym Bensaid. The Nissan Altima is dead in America and the Gordie Howe bridge is finally opening but Dongfeng EVs may not be allowed to cross it. GM is offering a discount to its customers for using the Ionna charging network and we have a bunch of listener mail. LinksFord Can Now Stop Some Vehicles Starting, Even With The Key - AutoblogHow I'd Redeem Volkswagen With A Revived, Range-Extended Type 181 'Thing' - The AutopianAbarth May Turn Fiat’s Tiny Topolino Into A 25-MPH Hot Rod - AutoblogFirst look: Polestar 4 SUV breaks cover ahead of September debut | AutocarNew range-extender hybrid uses supercar tech for efficiency boost | AutocarVolkswagen could build its Chinese saloons and SUVs in Europe | AutocarVolvo Could Bring An Electric Sedan And Wagon To U.S. By 2028: ReportThis Class-Action Lawsuit May Decide If an Automaker Owes You a Tariff RefundThe Nissan Altima, Once Inescapable, Is Finally DeadTrump's 'Much Better Deal' For Gordie Howe Bridge Isn't Much Better, But At Least It Has An Opening Date - JalopnikDongfeng Wants To Sell These Two EVs In Canada Next Year For Less Than $25,000 USD - JalopnikGeneral Motors EV drivers can now charge at over 120 IONNA locations nationwideFlock Says Its Cameras Worked 'Correctly' When Police Tracked and Ambushed Me for No ReasonAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week Robbie was driving the Chevy Trax and Sam had the Ford Maverick XLT Hybrid AWD and Subaru Uncharted GT.In the news we discuss our friend Joel getting tracked by flock for an allegedly stolen license plate on a press car. We also have longer loans, right to repair, testing driver response time with touch screens, AVs and first responders, the Fiat Topolino, new EU safety rules, an electric hot hatch from MG, and a proposal to require multiple sensor types for AVs in New Jersey.LinksHow Flock Cameras Wrongly Tracked Me For Days over ‘Stolen’ Plates and Sent Police After MeAlmost A Quarter Of New Car Buyers Got 7-Year Loans Last Quarter - JalopnikTouchscreens in cars are moving in the wrong direction | Vi BilägareFarmers Finally Get a John Deere Right to Repair Agreement That Doesn’t Screw Them OverNHTSA calls out autonomous cars for interfering with first responders - EngadgetAmerica’s cheapest new EV is smaller than a ping-pong table and tops out at 19mph | The VergeSafer cars, safer roads: New rules take effect - European CommissionThis New MG Concept Car That Recalls The Old MGB GT May Be Part Of A Coming Wave Of Hatchbacks - The AutopianNew Lexus LFA aims to win over EV sceptics with V10 feel | AutocarThe robotaxi law that could ban Tesla | The VergeNew Jersey could ban Tesla’s Robotaxi with one line about sensorsDeFlockAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Sam and Robbie both had the Ford Explorer Tremor this week and Nicole rounded out the Ford fest with the F-350 King Ranch PowerStroke duallie.Diesel cars are fading away in Europe and BMW has launched the next-generation X5 including an all electric iX5. California is bringing back some EV incentives for first-time buyers and the Kia Niro is going hybrid only for 2027. Thieves have been stealing truckloads of batteries from a Tesla factory and Ferrari is bringing back a simulated manual transmission.Sam also has a conversation with Christopher Maiwald, CEO and Founder of charger manufacturer Lectron.LinksDiesel's demise nears as Volkswagen axes diesel Golf after 50 years | AutocarWhy Ford's 3.0L Power Stroke Diesel Died An Ignoble Death - JalopnikNew California Incentive Gives Some First-Time EV Buyers $3,500 Instant Discount - JalopnikOur Readers Came Up With These Honest Auto Company Slogans - JalopnikThe New BMW X5 and iX5.UPCOMING 2027 KIA NIRO SHARPENS ITS HYBRID CROSSOVER FORMULA WITH REFRESHED STYLING AND EXPANDED TECHNOLOGYSomeone Keeps Stealing Entire Truckloads Of Tesla BatteriesPolestar Is Offering Up to $25,000 Off Its 3 and 4 EVsThe Ferrari 12Cilindri Manuale Might Just Save The Manual Transmission With A Modified DCT - The AutopianToyota Announces $3.6B Expansion, 2,000 New Jobs at its San Antonio PlantAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week Sam drove the Polestar 4 and Kia Sportage Hybrid. Robbie had the Sportage plug-in hybriid and Nicole had the Chevy Silverado EV Trail Boss.The Porsche Taycan is looking its wagon variants in America and gaining fake shifting. Chevrolet is redesigning the Silverado for 2027 with bigger V8s. Electrify America has opened a new 20 bay charging station in Santa Barbara. The Jeep Recon's range is even worse than anticipated and the Chevy Bolt has no battery reserve. The Hyundai Ioniq 6 N has beat the Lexus LFA's Ring time. Carvana is now selling new vehicles and GM's battery boss isn't confident in solid state cells.LinksPorsche is enhancing the driving experience of all Taycan modelsChevrolet Introduces the Next-Generation 2027 Silverado 1500, the Most Powerful and Advanced Silverado Everen/2026/jun/0516-chevrolet-next-generation-2027-silverado.htmlElectrify America Opens New EV Fast Charging Station in Santa Barbara, CaliforniaThe 2026 Jeep Recon’s EPA Rating Confirms It’s An Energy GuzzlerHyundai’s Electric Sedan Just Beat The Lexus LFA Around The Nürburgring - AutoblogRivian faces a class action lawsuit over self-driving in its early vehicles - EngadgetThe New Chevy Bolt Was Driven Until It Died. Here’s What Its Battery Buffer Looks LikeCarvana Quietly Bought Several Stellantis Dealerships And Now Sells New Cars Too - JalopnikHere's Where GM Will Install New Sodium-Ion Batteries | PodcastAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week Robbie has been driving the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid and Sam talks about the Cadillac Escalade IQ.We discuss the effect of speed on efficiency. BMW revealed a concept version of the upcoming electric M3. Audi showed the new Q7, the Nuvolari supercar and matrix LED lights for the new Q9. Genesis has a Magma GT3 sportscar coming. Mitsubishi has a rebadged Leaf and Subaru has 3 new manual transmission models. GM hosted a battery event in San Francisco and Dodge has a new fragrance for dads.LinksTTD June 12, 2026 - Operation Frodo EV 2026Design meets Performance: The BMW M Concept Neue Klasse – World premiere at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.GENESIS UNVEILS MAGMA GT3 CONCEPT AND OUTLINES NEXT-DECADE VISION AT 24 HOURS OF LE MANS DEBUTMitsubishi Motors to Debut New Electric Vehicle in North America, Vehicle to be Named “Eclipse Sportback”2027 Audi Q7Audi Nuvolari ConceptAn Audi-first for the US: Adaptive Lighting with Digital Matrix LED headlights arrive on the all-new Q9 flagship SUVSubaru Teases Three New Manual Models for 2027, Including New WRX STIDodge Charger Fragrance: One Spray Will Have Dad Firing on All CylindersGM Empower 2026: Scaling the future of electrification, batteries, and energyHow Redwood Materials Prioritizes SafetyAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week Robbie and Sam are on the road as part of Operation Frodo Electric 2026, transporting rescue dogs from the midwest to the Pacific Northwest in a fleet of EVs and they recorded live from a Kia EV9 somewhere on I-80 in Nebraska.This week Robbie drove the Kia K4 hatchback and Sam had the Honda Prelude.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week Nicole drove the new Subaru Outback Wilderness, Robbie had the Mercedes-Benz EQS 400 SUV and Sam had the Kia EV9.In the news, GM opened a new Pasadena design studio and showed off a couple of GMC Hummer concepts. Waymo is having some challenges with its Robotaxis while Zoox is making improvements. Slate will announce final pricing in a few weeks and Mitsubishi is partnering with Nissan for a new truck for North America. Honda is pausing production of the Ridgeline and Ford is decontenting the Bronco Sport and planning to revive the Escape as an EV. Mercedes could get barred from the US market if a new bill becomes law and Volvo gets approvals to keep selling its vehicles. Nicole went to see a crash test at IIHS.LinksGM officially opens new Advanced Design Pasadena Studio, reveals GMC HUMMER X truck and SUV conceptsViewer video shows Waymo stuck in floodwaters as flash flood warning hits Atlanta - YouTubeSame Driver, new vehicle: Welcoming our first riders trips in the OjaiLas Vegas Zoox May 2026Slate AutoMitsubishi's Getting Serious About Trucks in North America Again: TDSProduction of Honda Ridgeline Pausing Through 20282026 Ford Bronco Sport First Look: A Lot Less Stuff, But at Least It’s CheaperMercedes-Benz may be shut out of U.S. market under bill aimed at Chinese automaker ownershipVolvo Cars receives a specific authorization in the United States under the ICTS Connected Vehicles RuleFord Escape Revival Set For 2029 On Universal EV PlatformTesting The Hansshow Tesla Supercharger Extension Cable Didn't Turn Out As ExpectedWatching the Mazda CX-5 IIHS Crash Test Changed My View on Safety1959 Chevrolet Bel Air vs. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu IIHS crash testAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week Nicole was driving the 2026 Subaru Solterra and Sam had the Kia Sportage plug-in hybrid.In recent days, both AMG and Ferrari have revealed new four-door GT models with over 1,000-hp electric propulsion and the response has been very different between the two. Stellantis had their big investor day last week and announced a bunch of new products and Sam got to try out a couple of European models and see a bunch of secret stuff. Citroen is also bringing back the 2CV. Rich Rebuilds bought an $800 Audi A8 with slight corrosion issue.Watch out for AI images for ride share damage and whatever you do don't buy a Lordstown Endurance.LinksThe 777 HP 2027 Ram Rumble Bee is The Most Powerful Muscle Truck Ever!2027 Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupe Recreates Signature V8 Thrills-signature-v8-thrills/AMG Goes Electric with the Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door CoupeGrande Panda | FIAT | Stellantis MediaStellantis Announces FaSTLAne 2030A State Trooper Sold Me This $87,000 Luxury Car for $800ITS OFFICIALLY 😵 - YouTubeCitroën Is Bringing Back The 2CV Because EVs Got Too ExpensiveRideshare Passenger Got A Damage Bill — Then Noticed The Photo Had An AI Logo [Roundup] - View from the WingI Bought the Ultra-Rare Electric Truck You've Never Heard OfLandX Motors2028 Ferrari Luce First Look: Ferrari’s First EV Revealed—So Long, Comfort ZoneAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Nicole is back from Disney World and she caught lots of fish. Robbie got to drive the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Sam had the latest Nissan Sentra. Robbie and his wife also got a great deal buying a new Hyundai Ioniq 5 to replace the one that is ending its lease shortly which means he probably won't be getting the new 2027 VW ID Buzz Tourer. Honda had their annual business briefing where they made a big commitment to hybrids and showed prototypes of the new Accord and RDX. Tesla is testing supercharger waiting lists and Chrysler might be planning a sub-$30k car. Toyota is planning a new factory in Texas and also selling a driver ed special Corolla in Japan with no radio and a manual gearbox. Volvo wants to fill its South Carolina factory and will build cars for whoever needs capacity. BMW showed two wild concepts Concorso d"Eleganza. LinksThe VW ID Buzz Took a Year Off and Came Back With a MattressHonda Previews Hybrid Sedan Prototype During Global Honda Business BriefingAcura Previews Hybrid SUV Prototype During Global Honda Business BriefingSummary of 2026 Honda Business BriefingLotus unveils Focus 2030: Reinforcing brand DNA with all-new hybrid-V8 supercarBMW of North America Introduces Preferred Pricing at IONNA Charging Network.Tesla Is Now Testing A Virtual Waitlist For SuperchargersChrysler Showed Dealers A Sub-$30,000 Compact Resurrecting The Pronto Name From Great '90s Plymouth Concepts - JalopnikAfter 60 Years Of Corollas, Toyota Again Makes A Basic Manual Version With No Radio - The AutopianVolvo Is Opening its US Factory to Other BrandsAlleged Toyota Service Bulletin Warns of Looming Motor Oil ShortageBMW Motorrad presents the „BMW Motorrad Vision K18“ at the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este.VISION BMW ALPINA: SPEED, REFINED.‘Project Orca’: Toyota looks to Texas for new $2 billion U.S. assembly plant, filing showsJeep 4xe Fire: Insurance Denied! Now What?This Wood-Clad, Talking 1983 Chrysler LeBaron Was WAY Ahead of Its Time!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Nicole is spending mothers day at Disney World so our friend Stephanie Brinley has stepped in again. Steph drove the Volvo EX30 and Hyundai Tucson PHEV. Robbie drove the oldest car any of us has ever been in (or on) the Benz Patent Motorwagen and Sam had the new Nissan Leaf. Sam and Stephanie both got to visit the Ford EV Development Center in Long Beach, home of the skunk works. VW has launched the ID Era 9X, a very impressive 3-row EREV built only for China. Lexus announced the new TZ 3-row electric crossover. BMW announced pricing and range for the US spec iX3 and the addition of a pre-chamber ignition system for its six-cylinder engines. The Japanese and Chinese are developing a new joint charging connector called ChaoJi. Ford unveiled a new Carhatt edition Super Duty truck and Nicole went to see it and spoke with designers Steve Gilmore and Bhavna Mistry from Ford and Ben Ewey from Carhatt. LinksSomebody Put 223,000 Miles on a 3-Year Toyota Camry Lease and Walked AwayFord's Secret California Outpost Where It's Rethinking Its EV StrategyFord's Next Model T: Inside the UEV ProgramVolkswagen ID. Era 9X Is On Another Planet From Any Other VW Sold! You Have To See ThisALL-ELECTRIC THREE-ROW LUXURY: THE ALL-NEW 2027 LEXUS TZ2027 Ford Super Duty Carhartt Package: Built to Take the Same Abuse as Your CarharttChaoJi StandardBMW M Ignite technology: Innovative new technology for all six-cylinder in-line engines from BMW M.BMW Officially Announces Pricing and Range for 2027 BMW iX3 50 xDrive.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Nicole has returned from the Big Easy after driving the Acura MDX and eating beignets with too much powdered sugar (is there such a thing as too much?). She also drove the Infiniti QX65, Dodge Charger R/T and Kia Sportage. Sam had the Toyota Corolla FX and Robbie rented a Kia Carnival for a mini vacation.Fiat inexplicably raises the price of the 500e by $5,000 while Motor Trend drives a $10,000 Chinese EV that doesn't suck. The US spec BMW iX3 is projected to get 434 miles on a charge. The New York State Police are using new Mustang GTs to catch speeders. Dreame has created a ridiculous EV with solid rocket boosters. Lynk&Co has shown off a gorgeous electric GT coupe. Tesla is again shipping Chinese built EVs to Canada and Cadillac is building a very limited run of F1 edition CT5-V Blackwings.Links2027 Infiniti QX65 Review: Tennessee-Built Luxury SUV Offers Refined RideIs the 2026 Acura MDX Type S Worth It? | NewsNationFiat Raises 500e Price by $5,000 With Almost Nothing New - Autoblog2027 BMW iX3 Range Quietly Jumps To 434 Miles In The U.S.480-HP Ford Mustang GT Joins Police to Crack Down on Speeders - AutoblogWe Sent An Engineer To Check Out A Chinese Household-Appliance Company’s EV Rocket Car That Promises 0-60 in 0.9 Seconds. Here's What He Found - The AutopianThis Chinese EV Coupe Wouldn't Look Out Of Place In MonacoTesla starts selling Chinese-made Model 3s in Canada at the EV's lowest price ever - EngadgetI Just Drove a $10,000 Chinese EV. No, It Didn’t SuckBlackwing hits the track: Introducing the Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing F1® Collector SeriesSierra Meadows CabinsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week Nicole is off in New Orleans with Acura so our buddy John Voelcker is sitting in. He's been driving a bunch of stuff including the Ford Maverick hybrid, Porsche Taycan, Cadillac Escalade IQ, Jeep Cherokee and Subaru Trailseeker. Robbie drove the Hyundai Ioniq 5 XRT and Sam had the Lexus GX550 Overtrail.At Milan Design Week, Hyundai unveiled its new Ioniq 3 compact and Kia showed off the Vision Meta Turismo. Hyundai also showed off the new Ioniq V in Beijing. GM has paused development of a next set of electric full-size trucks and Rivian has launched production of the R2. Stellantis now has pet accessories under the Mopaw brand looks likely to focus on just four main brands going forward.LinksNew Hyundai Ioniq 3 breaks cover with stunning sci-fi looks | Auto ExpressStellantis Introduces MopawKia Presents Vision Meta Turismo at Milan Design Week, Redefining the Grand Tourer for the Digital AgeFirst Production Rivian R2 Drives Off The Line Just Days After A Tornado Hit The Factory - JalopnikGM Is Reportedly Delaying New Full-Size Electric Trucks As It Pivots Back To Gas-Powered Trucks And Hybrids - The AutopianHyundai Motor Reaffirms China Commitment at Auto China 2026, Unveils IONIQ V as First Step in New Product Offensive - ReleasesExclusive: Stellantis to focus funding on core car brands as CEO drives turnaround, sources say | ReutersAutomakers Pull Back on EVsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

After last week's travel challenges, Robbie and Nicole are back. Nicole has driven the Chevrolet Equinox EV and the Honda Pilot Elite while Sam had the Mazda MX-5 Miata 35th Anniversary Edition.Robbie tells us about the new Mercedes-Benz GLE and GLS and we discuss the company's new drive by wire system. GM is apparently going to build a new Buick sedan as well as a new Camaro. Nissan has a new electric Juke for the rest of the world and Porsche has a convertible 911 GT3 S/C with a manual transmission. Uber is pouring $10 billion into robotaxis. VW has a revamped with ID3 Neo with all the switches. Doug Field is leaving Ford and that might signal the end of the Model E division as it basically gets rolled back into the main Ford. Ford's cancelled 3-row electric crossover has been visible on Field's linkedin page for at least a year. Honda is killing it's e:Ny1 in the UK and the Ontario government and Unifor have rejected Stellantis' plan to assembly Leap Motor knockdown kits in Canada. The NTSB has issued its report on a pair of fatal BlueCruise crashes. Nicole interviews Mazda director of safety strategy and communications Jennifer Morrison and Lucid head of Air and Gravity product Rob Whitley.LinksMercedes-Benz GLE and GLSMercedes-benz steer by wireGM preps new Buick sedan alongside redesigned Cadillac CT5, Chevrolet Camaro, source saysThe First Electric Nissan Juke Is A Radical DepartureThe 2027 Porsche 911 GT3 S/C Is a Manual, Drop-Top Salute to the NA Flat-SixUber eyes $10B robotaxi investment: Financial Times | Smart Cities DiveWorld premiere of the ID.3 Neo: new name, new design, new interior and new technologies | Volkswagen NewsroomDoug Field leaves and Ford ReorgsHonda e:Ny1 Withdrawn from Sale in U.K. — DefinitelyNotAGuruStellantis Brampton plant plans stall after Leapmotor kit cars pitch rejectedFord's Never-Seen, Canceled Moonshot EV Has Been Hiding in Plain Sight Online for a Yearlain-sight-online-for-a-yearhttps://www.gminsidenews.com/threads/ford-aeros-photos-cancelled-3-row-ev.311092/?post_id=7445625&utm_click_loc=title&utm_source=threadloom&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=ed1081&utm_content=iss445&utm_campaign=ed1081&utm_content=iss445&utm_medium=email&utm_source=threadloom#post-7445625NTSB Finds Automation Overreliance Contributed to Two Fatal Ford BlueCruise CrashesAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Robbie and Nicole both ran into travel delays today so Chad Kirchner is jumping in. Sam makes the case for buying an Acura Integra A-Spec over the ADX.Nissan has revealed its next-generation Rogue and teased the upcoming XTerra. Kia is laying out its plans through 2030 including a midsize pickup with hybrid and EREV drivetrains and more EVs. Hyundai is launching an Ioniq sub-brand in China. BYD wants 20 dealers in Canada by the end of this year and is planning to install 300 1,500-kW charging stations in the UK in the next 12 months. VW has ended production of the ID4 in Chatanooga and the Scout Traveler and Terra might be delayed. Listener Michael Burns jumps in from the Discord to tell us about his recent car shopping experience and we have Nicole's interview with Nissan CMO Allyson Witherspoon from the NY Auto Show.Chad's Star Trek podcastGreyhound NationLinks2026 Kia CEO Investor Day: Kia to Drive Exponential Growth and Manufacturing Innovation by Expanding Its Full Electrified Vehicle Lineup and Strengthening Future Business CapabilitiesNext-Gen Toyota GR86 Set for Hybrid Era Without Losing Its Soul - AutoblogBYD confirms UK's fastest EV chargers: 1500kW network detailed | AutocarVolkswagen Updates Chattanooga Production Strategy | ReleasesScout's Terra Pickup May Not Arrive Until 2030: ReportBYD to open 20 Canada stores, eyes local EV factory - Automotive NewsHyundai Motor Company Launches IONIQ Lineup Brand in China with the Premiere of Two New Concept Cars - ReleasesAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Unfortunately, it's Robbie's turn to lose his voice this week so our pal Perry Stern stepped in which worked out well because he was also at the New York Auto Show with us last week and we have lots to talk about. Before that Nicole shares her thoughts on the Dodge Durango Hellcat, Perry drives the Toyota Tundra TRD Pro and Sam has the VW Jetta GLI.From the New York show we have the Hyundai Boulder, Kia Seltos, Kia EV3, Kia PV5 taxi, Volkswagen Atlas, and Subaru Getaway. Stellantis wants to build Leap Motor EVs in Canada and ride hail drivers are paying exhorbitant fees to rent cars.We also have a conversation with Gentex VP Craig Piersma about full display mirrors and Dodge/Chrysler CEO Matt McAlear.LinksHyundai Boulder Concept Takes Aim at Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco2027 Kia Seltos HEV Overview2027 Kia EV3 OverviewAll-new 2027 Volkswagen Atlas debuts at the New York International Auto Show | ReleasesKia and BraunAbility Unveil an All-Electric Wheelchair-Accessible Taxi Concept for New York2027 Subaru Getaway EV: 420 HP Three-Row Family SUV | KTLAThese Are The BEST And WORST Trucks At The 2026 New York Auto Show! - YouTubeStellantis wants to build Chinese Leapmotor EVs at its idled Canadian plant | ElectrekHow a Family of 3 Lives on $25,000 in Corona, QueensAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week Nicole has been driving the Hyundai Santa Cruz trucklet and Sam had the Genesis GV80 Coupe in Prestige Black (aka the Darth Vader edition).In the news, Infiniti unveiled the its own crossover coupe, the QX65 and Nicole spoke with product marketing manager Brian Maragno. Chevrolet took the wraps off the new Corvette Grand Sport and its 6.7-liter LS6 small-block V8. Afeela is finally calling it quits. VW CEO Thomas Schafer blames his predecessor for allowing the company to go with so many touch controls and bad door handles. We look back at the Audi R8 V12 TDI that never made it to production. Nissan has refreshed the Versa for the Mexican market but America can't have it. GM has started road testing of its hands-off, eyes-off level 3 automation. We remind all of our listeners to not be jackasses. E15 is coming to your local gas pump soon and Hyundai plans to launch 36 models by 2030.Links2027 Nissan Versa Specs Revealed—Is the U.S. Missing Out? - AutoblogAudi R8 V12 TDI: The 738lb ft diesel monster they couldn't build | AutocarIn the AutoblogGreen Garage: Audi Q7 4.2 TDIThe All-New Mercedes-Maybach VLS: A Grand Limousine Offering Peerless Comfort and A True Luxury Experience for PassengersGM begins supervised public-road testing of next-generation automated technologyDiscontinuation of Development and Launch of AFEELA 1 and the Second Model of AFEELA VehiclesInfiniti Adds Coupe-ified QX65 Midsize Crossover – Wheel BearingsChevy Is Bringing Back The LS V8, And This Time It’s A 6.7-Liter Lump Of American Muscle - The AutopianGenesis Might Be Building a 600-HP V8 GV70 Magma - AutoblogVolkswagen boss: “proper door handles and buttons are a non-negotiable for me” | Top GearBMW Driver Arrested After Road Raging Against Cyclists Then Trying To Arrange A Fight With One Of Them Over Instagram - The AutopianThe Feds Plan To Start Diluting Gasoline This May: ExplainedHyundai Accelerates North American Growth With 36 New and Enhanced Vehicle Launches Through 2030 - ReleasesAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Sam's getting better but his voice is still a bit hoarse as he drove the Infiniti QX60 Sport AWD. Nicole had her turn in the Kia K4 Hatchback GT-Line without a turbo and was still impressed.In the news, BMW has unveiled its new i3, an all-electric 3 series, with up to 440 miles of EPA range and 400-kW charging while Rolls-Royce has decided to keep offering V12s for a while. Lexus is about to start offering its next-generation ES sedan with the battery electric version arriving before the hybrid. Carvana is expanding from used to new car sales by buying some Stellantis dealers. A couple of people with shady business records are back as Trevor Milton pitches an AI powered business jet and Malcolm Bricklin is pitching an electric 3-wheeler. Stellantis EVs can officially Supercharge now and there are rumors of a more powerful Grand Sport Corvette for 2027.LinksThe new BMW i3. Second model of the Neue Klasse.2026 LEXUS ES LAUNCHES WITH BATTERY-ELECTRIC MODELS, NEW HYBRID COMING SOONYou Can Now Buy a NEW Jeep or Ram Without Ever Stepping Foot in a Dealership: Here's How!Convicted Nikola Fraudster Trevor Milton Gets The Team Back Together For One Last Job - JalopnikStellantis EVs can officially supercharge nowBMW Will Make V12 Engines Beyond 2030Bricklin 3EV: Coming Soon? | The Daily Drive | Consumer Guide®https://archive.abuelsamid.com/?p=3201Grander Than Grand? Rumors Suggest New Corvette V-8, Two 2027 C8 Grand Sport ModelsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week, Sam is a bit under the weather, but he talks about driving the Mazda CX-30 S Aire Edition while Nicole had the Toyota Tundra Platinum Off-Road and Robbie got to try out the Everrati Land Rover Classic.Nicole and Sam both had the chance to drive the new 2027 Kia Telluride in Santa Barbara and Hyundai looks set to follow it's Kia cousin by ditching the V6 engine. Honda has cancelled all of its North American EV plans and Afeela is probably going next. Rivian has dropped pricing on the new R2 and it's not starting as cheap as many hoped. GM steps up to help get an EV1 back on the road. VW is renaming its EVs and so is Cadillac. The FTC is warning car dealers about hidden fees, and Volvo is also dropping the EX30. We also have conversations with Zach Walker and Marc Winterhoff from Lucid and Kurt Kahl from Kia.Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.comLinks2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid First Drive: The Sweet Spot Before You Go Full EV | GreenCarshttps://www.testmiles.com/2027-kia-telluride-hybrid-more-space-better-mpg/The all-new PALISADE Performance | SUV - Hyundai WorldwideHonda Is Canceling All Its New Electric Cars For America As Gas Prices Soar - The AutopianHonda Killing Its EVs Might Mean Sony Is Screwed, Too - The AutopianRivian R2 Electric SUV: Price, Range & FeaturesGM Finally Does the Right Thing for an EV1The successor to the ID.3 is called ID.3 Neo. Digital product updates for ID.4, ID.5 and ID.7 | Volkswagen NewsroomCadillac’s Naming Convention Is Changing AgainTrump FTC warns 97 auto dealership groups about advertised prices - Automotive News.pdfVolkswagen's Component Locking Makes Home Repairs Too Expensive To Be Feasible - JalopnikFor Sale: Volvo EX30 Wheels, Never Turned - JalopnikEverratiAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week, Nicole tells us about driving home in a remote area of New England in the Range Rover Sport SE Dynamic while Robbie shares some thoughts on the new Mercedes-Benz GLS and GLE. Sam shares thoughts on the gas guzzling Toyota Sequoia and has mixed feelings on the Polestar 4.While visiting his daughter in Denver, Sam saw one of the new Waymo Ojai robotaxis in her neighborhood. Lexus announces pricing of the new 2026 ES which will start cheaper for the electric version than the hybrid. Scout Motors CEO Scott Keogh provides updates on the brand's progress toward production. Kia is dropping the EV6 GT from its US lineup and Hyundai is dropping standard versions of the Ioniq 6. Chris Fuell is out at Chrysler and replaced by Matt McAleer. Kia added a solar canopy to its West Point Georgia factory to protect cars from hail and make some power.BYD has launched a new version of its Blade battery that charges at up to 1,500-kW. Our pals at TFL have acquired a very dubious vehicle and Nicole shares thoughts on the base R/T version of the Hurricane-powered Dodge Charger. Sam recommends a croissant place in Denver.Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.comLinksWaymo robotaxis are now operating in 10 US cities | TechCrunch2026 Lexus ES Pricing Revealed, and the EV Costs Less Than the Hybrid2027 Scout Traveler and Terra Harvester EREV Details, Engine, and Launch UpdatesTariffs Just Killed the Kia EV6 GT in America - AutoblogDodge Brand CEO Matt McAlear Appointed as Chrysler Brand CEO and Head of Alfa Romeo Brand North AmericaKia Built a Massive Solar Canopy to Shield 15,000 Vehicles From HailBYD unveils Blade Battery 2.0: 10-70% in 5 mins, 10-97% in 9 mins, and 20,000 flash charging stations in 2026La Croissanterie DenverGarage Find - This Is By Far The Most Underrated 4x4 AND Now It’s Ours!Nicole Drives the 2026 Dodge Charger R/T in VermontAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Even as a non-fan of minivans, Nicole found some beauty in the latest Toyota Sienna with a hybrid system and all-wheel-drive, plus 18 cup-holders for all her diet Cokes. Sam drove the Volvo XC90 B6 and really enjoyed the new Kia K4 hatchback.The EPA published its latest annual Automotive Trends Report and US automakers still lag far behind the rest of the industry in fuel economy -- really far behind! Range Rover is preparing an electric replacement for the Velar and it looks like it will adopt a fastback profile. Toyota teased its new 2027 World Rally Championship machine and it might be a preview of a new Celica. The next Nissan Pathfinder might be two very different vehicles. Stellantis' huge 2025 losses mean no profit sharing checks this year. Researchers have found new ways to fool automated driving systems. Ford is reportedly developing a Lincoln SUV based on the Bronco and Rivian has established its Rivian Adventure Department or RAD!.Our complaints about the sound quality of Toyota four-cylinder engines are nothing compared to the cacophany that was GM's infamous Quad 4 of the late 1980s.LinksHonda is #1 Full-Line Automaker in Fuel Efficiency in Latest U.S. EPA Trends ReportDownload the Automotive Trends Report | US EPARange Rover saloon? Sleek new Velar EV sheds SUV cues | AutocarDid Toyota Just Soft-Launch the New Celica as Its Next Rally Car?The 2029 Nissan Pathfinder Will Share the Xterra’s Body-on-Frame Chassis, Report SaysALL-NEW 2026 SUBARU UNCHARTED EV ARRIVES WITH MORE THAN 300 MILES OF RANGE, STARTING AT $34,995 MSRPStellantis Reports Full Year 2025 Financial Results | Corporate Communications25-financial-resultsParking In Her Own Driveway Cost This Florida Woman $165,000 - JalopnikResearch Shows How Self-Driving AI Can Be Hijacked With Nothing But Ink and Paper-and-paperFord's Rumored Bronco-Based Lincoln Sounds Like It Might Be The Blackwood All Over Again - The Autopianall-over-again/Rivian Adventure DepartmentThree Decades Ago, Pontiac Managed To Offer More Noise, Vibration, and Harshness Per Liter Than Any Other Sport Sedan - The AutopianAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

We're a little late with this week's show because we were waiting for the embargo to lift on some stuff. Robbie drove the Aston Martin Vanquish Volante, Nicole had the Volvo XC40 and Sam had the 2025 Mazda CX-5.Nicole had the opportunity to drive the all-new 2026 CX-5 and talk with project manager for in-vehicle technologies, Matthew Valbuena. Sam drove the new Toyota bZ Woodland and C-HR. Uber is building out a suite of tools to support the deployment of robotaxis on its platform. First reviews of the 2026 Jeep Cherokee are out. Scout is denying reports that the Scout launch is delayed to 2028 and Sam discusses some of the unobtanium cars he saw while on vacation in Mexico including lots of Chinese vehicles.Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.comLinks2026 Mazda CX-5 Makes Infotainment as Easy as Your Smartphone2026 Mazda CX-5 First Drive: Bigger, Better, And More Tech-Savvy2026 Toyota bZ Woodland First Drive | GreenCars2026 Toyota C-HR First Drive | GreenCarshttps://www.autoweek.com/news/a70406141/uber-investing-100-million-in-robotaxi-charging-hubs/?source=nl&utm_source=nl_aut&utm_medium=email&date=021826&utm_campaign=nl01_021826_AUT44201300&oo=&user_email=cd6c767ba0ce7abd8dfca31552cfbba9f49453eef65cf3c19d7d8f6a4a115cd9&GID=cd6c767ba0ce7abd8dfca31552cfbba9f49453eef65cf3c19d7d8f6a4a115cd9&utm_term=Daily%20Drive%20Sending%20Audience2026 Jeep Cherokee DRIVEN: Is This New Model WORTHY of Its Jeep Badge?Scout Launch Reportedly Delayed... Or Is It? - Kelley Blue BookUber Technologies, Inc. - Uber Unveils Uber Autonomous Solutions to Accelerate Autonomous Mobility & Delivery WorldwideAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

While we were in Ojai California last week to drive the 2026 Toyota bZ Woodland and C-HR, friend of the show Tanya Gazdik and Sam sat down for a chat with chief engineer Masaya Uchiyama. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week Nicole white knuckled it through a tunnel at Boston Logan Airport with a Ford F-250 Platinum diesel and Robbie and Sam had almost identical Toyota Corolla Cross XSE hybrids.Sam and Robbie go deep on the 3D printed pistons that F1 teams might be using to "cheat" on the new power unit rules. The Vinfast VF8 has so much creep torque, it could be a safety issue. Ferrari announced its new EV will be called the Luce and it has an interior designed by former Apple design chief Jonny Ive and his pal Marc Newson. Toyota revealed its next-generation Highlander and its all electric. VW is previewing the 2027 Atlas on the snow and ice in Quebec, and the Trump adminstration has effectively killed the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program. China is continuing to introduce regulations to address some of the worst design decisions of recent years, including banning steering yokes and requiring physical controls for the most commonly used functions.Sam had a conversation with Mazda North America CEO Tom Donnelly about where the brand is going and we have a couple of tangents about corgis and furniture dollies.Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.comLinksHow 3D-Printed Pistons Let F1 Engines Bend the Rules on Compression - AutoblogVinFast VF8 Creep Torque Insane Problem! I've Never Seen Anything Like ThisWhy ‘Luce’ Is the Perfect Name for the First Electric FerrariNew Ferrari Luce: 1000HP Electric Supercar - INTERIOR Reveal2027 Toyota Highlander EV Reveal | GreenCarsTrump’s Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy Updates EV Charger Program to Include Buy America RequirementsHere's The ALL-NEW Volkswagen Atlas Before You're Supposed To See It!https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/zvvz9h7u4m7brdndeskoe/China-takes-aim-at-screen-heavy-dashboards-in-new-safety-push-Automotive-News.pdf?rlkey=l05zgpen0kwvzh9z2l1px9w74&st=1d2th28d&dl=0China Just Banned Steering Yokes, But Not For The Reason You Think - The AutopianWestminster Kennel Club Pembroke CorgisAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Robbie, his wife and the dogs are taking a weekend off at a cabin in Sonoma so it's just Nicole and Sam. After a intro discussion of winter driving, Nicole discusses driving the Hyundai Ioniq 9 in frigid weather while Sam reviews the Mazda CX-70.Hyundai unveiled a camper version of its new electric Staria van in Stuttgart. We have more detail on China's new rules banning retracting door handles. Autocar got to drive the new Jaguar Type 00 prototype in Northern Sweden. Stellantis is doing a major reset under CEO Antonio Filosa and taking a $26 billion dollar charge including selling it stake in a battery joint venture to LG for just $100. Some cars need to be hatchbacks and Jim Farley teases the upcoming $30,000 electric truck and Ford promises its dealers 5 vehicles under $40K. You might soon be able to use other chatbots with Apple Carplay and Nicole discusses a new SAE/NACTOY scholarship for aspiring automotive journalists.Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.comLinksA New Vision of Travel Freedom: Hyundai Unveils STARIA Camper Concept at the CMT in StuttgartNew China Door Handle RegulationsNEW JAGUAR DRIVEN | First review of prototype electric Jaguar 'Type 00' | AutocarStellantis Resets its Business to Meet Customer Preferences and to Support Profitable Growth | Corporate CommunicationsLG Energy Solution to Acquire Full Ownership of NextStar Energy in Joint Strategic Decision with Stellantis | Corporate CommunicationsThese Cars Would Be Better If They Had A Hatchback Or Liftback, According To Our Readers - Jalopnikhttps://x.com/jimfarley98/status/2019388693866271070?s=42Ford Promises 5 New Cars Under $40K by 2030, Including Midsize Electric TruckApple might let you use ChatGPT from CarPlay | The VergeSAE/NACTOY ScholarshipAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week both Sam and Nicole had the 2026 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy although in different colors.Nicole has had several first drives to report on including the Kia K4 hatchback, refreshed Honda Pilot and Honda Prelude. Congress voted not to kill the mandate for a drunk driving disable system while Tesla has decided to kill the Model S and Model X and Hyundai is ditching the Santa Cruz. Rolls Royce is working on an electric Cullinan and Mercedes-Benz has unveiled a next-generation S-Class. Ineos tweaked the steering on the Grenadier and Genesis has a high-performance off-road concept the X Skorpio.Chery is launching an electric mid-size pickup in China for just $18,300 and Mary Barra isn't sure why Canada is going to let people buy cheap Chinese EVs. Use of hands-free Super Cruise and BlueCruise is growing and people are willing to pay for it while Tesla robotaxis are crashing more often than human drivers. Finally we answer some listener e-mails and Nicole talks with Honda sales chief Lance Woelfer.Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.comLinks2026 Kia K4 Hatchback Road Test and Review | Autoweb2026 Honda Pilot first drive: The family hauler gets even betterCar ‘kill switch’ rule divides GOPTesla is killing off the Model S and Model X | TechCrunchRolls-Royce priming electric Cullinan with dramatic new look | AutocarThe 2026 Ineos Grenadier’s Steering Sucks A Bit Less And Its Electronics Suck A Bit More - The AutopianGENESIS UNVEILS OFF-ROAD X SKORPIO CONCEPT; NEW CONCEPT CAR STRATEGYChina Just Got an $18,300 Electric Pickup That Puts the U.S. Market to ShameGM CEO 'Can't Explain Why' Canada Would Welcome Chinese EVs - JalopnikFord Drivers Logged 264 Million BlueCruise Miles as Comfort With Autonomy Grows - AutoblogHyundai Santa Cruz faces early end with larger pickup planned - Automotive NewsTesla's own Robotaxi data confirms crash rate 3x worse than humans even with monitor | ElectrekThe new Mercedes-Benz S-Class: Refined in every detail.Robbie rides the Honda MotocompactoAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

At CES 2026 Sam and friend of the show John Voelker sat down for a conversation with Giovanni Lanfranchi, CEO of Zeekr Technology Europe to learn more about the Geely Group's approach to product developmentAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Unfortunately, Robbie had a migraine this morning so it's just Nicole and Sam. Nicole has been driving the latest Toyota Prius with AWD in New Hampshire snow and Sam had the Cadillac Lyriq Signature Sport AWD in Michigan winter weather.Volvo finally dropped all the details on its new EX60 midsize electric crossover including the missing door handles and touchscreen vents. Tesla has moved the safety monitors from some of its "robotaxis" to a following vehicle. Tesla also killed off Autopilot and moved lane centering to its subscription only full self-driving. GM is moving production of the next-gen Buick Envision to Kansas and the current administration in Washington will no longer seek criminal penalties against businesses that remove diesel emissions devices. Chinese automakers now have 1/5 of the Mexican market and may soon do the same to Canada. Subaru is launching a lower priced base model of the WRX that keeps the 271-hp turbo boxer. Rivian is driving its manufacturing validation R2s across Route 66 and might, maybe, hopefully put some switches and knobs in future models. Finally, a dealer in Michigan is asking nearly $70K for a 35 year old Toyota pickup.Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.comLinksThe car that changes the game – meet the new, all-electric Volvo EX60 | Volvo Cars Media IntlThe Tesla Robotaxis Roaming Austin 'Without Safety Monitors' Are Accompanied by Cars Full of Safety MonitorsTesla finally kills Autopilot in a bid to boost FSD subscriptions | The VergeGM to move production of China-built Buick SUV to U.S. plantRolling-Coal And Emissions Cheating Devices Are No Longer A Criminal Offenses In Donald Trump's America - JalopnikDon’t Hate — eCVTs Are Genius Transmissions!Led by BYD, China’s cheap EVs, cars take over Mexico’s streets as tariffs take hold2026 SUBARU WRX BRINGS BACK THE AFFORDABLE RALLY-INSPIRED SPORTS SEDAN STARTING AT $32,495 MSRPRoute 66 roadtrip in R2 - Rivian Stories | Electric Vehicle AdventuresIf You're Willing to Pay $70K for a 35-Year-Old Toyota Pickup, Get Some HelpRivian May Be Giving the R1S a Smarter Tailgate—and Bringing Back Buttons - AutoblogAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

We're back and this week all voices were recorded all the way through the show. Sorry again about last week. Nicole lucked out and had the Land Rover Defender Octa during some serious New Hampshire winter weather and Sam had a Porsche Macan 4S Electric with winter tires during a Michigan snow storm.Ahead of the Detroit Auto Show this week, Ford previewed the new Mustang Dark Horse SC taking the place of the former Shelby GT500 and the Bronco RTR that's been breathed on by Vaughn Gittin Jr. Sam spokee with Mustang color and materials manager Sarah Watson and Dark Horse SC chief engineer Arie Groeneveld. Chevrolet dropped some details on the acceleration capabilities of the Corvette ZR1X and it is insanely quick off the line. Honda is ending production of the current Acura RDX while it prepares a new hybrid replacement and it has also developed a lightweight camper that can be pulled by a CR-V.Alfa Romeo brings the refreshed Tonale to America sans the plug-in hybrid and drops the Hornet. Nicole and Sam talked with Stellantis head of North American brands Tim Kuniskis and the Jeep Gladiator will live on for another generation. Canada has signed a trade deal with China will lower tariffs on Chinese EVs north of the border and imported vehicles have become significantly more expensive in the past year.Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.comLinksFord’s GT500 Successor Arrives As The 2027 Mustang Dark Horse SC – Wheel BearingsBorn in the Desert, the Bronco RTR Is the Fun High-Speed Racer That Won’t Break the BankWhat's New for 2026: Alfa Romeo TonaleAmerica's Quickest Production Car: Corvette ZR1X Does 8.675-Second ¼-Mile, Sub 2 Second 0-60Next-Generation Acura RDX Will Go HybridHonda Unveils Base Station Prototype: A Lightweight Towable Travel Trailer with Modular Design, Smart Technology & Clever Packaging to Democratize CampingCanada wants to be 1st in North America to build EV with Chinese knowledge: senior official | CBC NewsThat Dodge Charger Got a Hemi In It? Only If It’s a Hellcat.That New Car Is About $6,400 More Expensive Than Before, Here’s WhyAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Unfortunately, the audio is a bit weird this week, Robbie's audio stopped recording after 26 minutes so there are some gaps, but most of it is there. Nicole is back and she drove the new 2026 Subaru Outback Premium. It doesn't look much a like a wagon anymore, but its still a Subie through and through. Sam had the Honda HR-V AWD EX-L and Lexus UX300h, two very different compact crossovers.Lots of news this week with both Sam and Nicole attending CES. Nicole spoke with BMW about the new iX3 and learned about the Tensor robocar. Sam went to the Nvidia keynote to learn about their new world driving model Alpamayo that debuts in the Mercedes-Benz CLA this quarter and is coming to Lucid later in the year. Lucid plans to have eyes-off driving in 2028 and brain-off in 2029. Ford is also bringing eyes-off driving to the new universal EV platform in 2028. If Afeela ever actually starts selling cars they may have brain off around then along with a second model that that they showed at CES. Aptiv's new Pulse sensor could make auto parking a lot faster. Volvo is teasing out its new EX60 and Stellantis is killing off all of its North American plug-in hybrids. Sam went for a ride in a Zoox robotaxi while he was in Vegas. We've got more listener suggestions for Nicole's car buying journey and Sam has a conversation with Glen de Vos, CEO of Microvision. Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.comLinksNVIDIA Announces Alpamayo Family of Open-Source AI Models and Tools to Accelerate Safe, Reasoning-Based Autonomous Vehicle DevelopmentLucid Gets Nvidia Driving Model, L3 in 2028All Jeep and Chrysler Plug-In Hybrid Models Are Officially Dead: ExclusiveAFEELA Prototype 2026Kodiak AI and Bosch Partner to Scale Autonomous Trucking HardwareFord's Simple Vision for Smart Tech: Make It for EveryoneAptiv PULSE™ SensorWalk-Around of the Pre-Production Afeela 1 at CES 2026The new Volvo EX60: best-in-class 810km range and charging as fast as a stop for fuel and coffee250000-Mile Champions: Commuter Cars That Last The LongestAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Nicole had a last minute family emergency and couldn't make it, but Sam drove the Subaru WRX tS and Robbie provides an update on the Verge electric motorcycle he recently rode.In the news the least surprising announcement of the week came from Ram with the return of the TRX plus a diesel version of the heavy duty Power Wagon. Over on the Rich Rebuilds Youtube channel, Sam stumbled across his merger of a Honda Beat and an Arcimoto electric trike. We've been talking for a while about what a terrible idea electronic door releases are and now some Rivian owners are coming up with DIY mechanical solutions. Some college students in Japan are transforming a Daihatsu Copen Kei Roadster into a cool mini GR Supra for the Tokyo Auto Salon. We discuss some cool pickup truck bed features and a nearly 20 year old Ford sedan concept. Is the Fisker Karma the cockroach of the automotive world? VW shows the interior of the ID Polo and hurray! it's got physical controls.We also answer some listener messages.LinksThe Ram TRX Is Back For 2027, One-Trick Pony?You Asked, Ram Delivered: Ram Power Wagon With 6.7-Liter Cummins HO Turbo Diesel and Best-in-Class 1,075 lb.-ft. of TorqueBuilding a Budget Tesla RoadsterHonda e-BeatHonda Beat-offRivian Owners Are Adding DIY Emergency Door Releases for Their Kids - AutoblogJapanese Students Turn a Kei Car Into a Mini Toyota GR Supra - AutoblogThese 9 Trucks Have Super Cool Bed Features - JalopnikThis Ford Concept Could’ve Been a Modern Crown Victoria - AutoblogLive from Dearborn: Driving the Ford Interceptor ConceptIt Feels Like The Fisker Karma Will Never Actually, Truly Die - The AutopianVolkswagen unveils a new cockpit generation – debuting with the all-new ID. Polo 02Verge TS Pro electric motorcycle with solid state batteryAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week, Nicole continues her stint with the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid and her family was wondering if it was ok when they heard the sound it makes. Sam had the opposite end of the scale with the Lexus TX 550h+, a 3-row plug-in hybrid crossover.The team discusses the EVs that InsideEVs is looking forward to in 2026 and what they are expecting and then devolves into the biggest surprises and disappointments of 2025 (at least in the automotive space). Buying a car used is generally a better financial decision than buying new, but there are segments you should stay away from. Consumer Reports suggests the best all-season tires for winter driving. It turns out that just because a car costs millions of dollars, not all of the parts are bespoke. VW launches a very cool new electric crossover in China. Car buyers looking for a cheap ride with a warranty no longer have a choice under $20,000. There are some fascinating options that used to be available on cars and TFL puts their 1927 Model T on the dyno. Finally, we discuss some more suggestions about what car Nicole should buy next and why Ford is making the Mach-E frunk optional.LinksThe cars InsideEVs is looking forward to in 20267 Cheap Used Cars That Aren't Worth The Trouble - JalopnikBest All-Season Tires for Winter Driving - Consumer ReportsThese Supercars Save Money Using Parts From Boring Everyday Cars - JalopnikVolkswagen Unveils a 450-Mile China-Only Electric SUV With 800V Fast Charging - AutoblogAmerica Loses Its Last Subcompact Sedan as Nissan Kills the Versa in 2026Options to Remember, or Maybe NotPutting Our 100-Year-Old Ford Model T On The Dyno!The Order of TimeAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week we're joined by special guest Harvey Briggs. Harvey and Sam review the vehicles they drove last week while transporting 20 dogs nearly 2,000 miles as part of Operation Frodo. Nicole had the Ford Maverick Lobo and Robbie rode the Verge TS electric motorcycle.GM has struck a deal with Apple to get the Apple Music app on its vehicle's infotainment. Ford is scrapping major parts of its EV plans including cancelling the current Lightning and replacing it with a next-generation EREV. For 2026, the frunk is becoming an extra cost option on the Mach-E. Tim Kuniskis has confirmed that Ram's new midsize pickup will be called Dakota and volume trims will be around $40,000. Some Arizona highways could soon lose their speed limits and more people are recognizing how dumb modern door handles are. Waymo's robotaxis got frozen when San Francisco had a major power outage and we review some of the suggestions from readers about what car Nicole should buy next.LinksOperation Frodo' helping shelter dogs find new life in PNWApple Music now available natively in GM vehicles with standard streaming; Cadillac debuts studio-grade Spatial Audio in Dolby AtmosFord Now Charges Mustang Mach-E Buyers for a FrunkFord takes $20B Hit, Cancels LightningThe Dakota Mid-Size Truck Is Finally Coming Back But It's Going To Cost As Much As A Ram 1500 - The AutopianThis State Wants to Get Rid of Its Speed LimitsMore People Are Realizing This Type Of Car Door Is Too Dangerous - The AutopianFrozen Waymos backed up San Francisco traffic during a widespread power outage | The VergeAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Nicole is finally back and while she was away she drove a Mercedes-Benz E-Class diesel wagon and since she returned she's been driving the Acura Integra A-Spec. Robbie shares his thoughts on the new Mercedes-Benz CLA hybrid. Sam had the Honda Accord Touring Hybrid and the Land Rover Defender X.In the news, Kia has revealed the redesigned second generation Seltos, and Mazda has revealed some of the tech in the 2026 CX-5. Nissan has decided to partner with Wayve to bring hands-off/eyes-off driving to its future versions of ProPilot while Rivian is doing it all in-house. Meanwhile in Texas, Aurora has joined Kodiak in hauling fracking sand with driverless trucks. Ford's ADHD approach to electric vehicles brings it to partner with Renault of affordable EVs and splitting up its battery joint-venture with SK On. Subaru brings an affordable price point to its new Uncharted EV and Sam talks with James Philbin, Rivian's VP of ADAS and Autonomy.Make sure you send us an e-mail or drop comments in the discord to explain what car Nicole should get to replace the Wagoneer S and why!You can help out the many people that are food insecure this holiday season by donating to Feeding America and Robbie will write and record a song for you or at your local food bank. There are also dogs in need of assistance and Sam will be joining a crew of volunteers helping to transport them to forever homes in December and you can help by donating to Operation Frodo. Links are below.LinksOperation FrodoFeeding AmericaKia Unveils the all-new Seltos: a Bold SUV with a Strong Presence and Maximized User Experience2026 Mazda CX-5 TechNissan and Wayve Sign Definitive Agreements to Deliver Next-Generation Driver Assistance TechnologyDetmar Selects Aurora to Deploy Expanded Fleet of Autonomous Trucks for Major Energy ProducerFord and Renault Group form a strategic partnership for passenger and commercial vehicles, starting with two affordable electric cars in EuropeALL-NEW 2026 SUBARU UNCHARTED EV ARRIVES WITH MORE THAN 300 MILES OF RANGE, STARTING AT $34,995 MSRPRivian Goes All-in on Autonomy and AIFewer EVs need fewer batteries: Ford and SK On end their joint venture - Ars TechnicaAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Friend of the show Perry Stern is back to talk about the Honda Prologue and some Nissans. Sam drove the Chevrolet Silverado EV Trail Boss.We discuss driving the third generation of Nissan's e-Power series hybrid in the Qashqai as a preview of the next Rogue as well as the interim Nissan Rogue plug-in hybrid. Nissan has also implemented the first Qi2 wireless charger in the 2026 Pathfinder and Murano. Toyota went high performance this week the debut of the GR GT sports car, the GR GT3 racer and Lexus LFA electric concept. Donald Trump wants to give Americans access to kei cars and 1970s station wagons, but it's doubtful most Americans actually want them. Jaguar Land Rover has ditched long-time design chief Gerry McGovern. Encor has created a magnificent Lotus Esprit S1 restomod and Jason Fenske is disappointed with his Lucid Air. Finally Sam has a conversation with Marc-Andre Forget, the CEO of DCBEL Energy. You can help out the many people that are food insecure this holiday season by donating to Feeding America and Robbie will write and record a song for you or at your local food bank. There are also dogs in need of assistance and Sam will be joining a crew of volunteers helping to transport them to forever homes in December and you can help by donating to Operation Frodo. Links are below.LinksOperation FrodoFeeding AmericaLet The Rage Flow Through You: Mercedes Wants To Charge Owners $200 For These Built-In Features - The AutopianNissan Qashqai | e-POWER or Mild Hybrid SUVThe New 2026 Nissan Rogue PHEV Is the Most CONTROVERSIAL Car of the Year!2026 Nissan Pathfinder Press KitTOYOTA GAZOO Racing World Premieres GR GT & GR GT3 | Toyota | Global NewsroomLexus World Premieres Lexus LFA Concept BEV Sports Car | Lexus | Global Newsroom | Toyota Motor Corporation Official Global WebsiteTrump invites ‘cute’ Japanese kei trucks to come to America | The VergeRemember the Crazy Jaguar 00 Concept? The Man Behind It Just Got Fired.Reimagining the Lotus Esprit S1Jason Fenske Is Disapointed by his LucidAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week Stephanie Brinley is again sitting in for Nicole and she drove the Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid. Robbie and his wife rented a Chrysler Pacifica and Sam has the Mercedes-AMG G63.In the news, someone has rendered a Dodge Magnum revival based on the new Charge Daytona, and a New York State Senator wants to sort of ban in-vehicle subscriptions, but not really and Stellantis is still annoying customers with in-dash ads. Dealers are at it again with stupid markups on the new Honda Prelude. Jason Torchinsky has thoughts on how much acceleration is enough. Used EVs are selling faster than gas cars. Kia has an off-road concept of the EV5 in China. EuroNCAP is updating its scoring standards for 5 stars including physical buttons. Despite the best efforts of the Trump administration to kill EVs and infrastructure, Georgia is disbursing $24M for EV charging while Waymo is no longer able charge its robotaxis overnight in Santa Monica.You can help out the many people that are food insecure this holiday season by donating to Feeding America and Robbie will write and record a song for you or at your local food bank. There are also dogs in need of assistance and Sam will be joining a crew of volunteers helping to transport them to forever homes in December and you can help by donating to Operation Frodo. Links are below.LinksThis Dodge Magnum Revival Shows How America Could Bring Back the Muscle Wagon - AutoblogNew York Wants To Make Annoying Car Subscriptions A Thing Of The Past - JalopnikAre You Willing to Pay $63,000 For a Honda Prelude? Some Dealers Think So - AutoblogThe New 2026 Fiat 500 Takes 16 Seconds To Accelerate To 60 MPH And That's Just Fine. Yeah I Said It - The AutopianChinese automakers double share in EUUsed Cars Are Lingering on Lots as Prices Climb, But EVs Are Moving FastKia’s EV5 Weekender Looks Too Good To Stay A Concept | CarscoopsPop-Up Ads Are Appearing On Stellantis Infotainment Screens Again - JalopnikNew NCAP crash tests target "annoying" ADAS, reward buttons | AutocarGDOT awards $24M for 26 new electric vehicle charging stations across Georgia – WABESanta Monica blocks overnight charging at Waymo lotsOperation FrodoFeeding AmericaAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week both Robbie and Nicole are on vacation so Craig Cole is back along with Chad Kirchner. Sam had the Lucid Gravity Grand Touring.Ahead of the LA Auto Show, Lucid also announced the more affordable Touring trim that starts just under $80,000. Jeep has revealed all the details of its first electric off-roader and lets just say we're not sure who is going to buy it. Hyundai showed the production version of the Ioniq 6 N and the new Crater off-road concept that could challenge the Wrangler and Bronco. We have pricing on the new Honda Prelude and details of the new Porsche Cayenne Electric. Genesis has revealed the GV60 Magma performance EV, the G90 Wingback wagon and Magma GT concept. Bollinger has stopped paying its bills.You can help out the many people that are food insecure this holiday season by donating to Feeding America and Robbie will write and record a song for you or at your local food bank. There are also dogs in need of assistance and Sam will be joining a crew of volunteers helping to transport them to forever homes in December and you can help by donating to Operation Frodo. Links are below. Links2026 Jeep Recon Review: Electric and Ready for the Wild | GreenCarsLucid Launches Lower Priced Gravity Touring For $79,900First Look: 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 6 N Brings Track-Ready Performance | GreenCarsHyundai CRATER Concept Makes Global Debut at AutoMobility LA 20252026 Honda Prelude Deliveries Start—$43,195 And 44 MPGBollinger Motors Has Stopped Paying Its BillsThe 2026 Porsche Cayenne Electric Is a $111,000 EV That Can Charge Wirelesslygenesis unveils magma gt concept, signaling the future of its performance heritageGenesis G90 Wingback previews wild M5 Touring rival | AutocarAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Nicole is in Mexico this week for the Baja 1000 so Craig Cole from AutoEsoterica stepped in. Robbie went to Poland this week to drive a simulator and Sam had the refreshed 2025 Kia EV6 GT-Line.We discuss the new 2027 Kia Telluride that will be revealed in full at the LA Auto Show this week and speculate about whether it will have the same powertrains as the Hyundai Palisade including the next-generation HMG hybrid system that was in the Palisade that both Nicole and Sam drove. Nicole also drove the new Dodge Charger Six-Pack on the tail of the dragon. Toyota has initiated its first North American battery plant in North Carolina. Nissan is launching a plug-in hybrid version of the Rogue that is just a rebadged Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV. Tesla is reportedly testing CarPlay to add to its infotainment system and Jeep launches the first of 12 monthly special edition Wranglers. Finally, we've discussed EVs being too quick for most drivers and now the Chinese government is doing something about it.LinksThe 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid: Bigger, Tougher, Family-Ready2027 Kia Telluride First Look | GreenCarsToyota Opens Its First North American Lithium Ion Battery PlantThe 2026 Dodge Charger Lets You Have Your Cake And Eat It Too2026 Nissan Rogue PHEVIs Tesla about to finally surrender to Apple CarPlay? | The VergeJeep® Brand Airdrops First of 12 Monthly Wrangler Special Editions in Yearlong Celebration to Mark 85 Years of Off-road DominationChina proposes 5-second 0-100 km/h acceleration limit on vehicles to enhance road safetyAutoEsotericaAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Nicole's been driving the Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally but this isn't one for serious off-roading. Sam takes his own stint in the 2026 Ram 1500 Big Horn Hemi.Nicole and Sam both recently got some seat time in the new 2026 Honda Prelude one in Michigan, one in Japan and like it's ancestors, it's not at the tip of the spear performance-wise but it is a lot of fun. Sam and Nicole also finally get to discuss their impressions of the Polestar 4. Ford is considering ditching the F-150 Lightning. While he was in Japan, Sam also to drive the Honda Super-One which sadly probably won't get to America until 2050 and he saw the Toyota Land Cruiser FJ which looked better than it did in photos. At SEMA 2025, Toyota showed a fuel-cell powered Tacoma overlander that won't be very useful. Nicole also had a conversation with Michelin's Omer Waysman.It's November and with the government shut down and the administration refusing to pay out SNAP benefits, there are millions across America, many elderly or children that don't have enough to eat. You can help by donating to Feeding America and Robbie will write and record a song for you or at your local food bank. There are also dogs in need of assistance and Sam will be joining a crew of volunteers helping to transport them to forever homes in December and you can help by donating to Operation Frodo. Links are below.LinksSam's Honda Prelude first driveNicole's Honda Prelude first driveHonda Next-generation hybridSam on the Polestar 4Nicole on the Polestar 4toyota builds overlanding Tacoma that can't go anywhereToyota Fuel Cell Tacoma H2-OverlanderFord considering cancelling F-150 LightningOperation FrodoFeeding AmericaAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week Sam is in a Tokyo hotel room after attending the Japan Mobility Show. Before leaving he drove the 2026 Kia Sportage X-Pro. Robbie spent some time in the dunes of California with the next Mercedes-Benz GLC and Nicole drove the revived Hemi Ram 1500 and the latest Subaru Forester.Others are finally taking notice of inflated delivery charges, NHTSA is investigating Tesla's Mad Max Mode and we have lots of interesting stuff from the Japan Mobility Show. That includes the Honda 0 Alpha, new Subaru STi concepts, a rotary plug-in hybrid from Mazda and lots from Toyota including a Corolla concept, ideas for a next-generation Lexus LS and a stand-alone Century brand. Sam also visits the home of Ryan O'Gorman to check out the Ford Home Energy Management system.LinksEveryone is noticing skyrocketing destination feesNHTSA Looks Into Tesla Mad Max ModeHonda 0 alphaSubaru Performance-E STi conceptMazda Tokyo ConceptsToyota Corolla ConceptLexus Tokyo ConceptsFord Home Energy ManagementCenturyAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This week Sam drove the 2026 BMW iX xDrive45. Sam and Robbie both went to New York for a tech focused GM event and Sam spoke with new chief product officer Sterling Anderson. There's a refreshed Jeep Grand Cherokee with a new more powerful engine for 2026 and we drive the new 2026 Toyota Rav4 in hybrid and PHEV form. Toyota is launching a new baby Land Cruiser FJ and Rivian has laid off 4% of its staff. Infiniti is launching one new model every year for the next four years and the Nissan Sakura gets an extendable solar panel.Links2026 Jeep Grand CherokeeScout may delay EV for EREVPrague lamp post charging2026 Toyota Rav4 first driveGM ForwardToyota Land Cruiser FJRivian lays off 4%, RJ takes over marketingInfiniti to launch 4 vehicles in 4 years, sedan in 2028Nissan Sakura solar extenderEV Theft ratesAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

We've got another delayed episode because of embargo timing on some news so the new episode will be up on Tuesday morningAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Nicole has been driving a bunch of stuff including the Ford F-150 Lightning and Expedition Tremor and went off-roading in the Honda Passport. Sam enjoyed some time with the BMW 228 xDrive Gran Coupe. Toyota is realigning its sporty branding for future models. Stellantis is investing $13 billion in shifting production to US factories and refreshing the Alfa Romeo Tonale for 2026. The Kia Tasman hasn't exactly been a hit in Australia. Lamborghini is cutting its EV plan and sticking with plug-in hybrids for now. Volvo may ditch key cards for fobs and Porsche is keeping buttons and fobs. A Faraday Future FF91 failed to hit reserve at auction and Cadillac is killing the current CT4 and CT5 after 2026 but promising a new CT5. Sam bought another Kia EV6 and we discuss how far people can actually drive without a pit stop. LinksTRD for Trucks, GR for Cars/CUVsStellantis to invest $13B in US productionKia Tasman Struggling in AustraliaLamborghini to focus on PHEV not EVVolvo May Go Back to Key FobsPorsche Keeping Keys and ButtonsFaraday FF91 fails to sell at auctionFeatures People don't wantCadillac CT4/CT5 dead after 20262026 Alfa Romeo TonaleDiesel license plateAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

SummaryIn this episode, Robbie and Sam discuss various automotive topics, including a review of the 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SE, the luxurious Genesis G80, and the unfortunate discontinuation of the Kia Soul. They also touch on Rivian's upcoming R2 SUV, Audi's future design concepts, and Stellantis's innovative approach to infotainment systems. There are significant updates to the Jeep Grand Wagoneer, including its rebranding and pricing strategy aimed at competing in the mainstream SUV market. They also delve into the Chevrolet Bolt's return, highlighting its improved features and competitive pricing. The conversation shifts to the growing EV market, with insights on sales trends and the importance of charging infrastructure. Additionally, the hosts address the decline of fuel cell technology in favor of electric vehicles, and they respond to listener questions regarding automotive safety and reliability.LinksKia Drops SoulRivian R2 Launching in 1H 20262026 Audi A4 Gets new Look2026 Jeep Grand WagoneerStellantis CUV Without Infotainment2027 Chevrolet BoltAudi Considering Premium Off-roaderFord and GM drop EV Incentive planGM Cancels Fuel Cell ProgramNHTSA Office of Defects InvestigationAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

New episode coming TuesdayAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy