Massive Ford Recalls, Subaru WRX, Best Cars for Teen Drivers
Jill and Tom opened the show with a brief acknowledgment of the podcast’s apparent popularity in Sweden. Amusingly, the show is described on Poddtroppen—a Swedish podcast download site—as a “Komedie.” Moving on, the hosts discussed yet another—massive—Ford recall. Tom suggests a reason why Ford might be in the trouble its in. Still in the first segment, the hosts dig into Volvo’s recently announced decision to layoff 15-percent of its U.S. workforce. Next, Jill reviews the 2025 Subaru WRX tS, with manual transmission. In the second segment Jill and Tom welcome Jennifer Stockburger of Consumer Reports to the show. Jennifer discussed the Consumer Reports recently published Best Cars for Teens lists, and what went into creating them. In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Saab!” quiz—which includes a Swedish-themed bonus question. And, as the show wraps up, Jill pledged to try and get passed Apple CarPlay.
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General Motors EV Sales, Driving the BMW iX, Nissan Armada Deep Dive
Jill and Tom opened the show discussing the demise of the federal electric-vehicle tax credit. The new and used credits expire on September 30. As a result of the credit situation, Nissan has officially announced the delay of two EV crossovers, one each for Nissan and Nissan luxury-division Infiniti. The hosts also discussed Q2 EV sales results. Tom noted a significant increase in electric-vehicle sales at General Motors, while Tesla sales continue to decline. Jill and Tom discussed the impact—or lack thereof—of recent product updates by Tesla. Listen in for details. In the second segment Jill and Tom welcome Brian Yoeckel of Nissan to the show. Brian shared plans for the recently redesigned Armada premium large SUV, including the new-for-2026, high-performance Armada NISMO. Listen in for details. In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom’s “60 Second” quiz. How many Mercury models can Jill name in one minute? Tom wrapped up the show updating Jill and listeners on his Volkswagen Taos/Apple CarPlay experiment.
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Future for Fuel Cells, New Honda CR-V Trailsport, Remembering American Motors
Tom and Jill opened the show welcoming new listeners to the program. June proved to be the Car Stuff Podcast’s best download month yet. Tom went on to share news of hydrogen pockets located underground. Tom noted that were these pocket large enough, and easily accessed, it’s possible that fuel-cell vehicles may play a significant role in future mobility. Still in the first segment, Jill reviewed the 2026 Honda CR-V in new Trailsport trim. The compact CR-V becomes the fourth vehicle in the Honda lineup to receive the Trailsport treatment. Listen in for Jill’s take. In the second segment, Jill and Tom welcome Joe Ligo to the program. Joe is director and producer of the acclaimed six-part documentary “The Last Independent Automaker.” The program, which chronicles the rise and fall of American Motors, is available for viewing on YouTube at no cost. Tom highly recommends taking the time to watch the series. In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Was it an AMC?” quiz. Tom wrapped up the show discussing connectivity issues he experienced in the otherwise delightful Volkswagen Golf R. (Also, Tom showed off his Chrysler Cordoba key chain.)
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Ram Sweetens Pot, Cadillac Optiq Review, Ranking the Most American Made Vehicles
Jill and Tom opened up the show by clarifying a point made last week. Indeed, the only Mercedes-Benz wagon offered for sale in the U.S. is the “All-Terrain” variant of the midsize E-class. Tom noted similar wagon offering limitations in the Volvo, Audi, and BMW lineups. The hosts also chatted briefly about Ram’s extended powertrain warranty which takes effect for the 2026 model year. Listen in to hear how the new protection plan, combined with the newly available Hemi engine, might spark sales for the truck maker. Still in the fist segment, Jill reviews the Cadillac Optiq electric compact crossover. In the second segment Jill and Tom welcome Patrick Masterson of Cars.com. Patrick shared findings found in the Cars 2025 American Made Index. Which vehicles are the “most American?” Listen in for details. In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Honda CR-V Hybrid or Not?” quiz. Jill wrapped up the show discussing an elderly acquaintance’s troubling dealership experience.
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Blazer EV Tweaks, Nissan Murano Review, China's Massive EV Machine
Jill opened the show briefly recapping here recent travels. Jill’s been on the road training for the next edition of the Rebelle Rally, this time with a new driver/partner and new vehicle. Listen in for details. Tom shared details of a major industry merger, though most consumers won’t be affected. Still, it does involve Mercedes-Benz and Toyota. Tom shared news regarding the 2026 Chevrolet Blazer EV. One version goes away; one seriously high-performance variant is added to the lineup. Both hosts shared their takes on the all-new 2025 Nissan Murano midsize 2-row crossover. For the most part the new midsize crossover is an upgrade over the previous edition, though Jill has a specific complaint. In the second segment, Jill and Tom are joined by Patrick George of InsideEVs. Patrick recently spent a couple of weeks in China learning about the country’s EV products and market environment. Listen in for some fascinating insights regarding how the Chinese are succeeding at building and selling electric vehicles. In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Q1 Sales!” quiz.
Whether you drive a car, need a car, or just occasionally bum a ride with friends, you’ve come to the right place. Join the editors of Consumer Guide Automotive as they break down everything that’s going on in the auto world. New-car reviews, shopping tips, driving green, electric cars, classic cars, and plenty of great guests. This is the Consumer Guide Car Stuff Podcast.
Ireland