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Explore every episode of the podcast Car Stuff Podcast

Dive into the complete episode list for Car Stuff Podcast. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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TitlePub. DateDuration
Mercedes GLC 43 "Coupe" Review, Chatting with Rivian, Porsche Price Quiz 02 Sep 202400:54:22

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

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

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

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

Canyon AT4X, Mustang Dark Horse on the Track, Fake Pontiac Quiz 27 Aug 202400:56:35

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

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

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

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

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

Dealer Hacking Nightmare, New Camry, Off-Roading in Luxury 25 Jun 202400:56:20

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

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

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

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

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

Boxy Luxury Lincolns, Cadillac Escalade V17 Jun 202200:53:36

With co-host Damon Bell out on vacation this week, host Tom Appel and co-host Jill Ciminillo start the show by discussing Jill's preview test-drive experiences with the new-for-2023 Escalade V--Cadillac's 682-hp, high-performance full-size luxury SUV. Collectible Automobile magazine Editor-in-Chief John Biel joins us to chat about the great features in the August 2022 issue, including the 1980-1984 Lincoln and a Photo Feature on a 1967 Chevrolet Camaro Rally Sport convertible. Tom has a quiz for Jill and John, and Tom also runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog, including our quick-take test-drive impressions from a recent Road America press event and a test-drive review of the 2022 Audi Q5 Sportback.

Does Going Electric Fight Fascists?, 2023 Toyota Sequoia10 Jun 202200:53:24

Host Tom Appel and co-hosts Jill Ciminillo and Damon Bell start the show by discussing Toyota's redesigned-for-2023 Sequoia full-size SUV. Max Baumhefner, Senior Attorney with the Natural Resources Defense Council, joins us to talk about the NRDC's efforts to improve America's electric-vehicle infrastructure and get the country off foreign oil. Tom has a "fake trim levels" quiz for Damon and Jill, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog, including a test-drive review of the 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 Limited.

Electrify America, Our Favorite New Vehicles03 Jun 202200:54:01

With co-host Jill Ciminillo out on assignment this week, host Tom Appel and co-host Damon Bell start the show by discussing the vehicles they drove at the 2022 Midwest Automotive Media Association Spring Rally, a journalist-only press event held annually at the Road America race course facility in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin. Michael Buff, Senior Manager, Product and Programs at Electrify America, joins us to talk about Electrify America's EV charging systems. Tom has a quiz on auto-factory locations for Damon, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog--including a First Look preview of the redesigned 2023 Lexus RX midsize SUV.   

EV Public Charging Basics, 2023 Nissan Z20 May 202200:53:59

Host Tom Appel and co-hosts Jill Ciminillo and Damon Bell start the show by discussing the redesigned-for-2023 Nissan Z sports car. Jonathan Levy, Chief Commercial Officer at EVgo, joins us to talk about EVgo's public fast-charging network for electric vehicles. Tom has a "disc brakes or drum brakes?" quiz for Damon and Jill, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog, including a test-drive review of the 2022 Chevrolet Equinox RS.

Toyota's Rumored 3-Row Crossovers, VW Plans To Revive the Scout as an EV13 May 202200:54:32

Host Tom Appel and co-hosts Jill Ciminillo and Damon Bell start the show by discussing Jill's plans to participate in the Rebelle Rally, a women-only off-road navigational competition, later this year. We also discuss Volkswagen's recently announced plans to revive the International Scout SUV as a pure-electric off-road vehicle. Robert Duffer, Senior Editor with The Car Connection, joins us to chat about Toyota's rumored plans to introduce Lexus TX  and Toyota Grand Highlander 3-row crossovers, and his preview test-drive experience in Ford's new F-150 Lightning EV pickup. Tom has a "rules of the road" quiz for Damon and Jill, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog, including a test-drive review of the 2022 Jeep Wagoneer.

Lincoln Star Concept, Jeep-Exclusive Showrooms06 May 202200:52:46

With co-host Jill Ciminillo out on assignment this week, host Tom Appel and co-host Damon Bell start the show by discussing the Jeep brand's push to add more Jeep-only showrooms, and the Toyota Supra gaining an available manual transmission for 2023. John Jraiche, Lincoln's Global Director for Luxury Vehicles, joins us to talk about the recently unveiled Lincoln Star Concept, and what it means for the brand's EV future. Tom has a quiz on car colors for Damon, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog--including a  test-drive review of the 2022 Genesis GV70 3.5T.   

Tesla's Expanding Production Capacity, F-150 Lightning Prices28 Apr 202200:52:40

With co-host Jill Ciminillo out on assignment this week, host Tom Appel and co-host Damon Bell start the show by discussing the Chevrolet's recent teaser video of an all-wheel-drive hybrid Chevrolet Corvette and official confirmation of a pure-electric Corvette. We also talk about Ford commencing production of the pure-electric F-150 Lightning pickup, and delve into the Lightning's pricing structure. Sam Fiorani, Vice President of Global Vehicle Forecasting for AutoForecast Solutions, joins us to give his insight on Tesla's new production facilities. Tom has a quiz on acronyms for Damon and Sam, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog--including a First Spin test-drive review of Subaru's first pure-electric vehicle: the 2023 Subaru Solterra.   

Dodge's Disco Charger, Hyundai Ioniq 5 Road Trip22 Apr 202200:53:54

Host Tom Appel and co-hosts Jill Ciminillo and Damon Bell start the show by discussing their test-drive experiences--and Tom's public-charging-station experiences--in the Hyundai's new-for-2022 Ioniq 5 pure-electric vehicle. Collectible Automobile magazine Editor-in-Chief John Biel joins us to chat about the great features in the June 2022 issue, including the ill-fated 1975-78 Dodge Charger and a Photo Feature on a 1968 Ford Mustang High-Country Special. Tom has an "Abe Vigoda vs the Subaru WRX" true-or-false quiz for Damon and Jill, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog, including a First Spin review of Jeep's new Grand Cherokee 4xe plug-in hybrid and a test-drive review of the 2022 Ford Maverick Lariat hybrid.

GM's EV Delivery Vehicle Startup, 2022 New York Auto Show Reveals15 Apr 202200:53:57

Host Tom Appel and co-host Damon Bell start the show by discussing the new vehicle introductions at the 2022 New York International Auto Show. (Co-host Jill Ciminillo is out covering the New York Auto Show this week.)  Steve Hornyak, Chief Revenue Officer for BrightDrop--a startup electric-delivery-vehicle manufacturer created by General Motors--joins us to give us the scoop on BrightDrop's Zevo EV delivery vans and the Trace electric delivery cart. Tom has a vehicle-length quiz for Damon, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog--including a look back at the 1986 Chevrolet Corvette Indy concept car.   

Food Truck Fundamentals, GMC Hummer EV08 Apr 202200:54:05

Host Tom Appel and co-hosts Jill Ciminillo and Damon Bell kick off the show by discussing the outrageous new GMC Hummer EV pure-electric pickup truck, and Jill's first-drive experience with it. Geri Hernandez, co-founder and CEO of Savory Crust Gourmet Empanadas, joins us to talk about owning and operating a food truck. Tom has a "Queen Elizabeth or Jaguar" quiz for Damon and Jill, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog--including a test-drive review of the redesigned-for-2022 Infiniti QX60.

Chevy Equinox EV, History of American Motors, New Discontinued-Models List17 Jun 202400:54:09

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

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

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

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

EV Tipping Point, Mazda CX-5001 Apr 202200:55:09

Host Tom Appel and co-hosts Jill Ciminillo and Damon Bell kick off the show by discussing Mazda's new-for-2023 CX-50 compact SUV. Robby DeGraff, Industry Analyst with AutoPacific, joins us to talk about a number of new pure-electric vehicles that are slated to hit the market in the coming months. Tom has a quiz on 0-60-mph times for Damon and Jill, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog--including a track-drive review of the new-for-2022 Hyundai Elantra N and Kona N.

Pennsylvania's Little-Known Automotive History, Audi A325 Mar 202200:54:23

Host Tom Appel and co-host Jill Ciminillo start the show by discussing their recent test drives of the smallest and least-expensive model in Audi's lineup: the A3 compact sedan. (Co-host Damon Bell is out on assignment this week.) Kendra Cook, Executive Director of the Boyertown Museum of Historic Vehicles, joins us to discuss the museum and its focus on Pennsylvania's automotive history. Kendra also shares details of the museum's upcoming A "Current" EVent display of historic electric vehicles. Tom has a fake-car quiz for Jill, and the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog are discussed--including a test-drive review of the 2022 Volvo XC60 R-Design.   

China's Leading Automakers, Toyota Camry TRD18 Mar 202200:53:54

Host Tom Appel and co-host Damon Bell start the show by discussing their recent test drives of the sportiest model in Toyota's midsize car lineup: the Camry TRD. (Co-host Jill Ciminillo is out on assignment this week.)  Sam Fiorani, Vice President of Global Vehicle Forecasting for AutoForecast Solutions, joins us to give his insight on the current state of the Chinese auto industry. Tom has an engine-displacement quiz for Damon and Sam, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog--including a test-drive review of the Ford F-150 Raptor.   

EV Ownership Issues, Car Tattoos11 Mar 202200:53:57

Host Tom Appel and co-hosts Jill Ciminillo and Damon Bell start the show with a lighthearted discussion of the most-tattooed American brands, according to a study of Instagram hashtags. Chad Kirchner, VP of Content for the electric-vehicle-focused website EV Pulse, joins us to talk about the things auto shoppers should be considering if they're thinking of buying an electric vehicle. Tom has a "Ford Maverick vs. The Jetsons" true-or-false quiz for Damon and Jill, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog, including a test-drive review of the refreshed-for-2022 Acura RDX compact SUV and a gallery of full-size two-door coupe ads.

Neoclassic Bustlebacks, Ford Creates New EV Division04 Mar 202200:53:14

Host Tom Appel and co-hosts Jill Ciminillo and Damon Bell start the show by discussing Ford Motor Company's recently announced corporate-structure changes--electric vehicles will now be under the Ford Model e division, and gas-engine vehicles will be under the Ford Blue division. Collectible Automobile magazine Editor-in-Chief John Biel joins us to chat about the great features in the April 2022 issue, including the neoclassic, bustleback-styled 1982-87 Lincoln Continental and a Photo Feature on a 1979 Chevrolet Camaro Berlinetta. Tom has a "turbo or no turbo?" quiz for Damon and Jill, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog, including a "what if" 1955 Ford Crown Ranchero concept and Jeep's refreshed-for-2022 Compass compact SUV.

Ford Chief Futurist, J.D. Power Dependability Report25 Feb 202200:54:12

Host Tom Appel and co-hosts Jill Ciminillo and Damon Bell start the show by discussing the 2022 edition of the J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study. Sheryl Connelly, Chief Futurist with Ford Motor Company, joins us for a talk about the Looking Further with Ford Trend Report, an annual study of future social, environmental, and economic trends. Tom has a quiz on the Opel brand for Damon and Jill, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog--including a test-drive review of the 2022 Lexus NX 450h+ F Sport plug-in hybrid. 

Track-Driving Basics, New-Car Colors18 Feb 202200:53:28

Host Tom Appel and co-hosts Jill Ciminillo and Damon Bell start the show by discussing Damon's recent blog post on the interesting colors of the 2022 Chicago Auto Show. Hollie Heiser, VP of Marketing and Operations and Lead Driving Instructor for CGI Motorsports, joins us for a talk about driving your car on a race track. Tom has a quiz on Brad Pitt and the Subaru Forester for Damon and Jill, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog--including a test-drive review of the Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring plug-in-hybrid SUV.

Driving Electric Vehicles in Winter; Alfa Romeo Tonale11 Feb 202200:53:47

Host Tom Appel and co-hosts Jill Ciminillo and Damon Bell start the show by discussing the recent global debut of the 2023 Alfa Romeo Tonale compact SUV. Larry Nutson, Executive Producer and Chicago Bureau Chief at The Auto Channel, joins us for a talk about driving pure-electric vehicles in the winter. Tom has a quiz on the 1953 Chevrolet Corvette vs. the 2022 Chevrolet Corvette for Damon and Jill, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog--including a test-drive review of Nissan's redesigned-for-2022 Pathfinder midsize SUV.

Ford Maverick Sells Out, Tesla Rolling Stops04 Feb 202200:53:26

Host Tom Appel and co-hosts Jill Ciminillo and Damon Bell kick off the show by discussing NHTSA's recent recall of Tesla vehicles to remove a software feature in the Full Self-Driving system that enables the vehicles to not come to a complete stop at some stop signs. Trevor Scott, Maverick and Ranger Marketing Manager with Ford Motor Company, joins us for a talk about Ford's incredibly popular new Maverick compact pickup truck. Tom has a quiz on vehicle sales in foreign countries for Damon and Jill, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog--including a First Spin review of the top-line 2022 Toyota Tundra Capstone pickup.   

Bad Car Loans, 2023 Toyota Sequoia Unveiled28 Jan 202200:53:51

Host Tom Appel and co-hosts Jill Ciminillo and Damon Bell kick off the show by discussing the recently unveiled 2023 Toyota Sequoia full-size SUV. Consumer Reports investigative journalist Ryan Felton joins us for a talk about bad car loans and how you can avoid them. Tom has a quiz on the second-best-selling vehicles for Damon and Jill, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog--including a first look at the high-performance 2023 Cadillac Escalade-V.   

Renting an EV, Virginia Backs Down, Why the Charging Infrastructure Program is Moving so Slowly 10 Jun 202400:52:42

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

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

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

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

EV Pickup Trucks, Cadillac Pares Dealers21 Jan 202200:53:39

Host Tom Appel and co-host Damon Bell kick off the show by discussing how Cadillac is paring down its nationwide dealership count as it prepares to become a pure-EV brand. (Co-host Jill is out on vacation this week.) Paul Strauss, publisher of the popular websites The Awesomer, Technabob, and the auto-themed 95octane, joins us to talk about the forthcoming wave of pure-electric pickup trucks--including the Ford F-150 Lightning, Chevrolet Silverado EV, and the Tesla Cybertruck. Tom has a "which sold better?" quiz for Damon and Paul, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog–including a test-drive review of the 2021 Ford Bronco Black Diamond. 

How Winter Tires Work, Chicago Auto Show Preview14 Jan 202200:54:09

Host Tom Appel and co-hosts Jill Ciminillo and Damon Bell kick off the show by chatting with Chicago Auto Show General Manager Dave Sloan about the 2022 edition of the show, which will be held at Chicago's McCormick Place from February 12-20. Next, we welcome Ed Gliss, Senior Subjective Test Driver with Michelin, for a talk about the importance of winter tires. Tom has a tricky quiz on Mexican-market Chevrolets for Damon and Jill, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog--including a look at the 2022 Subaru Ascent Onyx Edition.   

The Enduring Appeal of the 1957 Chevy, CES 2022 Vehicle Reveals07 Jan 202200:54:05

Host Tom Appel and co-hosts Jill Ciminillo and Damon Bell start the show by discussing  the new-vehicle reveals of the CES 2022 show in Las Vegas--particularly the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV pure-electric full-size pickup and the Chrysler Airflow Concept compact crossover EV. Collectible Automobile magazine Editor-in-Chief John Biel joins us to chat about the great features in the February 2022 issue, and we discuss the enduring popularity of the classic 1957 Chevrolet. Tom has a quiz for Damon and Jill on automaker advertising taglines, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog, including our CES coverage and a test-drive review of the new-for-2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer premium large SUV.

The Year in EVs, Road Trip Rides30 Dec 202100:54:27

Host Tom Appel and co-hosts Jill Ciminillo and Damon Bell open the show with a chat about their test vehicles for their respective holiday road trips: the Audi Q5 Sportback, Subaru Outback Wilderness, and the new-for-2022 Lexus NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid. John Voelcker, former Editor-in-Chief of greencarreports.com and current contributing editor to Car and Driver, joins the show to give us his take on the electric-vehicle news of 2021, and the state of the EV market moving forward. Tom has a true-or-false quiz on the Dodge Challenger and the state of Wisconsin for Damon and Jill, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog--including a look back at the 1992-96 Buick Regal GS Sport Coupe.  

2021 Year in Review; 2022 Subaru WRX24 Dec 202100:54:31

Host Tom Appel and co-hosts Jill Ciminillo and Damon Bell kick off the show by discussing the redesigned-for-2022 Subaru WRX. Sam Fiorani, Vice President of Global Vehicle Forecasting for AutoForecast Solutions, joins us to give his insight on the auto-industry trends of 2021 and discuss the most significant vehicle introductions of the year. Tom has a "which came first?" quiz for Damon and Jill, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog--including a test-drive review of the new-for2022 Genesis GV70 premium compact SUV.   

Catalytic Converter Thefts, Hyundai Ioniq 517 Dec 202100:54:29

Host Tom Appel and co-hosts Jill Ciminillo and Damon Bell start the show by discussing the new-for-2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5. Mike DesMarais, Field Operations Specialist for Midas, joins us to talk about the recent rise in catalytic-converter thefts and how you can protect yourself. Tom has a "Hyundai Venue or Rolls-Royce Phantom?" quiz for Damon and Jill, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog--including a test-drive review of the redesigned-for-2022 Mitsubishi Outlander compact SUV.

Prep Your Car For Winter, Biden's EV Executive Order10 Dec 202100:52:29

Host Tom Appel and co-host Damon Bell start off the show by discussing  the Biden administration's recently announced executive order to end gasoline-powered vehicle purchases for the federal fleet by 2035. (Co-host Jill Ciminillo is out on assignment this week.) James Shelton, Technical Field Support Manager for Jiffy Lube, joins us to talk about how consumers should prep their vehicle for winter. Tom has a quiz for Damon on 1.5-liter engines, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog, including a test-drive review of the refreshed-for-2022 Hyundai Kona Electric Limited.

2022 Consumer Guide Best Buys03 Dec 202100:54:21

It's a special episode this week: the "sneak peek" announcement of our annual Consumer Guide Best Buy awards. Jill Ciminillo has the week off, as Tom and Damon run down the entire list of 2022 Best Buy award winners in each of our 20 vehicle categories. We discuss the winners in each category, from subcompact cars to premium large SUVs--and everything in between. 

New Car Reliability, Hyundai N Models25 Nov 202100:54:21

Host Tom Appel and co-host Jill Ciminillo start the show by discussing Hyundai’s new-for-2022 "N" performance versions of the Elantra compact sedan and Kona subcompact crossover SUV. Jill also shares her test-drive impressions of the hydrogen/fuel-cell Toyota Mirai sedan. Jake Fisher, Senior Director of Auto Testing at Consumer Reports, joins us to talk about Consumer Reports' latest new-vehicle reliability ratings. Our conversation covers issues with electrified vehicles, as well as CVT and dual-clutch transmissions. With co-host Damon Bell out on vacation, Jill is the solo participant for this week’s car quiz, and Tom shares  the latest content to hit the CG Daily Drive blog--including reveals from the LA Auto Show and a photo gallery of a 1965 Ford Falcon Squire station wagon. 

Car Stuff Podcast Auto-Design Summit, L.A. Auto Show Highlights19 Nov 202100:53:37

Host Tom Appel and co-host Damon Bell start the show by discussing a few of the new vehicles revealed in conjunction with the L.A. Auto Show this week, including the 2023 Mazda CX-50 and Toyota bZ4X. (Co-host Jill Ciminillo is out on assignment this week.) Brendan Appel, Director of Operations at Sons of Speed, joins us for a roundtable styling-critique session on a handful of current vehicles. Tom has a "which sold better?" quiz for Brendan and Damon, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog--including our First Spin test-drive review of the redesigned-for-2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Welcome Kia EV9, Long-Term Tesla Model Y, Why Dealers Haven't Embraced Electric Vehicles03 Jun 202400:53:58

In for Jill this week is long-time friend of the Show Damon Bell of Cars.com. Damon and Tom opened the show talking about Car.com's long-term Tesla Model Y, and its replacement in the Cars fleet, the all-new 3-row Kia EV9 electric crossover. While the Model Y was generally reliable, small glitches compromised its overall appeal to the Cars staff; listen in for more details. As for the Kia, Damon is so far impressed. Cars will publish regular updates of the EV9's performance and utility. (Visit the Car Stuff Podcast Facebook page for a link.)
 
 In the second segment, the hosts welcome CDK Global Director of Content Marketing Dave Thomas. Dave shared insights into dealer attitudes toward electric vehicles and EV marketing, and their optimism--or lack thereof--regarding the near- and mid-term success of carmaker EV programs. 
 
 In the last segment Damon is subject to Tom's "Is it a Lexus?" Quiz. 



Cars.com's Guide for the EV Curious, 2022 Mazda MX-3012 Nov 202100:53:15

Host Tom Appel and co-hosts Jill Ciminillo and Damon Bell start the show by discussing their test-drive experiences with Mazda's first pure-electric vehicle--the new-for-2022 MX-30. Cars.com Executive Editor Joe Wiesenfelder joins us to talk about Cars.com's "Guide for the EV Curious"--an excellent primer on electric vehicles. Tom has a tricky quiz for Damon and Jill on the debut model years of semi-recent vehicles, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog--including a test-drive review of the redesigned-for-2022 Nissan Frontier pickup truck.

Los Angeles Auto Show, EV Engine Swaps05 Nov 202100:53:25

Host Tom Appel and co-hosts Jill Ciminillo and Damon Bell start off the show by discussing  the trends on display at the 2021 SEMA Show, the premiere trade show for the automotive aftermarket industry. Lefty Tsironis, Senior Director of Strategy and Business Development for the Los Angeles Auto Show, joins us to talk about the upcoming 2021 edition of the show. Tom has a quiz for Damon and Jill on vehicles that achieve an EPA rating of 30 mpg or more in combined city/highway driving, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog, including a vacation test-drive review of the 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid and a "what if?" gallery of early 1950s station wagons that never were.

Flood-Damaged Cars, 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z0629 Oct 202100:53:46

Host Tom Appel and co-hosts Jill Ciminillo and Damon Bell start off the show by discussing  the recently unveiled 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 and the 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness. Patrick Olsen, Executive Editor at Carfax, joins us to talk about ways consumers can avoid buying a flood-damaged vehicle. Tom has a quiz for Damon and Jill on 18-wheeler trucks, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog, including a First Spin test-drive review of the 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness and a test-drive gallery of the 2021 Nissan Kicks SR.

Chevrolet Vs Ford in the Forties, Our Favorite New-For-2022 Vehicles22 Oct 202100:53:26

Host Tom Appel and co-hosts Jill Ciminillo and Damon Bell start the show by discussing  their favorite new vehicles from a recent automotive-media test-drive event--particularly the new-for-2022 Ford Maverick compact pickup and Genesis GV70 premium compact SUV. Collectible Automobile magazine Editor-in-Chief John Biel joins us to chat about the great features in the December 2021 issue, including a detailed overview of the Chevrolet/Ford rivalry as it existed in the 1940s. Tom has a quiz for Damon and Jill on the best-selling vehicles in select U.S. states, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog, including a First Spin test-drive review of the redesigned-for-2022 Toyota Tundra full-size pickup.

Lucid and Rivian Reach Production, 2022 Lexus NX08 Oct 202100:54:13

Host Tom Appel and co-hosts Jill Ciminillo and Damon Bell kick off the show by discussing the redesigned-for-2022 Lexus NX compact luxury SUV. Robby DeGraff, Industry Analyst with AutoPacific, joins us to talk about promising EV startups, in light of the fact that the Lucid Air luxury sedan and Rivian R1T full-size pickup have recently reached production. Tom has a quiz on China's automotive market for Damon and Jill, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog--including a Test Drive review of the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L. 

End of Internal-Combustion Engines, New Wave of Off-Road-Ready SUVs01 Oct 202100:53:50

Host Tom Appel and co-hosts Jill Ciminillo and Damon Bell kick off the show by discussing the latest wave of off-road-focused SUVs and sub-brands such as Ford's Timberline, Honda's Trailsport, and Subaru's Wilderness. John McElroy, host and editorial director of the Autoline family of automotive-industry newscasts, joins us to talk about his prediction/prescription for the forthcoming "sunset" of mainstream internal-combustion engines. Tom has a "manual or no manual?" quiz for Damon and Jill, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog--including a test-drive review of the redesigned-for-2021 BMW M4 Competition Coupe. 

2022 Kia EV6, 2022 Toyota Tundra, 2022 Ford Expedition24 Sep 202100:54:31

Host Tom Appel and co-hosts Jill Ciminillo and Damon Bell kick off the show by discussing the recently unveiled 2022 Toyota Tundra full-size pickup and 2022 Ford Expedition large SUV. James Bell, Head of Corporate Communications for Kia America, joins us to talk about Kia's forthcoming EV6 electric vehicle. Tom has a true-or-false quiz for Damon and Jill on the Toyota Highlander and actor Tony Randall, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog--including a test-drive review of the redesigned-for-2022 Honda Civic sedan.   

Long-Term EV Battery Health, Most-Impressive Vehicles of 202117 Sep 202100:54:18

Host Tom Appel and co-hosts Jill Ciminillo and Damon Bell kick off the show by discussing the new vehicles they've driven so far this year that impressed them the most. Scott Case, co-founder and CEO of Recurrent--a company that compiles and provides data on used electric vehicles and their battery health-- joins us to talk about Recurrent's services and give his perspective on the growing EV market. Tom has a paint-color quiz for Damon and Jill, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog--including a test-drive review of the new-for-2022 Volkswagen Taos subcompact SUV.   

Ford Production Woes, 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross09 Sep 202100:54:04

Host Tom Appel and co-hosts Jill Ciminillo and Damon Bell kick off the show by discussing the new-for-2022 Toyota Corolla Cross subcompact SUV, and the redesigned 2022 Infiniti QX60 midsize SUV. Sam Fiorani, Vice President of Global Vehicle Forecasting for AutoForecast Solutions, joins us to give his insight on Ford's current spate of production setbacks, including the Ford Bronco's hardtop production woes and the product-allocation challenges for the soon-to-arrive Ford Maverick compact pickup. Tom has a zany quiz for Damon and Jill that links the new Ford Bronco and actor Jimmy Smits, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog--including a look back at the 2002 Mercury Marauder Convertible concept vehicle.   

Best Cars for Teens, Chevy Bolt Fires02 Sep 202100:54:05

Host Tom Appel and co-hosts Jill Ciminillo and Damon Bell start the show by discussing the recently expanded recall of the Chevrolet Bolt EV and EUV due to a risk of fire. Next, Jamie Page Deaton, Executive Editor of the Autos team at U.S. News and World Report, joins us to talk about the U.S. News Best Cars for Teens awards. Tom has a tricky "left or right side of the road?" quiz for Damon and Jill, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog--including a test-drive review of the redesigned-for-2021 BMW 4-Series coupe. 

$10,000 Electric Vehicles, Genesis GV80, American Readiness to Buy Chinese Cars 27 May 202400:55:47

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

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

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

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

Key-Cloning Car Thefts, Jaguar To Become All-EV Brand27 Aug 202100:53:37

Host Tom Appel and co-hosts Jill Ciminillo and Damon Bell start the show by discussing Jaguar's plans to drop all of its internal-combustion vehicles and become a pure-electric brand by 2025. Next, Sergeant Thomas Mason of the Chicago Police Department joins us to talk about the rise in carjacking thefts, and what you can do to keep yourself safe.  Tom has a quiz on the middle names of auto-industry luminaries for Damon and Jill, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog--including a test-drive review of the new-for-2022 Kia Carnival minivan. 

Pediatric Heat Stroke Prevention, Car Stuff Dead Pool20 Aug 202100:54:07

Host Tom Appel and co-hosts Jill Ciminillo and Damon Bell start off the show by discussing Damon's recent drive of the new Hyundai Tucson Hybrid in the Lake Tahoe area, and then we share our "Dead Pool" picks--vehicles we think are soon to be discontinued. Brian Latouf, Chief Safety Officer at Hyundai Motor North America, joins us to talk about current automotive safety topics and fill us in on Hyundai's Rear Occupant Alert--a system that helps prevent pediatric heat stroke by alerting drivers of children or other occupants in the vehicle's back seat. Tom has another tricky quiz for Damon and Jill, and Damon runs down the latest articles on the Consumer Guide Daily Drive blog, including First Spin test-drive reviews of the 2022 Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer and the 2022 Toyota GR 86 sports car.   

Low-Cost Luxury Cars of 1966, Favorite New-Car Features 12 Aug 202100:52:21

Host Tom Appel and co-host Jill Ciminillo start off the show by discussing several of vehicles Tom drove this week at a local media event; Tom was especially impressed by the 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz and 2022 Volkswagen Taos. Tom and Jill also discuss some of their favorite new-car features, such as blind-spot alert systems and rearward-sliding sun visors. John Biel, Editor-in-Chief of Collectible Automobile magazine, joins the show to talk about the October issue, which is on newsstands now. We talk about this issue's full-length feature articles on the low-cost luxury cars of 1966, and the 1986-93 Buick Riviera. John sticks around to participate in this week’s Car Stuff Power Quiz. Recent Consumer Guide CG Daily Drive posts discussed include a Photo Feature of the 1970 Plymouth Sport Suburban station wagon, and a First Spin review of the 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz. Co-host Damon Bell is on vacation this week.  

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