Jill and Tom open the show covering a few news items, including: 

·       Tesla has stopped exporting a couple of models to Europe

·       Engine stop/start may be dropped from future vehicles 

·       The Ineos Grenadier SUV is now available via the Costo car-buying service

Tom also discussed his surprise at how likable the 2025 Alfa Romeo Tonale—not the plug-in hybrid—is. 

Still in the first segment, Jill reviewed the electric, new-for-2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ. Per Jill, the new EV version of the Escalade lives up to the luxury and refinement standards of the original Escalade. Listen in to learn about range, charging, and prices. 

In the second segment, the hosts welcome Bill Stokes of Subaru to the show. Bill talked about the all-new Subaru Forester Hybrid, which Jill and Tom are both very impressed with. Listen in to learn more about prices, fuel economy, and availability. 

In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Fake Chinese Car” quiz. Tom wrapped up the show citing an X poll suggesting that Car Stuff Podcast listeners do not want to hear more about running. 

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Brendan Appel of The Sons of Speed sits in for Jill this week. Brendan and Tom opened the show by complaining about the extreme heat lingering over the Chicago area. Tom then noted that Jill was correct last week when she suggested that Toyota had a 20-percent stake in Subaru. Tom had suggested a lower figure. 

Still in the first segment, Brendan and Tom acknowledged the passing of the TLX, Acura’s excellent midsize sedan which has struggled in the marketplace for several year. The sporty 4-door will be discontinued after the 2025 model year. 

Brendan shared details of a video just posted at We Are Motor Drive (host site to the Sons of Speed). Brendan and “Sons” partner Paul Herrold spent time with the all-new, electric, Dodge Charger Daytona sedan. Brendan and Paul were generally delighted with the new Dodge EV, but have some thoughts on how Dodge can make the vehicle more generally appealing. 

In the second segment, Brendan and Tom welcome Ram Executive Vice President of Retail and Commercial Demand, Nate Buelow to the show. Nate updated the hosts on a number of important changes to the Ram line, including a new drivetrain warranty, more-affordable trim levels, and the return of the Hemi V8 engine. Nate also discussed Ram’s return to the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series for 2026. 

In the last segment, Brendan is subjected to Tom’s “Dodge!” quiz, and someone mentioned the Chrysler Cordoba. 

Jill and Tom open the show by discussing a rumored new Tesla product for the Chinese market, and the impact of tariffs on Tesla prices in Canada. The hosts also chat briefly about how Chinese EV builder NIO is dealing with battery-swapping “cheaters” in its home market. 

Still in the first segment, Jill and Tom review the Subaru Forester in new-for-2025 hybrid trim. The hosts find themselves in complete agreement on this small crossover. 

In the second segment Jill and Tom welcome Chrysler CEO Chris Feuell to the Car Stuff Podcast. Chris talks about how the brand is celebrating its 100th anniversary as a carmaker, key products in the marque’s history, and what comes next for the storied automaker. Chris shares updates on some additions coming to the Chrysler lineup in the near future. 

In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Was it a Chrysler?” quiz, which includes a bonus question about Bolivian fast food. Jill wrapped up the podcast with a brief tribute to a longtime writer/colleague who passed away last week. 

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.  

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. 

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.)

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.  

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. 

Paul Herrold of the Sons of Speed sits in for Jill this week. Tom opened the show noting Ram’s decision to return the Hemi-brand V8 to the 1500 powertrain lineup. Ram had replaced the engine with a more powerful and efficient turbocharged six, but customers have rejected the new motor. 

Still in the first segment, Paul recaps his time in the 2025 Rolls-Royce Ghost II. Paul and Sons of Speed partner Brendan Appel share a video of their test drive of the ultra-luxury British sedan below. 

In the second segment Sam Fiorani of AutoForecast Solutions joins the show. Sam shared his insights into the new, Jeff Bezos-backed Slate Auto EV start-up. The new company is scheduled to have vehicles ready to sell by the end of 2026. 

Sam also shared his thoughts on the autonomous Tesla Cybercab. The 2-seat, driverless taxi—at least in concept form—has no steering wheel. Tesla plans to have Cybercabs operating in Austin, Texas in the near future. 

In the last segment, Paul is subjected to Tom’s “Dead or Alive for ‘25” quiz. 

Jill and Tom are joined in-studio this week by colleague Ed Piotrowski. Ed recently wrote a piece for Consumer Guide regarding premium small crossovers he spent time with at this year’s Midwest Automotive Media Association Spring Rally. Ed shared his impressions of the new Acura ADX, sporty Alfa-Romeo Tonale, and speedy BMW X3. Jill also attended the Rally, and shared her impressions of the electric Cadillac Escalade IQ and BMW iX. Listen in for her impressions. 

In the second segment Jill, Tom, and Ed are joined by Mike Hanley of Cars.com. Mike walked the crew through Cars’ just published “What’s the Best Compact SUV for 2025?” report. Big surprises on the top and bottom of the seven-vehicle comparison test list. 

In the last segment Jill and Ed are subjected to Tom’s “HQ?” quiz. Do you know where Stellantis is headquartered? Listen in.