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Car Stuff Podcast

Car Stuff Podcast

By: Consumer Guide Automotive Tom Appel Jill Ciminillo
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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.© 2026 Car Stuff Podcast Economics
Episodes
  • Massive Jeep Recall, Mercedes Plug-in Wagon, Why U.S. Car Sales Remain Robust
    Jun 15 2026

    Jill and Tom open the show sharing news of a massive Jeep recall. Jeep has issued a "park-outside" warning for owners of many late-model Jeep Wranglers and Gladiators. Listen in for details.

    The hosts discuss Mitsubishi's new electric crossover, the Eclipse Sportback EV. Mitsubishi's first U.S.-market electric vehicle shares its basic architecture with the Nissan Leaf.

    Jill reviews the Mercedes-Benz E 53 Hybrid wagon. One of a waning number of true station wagons still offered in the U.S., the E 53 serves up power and tech, though exclusive pricing will keep the car a rare sight on U.S. roads.

    In the second segment, Jill and Tom welcome Automotive News' Larry Vellequette to the show. Larry talks about Toyota quality issues, the Gordie Howe Bridge, and surprisingly robust U.S. auto sales. Listen in for some great insights.

    In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom's "Who is that Guy?" quiz. The hosts wrap up the show with a quick take on Ferrari's first-ever electric vehicle, the controversial Luce. Check out the Car Stuff Podcast Facebook page for a picture of the Luce, and listen in for the price.


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    54 mins
  • Compact Crossover Comparo, Scout Deep Dive, Discontinued Car Quiz
    Jun 8 2026

    This week Tom opens the show clarifying the difference between mild-hybrid and full-hybrid applications. Tom notes that mild hybrid drivetrains are found mostly on European luxury vehicles.

    In advance of chatting with Scout Motors' Ryan Decker, Jill and Tom discuss how few all-new car brands have been launched in the past 25 years. Listen in for a list.

    Still in the first segment, the hosts are joined by fellow automotive journalist Ed Piotrowski. Ed attended the 2026 Midwest Automotive Media Association Spring Rally, and wrote a comparison review of four compact crossovers: The Jeep Cherokee, Mazda CX-5, Toyota RAV4, and Volkswagen Tiguan. There's big news here, as for 2026 the Jeep and Toyota are all new--and now hybrid only--the Mazda is redesigned, and the VW has been treated to an updated powertrain. Listen in for Ed's insights.

    In the second segment, the hosts are Joined by Scout Motors Vice President of Strategy and Branding Ryan Decker. Ryan shares details regarding Scout's position in the market place, the products themselves, and what to expect regarding Scout's direct-to-consumer sales plan.

    In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom's "Is it still being built?" quiz. After the quiz Jill talks a little about the redesigned Subaru Outback Wilderness, with which she recently spent time.


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    54 mins
  • New Lexus ES, Airbag Thefts on the Rise, Best Adventure Vehicles
    Jun 2 2026

    Tom opens the show by acknowledging the passing of jazz saxophone legend Sonny Rollins. Sonny was the last living performer to have appeared in the 1958 Esquire magazine photo A Great Day in Harlem. The image appears on the Car Stuff Podcast Facebook Page.

    The hosts discuss the return of the Volkswagen ID. Buzz retro-themed electric themed minivan for 2027. Though little changed mechanically, the Buzz may be packaged to improve the pricey van's perceived value.

    Jill talks about a marked increase in airbag thefts in the Chicago area, especially among certain Honda models. The hosts address one possible way to dissuade would-be airbag thieves.

    Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the all-new 2026 Lexus ES midsize sedan, which now comes only in hybrid and all-electric trim. Listen in for her take on this long-term brand staple.

    In the second segment, the hosts welcome John Vincent of U.S. News to the podcast. John walks the hosts through the outlet's 2026 "Best Adventure Vehicles" list.

    In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom's "Is it Built There?" quiz.


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    1 hr and 3 mins
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