For the first show of 2025, Jill and Tom opened the conversation discussing a few news item, including a New York City plan to curb midday traffic by instituting a “congestion fee” toll on drivers entering parts of Manhattan. The hosts also discussed Tesla 2024 global sales—which were down—and the demise of a diesel option in General Motor’s half-ton trucks and SUVs.

Still in the first segment, Jill and Tom reviewed the completely redesigned 2025 Nissan Kicks.

In the second segment, the hosts welcome Mike Quincy to the show. Mike shared news from the outlet’s new brand-reliability study. News: Neither Toyota nor Lexus is in the top spot this year.

In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Which is Longer?” quiz. Jill wrapped up the show discussing Ford’s “COVID Recall,” affecting Super-Duty trucks outfitted with the maker’s Power Stroke diesel engine. Tom also ran down the dates of upcoming auto shows.

Jill and Tom open the show discussing Tom's troubling Diet Pepsi habit, rolling into a discussion of EV startup companies that may or not be on the edge of collapse. Sadly, EV commercial-vehicle startup Canoo--which had been processing a large van order for Walmart--has slipped into receivership. Is Rivian next? Listen in.

Next Tom gripes about his Bluetooth issues, which seem to border on the paranormal.

Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the 2025 Kia K4, the brand's replacement for the popular Forte small sedan.

In the second segment, Jill and Tom welcome Damon Bell of Cars.com. After singing the praises of kringle--a Midwest Danish-like pastry--Damon shared the details of Car's 2024 Full-Size Pickup Challenge, which included three luxury-trimmed pickups. Listen in for details--and a winner.

In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom's "EV Lies!" quiz, after which the duo remembered pioneering auto writer Denise McCluggage.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

Jill and Tom opened the show by addressing the bombshell announcement that Honda and Nissan are merging. The hosts share their thoughts on one of the largest corporate mergers in automotive history.

Also discussed was Ram’s decision to delay launching the all-electric Ram REV pickup, and push up introduction of the Ramcharger extended-range electric truck. The Ramcharger operates on electric power alone, until the battery is depleted, and then charges the battery via an on-board gasoline engine. The Ramcharger is targeted at EV intenders worried about range.

Jill shared her impressions of the Mercedes-Benz AMG C63S, a high-performance variant of the brand’s popular C-Class sedan.

In the second segment, the hosts welcome Ryan Decker of EV start-up Scout Motors to the show. Ryan discussed the company’s launch plans, including details regarding its firsts products, the Terra pickup, and Traveler SUV. Per Ryan, U.S.-built Scouts should see delivery as early as 2027.

In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Is it a 2.0-Liter?” quiz. To wrap up the show, Tom shared his concerns about an emerging trend, dealership service/repair financing.