Jill and Tom are in-studio this week for a far-reaching number of topics. Tom quickly updated everyone on the CDk Global/dealership-hacking crisis, which will reportedly be resolved later this week. The hosts briefly discussed Tesla’s second quarter of disappointing sales, this while overall EV sales are projected to rise.

Still in the first segment, Jill and Tom chatted about the Rivian/Volkswagen deal, which sees Rivian infused with a quick $1 billion—with the promise of additional funding at later dates—and VW gaining access to Rivian’s EV software architecture.

In the second segment, Jill and Tom are joined by Sam Fiorani of AutoForecast Solutions. Sam updated the hosts on several of the most-prominent—and most threatening to Western automakers—Chinese carmakers.

Sam’s tutorial included makers BYD, Chery, Geely, and Great Wall. Sam warns that Western carmakers dismiss these up-and-coming global players at their own risk.

In the last segment, Jill is subject to a spelling quiz, tasked with spelling model names including Avanti, Reatta, and Ciera.

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.

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.