Jill and Tom cover a lot of topics this week, plus review the 2026 Lexus RX.

Tom briefly comments on the 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, agreeing with Jill's earlier assessment that the plug-in hybrid's drivetrain is smooth in operation. Additionally, Tom notes that the compact crossover is generally comfortable and refined.

Also covered: news from General Motors regarding new hybrid variants of the maker's popular large crossovers, the Chevrolet Traverse, GMC Acadia, and Buick Enclave. Listen in for expected delivery dates.

Tom shares a list of the five most-commonly purchased vehicles via the Costco new-car shopping program. Listen in to hear the cars and trucks Costco shoppers want the most.

Also discussed, Audi's recent announcement regarding the company's plans to build a new factory in Georgia. The new facility will have the capacity to assemble up to 200,000 vehicles a year, roughly half of which will be exported outside of the U.S.

Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the 2026 Lexus 500h F Sport Performance midsize crossover. Listen in for her thoughts on the popular Lexus model.

In the second segment, Jill and Tom welcome Jamie Butters of Autotown to the show. Jamie shared his thoughts on the General Motors hybrid move, Audi's new U.S. factory, and the midterm elections. Listen in for his insights. Jamie also discussed the dangers of drowsy driving.

In the last segment, Jill is subject to Tom's "35 MPG" quiz, and shares her quick impressions of the all-new Rivian R2 compact crossover.

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In this bonus episode of the Car Stuff Podcast, Jill sits down with Mazda North American President and CEO Tom Donnelly. The conversation covers a broad range of topics, including Mazda's joint-venture factory in Huntsville, Alabama, the importance of the CX-50 in the maker's lineup, and the significance of plug-in hybrids (PHEVs).

Also addressed: The Future of the MX-5 Miata.

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The hosts open the show with a quick discussion regarding the Toyota/Mazda joint-venture assembly facility in Huntsville, Alabama. The factory currently produces the Toyota Corolla Cross and the Mazda CX-50.

Tom shares news from Porsche; the German sports car maker has revealed a concept car foreshadowing an addition the the lineup which would be positioned above the mainstay 911 in terms of price and performance. The Mission S could appear in brand dealerships for the 2029 model years.

The hosts also review the Jeep "12-by-12" program, during which a new special-edition Wrangler was rolled out each month. Listen in for a list of the special Wranglers, and some thoughts on how well they sold.

Also discussed: "red diesel," and Subaru's European woes.

Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the 2027 Honda Passport in rugged Trailsport trim. The Trailsport was updated for the new year, and promises even greater off-road capability.

In the second segment, Jill and Tom welcome Mazda Crashworthiness Program Manager Christina Smith to the podcast. Christina discusses Mazda's safety philosophy, and the systems currently in place in the maker's products.

In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom's "Which States Buy the Most Pickup Trucks?" quiz, including a bonus question about Star Trek's Walter Koenig.

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