The AutoGuide Show

Are cars actually getting more reliable, or are we just getting better at designing cupholders?

In this episode of The AutoGuide Show, we dive deep into the shocking results of the newly released 2026 J.D. Power U.S. Initial Quality Study (IQS). To help us unpack the data, we sat down with Frank Hanley, Senior Director of Automotive Benchmarking at J.D. Power. He gives us the unfiltered truth on which automakers are crushing it, which ones are crashing out, and what these rankings actually mean for everyday car buyers. If you want to know if your favorite brand made the top of the list—or sunk to the absolute bottom—this is the episode you can’t miss!
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This week we have a special episode dedicated to discussing the best vehicle choices for off-roading and camping. Our guest is Alex Kwanten, Managing Editor, Autos U.S. News & World Report. More than just a list of what he thinks are the best choices, he's actually thoroughly testing them in these conditions. Some are obvious choices, others may surprise you!
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This week Mike talks to Consumer Reports about the pros and cons of letting AI help you with your next vehicle purchasing decision. We break down at which point AI can be helpful and where it will lead consumers astray.

Later, Mike reviews the Ironhead Thrasher R/T RTD01 Tire - an off-road warrior for those on a budget. Finally, in the mailbag, we answer the question of what are the best fuel efficient cars currently on sale today.
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This week Mike talks to Becca from the IIHS about the best cars for teenagers. We discuss what makes a car good or bad for teenagers to drive, and what to look for deciding what to buy.

Later, Mike reviews the Sailun Terramax RT off road tire, for you value orientated trail travellers. Finally, we dig into Audi's latest release, a near 1,000 horsepower supercar.
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Why aren't people buying electric vehicles as quickly as expected, even with high gas prices? This week on the Auto Guide Show, we sit down with Brent Gruber, Executive Director of EV Solutions at JD Power, to break down the massive gap between consumer interest and actual sales. From the "cost of convenience" and hidden home charging expenses to the truth about public charging infrastructure and range anxiety, we look at what’s really holding buyers back. Plus, what does the influx of 4-to-5-year-old off-lease EVs mean for affordability?

Later in the episode, we head to Toronto Motorsports Park to test out the Garmin Catalyst Driving Performance Optimizer—your ultimate digital track coach. Is it worth the $1,400 price tag for serious track days?

Finally, we wrap up with a real-world test of the spectacular 2026 Lamborghini Temerario. Can a 900+ horsepower plug-in hybrid supercar handle a brutal, two-hour rush-hour crawl across Toronto, or is it only built for the open foothills of Italy?
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