Car Stuff Podcast

Makers Respond to Tariffs, Deciding to go Electric, Off-Road on Scorpions

Consumer Guide Automotive, Tom Appel, Jill Ciminillo Episode 269

Jill and Tom opened the show addressing the industry confusion brought on by the recent implementation of federal import tariffs. Tom ran down a list of known carmaker reactions to the regulations. 


Tom followed up the tariff talk with a brief review of the 2025 BMW M35i Grand Coupe, which he described as “delightful,” but noted several tech glitches which cut into the fun.  

Still in the second segment, Jill share her impressions of the all-new Pirelli Scorpion XTM off-road performance tires. 


In the second segment the hosts welcome Matt Smith of CarGurus.com, who shared some pointers for consumers trying to decided between buying a gas, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or electric vehicle. This is an excellent primer for folks considering some level of electrification in their next vehicle. 


In the last segment Jill is subjected to a “best-selling cars by state” quiz. Tom followed the quiz with the results of an X poll he recently conducted regarding what folks listen to in the car.