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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The hosts open the show discussing Tom's tidy new haircut. Tom heartily endorses the LoCascio's Barber Shop in Arlington Heights, IL.

Getting down to work, Tom notes that EV startup Rivian enjoyed its best-ever sales quarter in Q3. The maker's new R2 compact crossover contributed to the sales growth.

Also discussed, the BMW "Neue Klasse" 3-Series, which has been completely redesign for 2027. While the hosts like the look of the new compact BMW sedan, there is some question regarding how much it looks like a traditional BMW.

Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the redesigned 2027 Volkswagen Atlas. The 3-row midsize crossover returns for the new year with a host of design and technical updates. Listen in for details.

In the second segment, safety-seat expert Jennifer Newman of Cars.com joins the show. Jennifer brings the hosts up to speed regarding trends in seat design, and the vehicles most safety-seat accommodating. Please share this episode with any first-time expecting parents.

In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom's "Which is Longer?" quiz, including a bonus question about the Burger King Whaler.

Jill and Tom wrap up the show with a discussion of small-crossover affordability, and questioning whether first-time buyers might be better served by compact sedans.

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