Tom opened the show complaining about people who spend too much time considering their selections at donut shops, specifically at Spunky Dunkers in Palatine, IL, when Tom is trying to pick up a 6-pack on his way to the studio. 

In a follow up to last week’s Ford Explorer review, Jill and Tom turned their attention to cars, and the news that GMC will be reducing the number of Terrain compact crossover trim levels to three for 2026, and just one for 2025. This is a follow up to Jill’s Explorer review from last episode, in which the hosts noted that Ford is slashing the number of that vehicle’s trim levels from eight to just four. 

Jill shared her drive impressions of the new-for-2025 Genesis GV80 Coupe. The 4-door midsize crossover deviates from the existing GV80 with its rakish roofline, more upscale trappings, and unique, higher-performance engine. 

In the second segment, Jill and Tom welcome Dan Sampson of the Los Angeles Auto Show to the podcast. During a great conversation, Dan addressed the notion that auto shows are going through a period of decline, shared news about new and returning brands to the show, and shared details regarding online access to the proceedings. The L.A. Show kicks off in late November. 

In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Real or Fake Auto Show” quiz, including a pumpkin-spice bonus question. 

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Tom Appel Host of the Consumer Guide Car Stuff Podcast

Long-time publisher of Consumer Guide Automotive, and frequent radio and podcast guest. Currently co-hosting the Car Stuff podcast with auto-review veteran Jill Ciminillo. Life-long Chicagoan. Live with my wife of 30 years, and have a daughter earning her masters degree in animal behavior.