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My friend and contributor BJ Killeen, an automotive journalist and voice of reason, has returned from a quick visit to the Barrett-Jackson auction in Las Vegas. According to BJ, the auction had fewer cars than usual, and none of the vehicles sold for over a million dollars, which is unusual. However, a 2019 Ford GT lightweight model and a Ferrari F90 were sold for 990k and 594k, respectively, and did well collectively. On a lighter note, BJ also shared some comedy by mentioning that Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk have agreed to a cage fight, which should be interesting.

Next up is Karl Brauer, an automotive industry analyst and contributor to Forbes Autos. He’s also a North American Car and Truck of the Year juror and a board member, as well as an executive analyst for ISeeCars.com. Karl recently tested the 2023 Mercedes EQS SUV, which boasts 791 horsepower and a two-speed transmission attached to the motor with a nine-speed automatic in the front. He describes it as wild, fast, and powerful. Additionally, Karl confirms the rumor that GM is investing a billion dollars in a new diesel powerplant as a backup plan for the automakers.

Lauren Fix, the Editor in Chief of Car Coach Reports.com, made a brief stop to discuss the disappearance of dashboard AM radio. She has taken up the cause to save AM radio for several reasons. AM radio plays a critical role during emergencies and serves as the only source of news for many people in their communities. When asked if the issue was politically motivated, Lauren surprisingly responded that it was not. Instead, automakers aim to eliminate free entertainment and push for subscription-based music services. Ultimately, it’s all about the money.!

Alan is joined by Brian Moody, the Executive Editor of Auto Trader.com and KBB.com, who shares his insights on the top ten used compact vehicles for under five thousand dollars. The list includes popular models such as the Volkswagen Jetta and Chevy Cobalt. For the complete list, visit Brian’s website at www.autrotrader.com. Brian also highlights the top ten eight-seater SUVs, which includes the Nissan Armada, Toyota Grand Highlander, Mazda CX90, 2023 Honda Pilot, Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride, Nissan Pathfinder, Chevy Traverse, and the 2023 Subaru Ascent. To see the full list and more, click on the link below.

[00:00:00] – Contributor BJ Killeen
[00:06:29] – Memorabilia
[00:13:01] – Ready to Rumble
[00:20:52] – Contributor Karl Brauer
[00:28:50] – 2023 Mercedes EQS SUV
[00:37:24] – Billion Dollar Power Plant
[00:43:44] – Contributor Lauren Fix
[00:50:37] – Save AM Radio
[00:56:45] – Chevy Silverado E
[01:04:35] – Contributor Brian Moody
[01:13:53] – Day Supply Is Up
[01:21:05] – Eight Passenger SUV

CREDITS

Host: Alan Taylor
Producer: Dave Milligan
Copy Editor: Colleen Mahi

Contributor: BJ Killeen
Contributor: Karl Brauer
Contributor: Lauren Fix Contributor: Brian Moody

EXPLORE MORE WITH HELPFUL LINKS:

• Contributor: BJ Killeen | Automotive Journalist and Voice of Reason
• Contributor: Brian Moody | Executive Editor of AutoTrader.com and KBB.com..
• Contributor: Lauren Fix | Editor in-Chief for Car Coach Reports.
• Contributor: Karl Brauer | Automotive Industry Analyst, Forbes Autos Contributor, North American Car and Truck of the Year juror and board member and Executive Analyst for ISeeCars.com

Vehicles Discussed:

2023 Mercedes EQS SUV, Toyota BZ4X, Lexus RX 450 E, Volkswagen Jetta, 06-07 Toyota Corolla, 2010 Suzuki SX4, 2007 Saturn Ion, 09-10 Mitsubishi Lancer, 08 Hyundai Elantra, Chevy Cobalt, Nissan Sentra, 2024 Subaru Outback Wilderness, Nissan Armada, Toyota Grand Highlander, Mazda CX90, 2023 Honda Pilot, Hyundai Palisade, Kia Telluride, Nissan Pathfinder, Chevy Traverse, 2023 Subaru Ascent

OUR SPONSORS & SUPPORTED CHARITIES:

• Austin Hatcher Foundation
• AutoTempest.com
• Brembo
• Dodge
• Foundation of Human Understanding
• Shell
• Subaru