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In this episode of “The Drive,” 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.  Welcome to another episode of “The Drive,” which discusses the redesigned 2025 Toyota Camry, a strong contender for North American and World Car of the Year awards. The Camry now features a standard hybrid drivetrain across all models, with the AWD version achieving 44 mpg and the FWD model reaching 51 mpg. Brauer praises its engaging driving experience, highlighting electric assist power steering and regenerative braking. Brauer then talks about Stellantis brands, focusing on the Maserati Grand Cabrio, which celebrates Maserati’s Italian heritage as it nears its 100th anniversary. The Grand Cabrio offers a 542-horsepower gasoline version and an 818-horsepower electric variant, priced at around $204,995, with the electric model going from 0 to 60 in 2.7 seconds. He also mentions a study by Iseecars.com that found the Hyundai Venue had the highest fatality rate at 13.9 deaths per billion miles, indicating the risks smaller vehicles face in crashes with larger ones. Other high fatality rate models include the Chevrolet Corvette and Porsche 911, while the Tesla Model Y has increased accident involvement due to high sales.

Lauren Fix from Car Coach Reports highlights roadside safety issues, especially the dangers of changing a tire. She shares a tragic story of a friend’s death during a tire change and introduces Frank Buscemi, CEO of Help Alerts. Buscemi discusses that around 23,000 people are injured or killed annually on U.S. roadways, with many incidents underreported. Help Alerts is developing advanced lighting systems and collaborating with Volkswagen on digital alert systems to improve roadside safety.

At the LA Auto Show, Brian Moody of AutoTrader.com praises Hyundai’s new Ioniq 9, an upscale all-electric SUV, while expressing skepticism about the electric performance of traditional cars. He highlights the new Toyota 4Runner and the Bronco’s heritage edition and emphasizes the ongoing trend toward electrification, while recognizing the lasting appeal of gasoline vehicles.

Automotive journalist BJ Killeen reflects on changes in the industry, including the closure of Motor Trend’s production company and the impact of its founder’s death. They discuss GM’s decision to phase out Android Auto and Apple CarPlay in favor of an in-house software strategy, and recent layoffs at GM that raised concerns about communication and market awareness. BJ test drove the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla, especially the limited Circuit Edition, whichstands out in a market where manual transmissions are rare. While designed for the track, it also serves well for everyday driving. Buyers receive a complimentary one-year subscription to the National Auto Sport Association (NASA), which includes a performance driving experience and event discounts, highlighting the car’s fun factor. Although the Circuit Edition isn’t available for 2025, dealerships can help locate one through searches or trades. The updated 2025 model features advancements like a redesigned front bumper for better aerodynamics and enhanced styling, including side intakes and a carbon fiber roof. Pricing starts around 38860 for the base model, with higher trims nearing $45,000, competing well against the Civic Type R. The GR Corolla combines youthful styling with strong performance, appealing to a wide range of drivers..

[00:00:00] – Contributor Karl Brauer
[00:06:38] – Maserati Cabrio
[00:12:30] – High Fatality Vehicles
[00:19:20] – Contributor Lauren Fix
[00:29:30] – Rebranding Jaguar
[00:36:21] – L.A. Auto Show
[00:43:11] – Contributor Brian Moody
[00:50:27] – Logo 2.0
[00:56:42] – Consumer Choice
[01:03:31] – Contributor BJ Killeen
[01:11:29] – GM’s Future
[01:19:31] –  2024 Toyota GR Corolla

CREDITS

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

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

Contributor: BJ Killeen

  • Contributor: BJ Killeen | Automotive Journalist and Voice of Reason.
  • 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.,
  • Contributor: Lauren Fix |  Editor in-Chief for Car Coach Reports, Laurenfix.com
  • Contributor: Brian Moody | is a co-founder of Cartender.com, and the Vice President of the New England Motor Press Association. He contributes to U.S. News & World Report, CarGurus, Forbes Wheels, and here on The Drive.

Vehicles Discussed: Chevrolet Corvette, Mitsubishi Mirage, Porsche 911, Honda CR-V Hybrid,

2025 Toyota Camry, Grand Cabrio, Fiat 500, Hyundai Ioniq 9, 2025 Toyota 4Runner, Bronco Desert Runner.  Honda HR-V, Honda Passport, Honda Pilot, Acura MDX, 2024 Toyota GR Corolla

OUR SPONSORS & SUPPORTED CHARITIES:

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

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