Consumer Guide Car Stuff Podcast Episode 232: Mazda Rebounds, Freshened Explorer Impresses, Ford Chicago Assembly Turns 100

Jill and Tom opened the show noting that Chinese electric-car maker BYD is exploring developing a retail network in Canada. Tom explained why the Canadian market would be friendlier to Chinese imports than the U.S. The hosts went on to discuss recent U.S.-market sales growth for Mazda. The Japanese maker had recently made public it’s intention to take the Mazda brand upmarket, and early sales of its CX-50 and CX-90 models suggest that the project is successful. Tom also shared some fun data on the cities in which the Car stuff Podcast is most popular. (Hint: City number five isn’t in the U.S.)

Jill shared her take of the freshened 2025 Ford Explorer, the maker’s popular midsize 3-row crossover. Jill shared her drive impressions, plus explained why the updated SUV is offered in fewer trim levels for 2025.

In the second segment, Jill and Tom are joined by Ford Heritage Brand Manager Ted Ryan. Ted shared the history of Ford’s Chicago Assembly plant. The historic factory turned 100 years old this year, and is steeped in brand history. Listen in for a list of Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles built at the plant.

In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Was it a Ford?” quiz. Tom also briefly shared his impressions of the Lexus LC 500, and Nissan Z Nismo.