Jill Ciminillo brings her expertise as a nationally syndicated auto writer and content creator to the screen. With a natural on-camera presence and a refreshingly candid approach, she delivers insightful reviews and automotive content. Her channel is a platform for honest opinions, as all reviews posted are unsponsored and reflect her personal evaluations.
2021 Chrysler Pacifica Review
The 2021 Chrysler Pacifica is presented as a surprisingly cool and practical minivan, challenging traditional notions of the segment. The reviewer highlights several key improvements for the 2021 model year, including the new 10.1-inch Uconnect 5 system with faster processing and a redesigned int...
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Car Stuff Podcast Ep 254: All-New Kia K4, Haunted Bluetooth Connections, Luxury Pickup Shootout
This episode of the Car Stuff Podcast covers a range of automotive topics, starting with a discussion on the precarious state of EV startups like Cano... moreo and potential future struggles for companies like Rivian. The hosts also touch upon personal anecdotes, including Bluetooth connectivity issues and a review of the 2025 Kia K4, which replaces the Forte. The latter half of the podcast features Damon Bell from Cars.com discussing a luxury pickup truck shootout, highlighting three high-end models and announcing a winner. The episode concludes with a lighthearted 'EV Lies!' quiz and a tribute to auto writer Denise McCluggage. While the K4 is mentioned, detailed driving impressions or specific trim levels are not provided in the transcript. less
Car Stuff Podcast Episode 253: Mercedes-AMG C63S Review, Ram Delays EV, Chatting With Scout Motors
The Car Stuff Podcast hosts discuss the significant Honda-Nissan merger, highlighting its potential to create the third-largest global automaker and t... morehe crucial role of Honda's leadership in its success. They also touch upon Ram's strategic delay of the REV pickup in favor of the extended-range Ramcharger, noting its appeal to range-conscious truck buyers. A significant portion of the review is dedicated to the Mercedes-AMG C63S. While praising its luxurious interior, exceptional comfort on long drives, and astonishing 671 horsepower, the reviewer expresses bewilderment at its very limited 7-mile electric range and a combined EPA rating of 21 MPG (40 MPGe). The high $92,845.46 as-tested price is also questioned, suggesting it's a niche vehicle for wealthy individuals without children who prioritize extreme performance and cutting-edge tech over practicality or pure EV efficiency. The episode concludes with an insightful interview with Ryan Decker of Scout Motors, detailing their plans for US-built electric pickup trucks and SUVs, emphasizing a blend of classic ruggedness with modern EV technology, with a target starting price of $60,000 for deliveries beginning in 2027. less
Car Stuff Podcast Episode 251: Dodge Charger Daytona Preview, VW ID. Buzz Deep Dive
The Car Stuff Podcast dives into the highly anticipated Dodge Charger Daytona EV and the Volkswagen ID. Buzz. The hosts express intrigue over the Char... moreger Daytona's electric transition, noting its performance targets (more horsepower than a Hellcat, faster 0-60, AWD) and a lower price point, despite initial public backlash. They acknowledge the shift in muscle car definition. The ID. Buzz is praised for its unique design, comfortable ride, and surprising interior space for taller passengers, attracting significant positive attention. However, both hosts and guest Mark Gillies highlight the ID. Buzz's relatively high starting price (around $60,000) and its modest EPA-estimated range of 231-234 miles as potential drawbacks. Gillies emphasizes the ID. Buzz's role as a brand halo rather than a high-volume seller, targeting SUV buyers rather than traditional minivan customers. The discussion also touches on EV adoption challenges, charging infrastructure concerns, and the potential for future range improvements through battery technology. less
Car Stuff Podcast Episode 252: Charger Daytona, Tesla Market Share, Impact of Trump Tariffs
The Car Stuff Podcast hosts discuss the electrifying new Dodge Charger Daytona, noting its attractive design inspired by the 1968 model. While the ele... morectric powertrain is praised for its performance, particularly the Scat Pack version with its AWD and performance modes (including drift and donut), the hosts acknowledge the controversy surrounding the shift from V8 engines. They highlight the temporary 'boost shot' feature that inflates horsepower figures and the 'Fratzog' exhaust system's attempt to mimic V8 sounds, which some find gimmicky. The discussion touches on the potential for downloadable performance upgrades, a concept new to mainstream enthusiasts. The episode also covers the impact of potential US tariffs on vehicles from Canada and Mexico, the "Chicken Tax," and the surprising October EV registration data, where Tesla still leads but sees its market share decline, with Chevrolet emerging as a strong second. less
2025 Honda Civic Hybrid Review
The 2025 Honda Civic Hybrid, reviewed here in its base Sport trim, impresses with its refined hybrid powertrain, offering a smooth and seamless drivin... moreg experience with strong EV mode engagement, even at highway speeds. The reviewer highlights the 200 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque as a significant plus, making it feel peppy and sporty. While the exterior design is a subtle refresh, the interior offers comfortable cloth seats, standard dual-zone automatic climate control, and heated seats. However, the Sport trim lacks some premium features found on higher trims, such as a full digital display, wireless Apple CarPlay, and SiriusXM radio. The reviewer also notes the absence of rear air vents and USB ports, and a slightly fuzzy backup camera display. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Civic Hybrid's fuel economy is commendable, averaging 39.9 MPG in cold weather, with expectations of improvement as the vehicle breaks in. The reviewer praises the overall value proposition, especially the base price of around $29,000 for the sedan and $30,000 for the liftback, making it an attractive option for a fuel-efficient and enjoyable compact hybrid. less
2024 Mercedes AMG C63S E Performance Tech Check
Jill Ciminillo provides a comprehensive tech check of the 2024 Mercedes-AMG C63S E Performance, focusing on its innovative hybrid powertrain and inter... moreior technology. She highlights the impressive combined output of 671 horsepower from the 2.0L four-cylinder engine and electric motor, emphasizing its performance capabilities over electric range. The review praises the seamless power delivery and smooth driving experience, even in everyday conditions, noting its comfort for long journeys. Positives include the highly customizable ambient lighting, clear and high-definition camera system with useful surround-view and delay features, and an intuitive, effective park assist system. The digital driver display offers significant customization options, and the infotainment system, including Apple CarPlay integration, is well-executed. On the downside, the reviewer notes the electric-only range is very limited (around 6-7 miles) and the suspension can feel a bit stiff, even in Comfort mode, particularly for city driving. Overall, the C63S E Performance is presented as a fun, functional, and high-performance vehicle, albeit with a significant cost. less
Car Stuff Podcast Ep 250: Stellantis CEO Quits, Volvo XC90 Review, Porsche Macan EV Deep Dive
The Car Stuff Podcast's latest episode covers significant automotive news, including the surprise resignation of Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares an... mored its market impact. The review of the 2025.5 Volvo XC90 highlights a substantial refresh with updated exterior styling, particularly the grille, and a significantly improved infotainment system featuring Google built-in and enhanced Apple CarPlay integration. While the reviewer found the new system vastly superior to the old tile-based interface, the core driving dynamics remain focused on luxury and comfort rather than sportiness, aligning with Volvo's brand ethos. Pricing for the XC90 ranges from approximately $58,000 for the base B5 trim to $80,000 for the T8 plug-in hybrid, with the model year designation of '25.5' noted as a peculiar but present detail in the market. less
2024 Dodge Charger Daytona First Look
The 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona marks Dodge's bold entry into the all-electric performance vehicle market. The reviewer highlights the Scat Pack m... moreodel's impressive 670 horsepower and the RT's more balanced 496 horsepower with a notable 308 miles of range. Key positives include its visceral driving experience, which closely mimics a gasoline-powered muscle car through simulated engine sounds, vibrations, and a responsive feel. The reviewer praises the car's handling on the track, its comfortable ride on the road, and the intuitive infotainment system with haptic feedback controls. Downsides mentioned are the optional, small frunk and the potentially bothersome seatbelt placement that can cut into the neck. Despite a base price that may require additional packages, the Charger Daytona is presented as an attractive, fun, and functionally usable electric vehicle that could convert EV skeptics. less
Car Stuff Podcast Ep 249
The Car Stuff Podcast episode 249 covers a range of automotive topics, starting with the LA Auto Show reveals, including updates to the Genesis GV70 a... morend Kia's refreshed Sportage and EV6. A significant portion is dedicated to Hyundai's new 2025 Ioniq 9 three-row EV SUV, highlighting its design, interior space, and charging capabilities, including NACS port adoption. The discussion also touches on the Ford Maverick Lobo's price increase and the evolving landscape of EVs and hybrids. A notable segment reviews the 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid, praising its integration of Toyota's hybrid technology with Mazda's likable crossover package, built alongside the Toyota Corolla Cross in Alabama. The hosts also engage in a 'Ford or Mercury?' quiz and discuss the Nissan Kicks and Murano, concluding with a preview of the upcoming electric Porsche Macan. less
2025 VW ID Buzz Tech Check
Jill Ciminillo provides a comprehensive tech check of the 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz, highlighting both its innovative features and a few quirks. She pr... moreaises the intuitive key fob operation, the passive entry system, and the column shifter's functionality, including the distinct 'D' and 'B' modes for regenerative braking. The integrated Apple CarPlay and native system are noted as a strong point, offering customizable tiles and easy navigation. The reviewer also appreciates the manual controls for mirrors and steering wheel adjustments, as well as the clever 'smart climate' features and the unique movable second-row console. However, she points out an issue with the vehicle shutting off if the driver shifts weight off the seat while stopped, and notes that the backup camera is clearer than the front camera, with both being slightly fuzzy at night. The park assist function is demonstrated to work well for both parking and exiting spaces, though it requires manual intervention. Despite concerns about the $60,000 base price and a maximum range of 234 miles, Ciminillo concludes that the ID. Buzz is a clever, unique, and comfortable family vehicle for city driving, offering ample space for passengers of all sizes. less
Car Stuff Podcast Ep. 247: Worst Rental Car, Honda Prologue EV, Best and Worst Cities to Drive In
This episode of Car Stuff Podcast covers a range of automotive topics. Jill Ciminillo reviews the new Honda Prologue EV, noting its surprisingly stron... moreg early sales and explaining the reasons behind it. The hosts also delve into a listener's negative rental car experience with an unspecified crossover. A significant portion of the discussion features Chip Lupo from WalletHub, who presents findings from their 2024 study on the best and worst cities for driving, highlighting issues in Chicago and Detroit. The podcast concludes with a 'More Car Sales!' quiz focusing on Q1-Q3 2024 data, a discussion on the potential discontinuation of the federal EV tax credit, and a brief mention of the 2025 Cadillac Lyriq pricing. The Volkswagen ID. Buzz electric minivan is also mentioned, with a full review promised for a future episode. less
Car Stuff Podcast Ep 245: Ram 1500 RHO, Hyundai Ioniq 5 N Range Test, Leasing an EV
The Car Stuff Podcast hosts discuss the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N's real-world range limitations, with Jill Ciminillo detailing a 196-mile trip to Indian... moreapolis where she deliberately drove at 65 mph to conserve energy, arriving with 45 miles remaining. She notes that exceeding 67-68 mph significantly impacts range. The discussion highlights that this high-performance variant, equipped with larger wheels, sacrifices range for performance, unlike other Ioniq 5 models. The hosts also touch upon the Ram 1500 RHO, positioning it as a capable and more accessible successor to the TRX, praising its improved fuel efficiency and driving dynamics. A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to leasing EVs, with expert John Vincent explaining its benefits, such as lower monthly payments and the ability to access more car for the budget, especially highlighting how leasing can unlock federal tax credits for EVs that don't qualify otherwise. Downsides like mileage restrictions and the lack of equity are also covered. less
Ep 244: Porsche Macan EV, VW Rolls Out Scout Brand, XPEL Car-Care Products
The 2025 Porsche Macan EV is presented as a significant and potentially breakthrough product for the brand, aiming to capture a wider audience. The ho... morests highlight its impressive performance, smooth and quiet ride, and sporty dynamics, characteristic of Porsche. A key takeaway is its 300-mile range, considered a sweet spot for EVs. While the base price of around $75,000 is acknowledged as high, it's contextualized within the Porsche brand and the EV premium. The vehicle is built on an all-new EV architecture, distinguishing it from gasoline Macans. The interior is described as very nice, though the traditional Porsche option-heavy pricing strategy is noted, with potential for the price to escalate significantly with added features and exclusive colors. The "4" trim, driven by the hosts, offers 402 horsepower and AWD, starting at $81,000. The augmented reality head-up display is a feature the hosts were eager to experience more fully. Overall, the Macan EV is seen as a strong contender poised for significant popularity. less
2024 Honda Prologue Tech Check
Jill Ciminillo provides a focused technology review of the 2024 Honda Prologue, highlighting its shared platform with the Chevrolet Blazer EV. A key t... moreakeaway is the Prologue's retention of Apple CarPlay, a feature absent in GM's electric vehicles, which Ciminillo considers a significant advantage and a personal deal-breaker. She praises the wireless Apple CarPlay integration, the ability to display navigation in the driver cluster, and the well-implemented wireless phone charger with cooling. Conversely, she notes the controversial placement of headlight controls within the touchscreen, a GM trait that may frustrate some users. The review also covers practical features like the kick-activated liftgate, remote start via key fob, and adjustable one-pedal driving. While acknowledging the shared GM electronics, Ciminillo ultimately favors the Prologue over the Blazer EV primarily due to the inclusion of Apple CarPlay. less
Ep 243: Rebelle Rally Recap, Buick Envista Surprises, Best Used Cars to Buy
The Car Stuff Podcast episode covers a diverse range of automotive topics, starting with Jill Ciminillo's recap of her challenging Rebelle Rally ... moreexperience in a Ram 1500 RHO. The discussion highlights the truck's capabilities in extreme conditions and the learning curve involved. The hosts then delve into August EV registration data, noting the strong performance of the Honda Prologue and Chevrolet Equinox, while also touching on Tesla's Cybertruck sales and price adjustments. A significant portion is dedicated to the Buick Envista, with Tom Appel praising its surprising luxury and refinement for its price point, despite a "throbby" 1.2L three-cylinder engine and the lack of AWD. The episode also features an insightful segment with Alex Knizek from Consumer Reports, who discusses their first-ever used car brand reliability rankings, emphasizing the strong performance of Japanese brands like Toyota and Lexus, and identifying several value-packed used car recommendations. The show concludes with a "Was it a Cadillac?" quiz and a brief mention of Tesla's Cybertruck price cuts. less
Ep. 240: Buick Enclave Impresses, Buyers Pick Their Favorite Car Features, Rebelle Rally Prep
The Buick Enclave, redesigned for 2025, is presented as a compelling, near-luxury, three-row SUV that offers significant refinement and quietness for ... moreits segment. The reviewer highlights the availability of the Super Cruise hands-free driving system across all trims as a major plus, praising its performance even on two-lane highways. While the new turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides adequate power and improved fuel economy over the outgoing V6, the reviewer notes it lacks the smoothness of its predecessor. Minor criticisms include the lack of auto up/down windows for rear passengers and the cheap appearance of the gas and brake pedals. The infotainment system's Apple CarPlay integration is also flagged as feeling 'phoned in' due to awkward screen cutoff and small icons. Despite these points, the Enclave is considered a refined and potentially underappreciated vehicle that could appeal to buyers seeking a more upscale experience than its Chevrolet or GMC counterparts. less
Ep. 239: Patriotic Car Brands, 2024 Fiat 500e Review, Hot Auto Topics
The Fiat 500e is presented as a likable, fun-to-drive electric coupe with a charming design. While praised for its agility and suitability for city dr... moreiving, its practicality is limited by a cramped rear seat and a relatively short range of approximately 140-150 miles, which the reviewer found challenging. The interior is noted as not particularly upscale, with some road noise and a choppy ride, attributed to its short wheelbase. Despite these drawbacks, the reviewer found the driving experience enjoyable and would consider owning one, particularly if leased to take advantage of incentives. A significant point of contention is the lack of federal tax credit eligibility due to its import status, making it less competitive against rivals like the Chevy Equinox, which offers more range and qualifies for the rebate. less
Ep 238: NACTOY Semi-Finalists, Jamie Butters on Future Product, Driving the Volvo EX90
The Volvo EX90 is presented as a significant step forward in Volvo's electrification strategy, offering a spacious, comfortable, and well-appoint... moreed three-row electric SUV. Reviewer Jill Ciminillo highlights its attractive design, which shares similarities with the popular XC90, and praises its quiet, upscale interior and smooth ride, particularly with the top-spec 510 horsepower model. The vehicle is noted for its advanced features, including massaging seats. However, the EX90 comes with a high starting price, and its availability was impacted by production shifts from China to Belgium and the US (South Carolina plant, also producing Polestar). The EX30, a more affordable compact EV, faced similar production challenges, with its initial Chinese manufacturing location impacting US availability due to import restrictions. Despite these hurdles, the EX90 is positioned in a growing but still limited segment of three-row EVs. less
2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid Tech Check
The 2024 Kia Sportage Hybrid is thoroughly reviewed, focusing on its technology features. The "Smart Park" remote parking assist is highligh... moreted as a useful, albeit sometimes slow, feature. The reviewer praises the large, dual-screen display, particularly the driver's cluster's ability to reflect weather conditions, calling it "very different" and "cool." However, a significant drawback is the wired-only Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, especially frustrating given the presence of wireless charging. The touch-sensitive climate and audio controls are noted as a "merger saving feature" that requires an adjustment period, though steering wheel controls offer a workaround. The dial shifter is functional but not personally preferred by the reviewer. The "Smart Liftgate" is a convenient feature, but its fixed 3-second delay before opening can be problematic in tight spaces like garages. The Blind View Monitor, exclusive to the uplevel Prestige model, is lauded as an excellent safety feature. Driving impressions reveal a quiet and smooth hybrid powertrain, though a minor stutter was noted when switching between electric and gas modes. Real-world fuel economy averaged 32.9 MPG, falling short of the EPA's estimated 38 MPG, even with 3,800 miles on the odometer. Overall, the Sportage Hybrid is deemed a competent, quiet, and smooth vehicle with appealing technology, despite some minor tech and efficiency quibbles. less
Mercedes Glc 43 Coupe Review, Chatting With Rivian, Porsche Price Quiz
Jill Ciminillo reviews the 2024 AMG Mercedes-Benz GLC 43 Coupe, finding it surprisingly fun to drive despite initial skepticism about its 'coupe&... more#039; styling. She highlights the potent 416 horsepower from the 2.0L turbo-four engine and praises the dynamic changes across Sport Plus mode, making it engaging on ramps and off ramps. While acknowledging the ride quality is good on smooth surfaces, she notes its suitability for city driving requires switching to Comfort mode due to road imperfections. The reviewer expresses a strong dislike for the ultrasuede on the steering wheel, finding it tactilely unpleasant. Despite the steep starting price of $70,000, escalating to $79,985 with options, she deems it a practical and fun commuter car for young professionals or empty nesters, particularly appreciating the aggressive AMG styling and interior accents, though she notes many desirable features come at an extra cost. less
2024 Fiat 500e Review
The 2024 Fiat 500e is presented as a purpose-built urban electric vehicle, excelling in city environments due to its compact size and nimble handling.... more The reviewer found the driving experience fun and zippy, with good visibility and an upright driving position. Interior highlights include well-designed materials, a clean dashboard layout, and effective wireless Apple CarPlay integration, though icon size could be improved. The "La Prima" trim is noted, along with the distinctive "rose gold" paint. Downsides are minimal, primarily a single front cup holder and a wireless charging pad that overheated her phone. The reviewer argues that the limited range (around 160 miles estimated, with official press materials stating 147 miles) is not a significant drawback for its intended use as a city car, especially when charged via a standard 110V outlet. It's deemed suitable for urban dwellers with a secondary vehicle for longer trips, fitting well into the reviewer's lifestyle as a second car. less
2024 Subaru Solterra Tech Review
The 2024 Subaru Solterra's technology review highlights its strong resemblance to the Toyota bZ4X, with most of the tech being shared. Key differ... moreences noted are Subaru's standard symmetrical all-wheel drive, X-Mode for mild off-roading, and a more powerful dual-motor setup producing 249 horsepower and 2011 lb-ft of torque, exceeding the bZ4X. The reviewer praises the clear, high-definition camera system with unique 360-degree under-vehicle view and dynamic guidelines. However, the gauge cluster placement behind the steering wheel is a significant concern, potentially causing visibility issues for taller drivers, especially without a head-up display. The infotainment system, a Toyota unit, is well-integrated, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and a generally good user experience, though potential subscription fees for connected services are a point of caution. The automatic parking system is functional but described as a bit glitchy and slow, best suited for those unfamiliar with parallel parking. A notable annoyance is the persistent Toyota chime when shifting into reverse, which the reviewer could not find a way to disable. less
New Corvette ZR1, 2025 Infiniti QX80, Remembering the Impala SS
The Consumer Guide Car Stuff Podcast episode delves into several significant automotive news items. The primary focus is the highly anticipated Chevro... morelet Corvette ZR1, with hosts Tom Appel and Jill Ciminillo speculating on its potential $150,000+ price point, driven by its reported 1,064 horsepower and 828 lb-ft of torque. They also discuss the redesigned 2025 Infiniti QX80, with Tom noting significant improvements over the previous generation, particularly its new turbocharged V6 engine and enhanced interior space, though he still finds the drivetrain a bit unrefined at low speeds. The episode also features a segment with Don Sikora of Collectible Automobile magazine, highlighting the 1994-1996 Chevrolet Impala SS and its design evolution from the Caprice. A discussion on the merits of classic cars versus modern technology is also included, alongside a segment on Acura's decision to remove native XM radio support in favor of app-based streaming via Apple CarPlay. The show concludes with a 'Which Sold Better?' quiz and a bonus question about Buc-ee's exclusive snacks. less
2025 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Tech Check
The 2025 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Limited is thoroughly reviewed, focusing on its technology suite. The reviewer highlights the expansive dual-screen dis... moreplay, noting it's not a single continuous unit but offers good clarity and responsiveness. While the digital gauge cluster's configurability is found to be somewhat disappointing compared to previous Hyundai models, the infotainment system impresses, particularly with its wireless Apple CarPlay integration. The reviewer praises the seamless transition between the native system and CarPlay, and the convenience of physical climate and audio controls. The Bose sound system and customizable ambient lighting are also noted as positives. The vehicle's driver assistance features are accessible and can be turned off. However, the reviewer expresses mixed feelings about the 'Smart Trunk' feature, finding it overly aggressive and prone to opening prematurely, though it can be disabled. The standout feature is the 'Smart Park' functionality, lauded for its utility in tight urban spaces. Real-world fuel economy averaged 26 MPG during the test, but a previous reset showed 43.3 MPG, indicating strong hybrid potential. The digital key and complimentary remote connect features are also appreciated. less