Small Car

Given that so many Soviet car concepts had the general look of high-school welding-shop projects, it seems a shame that the VAZ-X concept, with its aerodynamic design and thoughtful cabin layout—would see its development cut short due to political uncertainty.

Regardless of trim level, the 2026 Golf GTI is a rare reminder of just how awesome German cars were for folks who enjoyed driving. We do miss the manual transmission, but the dual-clutch automatic is so good, we don’t miss it very much.

Jill and Tom welcome Automotive News' Larry Vellequette to the show. Larry talks about Toyota quality issues, the Gordie Howe Bridge, and surprisingly robust U.S. auto sales. Listen in for some great insights.

Japanese carmaker Isuzu has a long history in the U.S., though its time producing and selling passenger vehicles in the States was relatively short. Isuzu’s presence in America was bolstered considerably by partnering with General Motors, cooperating on the production of small vehicles, commercial trucks, and diesel engines. Though Isuzu abandoned the U.S. consumer market in 2009, the company still makes and retails medium-duty trucks here.

Between 1976 and 1987, the Chevette sold in gargantuan numbers. Not because the car was “good,” but because the tiny Chevrolet struck the perfect balance of price and fuel efficiency, and it wasn’t too small for American car shoppers. That said, the Chevette was a strange choice for a company looking to create a custom luxury car.