New AMG V8! Chevy Saves the Manual, Trouble at Honda, Spyker Returns, and More! THIS CAR POD! EP110
Doug DeMuro · 2026-05-08
💡 Quick Take
1. Honda is delaying redesigns of core products like the Odyssey, Accord, Civic, HR-V, and MDX for multiple years due to massive financial losses from their EV ventures.
2. The current Honda Odyssey, released in 2017, might not see a redesign until 2030, facing stiff competition from newer hybrid and AWD rivals like the Toyota Sienna and Kia Carnival.
3. Honda's EV losses are so significant that they are impacting the development and release schedules of their most profitable and important vehicles, potentially making them uncompetitive.
4. Mercedes-Benz AMG is bringing back V8 engines, starting with SUV products like the GLE and GLS, derived from the S-Class powertrain.
5. The return of V8s by Mercedes-Benz is a significant story, especially as they've been absent from high-performance sedans like the E63, leaving a gap against rivals like the M5 and RS6.
6. There's a possibility that Mercedes-Benz will develop V8 powertrains specifically for the US market, as it's one of the last major markets for internal combustion engines, especially larger ones.
7. GM is rumored to be offering a manual transmission in the next-generation Camaro, potentially indicating a continued focus on enthusiast vehicles.
8. The Camaro chassis might also underpin a manual transmission Cadillac sedan, suggesting a broader strategy for manual gearbox integration.
9. Porsche is ending production of the gasoline Macan this summer, with a new gas model not expected for two years, highlighting the transition to EVs and production challenges.
10. The gasoline Macan accounted for 30% of Porsche's sales last year, making its two-year absence a significant gap in their lineup.
11. Spykers, the Dutch supercar manufacturer, is planning a comeback, with a new model set to debut at The Quail, featuring a twin-turbo V8.
12. The new Spykers are expected to be extremely expensive, likely in the million-dollar range, reflecting their bespoke, hand-built nature.
13. Ford is developing a low-cost ($30,000) electric pickup truck through a "skunk works" project, hiring talent from Apple and Tesla, with a rapid development cycle goal.
14. Ford's new EV project is deliberately being kept separate from traditional Ford development processes, with CEO Jim Farley even restricted from accessing the facility.
15. The strategy for Ford's new EV is to "move fast and break things," aiming for an 18-month development cycle, a stark contrast to typical legacy automaker timelines.
16. Cadillac is releasing a limited-edition Formula 1 edition of the Blackwing, with only 26 units produced, highlighting its exclusivity and connection to motorsport.
17. Third-row rear-facing seats are becoming obsolete in new vehicles, with the Mercedes E-wagon being one of the last to offer them, due to safety considerations and evolving design trends.
18. Rivian is planning additional variants for its R2 platform beyond the initial SUV, hinting at performance (R2X) and potentially other models.
19. The US is a crucial market for internal combustion engines, especially larger ones, due to economic factors and cheaper gas, contrasting with the EV dominance in markets like APAC.
20. Tariffs on European vehicles are a concern, with potential increases to 25% impacting profitability and product strategies for brands like Audi.
21. Pace cars, especially replicas, are considered a bargain in the collector car market, offering a unique aesthetic at a relatively low price point.
22. The Chevrolet Camaro Z28 pace car example discussed, despite its unique appeal, had questionable interior features like an automatic transmission and basic seats.
23. C6 Z06 Corvettes are seen as a bargain, especially the nicest examples, offering significant performance for their price, though they are increasingly being used as show cars.
24. Base C8 Corvettes are holding their value well and offer a thrilling driving experience, making them a good value proposition compared to higher-trim models.
25. The Caprice PPV, originally a government fleet vehicle with a 6.0L V8, is presented as an affordable, four-door performance alternative, though its interior is basic.
26. The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, particularly the Roadster, is considered a bargain in the supercar market, offering specialness and performance at a lower price than comparable Porsches or AMG GTs.
27. Household-style power outlets in cars are primarily used for charging laptops and camera equipment on long trips, enhancing productivity and convenience.
28. Doug is on a 20-year quest to collect Colorado license plates from every county, missing only two: Rio Blanco and Mineral.
29. The Porsche Cayenne convertible prototype, though not produced, is seen as a cool concept, with some believing it would have been a desirable vehicle.
30. Concept cars and movie cars, while fascinating, often don't translate well into real-world ownership due to their specialized nature and limitations.
31. The Jaguar XKR from Die Another Day, built on a Ford Explorer chassis with a Ford V8, is a unique movie car with surprising capabilities.
32. Car YouTubers like Rich Rebuilds are highly regarded for their expertise and entertaining content, with a desire for collaborative, humorous repair challenges.
33. The concept of a "two-car garage at each price point" is a popular topic, with high-end examples including hypercars and luxury vehicles.
34. The Honda Clarity is highlighted as a particularly unappealing car, with a negative incident involving one in an accident reinforcing this perception.
35. Rental car options in Europe are becoming less desirable, with fewer manual transmission choices and a prevalence of small, uninspiring hybrids and SUVs.
36. The market for older performance sedans and wagons, like the E55 AMG, is strong, with enthusiasts actively seeking well-maintained examples.
37. The Ford Maverick is mentioned as a desirable small pickup truck, with specific interest in a "Lobo" edition with custom features.
38. The discussion touches on the difficulty of finding and affording certain enthusiast cars, with prices for bespoke vehicles like the Damaso P72 being astronomically high.
39. The appeal of manual transmissions remains strong among enthusiasts, even as they become rarer in new vehicles.
40. The importance of reliability and longevity in vehicles is a recurring theme, especially as people age and their priorities shift.
📊 Detailed Explanation
1. Honda's EV Woes Delaying Core Product Redesigns: This is a huge deal because Honda, a brand known for its reliable and popular core models, is in a tough spot. They apparently poured a ton of money into their EV efforts, like the Prologue, and it didn't pay off. This financial hit means they have to push back the updates for their bread-and-butter vehicles – the ones that actually make them money and keep them afloat. We're talking about the Odyssey, Accord, Civic, HR-V, and even the MDX. These cars are Honda's lifeblood, and letting them age without updates for years is a risky move in the competitive auto market.
2. Odyssey's Extended Lifespan Amidst Fierce Competition: The current Honda Odyssey, which came out way back in 2017, might be sticking around until 2030! That's an incredibly long time for a minivan. Its main rivals, like the Toyota Sienna and Kia Carnival, have been redesigned and are offering hybrid powertrains and all-wheel drive, features the Odyssey currently lacks. This means Honda is putting its minivan in a tough spot, relying on its reputation for reliability while its competitors offer more modern and efficient options.
3. EV Losses Impacting Honda's Competitiveness: The massive financial drain from Honda's EV ventures is directly affecting their ability to develop and release competitive vehicles. For core products like the Odyssey, Accord, and Civic, this means they're going to get older and older. This isn't just about aesthetics; it's about features, technology, and powertrain advancements. If Honda skips a generation of development for these key models, they risk losing their strong market position and alienating customers who expect modern vehicles from the brand.
4. Mercedes-Benz AMG Revives V8 Power: This is music to the ears of many car enthusiasts! Mercedes-Benz AMG is bringing back their beloved V8 engines. The initial rollout will focus on their SUV lineup, specifically the GLE and GLS. This new V8 is apparently derived from the impressive powertrain found in the new S-Class, suggesting it'll be a potent and refined unit.
5. V8s Return to AMG Performance Sedans (Potentially): For years, AMG has been missing a true high-performance V8 sedan in their lineup, especially with the E63 being absent. This leaves a gap when compared to rivals like the BMW M5 and Audi RS6. While the new V8s are starting in SUVs, there's a strong hope and a good chance they'll eventually find their way into performance sedans, reigniting the battle in that segment.
6. US Market Driving V8 Strategy: The US market is a significant driver for the return of V8 engines. With stricter emissions regulations in Europe, it's becoming harder to sell these powerful engines there. However, America, with its large appetite for performance and relatively cheaper gas, remains a strong market for internal combustion engines, especially larger ones. This could lead to Mercedes-Benz developing V8 powertrains specifically tailored for US consumers.
7. Manual Transmission in Next-Gen Camaro: Exciting news for manual enthusiasts! Rumors suggest that the next-generation Chevrolet Camaro will offer a manual transmission. This is a positive sign that GM is still committed to enthusiast vehicles, even in a market that's increasingly shifting towards automatics and EVs.
8. Manual Cadillac Sedan on the Horizon?: Following the Camaro news, the chassis that underpins the Camaro might also be used for a manual transmission Cadillac sedan. This could be a fantastic development, offering a luxurious and engaging driving experience for those who appreciate a stick shift.
9. Porsche Macan Gas Production Ending, EV Delay: Porsche is pulling the plug on gasoline Macan production this summer. The kicker? A new gasoline Macan won't be available for another two years. This highlights the industry's pivot to EVs and the production challenges that come with it, creating a significant gap in Porsche's lineup.
10. Macan's Sales Significance: The gasoline Macan isn't just any model; it was a massive seller for Porsche, accounting for 30% of their sales last year. Its two-year absence means a huge chunk of their revenue stream will be on hold, putting pressure on their EV strategy and overall profitability.
11. Spykers Making a Comeback: Get ready for the return of the Dutch supercar maker, Spykers! They're planning to debut a new model at The Quail event, and it's expected to feature a powerful twin-turbo V8 engine. This is a comeback story for a brand known for its beautiful and unique supercars.
12. New Spykers: A Pricey Proposition: While the comeback is exciting, the new Spykers are going to come with a hefty price tag. We're talking about potentially a million dollars or more. This reflects the hand-built, bespoke nature of these cars, making them exclusive and aspirational.
13. Ford's Affordable Electric Pickup: Ford is taking a different approach with a new electric pickup truck. They're aiming for a sub-$30,000 price point, which is incredibly aggressive for an EV truck. This project is being handled by a dedicated "skunk works" team, bringing in talent from places like Apple and Tesla, with a focus on speed.
14. Ford's "Skunk Works" EV Project: To emphasize the break from traditional Ford development, this new EV project is being kept highly insulated. Even CEO Jim Farley is reportedly not allowed access to the facility, highlighting a desire for fresh thinking and a departure from established processes.
15. "Move Fast and Break Things" for Ford EV: The mantra for Ford's new EV is "move fast and break things," echoing Silicon Valley's rapid development approach. They're aiming for an 18-month development cycle, a radical departure from the multi-year timelines typical for legacy automakers, signaling a major shift in their product development strategy.
16. Cadillac Blackwing Formula 1 Edition: Cadillac is dropping a super-exclusive Formula 1 edition of the Blackwing. With only 26 units being made, this is a collector's item for sure, celebrating the brand's entry into Formula 1.
17. The End of Rear-Facing Third Rows: A subtle but significant shift in car design: rear-facing third-row seats are becoming a thing of the past. The Mercedes E-wagon is mentioned as one of the last to offer this feature. The reasoning points to evolving safety standards and design trends, though some argue rear-facing can actually be safer.
18. Rivian R2 Platform Expansion: Rivian isn't stopping with just the R2 SUV. CEO RJ Scaringe has hinted at more variants coming to the R2 platform, including a performance-oriented R2X and potentially other unannounced models, suggesting a more diverse lineup in the future.
19. US Market's Role for ICE: The United States is becoming an increasingly important market for internal combustion engines (ICE), especially larger ones. This is due to economic factors and cheaper fuel, making it a haven for these powertrains as other regions, like APAC, shift heavily towards EVs.
20. Tariff Concerns for European Brands: The potential for increased tariffs on European vehicles (from 15% to 25%) is a major concern for automakers like Audi. This could significantly impact their profitability and their ability to launch new models, like the rumored Q9 SUV, in the US market.
21. Pace Cars as a Bargain: For car enthusiasts looking for something unique without breaking the bank, pace car replicas are a fantastic option. They offer a special aesthetic and a bit of motorsport history at a surprisingly affordable price.
22. Camaro Z28 Pace Car Quirks: The example of a Camaro Z28 pace car highlighted some interesting points, including its automatic transmission and basic interior features, showing that even special editions can have their compromises.
23. C6 Z06 Corvettes: A Performance Bargain: The C6 Z06 Corvette is being hailed as a great value for its performance. Even the nicest examples are seen as a bargain, especially for those looking for a powerful V8 experience, though many are becoming more like show cars.
24. Base C8 Corvettes Hold Value: Interestingly, the base C8 Corvette is proving to be a smart buy for value retention. While higher trims might drop more, the entry-level models are holding their own, offering a thrilling experience without the premium price tag.
25. Caprice PPV: Affordable Performance Sedan: The Caprice PPV, a former government fleet vehicle with a 6.0L V8, is presented as a surprisingly affordable way to get into a four-door performance car. While the interior is basic, the V8 power and practicality make it an intriguing option for the price.
26. SLS AMG Roadster as a Bargain Supercar: The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, particularly the Roadster, is highlighted as a significant bargain in the supercar market. It offers a unique driving experience and classic styling at a price point that's often lower than comparable Porsches or AMG GTs.
27. Car Power Outlets for Laptops and Gear: The convenience of household-style power outlets in cars is emphasized for charging laptops and camera equipment, making long road trips more productive and allowing for on-the-go work or content creation.
28. Doug's Colorado License Plate Quest: Doug is on a 20-year mission to collect Colorado license plates from every county, with only two elusive ones – Rio Blanco and Mineral – remaining. This dedicated pursuit highlights a unique and passionate collecting hobby.
29. Porsche Cayenne Convertible Prototype: The discussion touches on a Porsche Cayenne convertible prototype, a concept that, while not produced, is seen as a cool and potentially desirable vehicle that could have appealed to a certain market segment.
30. Concept and Movie Cars: A Reality Check: While concept and movie cars are often dream vehicles, the reality of owning them can be less glamorous. Their specialized construction and limitations mean they often don't translate well to everyday use or ownership, leading to a change of heart for some enthusiasts.
31. Jaguar XKR from Die Another Day: A Unique Movie Car: The Jaguar XKR from the James Bond film "Die Another Day" is showcased as a fascinating movie car. Built on a Ford Explorer chassis with a Ford V8, it's a surprisingly capable and unique vehicle with a surprising amount of effort put into its construction.
32. Admired Car YouTubers and Collaborative Content: The conversation highlights respected car YouTubers like Rich Rebuilds, with a desire for collaborative content that blends humor and automotive expertise, such as a "half-ass job" repair challenge.
33. Dream Two-Car Garages at High Price Points: The idea of building a dream two-car garage at various price points is explored, with the million-dollar bracket sparking discussions about hypercars, luxury vehicles, and the verification of their costs.
34. The Honda Clarity's Unfortunate Reputation: The Honda Clarity is consistently portrayed as an unappealing vehicle, with a negative personal anecdote reinforcing its poor reputation and desirability.
35. European Rental Car Woes: Renting cars in Europe is becoming a less appealing experience due to a decline in manual transmission options and the prevalence of small, uninspiring hybrids and SUVs, making road trips less enjoyable for enthusiasts.
36. E55 AMG Wagon Market Demand: The market for older performance wagons, specifically the E55 AMG, is strong, with enthusiasts actively seeking well-maintained examples, indicating a growing appreciation for these practical yet powerful vehicles.
37. Ford Maverick "Lobo" Edition Interest: There's a specific interest in a "Lobo" edition of the Ford Maverick, a custom version with features like suicide doors and big wheels, showcasing a desire for unique and personalized truck builds.
38. High Cost of Bespoke and Special Edition Cars: The discussion acknowledges the significant cost of acquiring bespoke and special edition vehicles, with prices for cars like the Damaso P72 reaching astronomical figures, making them unattainable for most.
39. Enduring Appeal of Manual Transmissions: Despite their declining availability, manual transmissions remain highly desirable among car enthusiasts, who actively seek them out and even refuse automatic options.
40. Reliability and Longevity as Priorities: As drivers age and their needs evolve, the focus shifts from pure performance to reliability and longevity, making well-built and durable vehicles more appealing.
🎯 Expert Opinion
The automotive landscape is undergoing a seismic shift, and the discussions in this podcast highlight several critical trends and challenges. Honda's predicament with its EV investments is a stark warning to legacy automakers. The sheer scale of losses incurred suggests a miscalculation in their electrification strategy, forcing them to sacrifice their core, profitable products. This isn't just a temporary setback; it could fundamentally alter their market position. In an era where product cycles are shortening and competition from new players is fierce, delaying redesigns for multiple years is akin to voluntarily going into hibernation. The Odyssey's potential 13-year lifespan is a recipe for obsolescence, especially when compared to the rapidly evolving minivan segment. This strategy risks alienating their loyal customer base and failing to attract new buyers who expect modern technology and efficiency.
The return of V8s by Mercedes-Benz AMG is a fascinating counterpoint to the EV push. It signals a pragmatic approach, recognizing that certain markets and segments still demand the visceral experience of a large-displacement engine. The US market's continued preference for ICE, particularly larger engines, is a crucial factor. This trend suggests that while EVs will undoubtedly dominate the future, there will be a significant and potentially prolonged period where ICE vehicles, especially performance-oriented ones, remain highly desirable and profitable. The possibility of V8s being developed specifically for the US market underscores the global divergence in automotive preferences and regulatory environments. This could lead to unique models and powertrains that cater to American tastes, a strategy that has been employed before with success.
Ford's "skunk works" EV pickup project is perhaps the most intriguing development. The emphasis on a low price point ($30,000) and a rapid development cycle ("move fast and break things") is a direct challenge to the established norms of the automotive industry. By hiring talent from tech giants like Apple and Tesla and isolating the project from traditional bureaucracy, Ford is attempting to inject Silicon Valley agility into car manufacturing. This approach, if successful, could redefine how mass-market EVs are developed and launched, potentially forcing other legacy automakers to adopt similar strategies to remain competitive. The deliberate exclusion of the CEO from the project is a bold statement about fostering innovation and empowering a dedicated team.
The discussion around Porsche's Macan and its production halt is another symptom of the EV transition. The Macan has been a runaway success, and its absence for two years creates a significant void. This highlights the delicate balancing act automakers face: investing heavily in EVs while managing the decline of their most profitable ICE models. The success of the Macan also underscores the importance of the compact luxury SUV segment, a segment that Porsche has dominated. The challenge will be to ensure the new electric Macan can capture the same market appeal and deliver a comparable driving experience.
The resurgence of Spykers, while niche, speaks to a broader trend of niche and ultra-luxury brands attempting comebacks. The supercar market, particularly at the bespoke end, is less susceptible to the rapid shifts seen in mass-market segments. However, the expected price point of over a million dollars for a new Spyker reinforces the idea that true exclusivity comes at a premium. The challenge for Spyker will be to deliver a product that justifies its price and to build a sustainable business model in a highly competitive and demanding market.
The ongoing appreciation for enthusiast cars like the C6 Z06 Corvette and the E55 AMG wagon indicates a resilient segment of the market that values performance, driving engagement, and a certain kind of mechanical purity. While the industry races towards electrification, there's a clear demand for well-engineered ICE vehicles that offer a compelling driving experience. The fact that these cars are holding their value and are sought after by collectors and enthusiasts suggests that the internal combustion engine, especially in its more potent forms, isn't disappearing anytime soon. The discussion about base C8 Corvettes holding value also points to the idea that sometimes, less can be more, and a well-executed entry-level model can offer a great balance of performance and affordability.
The obsolescence of rear-facing third-row seats and the decline of manual transmission availability in rental cars are subtle but significant indicators of broader automotive trends. They reflect a shift away from niche features and enthusiast preferences towards mass-market appeal, safety, and convenience. While these changes might be practical for manufacturers and the average consumer, they signal a gradual erosion of the enthusiast-oriented aspects of car ownership.
Finally, the ongoing quest for specific license plates and the appreciation for unique movie cars illustrate the diverse passions within the automotive community. These pursuits, while seemingly trivial to outsiders, represent a deep engagement with automotive history and culture. The fact that these niche interests persist even as the industry rapidly transforms underscores the enduring emotional connection people have with cars.
Kanal: Doug DeMuro