Podcast Summary: THIS CAR POD! with Doug DeMuro & Friends!
Episode: Cheap Cars are Going Extinct. Doug Calls Out the Purists! CyberTruck Success?
Release Date: September 20, 2024
Host: Doug DeMuro
Guests: Nick and Felipo

1. Introduction

In this episode of THIS CAR POD!, Doug DeMuro returns to the studio alongside Nick and Felipo to discuss the latest happenings in the automotive world. With Kenan temporarily out of town, the trio dives straight into several pressing news stories, personal anecdotes, and audience questions, all while maintaining their characteristic humor and detailed analysis.

2. News Highlights

A. K Car Ban and Reversal

The episode opens with a discussion about the controversial ban on Kei (K) cars in several states, including Massachusetts, North Carolina, Texas, Maine, and Georgia. The ban was initially implemented based on safety concerns, but faced significant backlash.

• Doug DeMuro [02:09]: "The K cars don't cause any potential harm to others."
• Felipo [02:18]: "Every car in Massachusetts more than 10 years old is rusted through and is therefore also not safe."

Massachusetts eventually reversed its decision, citing the need for further review. The guests debated the logic behind the ban, questioning why motorcycles and three-wheelers weren't similarly restricted.

• Nick [03:03]: "Was the fear is that it was a slippery slope for all JDM cars and the Skylines also getting shut."

The conversation highlighted the inconsistencies and administrative challenges in enforcing such bans, emphasizing the broader implications for car enthusiasts and importers.

B. Jaguar's Sales Hiatus

Jaguar announced a temporary hiatus from car sales, sparking concerns about the brand's future. The discussion centered on Jaguar's struggles with inventory, outdated models like the I-Pace, and the shift towards electric vehicles.

• Doug DeMuro [05:44]: "Jaguar is taking a year off of sales because their inventory's aged."
• Felipo [06:08]: "Going to be thrilling in 2026 to buy a 2023 I-Pace brand new."

The guests criticized Jaguar's approach, noting the company's tarnished reputation and the limited appeal of models like the F-Pace. They also touched upon the interdependence between Jaguar and Land Rover dealerships, suggesting that while Land Rover thrives, Jaguar lags behind.

C. Mitsubishi Mirage Discontinued

The guests lamented the discontinuation of the Mitsubishi Mirage in 2024, marking the end of one of the most affordable new cars on the market.

• Doug DeMuro [17:25]: "Matt sure, but towards the end of the run, you know, they fixed the transmission."

They discussed the implications for consumers seeking budget-friendly options and highlighted the limited alternatives available under the $20K mark. The episode also explored Mitsubishi's strategy in other markets, where models like the Dodge Attitude continue to thrive.

D. CyberTruck Sales Success

A significant portion of the episode was dedicated to Tesla's CyberTruck, which has reportedly sold around 5,000 units in July alone—a figure rivaling the combined sales of other EV pickups like the Ribbon R1T and Ford Lightning.

• Felipo [20:00]: "The CyberTruck is a news story because it's been selling, selling, selling well."
• Doug DeMuro [22:38]: "I think the CyberTruck is kind of cool."

The guests debated the sustainability of CyberTruck's success, especially considering Tesla's unconventional design and reported durability issues during towing demonstrations.

• Nick [22:27]: "Cybertruck, I'm sad about so that it exists. Just the existence of the CyberTruck makes me sad."

They expressed concerns that negative publicity surrounding the CyberTruck could taint the broader perception of EV pickups, potentially hindering the market's growth.

E. Diesel Tuning Crackdown

The conversation shifted to the crackdown on diesel tuning, highlighting a case where a prominent tuning company, Cobb Tuning, faced hefty fines for enabling customers to bypass emissions regulations.

• Nick [26:22]: "Got a pretty big fine, like close to 3 million bucks for helping hundreds of thousands of people quote, unquote, cheat diesel regulations through their tunes."

The guests discussed the broader implications for the diesel and tuning industries, suggesting that such regulatory actions could effectively end diesel modifications in the U.S. and stifle enthusiasts' ability to enhance their vehicles.

3. Personal Stories

A. Nick's Maserati Polo Purchase

Nick shared his experience purchasing a Maserati-branded Polo, detailing the sketchy transaction and challenges with the title.

• Nick [32:16]: "I bought a Maserati branded Polo that when you pop the collar, it says Maserati. So very on brand."
• Felipo [34:43]: "He was willing to send you the title, but not a bill of sale."

The discussion highlighted the risks associated with buying high-end cars from non-traditional sellers, emphasizing the importance of due diligence to avoid fraudulent deals.

B. Doug's Toyota Sequoia Tire Incident

Doug recounted an incident where his Toyota Sequoia suffered a blown tire while driving cross-country, sharing the dangers of roadside emergencies and the effectiveness of roadside assistance.

• Doug DeMuro [40:06]: "I was driving along just down the road, down the interstate and the tire, the car started to sway, the rear of the car started to sway..."

The story underscored the importance of vehicle maintenance and preparedness, as well as the reliability of services like Triple A in critical situations.

4. Market Report

A. Unique Builds and Conversions

The hosts discussed unique car builds available on their sales platform, particularly focusing on BMW conversions like the F80 M3 in a station wagon format.

• Nick [45:03]: "I've never seen one before. And it is just so well done."
• Doug DeMuro [45:18]: "They did it right. They put on M3 fenders, M3 wheels, a manual transmission..."

They praised the quality of these conversions, noting that professionally modified cars can often command higher prices due to their bespoke nature.

B. Audi Robot Gift

Doug shared a lighthearted moment about receiving an Audi-themed robot as a gift from a friend, contrasting it with less impressive merchandise from other brands.

• Doug DeMuro [64:16]: "This is an Audi robot... It's going to be our new mascot when we don't have a third person that you sit on a chair."

C. Other Market Insights

The guests touched upon the fluctuating prices of classic cars like the Porsche 911, noting a trend where less desirable models are dropping in value, making them more accessible to enthusiasts.

• Doug DeMuro [51:46]: "We sold a 991911 yesterday for under 40."

5. Audience Questions

The hosts addressed questions from listeners, covering topics such as the inclusion of the Aspark Owl in their listings and opinions on CNC Motors' shutdown due to fraud.

• Question from JM Katzie [57:00]: "Why is there not a section for the Aspark Owl?"
• Doug DeMuro [63:04]: "The reason is it doesn't exist."

Regarding CNC Motors, Doug provided an in-depth analysis of the dealership's rise and fall, emphasizing the importance of cautious dealings in the exotic car market to avoid fraudulent schemes.

• Doug DeMuro [57:00]: "CNC Motors was this exotic car dealership east of LA... eventually what happened was they were stealing from people."

6. Conclusion

The episode wrapped up with light-hearted banter about their new Audi robot mascot and reflections on the challenges and excitement of the current automotive landscape. The hosts reiterated the importance of staying informed and cautious in car dealings, while also celebrating the unique and exciting developments within the industry.

Notable Quotes

• Doug DeMuro [02:09]: "The K cars don't cause any potential harm to others."
• Felipo [02:18]: "Every car in Massachusetts more than 10 years old is rusted through and is therefore also not safe."
• Nick [03:03]: "Was the fear is that it was a slippery slope for all JDM cars and the Skylines also getting shut."
• Doug DeMuro [05:44]: "Jaguar is taking a year off of sales because their inventory's aged."
• Felipo [06:08]: "Going to be thrilling in 2026 to buy a 2023 I-Pace brand new."
• Nick [22:27]: "Cybertruck, I'm sad about so that it exists. Just the existence of the CyberTruck makes me sad."
• Doug DeMuro [22:38]: "I think the CyberTruck is kind of cool."
• Nick [26:22]: "Got a pretty big fine, like close to 3 million bucks for helping hundreds of thousands of people quote, unquote, cheat diesel regulations through their tunes."

Final Thoughts

This episode of THIS CAR POD! provided listeners with a comprehensive overview of current automotive issues, from regulatory changes affecting import cars to the evolving landscape of electric pickups. Through engaging discussions and personal stories, Doug, Nick, and Felipo offered valuable insights and entertained with their unique perspectives on the car market.