Are Automakers Building the Wrong Cars? The Truth About EVs vs SUVs

Are automakers betting on the wrong cars? From struggling small EVs to the SUVs that could save major brands, Lauren Fix and Karl Brauer break down the biggest stories shaping the automotive industry on The Drive with Lauren and Karl, Episode 53.

Plus, Karl has a little car regret after Doug DeMuro puts his former GT up for sale on Cars & Bids. Will he wish he never sold it even more after seeing what happens next?

IN THIS EPISODE:

Karl’s GT Hits Cars & BidsDoug DeMuro is selling Karl’s former GT, and it has him wondering why he ever let it go. Lauren and Karl also catch up on the cars they’ve driven and seen over the past two weeks.

2027 Hyundai Tucson Makes Its World DebutCompact SUVs are the backbone of the automotive business. Lauren takes a look at Hyundai’s all-new Tucson and why getting this segment right matters, especially as domestic automakers leave opportunities on the table.

2027 Kia EV3 vs. Chevy Bolt and Nissan LeafCan a small electric vehicle deliver the range, features and value buyers want? Karl drives the Kia EV3, and the discussion turns to the challenges facing affordable EVs and why even the once-dominant Toyota Prius faces tougher competition from other hybrids.

2027 Volkswagen Atlas: Can SUVs Save VW?Lauren and Karl both experience the new Atlas. It still delivers the passenger space and usable third row families want, but where is the hybrid powertrain? With SUVs remaining critical to Volkswagen’s future, the answer matters.

2027 Mercedes-Benz GLE Gets a Major RefreshUpdated powertrains, suspension improvements, a more advanced interior and extensive over-the-air upgrade capabilities bring new technology to Mercedes-Benz’s popular luxury SUV.

Jaguar Type 01: Bold Design, Big QuestionsJaguar is making a dramatic statement with its all-electric reboot. The styling grabs attention, but does the design sacrifice rear-seat practicality? And can an electric luxury sedan win over American buyers?

Watch The Drive with Lauren and Karl for automotive news, honest opinions, new-car coverage and the industry debates that matter to drivers.

Subscribe, like the video and tell us in the comments: Are automakers building the vehicles people actually want, or the vehicles they want people to buy?

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0:00 A Packed Show of New Cars

0:28 Behind the Scenes with Doug DeMuro

6:33 Insights from the Automotive Market

7:25 The Global Launch of the Hyundai Tucson

18:58 Volkswagen's Shift in Strategy

37:06 The All-New Jaguar Type 01