Latest Posts

Pre-Owned Auctions Go Virtual; Pacifica Gets AWD; Affordable Yaris Mimics Mazda2

RPM News Podcast 6-05-20 This week's discussion kicks off on indications that online-only auctions have so satisfied dealers' appetite for pre-owned vehicles during the pandemic that it's to the point where auctions will never return to going live. But, RPM podcasters Rich Taber and Peter Ciani aren't convinced that the trend is permanent. Listen in to find out why. Also on the agenda this week is news that the Chrysler Pacifica is getting a 2020 all-wheel drive Launch Edition in advance of the release of the new 2021 models which will offer AWD in several trims. The podcast then turns…

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Wheels Keep Turning At Toyota, Ford, Rivian

RPM News Podcast 5-22-20 RPM podcasters Rich Taber and Peter Ciani break their self-imposed silence of the last two months and dive right back into pressing automotive news of the week with a double dose of hybrid announcements from Toyota and a puzzling decision from Ford to back away from its investment in the all-electric upstart Rivian.Then, after a brief update on the fate of the 2020 New York International Auto Show, the podcast concludes with a throwback to the 2019 NYIAS where RPM News Weekly interviewed Rivian Chief Engineer for Special Projects Brian Gase. Join the discussion by leaving…

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New Toyota Sienna & Venza Hybrids Unveiled

PLANO, Texas – Toyota moved a couple steps closer to a 2025 goal of offering electrified powertrains on 100 percent of its automobile lineup with the debut today of all-new Sienna hybrid and Venza hybrid models. Both ride on the new TNGA-K platform that's designed to reduce noise intrusion and curb vibration, with the Sienna retaining its minivan functionality while looking less boxy and more confident. Meanwhile, the 5-passenger Venza, which will arrive in showrooms this summer ahead of a late year release for the Sienna, presents a sophisticated, urbane look that fits into the brand's utility vehicle offerings between…

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Prius AWD-e Geared for Northern Clime

5-05-20 Tech Talk ~ Recorded Live from KOWS FM 92.5 ~ Though it didn't break the sound barrier, the Supersonic Red Toyota Prius AWD-e that Tech Talk commentator Rick DeMeis had the pleasure to test drive this week certainly didn't break his wallet either. Rated at a combined city / highway 50 miles per gallon, this spiffy hybrid continued to prove that burning lots of petro doesn't chart as a fact of life in the 21st century. Plus, having electronic all-wheel drive qualifies the five-passenger sedan as a bonafide all-weather vehicle, and there's hardly a price to pay in fuel…

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Toyota Highlander Limited Offers No Limits To Enjoyment

4-07-20 Tech Talk ~ Recorded Live from KOWS FM 92.5 ~ Even though COVID-19 has put restrictions on extensive test driving, Tech Talk commentator Rick DeMeis still managed to give the 2020 Toyota Highlander Limited a satisfactory workout. Enough so that, with all of its elegance and serenity, yet commanding V6 performance, the Highlander left him wishing he had more places to go. No matter, listen in for a run down of its many features. Also in this week's episode, there's technology news about companies such as Tesla and Husky Corporation stepping forward with new ways to manufacture much needed…

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RAM 1500 & Subaru Legacy Tout Safety First

3-31-20 Tech Talk ~ Recorded Live from KOWS FM 92.5 ~ This week's edition of Tech Talk opens with news of tech adaptations from New Balance and Bauer Hockey to fight the Corona virus pandemic. Good news for sure. Commentator Rick DeMeis then pluralizes the Ride Of The Week feature, giving us insights into both the RAM 15500 Laramie Crew Cab pickup and the Subaru Legacy Premium edition. One might be inclined to think that these two vehicles couldn't more different considering the RAM 1500 boasts a hefty 5.7-liter V8 HEMI powerplant while the Legacy does quite well with it's…

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