Mazda loses the knob. Here’s how going high-tech changed the CX-5 cabin.
Whether you drive a car, need a car, or just occasionally bum a ride with friends, you’ve come to the right place. Join Jill and Tom as they break down everything that’s going on in the auto world. New-car reviews, shopping tips, driving green, electric cars, classic cars, and plenty of great guests. This is the Consumer Guide Car Stuff Podcast. – New Mazda CX-5 Tech
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Episode: 320
Broadcast date: March 30, 2026
Guest: Matthew Valbuena
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Sony-Honda JV Dead, Mercedes Crossover Impresses, New Mazda CX-5 Tech
(Show Notes)
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News
The hosts open the show noting that the power-seat recall affecting the Hyundai Palisade has expanded to include the mechanically similar Kia Telluride. Listen in for details.
Afeela
As predicted in a previous episode, Tom shares news of the dissolution of the Afeela electric-vehicle brand. Afeela was a Honda/Sony joint venture nearing production of a premium midsize sedan built in the U.S.
E15 Gasoline
Tom also discussed the potential impact of E15 fuel, which has been federally approved for national distribution. E15 gasoline has 5 percent more ethanol content than E10, the latter of which is common in most states. The blended fuel may help lower gasoline pump prices, but has its downsides.
Mercedes-Benz GLE450
Still in the first segment, Jill reviews the Mercedes-Benz GLE450 midsize crossover. Listen in for her review.
Mazda CX-5 Tech
In the second segment, Jill and Tom welcome Matthew Valbuena to the show. Mathew is Mazda Project Manager of In-Vehicle Technology, and shares with the hosts a number of connectivity features found on the all-new 2026 CX-5 small crossover.
Quiz
In the last segment, Jill is subjected to Tom’s “CVT or Automatic” quiz, featuring a bonus question about radishes.
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Discussed this week
CVT versus Conventional Automatic Transmissions
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