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You are cordially invited to the episode 405 of the Unnamed Automotive Podcast, where the hosts will deliberate on two of the most high-end SUVs available on the market. Grab your monocles, have a plate of caviar, and take a seat upon one of our exclusive thrones made solely of materials mined only from the dark side of the moon. This weeks show starts off with Benjamins sharp witted review of the 2025 Mercedes-Benz G550. A high-end SUV with humble beginnings and limited generational changes, this time around it's got a whole new motor, design and high class interior, one so fancy that Benjamin had to take extra precautions when hauling stuff around. What does the G-Class mean these days? Is it something to be celebrated or shunned for being too excessive? Then the guys take some time to talk about the 2025 Land Rover Range Rover Autobiography, a seven-seat ode to royal British motoring. Outfitted with the right equipment for towing, hauling, and ferrying passengers around, Benjamin explains how the experience in this SUV was totally different than the Benz, even though the two vehicles share similar price points. Thanks for listening!
Why isn't a minivan considered a "long roof"? Why don't we name all cars based on their roofs? What's the right plural of roof? These questions and more are answered this week on the Unnamed Automotive Podcast! The show starts off with a review of the 2025 Honda Odyssey minivan, as Sami wonders why this Japanese van lacks the fun features many of its rivals have (and explains where the HondaVac went to.) But he comes across loving its single-minded approach to family transportation. What's holding the Odyssey, and other minivans, from getting widepsread appreciation? The guys give you the definitive answer. Then Benjamn shares his thoughts on the 2025 Cadillac CT5 - the entry-level model to boot! A tweener sedan with a high-tech cabin, the CT5 is likely missing on many buyers short-lists, but Ben says it may have earned a spot among those checking out smaller and less featured European options. Finally, our guys talk about the new Slate EV, a bare-bones $25,000 EV pickup a ton of customizability. Is this what people want? Let us know through our contact form or reach out to us on social media!
Steve Lansky from the Inside the Truck Podcast joined us to talk all things Edmonton Oilers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
First the show starts off with a review of the 2025 Aston Martin DBX 707, a ultra-high-performance exotic from one of the top British automakers. Faced with all kinds of inclement weather during his testing, Benjamin has a thorough take on this hyper SUV, and comes to a decisive conclusion about it, especially in comparison to some other high-hp SUVs out there. Then Sami offers several impressions of the 2025 Acura MDX A-Spec, which gets a mild exterior refresh and some important interior changes too. While the vehicle feels responsive with a well-tuned powertrain and ride, Sami says it fails to make an impact in a very competitive segment. The guys also jump through a few thoughts about in-car audio systems, and if 31 speakers is too many or just enough. Thanks for listening!
The show starts off with Benjamin's review of the 2025 Mini Cooper Countryman SE All4, an all wheel drive, electric 'ute that manages to stay small, affordable and impressive to drive. What's the downside? Try the weird user interface and get back to us; or don't and listen to Benjamins gripes of the infotainment system, and his overall take on this Mini EV. Then Sami tries his hardest to not talk about the 2025 Honda HR-V, by first discussing the history of the Fit subcompact, and the era of Honda when it wasn't afraid of doing things it's own way. The new HR-V is lacking any personality, while being worse than many of its rivals in key specs like fuel economy and pricing. Sami asks what's the point? The guys finish up by discussing lease-friendly EVs to answer a listener question.
The Unnamed Automotive Podcast breaks into the big 4-0-0, but this week's episode lacks much fanfare or frills. After a brief discussion about the 399+ episodes that came before today, the guys dive right into talking about the new cars they've been testing. Sami delivers his verdict of the 2025 Acura RDX, a luxury SUV that goes against some very impressive rivals and has a few things to rave about, but a few more things that question the brand's commitment to the segment. Then Benjamin talks about a new powertrain option found in the Ford Ranger, one that may be faster than other, more performance oriented trucks. While the Ranger is smaller than an F-Series, it has a few important benefits, and Benjamin runs you through them all. Thanks everyone for listening to 400 (and more) episodes. We can't wait to deliver even more in the coming months and years!
First up, Sami has a Ford Mustang Mach-E to talk about, but gasp! Its from last year? It still features a cool new upgrade that adds extra power, prompting our hosts to talk about these downloadable mods. What would they reasonably add to a car via a download button? Butterflies, weird algorithms and maybe some growing and fading vines are all on the table for Sami and Benjamin. Then Benjamin continues his fancy-pants parade of luxury cars as he reviews the 2025 Genesis G80. Refreshed for this year with a new look inside and out, Benjamin wonders if the Korean luxury brand still has the 'it' factor that made it so appealing when it first debuted. Benjamin explains what's happening with the G80 with all this context (and more.) Thanks for listening!
The Unnamed Automotive Podcast tackles a plug-in hybrid luxury sedan sporting a similar name to an old V8 powered favorite. Benjamin has put the 2025 BMW 550e through its paces to see what the German automaker has done with electrifying its new-generation 5 Series. The result is nothing short of impressive, as the 550e seems to deliver on efficiency, performance and technology. But is it fun to drive? Then Sami brings up a listener question about reliability of established automakers, before finishing this weeks show with a discussion on automotive merch and bonuses. Thanks for listening!
The Unnamed Automotive Podcast gets some second opinions this week. Today's show starts with Sami's review of the 2025 Toyota Crown, a car than Benjamin drove a few years ago. However, Sami's experience with the Crown has been changed by recent tests of the Camry and Accord, both of which were spacious, well equipped, efficient and responsive. Does the more expensive Crown have anything to offer that they don't? Then Benjamin finally gets his chance to drive the 2025 Honda Pilot TrailSport. A three-row crossover with some off-roading capabilities, the Pilot feels like it should be more interesting to drive and live with than other three-rows like the Highlander, Telluride and Palisade, but Benjamin points out that there are a few things that stop it from being a standout. Finally, the show closes up on checkup on Fisker, and an interesting law that means that Chase is sending Fisker Ocean buyers to Rivian dealerships. Thanks for listening!
During Hour 2 of today's show, we are joined by Steve Lansky from the Inside the Truck Podcast, to break down all things Edmonton Oilers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
During Hour 2 of today's show, we are joined by Steve Lansky from the Inside the Truck Podcast, & Oilers Nation's Tyler Yaremchuk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Todays episode starts with a review of the 2025 Volvo EX30 that struggles to get a recommendation from both Benjamin and Sami. Benjamin explains the many reasons for his lack of endorsement with this small and affordable EV, but they all seem to revolve around its underbaked software. Then Sami reviews the 2025 Ram 1500 Rebel, which gets a whole new engine... and a new check engine light. Fortunately the warning light didn't stop the review, where Sami discusses the many pros and cons of this off-road oriented truck, but comes across struggling to put the Ram in a positive light, especially compared to better rivals. Thanks for listening!
The show starts with Benjamin's take on the 2025 Subaru Forester, a car we haven't talked about for nearly three years! With a new generation and new lineup, Benjamin goes down memory lane to talk about what the Forester represented, and uses the new model to explain how Subaru has moved away from STI towards a more successful marketing strategy and lineup. He also shares what makes this Forester so good in the way appliances can often be. Then Sami brings up the 2025 Lincoln Aviator he recently piloted for a wintery getaway. Loaded with massage seats, hands-free driving technology, and tons of creature comforts, he seemed impressed, until he checked out the rest of the Lincoln lineup, and remembered the PHEV model from the past... Is the Aviator caught in a holding pattern? Then the guys quickly discuss a listener comment before signing off. Thanks for listening!
Are they off-road ready or just rugged? This week the Unnamed Automotive Podcast tackles two rough and tumble SUVs starting with Benjamin's review of the 2025 Subaru Outback XT, especially in light of an upcoming redesign which may ditch the classic wagon styling of the Subaru halo vehicle. While our hosts rag on the Outback's mainstreamification, they also worry that the future will lack the personality and capabilities that made it so interesting and popular in the first place. Then Sami shares his thoughts on the 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser, which changes the older FJ formula to something less capable and less luxurious than Americans are used to. Beyond that, Sami points out the difficult to swallow pricing of the new Land Cruiser and how it stacks up against other rugged SUVs. Then the guys talk about the quality and pricing of cars following the COVID Pandemic, and whether consumers can head into a dealership and get a good deal right now. Thanks for listening!
What's in a name? Listen along as Benjamin and Sami crack into the 2025 Toyota Crown Signia, an SUV that's related to the Toyota Crown, but has Sami comparing it more to the well recieved Camry. Also is this a SUV or a wagon? And where are all the wagons again? And what about the old Toyota Venza!? This description has too many questions, but they all get resolved on the show! Then Benjamin shares his thoughts on the 2025 BMW 330i xDrive , which recieved a hefty set of upgrades this year. Benjamin seems quite enamored with the new German Sport Sedan, and has plenty to say about it's performance, and interior, but is the tech and pricing up to snuff? Thanks for listening!
Steve Lansky from the Inside the Truck Podcast joined us. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This weeks show starts with a fun review of the 2025 BMW X3. Now entering its fourth generation, the X3 does a lot of things really well, but Sami is suggesting that the German crossover is getting a bit too tech-heavy for its own good. Our hosts also ask, what are the alternatives these days and how do they stack up? Then Benjamin gives us a review of the 2025 Genesis GV80. Available in two or three row configurations (thanks for the brief confustion Sami) and in either a conventional body style or coupe-like profile, the GV80 has become a fully realized nameplate in the Korean automakers portfolio. Benjamin answers the question: does it matter which model you pick? Then Benjamin gives us a quick followup review of the 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid which he took for a long road trip, and finds some flaws in Sami's initial review of the crossover. Thanks for listening!
This week the Unnamed Automotive Podcast ditches its unibody for a body on frame setup as our hosts tackle a pair of off-road oriented trucks. Benjamin tests out the 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor, a performance-oriented version of the midsize pickup that has dune bashing and baja racing on its ECU. Benjamin discusses where the new Ranger improves upon the old one, and whether this is the king of off-road performance mid-size trucks. Then Sami dons his Prada sunglasses and jumps into the 2025 Lexus GX 550, a rugged off-road luxury SUV thats based on the Toyota Land Cruiser, but boasts a bigger engine and fancier appointments. This Overtrail+ model sports more ground clearance, but Sami thinks that Lexus has a lot to prove against something as tested as the Land Rover Defender. Thanks for listening!
This week, the Unnamed Automotive Podcast tackles a pair of crossovers that may have slipped past your radars. The show starts with Sami's review of the 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid, an attractive compact crossover that gets mixed up with a hybrid powertrain from Toyota. Sami suggests things haven't been meshed so nicely with the addition of Toyota's DNA, and wonders where the Mazda charm has gone. Then Benjamin grabs the keys to the 2025 Cadillac XT6, a premium three-row SUV that's honest, but high-end. You may have forgotten about it, but Benjamin is here to remind you that this Caddy feels just right among a sea of overly complicated and unnecessarily high-tech options. Thanks for listening!
One last episode of the Unnamed Automotive Podcast to enjoy before the new year! This time Sami and Benjamin take a look at the hybrid, all-wheel-drive sedans in the Toyota lineup, starting with Sami's review of the 2025 Toyota Camry XSE AWD. Now exclusively available as a hybrid, this Camry has a whole new look and powertrain, but how does it compare to the Honda Accord Hybrid the guys talked about last week? And why does Sami feel a strange tapping in his back every time he stops? Then Benjamin brings up the smaller, more affordable 2025 Toyota Corolla Hybrid AWD, which delivers solid fuel efficiency, but is lacking other positive distinguishing factors, especially compared to other options in this segment. He also chimes in with some impressions about the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV. Finally the guys answer some listener questions about Chinese automakers taking over certain markets. Thanks for listening everyone, we'll see you in the new year!
The Unnamed Automotive Podcast goes full hybrid this week! After a brief conversation describing the type of friendship they possess and cherish, Sami and Benjamin dive right into the world of Honda Hybrids. Sami starts the episode off with the 2025 Honda Accord Hybrid Touring, a responsive, efficient and well equipped sedan that is easy to like, if it weren't for one pesky little issue: the price. Then Benjamin brightens up the discussion by bringing up the 2025 Honda Civic Sedan Hybrid, which uses much of the same running gear, but somehow whiffed on its infotainment system. Benjamin investigates as to whether he's the problem here, or if Honda has a wider software issue to resolve. Thanks for listening!
The show starts with Benjamin's review of the 2025 Genesis GV80 Coupe, which features a sleeker profile, and a new powertrain with an electric supercharger. How does these changes affect the typically well recieved GV80 crossover? Benjamin spills all the details, while going on quick tangents about wireless charging and digital gauge clusters. Then Sami finds a solution for families on the go with a tight budget. While many may seek out something like the 2025 Honda Pilot, the new Hyundai Santa Fe may be everything families are looking for, especially in the affordable hybrid guise. Sporting 231 horsepower and 36 mpg combined, the Santa Fe feels like a better crossover than its price tag indicates. So whats the catch?
This week the Unnamed Automotive Podcast tackles a pair of vehicles that haven't been discussed in over two years! First Sami reviews the 2025 Ford Explorer ST, which packs plenty of power with its three row setup. While Sami claims that's a good trick to help the Ford overcome its rivals, Benjamin argues that addition is not relevant enough or useful to shoppers. After that hot debate, Benjamin shares his thoughts on the 2025 Genesis electrified G80, a much loved executive sport sedan that made the transition to electron operated propulsion. That change comes with a few compromises as Benjamin notes, but do they tarnish the overall experience? Then the guys return to the Fiat 500e, where one of our listeners describe their use case scenario for the small EV and how it works in a completely different market.
Not every car is good at everything as Benjamin finds out on this week's Unnamed Automotive Podcast episode. While Sami drove the 2024 Fiat 500e its preferred city conditions, Benjamin tested the EV in the more rural settings he calls home. It's a harsh look at how useful a small, short ranged EV is in this environment and if it's worth it to spend a bit more to get something more versatile. Then Sami gives the scoop on the newly revealed 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan. The third generation compact crossover arrives with significant changes to the interior and a few funny gimmicks too. He explains what there is to like and dislike about the new VW and gives his prediction about it's future. Thanks for listening!
The show starts off with the 2024 MINI Countryman S All4, an all-new version of the MINI crossover with a fresh platform along with revised styling inside and out. Benjamin gives his take on the small-ish vehicle, as well as what he thinks of the brands new infotainment system. Following that, Sami gives a quick review of the 2024 Kia Sorento SX X-Line, a known crossover with mild updates for this year. However, while this Sorento coasts its way to its retirement off the media press fleet, Sami has noticed a few concerning QA issues. Don't miss what he finds about this so-called family car! Thanks for listening!
This week, Benjamin drives the 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV, a mainstream offering found on the same Ultium platform as many other high end EVs like the Acura ZDX and Cadillac Lyriq. Benjamin discusses his experience in the Chevy, and compares it to other popular mainstream options like the the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Nissan Ariya and VW ID.4. The pair also discuss whether GM is on track or not in this highly competitive segment. Then Sami checks out the 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid, which swaps out the V6 from the gas model for a hybrid powertrain boasting nearly 50 percent better fuel efficiency, without much of a compromise. But is this upgraded Carnival a big deal in the minivan market? How does it compare to the Toyota Sienna, Chrysler Pacifica and Honda Odyssey? Sami discusses it all on this week's episode. Thanks for listening!!
Sami has returned from his European adventure with a wonderful taste of life to share on the Unnamed Automotive Podcast. Or he tries to explain to Benjamin what the candy-like "smoothie melt"s he feeds his child are... Either way, there's lots to discuss in this week's episode, starting with the EcoBoost powered 2024 Ford Mustang convertible, which Benjamin reviews and compares to some other similarly priced sports cars. Then Sami talks about the 2024 Hyundai Kona EV, and how it fares compared to other affordable electric vehicles on the market. Finally the guys talk about an AMC-focused book and discuss if Honda would buy Jeep and Ram. Thanks for listening!
How far can you tow with an electric pickup ? How useful is a Midgate cargo box? How huge is the massive battery installed in Chevy's latest EV? Guest host Chad Kirchner helps Benjamin dig deep on his review of the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV First Edition RST, a full-size truck that outdoes its rivals on power and range but comes with a few caveats that might cramp the style of some buyers.
This week the Unnamed Automotive Podcast tackles a pair of vehicles with glaring bugs and issues. The episode starts off with Benjamin's review of the 2025 Ram 1500 Limited, now equipped with a high-output turbocharged straight six-cylinder engine. While attractive and high-tech, Benjamin put the truck through its towing paces and found it to be a headache at times. Hear his thoughts on what went right, and what went wrong with this new pickup. Then Sami tests out the latest small EV from Volvo, the EX30. A hatchback shaped vehicle with a minimalist interior, the EX30 looks interesting enough, but vast pricing differences between the US and Canada has Sami reeling. Making things worse, the Volvo had a poor infotainment experience, which marred the whole vehicle for our host. Thanks for listening!
The Unnamed Automotive Podcast tackles a new EV this week alongside a fancy—and pricey—new hybrid pickup truck. The show starts off with Sami's first drive of the 2024 Subaru Solterra, an EV that was made in collaboration with Toyota, but lacks any competitive edge in a saturated market. Sami tries to find a redeeming factor in this Subaru, but doesn't get very far, just like the vehicle's listed range. Then Benjamin climbs into the cab of a 2024 Toyota Tacoma Limited Hybrid, and put it through its paces doing truck stuff. Loaded with tons of power from its i-Force Max drivetrain, the new Hybrid Taco is among the punchiest mid-size trucks on the market, but this model may be plagued by some first year issues and bugs. Thanks for listening!
This week, the Unnamed Automotive Podcast dives into the 2024 Toyota GR Corolla, a hot hatchback inspired by rally racing machines. Equipped with a turbocharged three-cylinder engine, Benjamin gives us his full review of this all-wheel-drive hatch, and has plenty to say about how it feels to push it through the rough and tumble rural environment he calls home. He also details its fancy AWD system, and how it stacks up to other systems on the market. Then the guys take a quick tangent to discuss suing NASCAR for anti competitive behaviour. Where is the formerly accessible sport heading? Be sure to get in touch and let us know what you think! Thanks for listening!
This week's Unnamed Automotive Podcasts asks, how attractive is an average EV if its too expensive? It seems the market is rife with EV options, but are they worth exploring if they're too expensive? Consider the 2024 Fiat 500e that Sami is reviewing for this weeks episode. Cute and well equipped, it seems much more expensive than other EVs in the same class, or even models from a year ago. Then Benjamin has some choice words about the 2024 Acura ZDX A-Spec. Lacking important equipment as the 500-hp Type S model tested a few weeks ago, the A-Spec feels featureless and expensive. Benjamin makes a point about how an Acura enthusiast or buyer may feel out of place in this offering, despite it being one of the brands most expensive options. Thanks for listening!
The discussion this week opens with the 2025 Mini Cooper S, a formerly subcompact car that's grown up a bit, but still has a way to broadcast its cute charm. Benjamin has plenty to say about its design, but there are a few important issues he brings up about its user experience. Does that all get in the way of how it drives? Then Sami chimes in with a review of TWO Honda Civics. First up is the manual-only 2025 Civic Si, which gets a few mild updates this year to ensure no one forgets about this sport-compact staple. Sami has a lot to say about whether the Si is still worth talking about these days, and if it's gone too far from the usual gameplan of being a cheap fun car. Then he discusses the 2025 Civic Hatchback Hybrid, which has plenty of torque along with incredibly low fuel consumption, making it a jack of all trades. But it does carry a steep price tag in some regions, which turns him off entirely.
Benjamin and Sami discuss the 2024 Subaru BRZ tS. Benjamin explains his thoughts on the confusing introduction of tS branding, and whether the new BRZ is still a champion of affordable driving joy. Then the duo discuss why the BRZ hasn't yet been fitted with a factory turbo, and how such a decision would shake up the automotive landscape. Is Toyota behind all of this? Thanks for listening!
Benjamin and Sami start this weeks podcast talking about some random, forgettable, but weird and cool cars before shifting gears to talk about the 2024 Acura ZDX, which is the Japanese brand's first EV. However, it's not an all new design, and may lack some Acura DNA. That's because it's made by GM, and packs a lot of General Motors best elements, including a huge battery, lots of power and awesome hands-free driving technology. Is that enough considering the ZDX's high pricetag and all-too-similar competitors? Then Benjamin reviews the 2024 BMW i7 M70, a high-powered executive sedan with tons of power and torque. Loaded with all the gizmos and gadgets, Benjamin has so much to say about this expensive ride, but there seem to have been a few technical hiccups during his test drive of the EV. Thanks for listening, catch you next week!
There's plenty of truck talk this week on the Unnamed Automotive Podcast, along with an important story about racing. But first the show starts with Benjamin's review of the 2024 GMC 2500 HD AT4X, which boasts plenty of hauling, towing and off-roading capabilities that all seem to be at odds with one another. Our host tested the truck out, towing his car to the track, but found that the off-road oriented design definitely impacted its usability as a truck. That's just one aspect of this weeks review, but wait till you hear about it's engine - and how Benjamin found an easy work-around when it came to trailer parking. Then we get an update about Benjamin's experience at Watkins Glen International Racetrack, and how he handled the fast and exciting track in his Datsun, and his Dad's Mustang! Thanks for listening!
Whats this in the Unnamed Automotive Podcast garage? An eight-cylinder CAR? We know you don't believe us, but it's true! Benjamin gets his hands on the 2024 Ford Mustang GT, equipped with its punchy V8 engine that's capable of some impressive acceleration figures. But the Mustang has transformed from a humble pony car into something much more modern and multifaceted. You'll want to hear the whole discussion from our hosts about what the Mustang is today and what it's capable of compared to what it used to be. Then Sami brings up some recent news in the automotive world, including the ping-ponging Ford EV strategy, Volkswagens ID.Buzz US pricing and the Mercedes-Mayback SL that was recently revealed at Monterey Car Week. Thanks for listening!
This week the 2024 Honda Prologue, a vehicle the show has barely mentioned, gets the full review from Sami, as he dissects what this "Honda by GM" is capable of, and whether it's relevant or not in this market. Plus he details what parts are GM and what parts are actually Honda. Then Benjamin shares his thoughts on the recently refreshed 2024 Cadillac XT4, a luxury compact crossover with an eye catching price tag. But Benjamin notes that his tester had a few issues that may have soured his entire experience. The guys wrap up with Toyota and how many cars they sell compared to how many are actually good. They also mention the brands dipping reliability scores, and whether Toyota is cashing in on the reputation they built over the years. It's an enlightening conversation that gets into the heads of our hosts, so don't miss it! Thanks for listening.
The Unnamed Automotive Podcast is back from its summer break! The convo starts with the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser, a vehicle with a historic nameplate that's been revived for the North American market. With a hybrid powertrain and quirky nostalgic styling, the Land Cruiser may be a great riding SUV, but it may be lacking some of the features and capabilities offered by other off-road SUVs, especially when its price is considered. Is the Land Cruiser really worth the price premium over its other off-road rivals? Then Benjamin chimes in with his experience in the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid, something that he says channels a little bit of the old Ford Flex. It may look boxy, but its far from conservative, featuring a fuel efficient drivetrain and unique interior flourishes. It stands out, even in a fairly niche crowd. Thanks for listening!
Benjamin shares his recent repair and modification experiences with his 1987 Jeep Grand Wagoneer, all while detailing what car construction was like for vehicles of that make and era. Who knew that windows could be such a problem with a difficult solution? Then the conversation turns to Benjamin's track car, his Datsun Z, which has been turning laps for the last few years, though with some varying periods of downtime. He details its recent upgrades and how he'll return to the track in a few weeks with a new approach to apexes. Thanks for listening!
The 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ (that's the first time we'll use all caps for the name, we promise!) is the car du jour, as Benjamin shares all his thoughts about this vehicle that went into production in 2022, but struggled to meet the quality demands of the market and its high-end branding. Now with seemingly all the bugs sorted out(?), Benjamin is here to tell you how it is, and if it's a standout in the crowded field of luxury EVs. Then the guys discuss a variety of automotive news, starting with a 5 billion dollar investment from VW into an EV maker, that might overshadow the German company's own ambitions, and the fatter, slower and newer BMW M5. Thanks for listening!
This week, the Unnamed Automotive Podcast gets their hands on a unicorn, or so they think. The 2024 Ford Maverick is the topic du jour, but unlike past discussions of the small pickup truck, this one is equipped with the fuel-friendly hybrid powertrain. While this setup was hard to find in the past, this year the Blue Oval has changed its mind about what engines are standard and which isn't, so would you pay more for less power and more MPGs? And how good is this small truck once you step back from its compact crossover roots? Then the guys discuss the endless comedy of Fisker's bankrupcty, before talking about a cool road trip Benjamin took to a gaming hub in the US. Which brings up the wonderful world of driving video games that we know our hosts can get carried away in.
The Unnamed Automotive Podcast dives into one of our hosts favorite subjects: sport sedans, as Sami gets excited to discuss Benjamins review of the 2024 Genesis G70. Now available with a turbo 2.5L four-cylinder engine, the Genesis seems to be getting better in some important ways, but Benjamin seems a bit conflicted about where this kind of sport sedan sits in the grand scheme of things. Is it as much fun as a similarly priced hot hatch? Is it as luxurious or high tech as other premium vehicles? Is it worth it? Hear the whole conversation to find out! Then the guys answer some listener questions about certified pre-owned luxury cars, why someone would go for one, and which one will fit the bill, before discussing the Belltown Hellcat Thanks for listening! We can't wait to do it all again next week!
The Unnamed Automotive Podcast is wrapping up the shortest May ever with a great discussion of a special SUV and a merely average sport compact car. First up Sami drives and reviews the 2024 Land Rover Range Rover LWB SV, a $230,000 SUV with all the cute details and abilities that one would expect out of a product with that pricetag. His criticisms are few, but important, so be sure to listen to the whole discussion. Then Benjamin jumps in to describe his experience in the 2024 Volkswagen Jetta GLI 40th Anniversary, a sport compact car that seems to be from a bygone era, and perhaps left on the vine to rot. Where the GTI gets more power and features, the GLI seems content to compete with just the Honda Civic Si, and mostly on a shoestring budget. What's going on at VW as these kinds of cars stall out in dealerships? Thanks for listening, and be sure to get in touch with us through our website or social media.
This week the podcast returns to the two-car review format, as Sami brings up the newly redesigned 2024 Chevrolet Traverse which he drove around Georgia. The new Traverse has a new look, new engine and new technology to help it stand out in a sea of completely forgettable crossovers, but does it actually do that? Sami and Benjamin discuss. Then Benjamin reviews the 2024 BMW X2 xDrive28i, which grows in size, yet limits in personality as it borrows heavily from its MINI corporate cousins. Is the new X2 a dud or just confused? And how does it stack up in a weird segment full of featureless offerings? Thanks for listening!
Today the guys race against the clock as Sami gets locked in an air-tight room with enough oxygen for only 45 minutes of recording. During this time, the guys have to talk about the 2024 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport that Benjamin recently tested. Totally redesigned for this year, the Taco has a new engine, design and interior which all had an interesting impact on Benjamin during his test drive. The guys also talk about suspension, cargo preferences, and fake trim bits during this review of the mid-size truck. Then the conversation shifts to the recently announced 2025 Ram 1500 RHO, which gets the look of the outgoing TRX but with a smaller engine. That news is followed up with the reveal of the 2025 Mercedes Benz G 580 With EQ Technology, an all-electric version of the beloved G-Wagon, and maybe the best looking EV at Mercedes. Then the guys chat about Ford's EV woes and their new strategy of making smaller, more affordable cars. Who'd've thunk it? Thanks for listening!
This week on the Unnamed Automotive Podcast, our hosts dive into the Land Rover Defender 130, but not just any Defender: this one is loaded with all the trimmings, including a side-mounted accessory box, a roof rack made for camping, a ladder to access that rack, and some sweet flat-black paint. Benjamin asks, are these things useful? Are they worth the money? Won't people in the city just be tempted to mess with your cool Land Rover stuff? And Sami has his thoughts on why he's right and wrong - not to mention how the rest of the car behaves on the road. Then our hosts get dirty discussing the recently revealed 2025 Toyota 4Runner, which has finally recieved a significant redesign after being untouched for so long. While that's good news, the guys can't help but bring up the new 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser, and how this news affects its standing in the Toyota truck lineup. Finally, the guys bring up some news from Up North about the banning of cars with Level 3 hands-free driving systems. Thanks for listening, be sure to head to our website or get in touch with us if you have any questions or feedback!
Following a logistical and technical complication last week, the Unnamed Automotive Podcast is back to deliver the freshest and bestest takes in the automotive media. Or so we believe! This week's episode starts us off on a journey of Easter candies, before we quickly change lanes to discuss the 2024 Chevrolet Trax, the kissing cousin (eww) of the Buick Envista. This attractively priced crossover has quite a lot going for it, and very little fanfare, so is Benjamin impressed with this newly designed small car? Is it better than the rest, or even a better buy than a compact sedan? Hear Benjamin's thorough take on this interesting crossover. Then the episode heads towards a different discussion, one where our hosts question value, audience and design as they talk about the 2024 Dodge Hornet PHEV R/T. With its gimmicky PowerShot feature, this electrified crossover can sprint from 0-60 in just over 5 seconds, but why? And how is that relevant to a pricey plug-in hatchback? Is this the new hot-hatch from the American automaker, or does it miss the mark entirely? Those are the burning questions of this weeks episode, but then the guys chat about some listener feedback and questions. Thanks for listening!
Benjamin details his recent experience in the 2024 Volvo V60 T8 Polestar Engineered PHEV. That may sound like a bunch of gibberish, but the reality is that Ben had a lot to say about this 455 horsepower, plug-in hybrid wagon. Is it fast enough? Big enough? Efficient enough? Fancy enough? Benjamin has all the answers and more! Then Sami brings up all the news that popped up during the 2024 New York Auto Show, including the new Kicks, new G Class, new Defender and performance oriented Genesis vehicles (hot M A G M A!). Then the guys discuss some listener questions and feedback. Keep it coming! Thanks for listening!
This week we tried to get a guest but they had other plans. Instead, you get the first episode of Rusty's new food truck podcast. We hope you enjoy. We will back to 100% this next week