Square wheels, Audi makes a Land Rover, retaking the dining room
About this episode
A lively discussion unfolds about various automotive topics, including the challenges facing Ford in Europe, the potential for Audi to create a Land Rover-style vehicle, and the nostalgia surrounding classic models like the Audi A2. Listeners are treated to insights on fuel economy comparisons, the evolution of car design, and the quirky world of model cars. The hosts also share personal anecdotes and listener letters, creating a warm, engaging atmosphere that blends humor with automotive passion.
The latest episode of My Week In Cars finds Steve Cropley and Matt Prior talking all things motoring, including Peugeot's new square steering wheel, the prospect of Audi making a 4x4, and the impending loss of Cropley's study/studio. Plus there's your correspondence and much more besides.
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Audi A2
"...yed the conversations about the economy of Matt's Audi A2 and a letter you read where a listener had turned..."
The Audi A2 is a small car that is designed to be very efficient and easy to drive around town. It has a unique look and is known for being practical, making it great for city life.
The Audi A2 is a compact MPV known for its innovative design and efficient use of space. Launched in the early 2000s, it was one of the first cars to focus heavily on fuel efficiency and lightweight construction. The A2 is often discussed for its unique styling and practicality, especially in urban environments.
Ford Mondeo
"For the past eight years, my companion has been a 2013 2-liter diesel Ford Mondeo, more on Ford in a bit, listener."
The Ford Mondeo is a car that's known for being comfortable and good for long drives. The 2013 version has a diesel engine that helps it save fuel.
The Ford Mondeo is a mid-size car that has been popular in Europe for its spaciousness and comfort. The 2013 model features a range of efficient diesel engines, making it a practical choice for long-distance commuting.
BMW M5
"...optimistic, but the best I've seen for my 38-mile M5 drive home has been 72 miles to the gallon. That'..."
The BMW M5 is a fast and fancy car that looks like a regular sedan but can go really, really fast. It's known for being fun to drive and has a lot of cool features, making it popular among car enthusiasts.
The BMW M5 is a high-performance version of the 5 Series sedan, known for its powerful engine and sporty handling. It has a significant place in automotive history as one of the original super sedans, blending luxury with extreme performance. Discussions about the M5 often revolve around its impressive driving dynamics and technology.
miles per gallon
"the best I've seen for my 38-mile M5 drive home has been 72 miles to the gallon."
Miles per gallon (MPG) tells you how far a car can go using one gallon of gas. The higher the number, the less gas the car uses for each mile.
Miles per gallon (MPG) is a measure of how far a vehicle can travel on one gallon of fuel. It's a common metric used to assess fuel efficiency, with higher numbers indicating better fuel economy.
Audi TT
"He said, not the coolest car, but he graduated to an Audi A3 and then a TT with a V6 engine."
The Audi TT is a sporty little car that looks great and drives well. It's known for its unique shape and fun driving experience.
The Audi TT is a compact sports car known for its distinctive design and performance. It is available with various engine options, including a V6.
Audi A3
"He said, not the coolest car, but he graduated to an Audi A3 and then a TT with a V6 engine."
The Audi A3 is a small luxury car that offers a comfortable ride and stylish design. It's popular for its quality and performance.
The Audi A3 is a compact car known for its premium features and sporty handling. It is available in various configurations, including hatchback and sedan styles.
V6 engine
"...then a TT with a V6 engine."
A V6 engine has six cylinders that help the car produce power. It's known for being powerful while still being relatively fuel-efficient.
A V6 engine is a type of engine configuration with six cylinders arranged in a V shape. It offers a balance of power and efficiency, making it popular in many vehicles.
Honda ENY1
"...Tom says his Honda ENY1, which is an electric compact crossover type thing, SUV crossover type thing, has done 13,000 miles at an average of 2.7 miles per kilowatt hour."
The Honda ENY1 is a small electric SUV made by Honda. It's designed to be efficient and is good for driving in cities.
The Honda ENY1 is an electric compact crossover SUV that represents Honda's entry into the electric vehicle market. It is designed for efficiency and practicality, catering to urban drivers looking for a versatile vehicle.
miles per kilowatt hour
"...has done 13,000 miles at an average of 2.7 miles per kilowatt hour. While that is disappointing efficiency compared to his expectations,"
Miles per kilowatt hour tells you how far an electric car can go using one unit of electricity. It's a way to measure how efficient the car is with energy.
Miles per kilowatt hour (miles/kWh) is a measure of how efficiently an electric vehicle uses energy. It indicates how many miles the vehicle can travel on one kilowatt hour of electricity, helping consumers understand the vehicle's efficiency.
total cost of ownership
"If we consider complete cost of ownership, I bought the Honda on a 25 month PCP for £207 a month with the total cost of £5,500 for 8,000 miles a year."
Total cost of ownership is a way to look at how much it really costs to own a car, not just the price you pay to buy it, but also things like insurance and maintenance.
Total cost of ownership (TCO) refers to the comprehensive assessment of all costs associated with owning a vehicle, including purchase price, financing, insurance, maintenance, and fuel costs.
PCP
"I bought the Honda on a 25 month PCP for £207 a month with the total cost of £5,500 for 8,000 miles a year."
PCP is a way to pay for a car where you make monthly payments for a few years and then have the choice to buy the car at the end or return it.
PCP stands for Personal Contract Purchase, a popular car financing option in the UK. It allows buyers to pay a deposit and then make monthly payments, with the option to buy the car at the end of the term.
MOT
"But as a result of that, I did a small set of numbers myself, bearing in mind..."
MOT is a yearly check in the UK to make sure cars are safe to drive. If a car doesn't pass, it can't be used on the road until it's fixed.
MOT stands for Ministry of Transport test, a mandatory annual test for vehicle safety, roadworthiness, and emissions in the UK. Cars must pass this test to be legally driven on public roads.
wheel bearing
"It has needed a wheel bearing and a new fan motor at a combined cost of £65 for the two."
A wheel bearing helps your car's wheels turn smoothly. If it breaks, it can make strange noises and make it hard to drive safely.
A wheel bearing is a set of steel balls or rollers that allow the wheel to spin freely while supporting the weight of the vehicle. If it fails, it can cause noise, vibration, and unsafe driving conditions.
Volkswagen
"...with VW to use..."
Volkswagen is a car company from Germany that makes many popular cars, including the Golf and the Beetle.
Volkswagen, often abbreviated as VW, is a German automaker known for its popular models like the Golf and Passat, as well as the iconic Beetle.
Volkswagen ID. Polo
"...there's this new thing called the Polo ID Polo."
The Volkswagen ID. Polo is a new electric car from Volkswagen that is small and designed to be very efficient and eco-friendly.
The Volkswagen ID. Polo is part of VW's ID family of electric vehicles, designed to be compact and efficient, catering to the growing demand for electric mobility.
Ford Explorer
"...ishment for it being a VW underneath. I think the Explorer and the Capri are different enough to seem like F..."
Ford Capri
"...I think the Explorer and the Capri are different enough to seem like Fords anyway. So I quite welcome the idea."
The Ford Capri is a classic car that was designed to look sporty and fun to drive. It was popular in the past and is now considered a classic.
The Ford Capri was a sports coupe produced by Ford from the late 1960s to the early 1980s. It was known for its stylish design and sporty performance.
Ford Mustang
"...existing EVs aren't really good enough because the Mustang EV is a..."
The Mustang EV is Ford's electric version of their famous Mustang car, designed to be fast and environmentally friendly.
The Mustang EV refers to Ford's electric version of the iconic Mustang sports car, which aims to combine performance with electric vehicle technology.
Ford Focus
"...what a Ford, Fiesta, Focus, Mondeo, Cougar, probably Puma even is."
The Ford Focus is a compact car that is fun to drive and has a lot of space for passengers and cargo, making it a good choice for families or individuals.
The Ford Focus is a compact car known for its sporty handling and practicality. It has been a popular choice for both families and young drivers due to its balance of performance and comfort.
Ford Fiesta
"Yeah. And they know what a Ford, Fiesta, Focus, Mondeo, Cougar, probably Puma even is."
The Ford Fiesta ST is a small, fun car that is quick and easy to drive. It's a sporty version of a regular Fiesta, so it has a lot of energy and is great for people who want a fun ride without spending too much.
The Ford Fiesta ST is a sporty version of the popular Fiesta hatchback, known for its agile handling and peppy performance. It combines practicality with fun driving dynamics, making it a favorite among enthusiasts looking for an affordable hot hatch. The Fiesta ST is often discussed for its engaging driving experience and value for money.
Ford Cougar
"...what a Ford, Fiesta, Focus, Mondeo, Cougar, probably Puma even is."
The Ford Cougar is a two-door car that looks sporty and is designed for people who want a fun driving experience.
The Ford Cougar is a sporty coupe that was produced in the late 1990s and early 2000s. It is known for its distinctive styling and performance-oriented features.
Ford Puma
"...what a Ford, Fiesta, Focus, Mondeo, Cougar, probably Puma even is."
The Ford Puma is a small SUV that is designed to be stylish and practical, making it a good choice for people who want a mix of both.
The Ford Puma is a compact SUV that combines sporty styling with practicality. It has gained popularity for its versatility and modern features.
Gm Sierras
"... know, in the olden days when we all talked about Sierras and things, we just... Yeah."
The GMC Sierra is a big truck that can carry heavy loads and is great for work or towing things like trailers. It's known for being tough and reliable, making it a popular choice for people who need a strong vehicle.
The GM Sierra, often referred to as the GMC Sierra, is a full-size pickup truck known for its durability and capability. It is popular among those who need a reliable workhorse for towing and hauling, as well as for everyday use. Discussions about the Sierra often highlight its powerful engine options and advanced technology features.
Ford Model Fords
"...lk what happens to model cars? You must have some model fords in your collection. Well, I do, but yeah,"
The Ford Model T is one of the first cars that many people could actually afford, which changed how everyone got around. It was made a long time ago and is important because it helped start the car industry as we know it today.
The Ford Model T is a historic automobile that revolutionized the automotive industry by making cars affordable for the average person. Produced from 1908 to 1927, it was the first car to be mass-produced using assembly line techniques, significantly impacting transportation and society. Discussions about the Model T often highlight its role in shaping modern automotive manufacturing.
Alpine A290
"...here is, but it's funny. We did that drive in the A290 out in the other week."
The Alpine A290 is a small sports car that is built to be very light and fun to drive. It's designed for people who enjoy speed and want a car that feels exciting on the road.
The Alpine A290 is a modern sports car that emphasizes lightweight construction and agile handling. Known for its performance-oriented design, it aims to provide an exhilarating driving experience. Discussions about the A290 often focus on its unique styling and driving dynamics.
Renault Twingo
"...the Twingo, the Renault 4 and the Renault 5 is very impressive."
The Renault Twingo is a small car designed for city driving, known for being easy to park and fun to drive.
The Renault Twingo is a city car produced by Renault since 1992, known for its compact size and unique design. It has been popular for urban driving due to its maneuverability.
Renault 5
"...the Twingo, the Renault 4 and the Renault 5 is very impressive."
The Renault 4 is a compact car made by Renault that was sold for over three decades. It was appreciated for being useful and affordable.
The Renault 4 is a small family car produced by the French automaker Renault from 1961 to 1992. It was known for its practicality and versatility, becoming quite popular in Europe and various markets.
Porsche 911
"...like a Porsche 911, that's what it would now look like. I think that's what Laurence Van den Akker's feeling is..."
The Porsche 911 is a famous sports car that has been around for a long time. It's known for its unique look and powerful performance, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts.
The Porsche 911 is a classic sports car that has been in continuous production since 1964, known for its distinctive design and rear-engine layout. It has undergone several generations of updates while maintaining its iconic shape and performance characteristics.
Ferrari Portofino
"...about his Ferrari Portofino and the slight mick-taking he'd had from his family..."
The Ferrari Portofino is a fancy sports car that can be driven with the top down. It's fast and stylish, making it a popular choice among car enthusiasts.
The Ferrari Portofino is a luxury convertible sports car that combines performance with elegance. It features a twin-turbocharged V8 engine and is known for its sleek design and high-end interior.
Ferrari Portofino Spider
"I've always liked good cars and would love a Portofino Spider..."
The Portofino Spider is a fancy sports car from Ferrari that can turn into a convertible. It's fast and stylish, making it a popular choice among car enthusiasts.
The Ferrari Portofino Spider is a convertible sports car known for its elegant design and powerful performance. It features a retractable hardtop and is equipped with a twin-turbocharged V8 engine.
Jaguar Etype
"Jaguar E-Type 3.8 Roadster when I first met my wife in 1973 and you could pick up E-Types for a song then."
The Jaguar E-Type 3.8 Roadster is a famous sports car from the 1960s. It's known for its beautiful looks and fast performance, making it a classic favorite among car enthusiasts.
The Jaguar E-Type 3.8 Roadster is a classic British sports car known for its stunning design and performance. Launched in the 1960s, it became an icon of automotive history and is often celebrated for its beauty and engineering.
Peugeot 2027 Peugeot
"styling elements will go into the 2027 Peugeot 208 but they've taken"
The Peugeot 207 is a small car that has five doors, making it easy for people to get in and out. It's good for city driving and is known for being economical on gas.
The Peugeot 207 is a compact hatchback that offers practicality and efficiency for urban driving. The 5-door version provides additional access and space for passengers, making it a versatile choice for families. Discussions about the 207 often focus on its design and fuel economy.
Peugeot 208
"styling elements will go into the 2027 Peugeot 208 but they've taken"
Jeep Wrangler
"short wheelbase Jeep Wrangler I know I've rattled on too long"
The Jeep Wrangler is a tough-looking car that can drive over rocks and through mud easily. People love it for outdoor adventures because it's built to handle rough roads and has a fun, open-top option.
The Jeep Wrangler is an iconic off-road vehicle known for its rugged design and exceptional off-road capabilities. It has a loyal following due to its versatility and ability to tackle challenging terrains, making it a popular choice for adventure seekers. The Wrangler's design has remained relatively unchanged over the years, which adds to its classic appeal.
Land Defenders
"4x4s than defenders you know"
The Land Rover Defender is a strong car designed to go off the beaten path, like in the mountains or on rough trails. It's known for being very tough and can carry a lot of gear, making it great for adventures.
The Land Rover Defender is a legendary 4x4 vehicle known for its ruggedness and off-road prowess. It has a rich history and has been used in various challenging environments, from military applications to safari adventures. The Defender is often discussed for its blend of luxury and capability, making it a favorite among off-road enthusiasts.
Audi Allroad
"you know a bit of a tough car I remember the all-road a very popular car"
The Audi Allroad is a fancy car that looks like a regular wagon but can handle rough roads better. It's comfortable and has extra features that make it a nice choice for people who want a mix of luxury and utility.
The Audi Allroad is a luxury wagon that combines the comfort of a sedan with the versatility of an SUV. It features increased ground clearance and all-wheel drive, making it capable of handling various road conditions. Discussions about the Allroad often highlight its blend of practicality and luxury.
Skoda Octavia
"I really like those Octavia Scouts and sort of cross country Volvo's"
The Skoda Octavia is a roomy car that is good for families and everyday driving. It's known for being reliable and comfortable, making it a smart choice for people who need a practical vehicle.
The Skoda Octavia is a compact car known for its spacious interior and practicality, often regarded as a great value for money. It is available in various body styles, including hatchback and estate, making it versatile for different needs. Discussions about the Octavia typically highlight its reliability and comfort for everyday use.
Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross
"...ely candidates according to our story include the Eclipse Cross which is effectively a restart Renault Scenic"
The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is a small SUV that looks sporty and is good for driving around town. It's designed to be comfortable and has a lot of features that make it easy to use.
The Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is a compact crossover SUV that combines sporty styling with practicality. It offers a comfortable ride and a range of features aimed at enhancing the driving experience. Discussions about the Eclipse Cross often focus on its design and suitability for urban lifestyles.
Mitsubishi Outlander
"Renault Scenic the Outlander Plug-In Hybrid which actually previously did real..."
The Mitsubishi Outlander is a family-friendly SUV that has plenty of room for people and their stuff. It can also come as a hybrid, which means it can save on gas and is better for the environment.
The Mitsubishi Outlander is a compact SUV that offers versatility and practicality for families and outdoor enthusiasts. It is available in both traditional and plug-in hybrid versions, making it a popular choice for those looking for fuel efficiency and space. Discussions about the Outlander often focus on its value and features in the competitive SUV market.
Alfa Romeo Sprint
"Rolls Royce of caravans and we took it to a sprint one somewhere in Somerset"
The Alfa Romeo Sprint is a stylish little sports car that is fun to drive and looks really cool. It's loved by car fans for its design and the way it feels on the road.
The Alfa Romeo Sprint is a classic sports coupe known for its stylish design and spirited performance. It has a rich heritage in the automotive world, often celebrated for its Italian craftsmanship and driving enjoyment. Discussions about the Sprint typically highlight its iconic status and appeal among collectors.
Cupra Born
"... 20 minutes the thing was set up as though it was born there so you're not a big caravan"
The Cupra Born is a new electric car that looks sporty and is good for the environment. It's designed to be fun to drive while helping to reduce pollution.
The Cupra Born is an electric hatchback that represents a shift towards sustainable performance in the automotive industry. It combines sporty design with eco-friendly technology, appealing to those looking for an exciting yet environmentally conscious vehicle. Discussions about the Born often focus on its performance and electric range.
Opel Mokka
"as I speak a voxel mokka GSE video but we're quite a long way ahead of thi..."
The Opel Mokka is a small SUV that is easy to drive in the city and has a stylish look. It's comfortable and has a lot of features that make it great for daily driving.
The Opel Mokka is a compact crossover SUV that offers a blend of style and practicality. It is designed for urban driving, providing a comfortable ride and efficient fuel economy. Discussions about the Mokka often highlight its modern features and versatility for everyday use.
Porsche 911 GT3 RS
"that is going to be a Porsche 911 GT3 RS with"
The Porsche 911 GT3 RS is a super-fast sports car that is built for racing and driving really well on tracks. It's known for being lightweight and powerful, making it a dream car for many people who love speed.
The Porsche 911 GT3 RS is a high-performance sports car known for its track-focused design and exceptional handling. It features a powerful engine and lightweight construction, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts and racers. The GT3 RS is often discussed for its engineering excellence and thrilling driving experience.
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