About this episode
Kicking off 2026, the Car Torque crew reunites for a lively discussion filled with personal car updates and humorous anecdotes. Highlights include David Prince's adventures in Scotland, Matty J's breakdown in his Typhoon, and a deep dive into car maintenance challenges. The group shares insights on car pricing differences between the UK and Australia, and the quirks of various models. With a mix of light-hearted banter and technical talk, the episode captures the camaraderie of car enthusiasts navigating the automotive landscape together.
We are back for 2026! Matty, Alam, Ed, David, Chad and Scotty discuss their latest car related shenanegans that they have gotten up to over the Christmas and New Year break! They discus their breakdowns and wins as well as battle it out in the first quiz of the year!
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Car updates
Car Quiz
Nissan Juke
"...I booked a Dissen Duke, just something that size,..."
The Nissan Juke is a small SUV that looks different from most cars. It's designed to be fun to drive and is good for city driving.
The Nissan Juke is a compact crossover SUV known for its distinctive styling and sporty performance. It features a high driving position and is popular for urban driving.
Skoda Kamiq
"...ended up with a Skoda Kamiq, which is a one-link, five-door hatch, sort of what they call a small SUV, but it's pretty low. But the cracking little car..."
The Skoda Kamiq is a small SUV that's easy to drive and has plenty of room inside for passengers and luggage. It's designed to be comfortable and efficient for everyday use.
The Skoda Kamiq is a compact SUV known for its practicality and comfort. It offers a spacious interior and a range of efficient engines, making it suitable for both city driving and longer journeys.
Mercedes-Benz 190E
"I think I saw, I saw a 190E, I think I said to a photo,"
The Mercedes-Benz 190E is a smaller luxury car that was popular a while ago. It's known for being well-made and comfortable to drive.
The Mercedes-Benz 190E is a compact executive car that gained popularity in the 1980s and 1990s for its build quality and performance. It is often regarded as a classic model that helped establish Mercedes-Benz's reputation for luxury and reliability.
Reliant Imp
"...turned out was, it was a reliant imp. It looked sort of like a, like a Metra, you know, one of those Metra like sort of early SUVs from the 70s, but it was tiny."
The Reliant Imp is a small car made by a British company called Reliant. It was popular in the 1960s and 70s for being lightweight and easy to drive.
The Reliant Imp was a small car produced by the British manufacturer Reliant from 1963 to 1976. It was known for its unique design and lightweight construction, making it a popular choice in the UK during its production years.
Datsun 1200 Ute
"...but it was tiny. It was like the size of Datsun 1200 Ute."
The Datsun 1200 Ute is a small pickup truck made by Datsun in the 1970s. It's known for being compact and useful for carrying things around.
The Datsun 1200 Ute is a utility vehicle variant of the Datsun 1200, produced in the early 1970s. It is known for its compact size and practicality, making it a popular choice for light-duty work and personal use.
Moke
"I think the best car for that climate would be a galvanized moke. Interestingly, have big, many mokes."
The Mini Moke is a fun, small car that was made for driving around in leisure settings, like at the beach. It's known for being light and easy to handle.
The Mini Moke is a small, lightweight vehicle originally designed for utility and leisure. It features a simple design and is often associated with beach culture and outdoor activities.
Honda Civic
"...the local Honda dealership, of course, to see and just shake me head that they had a new Civic hybrid, which in Australia, I think"
The Honda Civic is a well-known small car that many people like because it's dependable and saves gas. The hybrid version uses both gas and electricity to go further on less fuel.
The Honda Civic is a popular compact car known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. The hybrid version combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions.
BYD
"...you see, BYD's..."
BYD is a car company from China that makes electric cars. They are becoming popular because they focus on environmentally friendly vehicles.
BYD is a Chinese automotive manufacturer known for producing electric vehicles and batteries. The company has gained significant attention for its innovative approach to electric mobility and is expanding its presence in various global markets.
Audi RS4
"...one of those retina searing Audi bright green or, you know, RS4s or RS3s."
The Audi RS4 is a fast car based on the regular Audi A4 but with a lot more power and sporty features. It's designed for enthusiasts who want a thrilling driving experience.
The Audi RS4 is a high-performance version of the Audi A4, known for its powerful engine and sporty handling. It's part of Audi's RS (RennSport) lineup, which emphasizes performance and driving dynamics.
Audi Rs3S
"RS4s or RS3s. There's a lot of those around."
The Audi RS 3 is a fast and sporty car that's part of the Audi family. It's known for being luxurious and really fun to drive.
The Audi RS 3 is a high-performance version of the Audi A3, known for its powerful engine and sporty handling. It combines luxury with exhilarating performance, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts.
Suzuki Vitara
"Like a Suzuki Vitara. There's a Suzuki dealership. They're sort of low to mid-30s."
The Suzuki Vitara is a small SUV that is good for both city driving and off-road adventures. It's known for being affordable and practical.
The Suzuki Vitara is a compact SUV known for its versatility and off-road capabilities. It has been popular in various markets for its practicality and affordability.
Chrysler Country Town
"You know, it's, I mean, it is sort of a big country town, that island, and I was just like, wow,"
The Chrysler Town & Country is a big family car that can fit a lot of people and their stuff. It's known for being comfortable and practical for family trips.
The Chrysler Town & Country is a minivan known for its family-friendly features and spacious interior. It was popular for its comfort and versatility, making it a go-to choice for many families.
Subaru STI
"...Took the STI out for a drive on, I think it was a Sunday of Christmas..."
The Subaru STI is a sporty version of the Subaru Impreza, designed for high performance and rally racing. It has a powerful engine and is great for driving on different types of roads.
The Subaru STI, or Subaru Impreza WRX STI, is a high-performance variant of the Subaru Impreza, known for its rally heritage and all-wheel-drive capabilities. It's equipped with a turbocharged engine and is popular among car enthusiasts for its performance and handling.
boost
"...Got to get on some boost. Yeah. Just a little bit as a treat."
Boost is a term used when talking about how much extra air is pushed into an engine to make it more powerful. Cars with turbochargers, like the STI, use boost to go faster.
In automotive terms, 'boost' refers to the increased air pressure created by a turbocharger or supercharger, which allows an engine to produce more power. It's a key feature in performance vehicles like the Subaru STI.
D-Max
"So a little while back, I bought wiper blades for it. When I consulted the Michelin guide, because I bought Michelin blades from Costco."
The D-Max is a tough pickup truck made by Isuzu. It's designed for driving on rough roads and is often used for work or outdoor activities.
The Isuzu D-Max is a popular pickup truck known for its durability and off-road capabilities. It is often used for both work and leisure purposes, especially in rugged terrains.
wiper blades
"So a little while back, I bought wiper blades for it. When I consulted the Michelin guide, because I bought Michelin blades from Costco."
Wiper blades are the rubber parts that wipe the windshield to keep it clear when it rains or snows. They help you see better while driving in bad weather.
Wiper blades are essential components of a vehicle's windshield wiper system, designed to clear rain, snow, and debris from the windshield for better visibility while driving.
22 inches
"...it said, hey, you need 22s on the driver's side. I think, yeah."
22 inches is how long the wiper blade should be for the driver's side of the car. It's important to get the right size so it wipes the windshield properly.
The measurement of 22 inches refers to the length of the wiper blade needed for the driver's side of the vehicle, which is important for ensuring proper fit and function.
16 inches
"...I think, yeah. And then 16 inches on the passenger side."
16 inches is the length of the wiper blade needed for the passenger side of the car. Getting the right size helps keep the windshield clear.
The measurement of 16 inches indicates the length of the wiper blade required for the passenger side of the vehicle, which is also crucial for proper visibility.
Nissan Xterra
"...and they will fit the actual X-terrain."
The Nissan Xterra is a type of SUV that is built for off-road driving. It's popular among people who like outdoor adventures because it's tough and can handle rough terrain.
The Nissan Xterra is a compact SUV known for its off-road capabilities and rugged design. It was produced from 1999 to 2015, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a versatile vehicle.
Hyundai I30S
"I have a look and go and have a look. It's got an I-30S and not an I-30 sedan."
The Hyundai i30 is a small car that's practical and has a lot of modern features. It's a good choice for people looking for a reliable and comfortable ride.
The Hyundai i30 is a compact hatchback that offers a blend of practicality, comfort, and modern technology. It has gained popularity for its value and features, making it a strong competitor in its class.
Bosch
"...When they're made by Bosch and you get the exact same ones, you know, like 30 bucks"
Bosch is a company that makes car parts, including wipers. Sometimes, car brands sell these parts under their name, but they are actually made by Bosch.
Bosch is a well-known automotive parts manufacturer that produces a wide range of components, including wiper blades. Many car manufacturers use Bosch parts, often rebranded with their own logos.
Michelin
"Screw you, Michelin. Your tires are okay. Your food recommendations are somewhat okay as well."
Michelin is a famous company that makes tires for cars and other vehicles. They are known for making good quality tires that help cars drive safely.
Michelin is a leading tire manufacturer known for producing a wide range of tires for various vehicles, including performance and everyday use. Their products are recognized for quality and innovation in tire technology.
manual transmission
"It's got a manual transmission and the pedal is good to go. And it works. This car hasn't been driven in like 10 years..."
A manual transmission is when you have to change gears yourself while driving, using a stick and a pedal. It gives you more control over how the car drives.
A manual transmission is a type of vehicle transmission that requires the driver to manually shift gears using a clutch pedal and gear stick. It allows for greater control over the vehicle's power and speed compared to automatic transmissions.
clutch
"...the clutch system needs a definite break because I bleed sorry because it was just like with the skins. I saw the clutch too."
The clutch helps you change gears in a car with a manual transmission. If it's not working well, it can make it hard to shift gears or drive the car properly.
The clutch is a crucial component in a manual transmission vehicle that engages and disengages the engine from the transmission, allowing for smooth gear shifts. A malfunctioning clutch can lead to difficulty in changing gears or even complete loss of drive.
master cylinder
"...I need all that stuff. So clutch cylinder, master and slave cylinder and lines."
The master cylinder helps push fluid when you press the clutch pedal, making it easier to change gears in a manual car.
The master cylinder is a key component of a vehicle's hydraulic system that converts the force from the driver's foot on the clutch pedal into hydraulic pressure. This pressure is then transmitted to the slave cylinder to engage or disengage the clutch.
slave cylinder
"...I need all that stuff. So clutch cylinder, master and slave cylinder and lines."
The slave cylinder helps move the clutch when you press the pedal, allowing you to change gears in a manual car.
The slave cylinder works in conjunction with the master cylinder in a hydraulic clutch system. It receives hydraulic pressure from the master cylinder and pushes the clutch fork to engage or disengage the clutch.
intake system
"...that should arrive soon because Japan's holidays is over is an intake system..."
An intake system helps bring air into the engine, which is necessary for it to run. It includes parts like the air filter and helps the engine perform better.
An intake system is a crucial component of an engine that is responsible for drawing air into the combustion chamber. It typically includes the air filter, intake manifold, and throttle body, and can significantly affect engine performance and efficiency.
custom exhaust
"...if I can't get it then maybe I could probably just get a custom exhaust shot to kind of copy it a bit but yeah sounds good because the guy's going full full custom exhaust..."
A custom exhaust is a special part of a car that helps the engine breathe better and can make the car sound different. People often change it to make their car sound cooler or to help it go faster.
A custom exhaust is a modified exhaust system designed to improve performance, sound, or aesthetics of a vehicle. Enthusiasts often choose custom exhausts to enhance the engine's output and create a unique sound profile.
Lexus IS 250
"...I bought a Lexus...this is an IS 250...with the new shape from 20 very late 2013"
The Lexus IS 250 is a stylish and comfortable car that offers a smooth ride. It's a luxury sedan with a powerful engine, making it great for both city driving and longer trips.
The Lexus IS 250 is a luxury compact sedan known for its comfortable ride and refined interior. It features a V6 engine and is part of the IS series, which is aimed at providing a sporty driving experience.
Lexus
"...the little Lexus accoutrements of it the smoothness the rear drive chassis..."
Lexus is a brand of luxury cars made by Toyota. They are known for being comfortable and reliable.
Lexus is the luxury vehicle division of the Japanese automaker Toyota, known for its focus on quality, comfort, and advanced technology.
Toyota Camry
"...is cracking Lexus and he goes oh isn't it just a Camry with another badge I think"
The Toyota Camry is a type of car that's great for everyday driving. It's known for being dependable and not costing too much to keep running, which is why many people like it.
The Toyota Camry is a mid-size sedan known for its reliability, comfort, and fuel efficiency. It has been a popular choice among families and commuters for decades, often praised for its value and longevity.
Mitsubishi Pajero Mitsubishi
"...you know compared to going to a dealer or even a Pajero Mitsubishi specialist for the big service"
Ford Cortina
"... the guy was lovely he's like oh yeah I've got a Cortina he was into his 70s stuff"
The Ford Cortina is an older, smaller car that many people used to drive in the UK. It's known for being affordable and practical for everyday use.
The Ford Cortina is a classic compact car that was popular in the UK from the 1960s to the 1980s. It is often remembered for its affordability and practicality, making it a common choice for families during its production years.
GMC Typhoon
"...esn't smell right so for some context I'm in the typhoon anyway"
The GMC Typhoon is a powerful SUV from the 90s that's known for being fast. It's special because it combines the space of an SUV with the speed of a sports car.
The GMC Typhoon is a high-performance SUV that was produced in the early 1990s, known for its turbocharged engine and sporty characteristics. It has become a collector's item due to its unique blend of utility and performance.
heater hose
"...all the water coming out from a heater hose connection..."
A heater hose is a tube that carries hot coolant from the engine to the car's heater. If it leaks, it can cause problems like overheating or a bad smell.
A heater hose is a crucial component in a vehicle's cooling system, responsible for transporting coolant between the engine and the heater core. If a heater hose leaks, it can lead to overheating and other engine issues.
coolant
"the issue was the car smells like coolant because it leaked onto the exhaust manifold..."
Coolant is a liquid that helps keep your car's engine from getting too hot. It moves around the engine and radiator to keep everything at the right temperature.
Coolant is a fluid used in vehicles to regulate engine temperature and prevent overheating. It circulates through the engine and radiator, absorbing heat and dissipating it to maintain optimal operating temperatures.
Volkswagen Golf GTI
"this Golf GTI turns well I would say to"
The Volkswagen Golf GTI is a sportier version of the regular Golf. It's designed to be fun to drive and has a more powerful engine, making it a favorite among car lovers.
The Volkswagen Golf GTI is a high-performance variant of the standard Golf, known for its sporty handling and turbocharged engine. It's a popular choice among enthusiasts for its balance of practicality and performance.
Mazda 2
"incorrectly Mazda 2 I'll say Mazda 2 what's the Mazda 2?"
The Mazda 2 is a small car that's easy to drive and park, especially in cities. It's also good on gas, which means it doesn't cost much to fill up.
The Mazda 2 is a subcompact car that is known for its fun driving dynamics and fuel efficiency. It is often appreciated for its compact size, making it ideal for city driving and parking.
Mazda 6
"chat are they going to put it in like the Mazda 6? nope"
The Mazda 6 MPS is a faster version of the regular Mazda 6. It's made for people who want a family car that can also be fun to drive.
The Mazda 6 MPS is a high-performance version of the Mazda 6, featuring a turbocharged engine and sport-tuned suspension. It is designed for driving enthusiasts who want a blend of practicality and performance in a family sedan.
Mazda Rx8
"what year was the last production of the RX-8 Matthew"
The Mazda RX-8 is a sporty car that's different because it has a special type of engine. It's known for being fun to drive and has a unique look.
The Mazda RX-8 is a sports car known for its unique rotary engine and distinctive design. It was produced from 2003 to 2012 and is celebrated for its lightweight handling and sporty performance.
BMW M3
"yeah is it a BMW M3 no"
The BMW M3 is a fast and sporty car that's built for people who love to drive. It's known for being powerful and fun to handle on the road.
The BMW M3 is a high-performance version of the BMW 3 Series, designed for enthusiasts who seek a sporty driving experience. It features a powerful engine, enhanced handling, and distinctive styling, making it a favorite among car lovers.
BMW 530I
"X5s and they've got 530i oh they're 530"
The BMW 5 Series is a luxury car that's comfortable and fun to drive. It's often chosen by people who want a nice car with lots of features.
The BMW 5 Series is a mid-size luxury sedan known for its performance, comfort, and advanced technology features. It is a popular choice among executives and luxury car buyers for its blend of style and driving dynamics.
Volkswagen Arteon
"is it the Volkswagen Arteon or something who's left Alan"
The Volkswagen Arteon is a fancy car that looks good and has a lot of space inside. It's made for people who want a stylish ride with modern features.
The Volkswagen Arteon is a stylish fastback sedan that combines elegance with practicality. It is designed to offer a premium experience with a spacious interior and advanced technology.
Ford Broncos
"...elling Fords there again I would say a couple of Broncos in Japan"
The Ford Bronco is a tough SUV that's great for off-roading and outdoor adventures. It's popular because it can handle rough terrain and is fun to drive.
The Ford Bronco is a classic SUV that has been reintroduced with modern features while retaining its rugged off-road capabilities. It holds a significant place in automotive history as an icon of adventure and outdoor exploration.
Toyota Hiluxs
"I just want to see with the Hilux's they got the guns in the back"
The Toyota Hilux is a tough truck that's built to handle rough roads and heavy loads. It's popular because it's reliable and can be used for work or adventure.
The Toyota Hilux is a rugged pickup truck known for its durability and off-road capabilities. It has a strong reputation in markets around the world, especially in regions where tough conditions are common.
Ford Ranger
"Matthew that has to be Ford with the Ranger it was Ford"
The Ford Ranger is a smaller pickup truck that's good for carrying things and driving on different types of roads. It's useful for both work and fun activities.
The Ford Ranger is a mid-size pickup truck known for its versatility and capability. It offers a balance of power, efficiency, and practicality, making it suitable for both work and leisure activities.
Toyota RAV4
"8 because Ed already said RAV4 so"
The Toyota RAV4 is a small SUV that's great for families. It has a lot of space and is good for driving in the city or going on trips.
The Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV that has gained popularity for its spacious interior, reliability, and versatility. It is often chosen by families and individuals looking for a practical vehicle for both city and outdoor adventures.
Aston Martin DBX
"good on them sort of DBX on the road the other day that was crazy"
The Aston Martin DBX is a fancy SUV that's fast and stylish. It's made by a brand known for luxury sports cars, so it's both powerful and looks great.
The Aston Martin DBX is the brand's first luxury SUV, combining high-performance with the elegance typical of Aston Martin vehicles. It represents a shift for the brand into the growing SUV market while maintaining its signature style.
Honda Odyssey
"the Lexus and all the Honda Odyssey that's still floating around X David"
The Honda Odyssey is a big family car that can fit a lot of people and their stuff. It's popular because it's safe and comfortable for long trips.
The Honda Odyssey is a minivan designed for families, offering spacious seating and advanced safety features. It is known for its reliability and practicality, making it a top choice for those needing a family-friendly vehicle.
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