The Hook Turn Podcast
Vivek Shah and Sanbib Ahmed
Updated 4 days agoThe Hook Turn Podcast is your serving of banter, unabridged commentary and hot takes on all things cars. We look at the latest new models and try predicting what’s next in the crazy world of today's automotive industry.
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Episodes (52)
49: Firefly flutters to Oz, a new big Lexus and a good value Merc?
In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss Australian pricing and specifications for the new Mercedes-Benz CLA. We also comment on Lexus' all-new large electric SUV, the TZ. Finally, we speculate on whether what many are calling the Chinese Mini, the Nio Firefly, will actually make a dent in small EV sales in the Australian market. Show notes:- Mercedes-Benz CLA: https://www.drive.com.au/news/2026-mercedes-benz-cla-price-and-specs-hybrid-and-electric-sedan-cheaper-than-before/- Lexus TZ: https://www.drive.com.au/news/2027-lexus-tz-electric-suv-revealed-under-consideration-for-australia-as-volvo-ex90-rival/ - Nio Firefly: https://www.drive.com.au/news/firefly-electric-car-due-in-australia-in-2026-as-launch-details-firm/
48: Special guest Mike Costello joins the show! We discuss where the Australian new car market is headed
To say that Australia's new car market is competitive is putting it lightly. With more than 60 brands competing in a market of approximately 1.2 million new vehicles, it is a brutal fight for customer dollars.* In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we gaze into the crystal ball with very special guest and market expert Mike Costello. We chat about who will survive, and who will thrive, in the Hunger Games of the Australian new car market. We also discuss whether you'll still be buying your car from a dealership in the future, and the cars that we're most excited to see on the road this year. Show notes:- Mike Costello: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-costello-cox-automotive/ *For context, the US has approximately 40 brands in a vastly larger market of more than 16 million new vehicles sold annually. The UK has approximately 40 brands in a market of 2 million new vehicles sold annually.
47: VW returns to form, Suzuki loses its mind and our picks for a sub-$30k EV
In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss VW finally returning to good design, inside and out, with the new ID. Polo small EV hatch. We also speculate on whether Suzuki has gone crazy with the pricing of the new e-Vitara small electric SUV. Finally, we discuss what our picks for an EV would be if we had a budget of $30k.Show notes:- VW ID. Polo: https://www.volkswagen-newsroom.com/en/press-releases/much-more-than-a-city-car-world-premiere-of-the-all-new-electric-id-polo-20356- Suzuki e-Vitara: https://zecar.com/reviews/suzuki-e-vitara-australia-price-specs-2026
46: Mercedes and BMW keep up the fight, and BYD launches a convertible
In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss Mercedes' new C-Class Electric, and BMW's latest application of its Neue Klasse philosophy with the updated flagship 7 Series. Given the lack of success that MG has had with its Cyberster, we also speculate on whether the Denza (BYD's premium brand) 7 convertible will have any more success.Show notes:- Mercedes-Benz C-Class Electric: https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/mercedes/c-class/364229/new-mercedes-c-class-electric-revealed-exec-ev-gets-472-mile-range-and- BMW 7 Series: https://www.drive.com.au/news/2027-bmw-7-series-revealed-with-heavy-i3-influence-due-in-australia-this-year/- BYD Denza 7 convertible: https://www.whichcar.com.au/news/denza-z-revealed-at-beijing-electric-gt-targets-porsche-911-territory/
45: Melbourne Motor Show, VW enters the Matrix and Nissan goes crazy
In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, Vivek discusses his reflections from attending the Melbourne Motor Show. We also talk about VW's heavily revised ID. 3 Neo. Finally, we examine Nissan's attempt to make us worry less about having a car accident, by revealing a car that already looks like it's had a side impact in the new Nissan Juke. Show notes: - Melbourne Motor Show: https://melbournemotorshow.au - VW ID. 3 Neo: https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/2027-volkswagen-id-3-neo-updated-ev-is-a-true-vw-with-actual-buttons-and-switches- Nissan Juke: https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/electric-cars/new-british-built-nissan-juke-unveiled-radically-styled-ev
44: Mazda fights back, Subaru seeks new trails and BYD continues its price war
In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss Mazda looking to China to help stave off those emissions fines and retain market share in the hotly contested midsize EV SUV segment, with the new Mazda CX-6e. We also discuss Subaru's latest take on this segment with its ongoing Toyota partnership, namely the Trailseeker. Finally, BYD is on a hot streak, coming 3rd in the new cars sales chart in March 2026. We speculate on whether the highly aggressive pricing of the new Seal 6 plug-in hybrid is enough to keep the momentum. Show notes:- Mazda CX-6e: https://www.drive.com.au/news/2026-mazda-cx-6e-price-and-specs-electric-suv-undercuts-model-y-sealion-7-bz4x/ - Subaru Trailseeker: https://www.whichcar.com.au/news/subaru-trailseeker-electric-off-road-wagon-priced-for-australia- BYD Seal 6: https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/2026-byd-seal-6-price-and-specs
43: Land Rover's Chinese comeback, Lucid's UK dreams and Hyundai takes on Jeep
In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss Land Rover partnering with Chery to turn its dormant Freelander into a standalone brand. We also discuss Lucid's attempt to crack the UK (and potentially Australian) markets with the new Cosmos SUV. Moving away from electrified SUVs, we also discuss the rugged new Hyundai Boulder SUV, which takes aim at the Jeep Wrangler, Ford Bronco and Toyota LandCruiser Prado, amongst others.Show notes:-Freelander SUV concept: https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/freelander-concept-97-previews-first-model-from-land-rover-chery-joint-venture -Lucid Cosmos: https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/electric-cars/lucid-launch-uk-next-year-bmw-ix3-rival-Hyundai Boulder: https://www.drive.com.au/news/hyundai-boulder-concept-revealed-to-preview-toyota-prado-hilux-rivals/
42: Will Xpeng bite the dust? Plus, Toyota brings back an icon and our fave forbidden fruit
In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss Xpeng having a dispute with its Australian distributor, and the importance of retaining customer trust. We also discuss the return of the iconic Toyota Celica, and chat about what car sold overseas we'd most like to see down under.Show notes:- Xpeng: https://zecar.com/reviews/true-ev-distribution-external-administration - Toyota Celica: https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/toyota-celica-revival-to-be-powered-by-2-0-litre-turbo-hybrid-report - DS No8: https://www.topgear.com/car-reviews/ds/no-8- Cadillac CT4-V: https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a64780191/2025-cadillac-ct4-v-test/
41: It's happening! BMW iX3 pricing and i3 revealed, an iconic Audi returns and eyes on Renault
It's finally happening!! Sanbib and I have both been very excited to hear more about BMW's Neue Klasse, and in this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss Australian pricing for the iX3, and the full reveal of the production i3 - with an incredible 900km (WLTP) of range! We also discuss a potential return to form for Audi, with news that the A2 is making a comeback. Finally, Renault has had a lot of success in Europe over the last 24 months with the R5 and the R4 - but can it replicate this here? We discuss as part of our 'brand focus' series. Show notes:-BMW iX3 pricing and specs: https://zecar.com/reviews/2026-bmw-ix3-price-specs-australia-BMW i3 revealed: https://www.drive.com.au/news/2027-bmw-i3-revealed-as-australias-new-longest-range-ev-with-900km-range/-Audi A2: https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/electric-cars/audi-a2-name-officially-confirmed-new-electric-hatchback-Reanult: https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/renaults-coolest-evs-blocked-by-australian-safety-rules
40: VW chooses Neo, Honda goes to zero and a fresh pair of cheap EVs
In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss VW's attempt to be 'the chosen one' in the small car segment with the facelifted ID. 3 Neo. Going in the opposite direction, this week brings confirmation that Honda is also scrapping its dramatic 0 series sedan and SUV models - what does this mean for the storied Japanese brand known for its engineering nous?Finally, we discuss a pair of new budget EV hatchbacks and provide our view on which one you should pick.Show notes:- VW ID. 3 Neo: https://www.electrifying.com/blog/article/vw-id-3-neo-is-the-chosen-one- Honda scraps 0 series: https://www.drive.com.au/news/honda-cancels-ev-plans-citing-decline-in-competitiveness-as-a-factor/- GAC Aion UT: https://www.drive.com.au/news/2026-gac-aion-ut-price-and-specs-byd-dolphin-and-mg-4-rival-detailed-for-australia/- MG4 EV Urban: https://www.whichcar.com.au/news/mg4-ev-urban-all-new-electric-hatchback-australia-launch
39: F1 recap (in brief), Cadillac expands, a new VW Golf and World Car of the Year
In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we touch on the latest from the Australian F1 Grand Prix in Melbourne. Cadillac is one of the new teams in the 2026 Formula 1 season, but they're also expanding their road car lineup in Australia. We discuss the new Optiq and Vistiq and whether they have any chance at taking pole position in their segments. We also discuss the latest on a hugely significant car for VW, the next-generation Golf, and speculate on who will win the latest World Car of the Year award. Show notes:-Cadillac Optiq and Vistiq: https://www.whichcar.com.au/news/cadillac-prices-optiq-vistiq-evs-imminent-australian-arrival -Next generation VW Golf: https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/electric-cars/next-volkswagen-golf-previewed-first-time-World COTY: https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/world-car-of-the-year-top-three-finalists-announced
38: Mercedes and Lamborghini backtrack from BEVs, MG gets squeezed in the 'middle ground' of the market
In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we continue discussing the ongoing trend by carmakers to backtrack on EVs - this time, with some upcoming models from Mercedes and Lamborghini. Finally, we discuss MG. MG was the hottest Chinese brand in 2023, but sales have fallen over the last two years despite a push to move upmarket and lots of new metal. What's happening?Show notes:- Lamborghini Lanzador: https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/lamborghini-ditches-its-first-ev-for-new-plug-in-hybrid-gt- Mercedes-Benz 'Little G': https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/electric-cars/2027-mercedes-benz-little-g-offer-choice-hybrid-or-ev- MG: https://www.goauto.com.au/news/market-insight/market-insight-2025/market-insight-the-rise-and-fall-of-mg-motor/2025-12-15/98131.html
37: Honda's EV strategy refresh, Audi RS 5 and will Avatr heat up the market?
In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss Honda's decision to backtrack from some of its more ambitious EV goals. Is this a smart realignment, or another episode in what has been a worryingly scattershot approach to BEVs ?We also cover the (finally) good looking Audi RS 5, and speculate on whether yet another new Chinese brand, Avatr, heralds a new dawn in the luxury EV space in Australia. Show notes:-Honda's revised EV strategy: https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/honda-revises-ev-strategy-after-posting-fourth-straight-quarterly-loss-Audi RS 5: https://www.drive.com.au/news/2026-audi-rs5-to-punch-out-470kw-825nm-thanks-to-plug-in-hybrid-powertrain/-Avatr 12: https://www.drive.com.au/reviews/2026-avatr-12-review-international-quick-drive/
36: Ferrari's Apple Car, flush doors are out and Mazda's CX-5 cost-cutting
In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss the interior reveal of the Ferrari Luce, the storied Italian brand's first EV, and first collaboration with former Apple designer Jony Ive. We also discuss news that ANCAP, Australia's unofficial vehicle safety agency, will be advocating against flush door handles. Finally, we discuss more disappointing news about the Mazda CX-5, notably that a cost-cutting drive has led to a drop in interior quality.Show notes:- Ferrari Luce: https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/ferrari-luce-debut-evs-name-and-iphone-style-interior-revealed- Jony Ive's thoughts on interior design: https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/touchscreens-wrong-technology-main-car-controls-says-iphone-designer- ANCAP calls for flush door handle ban: https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/ancap-calls-for-australian-ban-on-door-handles-used-by-tesla-byd-and-others - Mazda CX-5 cost cutting: https://www.drive.com.au/news/2026-mazda-cx-5-buyers-wont-notice-cost-cutting-measures-executive/
35: Genesis starts anew, Stellantis loses lots of money, and Jaguar stays EV only
In this week's episode of the Hook Turn podcast, we discuss Genesis making a bold decision to develop a bespoke new platform just for itself, that covers the full gamut of electric, hybrid and range-extender powertrain options. We also discuss Stellantis continuing its chaotic track record with yet another multi-billion dollar strategic error, as the European giant backtracks from going all-in on EVs. Finally, we contrast this with Jaguar, which remains committed to an electric-only future as it aims to create its own niche between the premium Germans and ultra-luxury marques such as Bentley. Show notes:Genesis bespoke architecture: https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/genesis-eyes-premium-dynamics-bespoke-platform-evs-hybridsStellantis loses money: https://www.whichcar.com.au/news/stellantis-writes-down-billions-resets-ev-strategy-jeep-chrysler-ram Jaguar Type 00: https://www.topgear.com/car-reviews/jaguar/type-00-prototype/first-drive
34: Tesla ditches "S3XY", even more screens for Mercedes, and proper luxury cars under $50k
When Elon rolled out his master plan for Tesla, he infamously revealed that his model naming strategy was to have a lineup of vehicles that spelt 'SEXY.' To paraphrase a famous song from Justin Timberlake, in this week's episode of the Hook Turn podcast, we discuss Musk's failure to bring S3XY back by ditching the S and X. We also discuss Mercedes continuing to infest as many screens as humanly possible in its latest S-Class, and talk about our picks for proper luxury cars under $50k with another iteration of the Carsales challenge.Show notes:- Tesla stops Model S and Model X production: https://www.cnbc.com/2026/01/28/tesla-ending-model-s-x-production.html - New Mercedes-Benz S-Class: https://www.whichcar.com.au/news/mercedes-benz-unveils-updated-s-class-new-tech-revised-v8
33: Australia Day special, Volvo's class-leading EX60 and the ultimate Bugatti Veyron
In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, Sanbib comes up with an extremely dull choice for his favourite Aussie-made car. We also discuss Volvo's attempt to banish range anxiety with the all-new EX60, as well as Bugatti unveiling the ultimate Veyron as a one-off for a very special customer.Show notes:-Volvo EX60: https://www.drive.com.au/news/2026-volvo-ex60-electric-suv-with-810km-range-due-in-australia-from-this-year/ -Bugatti F.K.P. Hommage: https://www.drive.com.au/news/bugatti-veyron-revived-with-one-off-fkp-hommage-tribute/-Toyota Aurion TRD: https://redriven.com/reviews/toyota/aurion/used-toyota-aurion-trd-review/-Holden Monaro: https://www.tradeuniquecars.com.au/holden-monaro-cv8-z-review/
32: Waymo leads the way, BMW's mighty new M and Kia gets weird
In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss Australian pricing and specs for Kia's oddball EV4. Can it successfully take on the Tesla Model 3 and BYD Seal? We also look at autonomous driving specialist Waymo making a local entrance, and cover BMW's latest drip-feed of info about its mighty new electric M3.Show notes- Kia EV4 pricing & specs: https://www.drive.com.au/news/2026-kia-ev4-price-and-specs-tesla-model-3-byd-seal-rival-arrives-in-australia/- Waymo enters Australia: https://thesizzle.com.au/p/waymo-australia-self-driving-cars-trial-2026 - BMW's electric M3: https://www.bmwblog.com/2026/01/13/2027-bmw-m3-electric-four-motors/
31: 2025 sales, and two new electric SUV twins from Hyundai and Mazda
In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss some of the winners and losers in our recap of Australian new car sales in 2025. We also talk about two new Chinese electric SUVs from non-Chinese brands, namely the Hyundai Elexio and the Mazda CX-6e.Show notes:-2025 Australian new car sales: https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/big-auto-brands-are-losing-share-as-australias-new-car-market-fragments-Hyundai Elexio: https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/2026-hyundai-elexio-price-and-specs-aussie-tuned-chinese-ev-slots-in-under-ioniq-5-Mazda CX-6e: https://www.carthrottle.com/news/mazda-cx-6e-specs-details-and-features
30: Tesla declines again, buying a cop car and new cars under $25k
Happy New Year everyone! In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss Tesla once again having an annual decline in sales. We also chat about what to look out for if you want to buy an ex-police car (very good value for money!) and our pick of brand new cars under $25,000.Show notes:- Tesla sales decline: https://arstechnica.com/cars/2026/01/tesla-sales-fell-by-9-percent-in-2025-its-second-yearly-decline/ - Redbook: Brand new cars under $25k: https://www.redbook.com.au/cars/results/?q=(And.Price.range(..25000)._.CurrentRelease.True.)&sort=MakeModel
29: Kia's Tasman stalls, Suzuki's new deathtrap and end of year review
In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss Kia's new Tasman ute failing to meet its lofty sales expectations. We also chat about what the atrocious 1 star ANCAP safety rating means for the future of the Suzuki Fronx in Australia. Finally, we wrap up the year by discussing the cars that impressed us the most.Show notes:- Kia Tasman sales: https://www.drive.com.au/news/kia-walks-back-ambitious-tasman-sales-goal-for-2026-which-helped-it-get-into-showrooms/ - Suzuki Fronx safety: https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/official-safety-recall-for-suzuki-fronx-after-seatbelt-failure-sparks-urgent-investigation
28: EU dumps ICE ban, plug-in hybrid for under $35k and a hot hatch challenge
In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss why the EU has broken its commitment to ban tailpipe emissions from new vehicles entirely by 2035, and what this could mean for consumers. We also talk about BYD bringing some (very) cheap dreams to market with the new Sealion 5, Australia's cheapest new PHEV. Finally, we undertake another iteration of the Carsales challenge - this time, hot hatches under $20k.Show notes:- EU drops 100% tailpipe emissions reduction target: https://www.spglobal.com/automotive-insights/en/blogs/2025/12/europe-shifts-into-reverse-on-eu-2035-ice-ban - BYD Sealion 5: https://www.drive.com.au/news/2026-byd-sealion-5-price-and-specs-australias-cheapest-plug-in-hybrid-due-early-next-year/