Unnamed Automotive Podcast

Episode 458: 2026 Lotus Eletre, 2026 Ford Bronco Sport

The Unnamed Automotive Podcast gets its first taste of Lotus this week as Benjamin test drives the new Eletre. This large electric SUV might not be the most Lotus thing you could think of, but it represents a new chapter of the automaker, one that has left Benjamin with many thoughts and impressions that he is keen to share. Then Sami reviews the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport, a car he had trouble understanding in the past, but now totally gets, especially in light of all these other fake off-road trims that have come out. With a bunch of upgrades and features, the Bronco Sport stands out, but is a bit expensive. Sami details more Pros and Cons in his full take of this cute-ute. Thanks for listening!

Jul 19, 2026 54 min 163 annotations

Episode 457: 2026 Subaru Trailseeker, 2026 Mazda Miata, Hankook Tire Test Update, Listener Questions

The show starts with Sami's thorough review of the 2026 Subaru Trailseeker, an electric wagon that shares its bones with the Toyota bZ Woodland. Can a Subaru feel like the rest of its family while being so closely related to a Toyota, or does no one actually care if it feels all that different from an Outback or Forester? Then Benjamin pilots the 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata around the rural backroads to find his happy place. A focused machine with no true rivals, Benjamin has plenty to say about the latest Miata, with a mostly positive spin. Finally Benjamin gives us an update on the new Hankook Ventus tires fitted to his Subaru Outback, and responds to some listener feedback. Thanks for listening!

Jul 12, 2026 55 min 123 annotations

Episode 456: Guest Bradley Iger, Czinger 21C Supercar, 2026 Ram 2500 Tow Test, Benjamin Has A Bad Track Day, Bradley Talks Charger Take Two

The Unnamed Automotive Podcast open-door policy is in full effect as we welcome another great guest, journalist Bradley Iger, who jumps in to discuss the unbelievably cool, made-in-America Czinger 21C VMax hypercar. Beyond its amazing looks and incredible design philosophy, Iger talks about what it's like to pilot one of these legitimate racecar for the streets from the centre seat. Then Benjamin chimes in to review the 2026 Ram 2500 Laramie, which was tasked with his own racecar towing duties. How'd the big diesel truck fare when dealing with the long road between Montreal and Toronto? Maybe a better question is, how did Benjamin deal with a track day gone wrong, and how has that changed his outlook on the sport? Finally, our hosts discussed the 2026 Dodge Charger one more time, this time with Bradley's perspective of being a multiple-time owner of the previous generation Dodges. What was the American automaker going for, and what mishaps further explain just how compromised this car really is? Thanks for listening!

Jul 05, 2026 77 min 214 annotations

Episode 455: Guest Chad Kirchner, 2026 Dodge Charger Six Pack Scat Pack, Hankook Ventus S1 Tire Test Update, Slate Pickup, Polestar Leave U.S.

Welcome guest Chad Kirchner on this week's episode which is loaded with all kinds of interesting car discussion. The show starts off with Benjamin's review of the 2026 Dodge Charger Scat Pack, which boasts a 550 horsepower inline six cylinder engine. However, Ben notes some important details about the size of this new muscle-y car, and suggests that it's stuck in a sort of limbo with few actual customers and rivals. Then Chad reports on the newly detailed Slate Auto's EV pickup truck. Now with an official price, and list of features (or features missing), our round table can really begin. How influential will this startup be, when it lacks a paint job, radio, and power windows? Are other automakers checking their rear view mirrors about the Slate truck? Chad shares his thoughts and more! Thanks for listening!

Jun 28, 2026 81 min 134 annotations

Episode 454: 2026 Honda Accord Hybrid, 2026 Kia Sportage PHEV vs. 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, Listener Mail

The Unnamed Automotive Podcast goes full EV this week, starting with Benjamin's review of the 2026 Honda Accord Hybrid. He says it's not dull, or bland, but NORMCORE, whatever that means. Well, let him explain! It seems to do everything it needs to and can maybe even out-do its crossover cousins across the Honda showroom in a few things, like, say fuel economy. It's an interesting review of a sedan when there's so few to choose from in the first place. Then Sami revisits the 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-in Hybrid. Following Benjamin's positive impression of the Japanese crossover, Sami took it upon himself to compare it to the 2026 Kia Sportage PHEV, to find out if the Mitsubishi is actually good, or just good in a vacuum. Lots of surprises here! Then the show ends on a kind note from a listener. Thanks for listening!

Jun 21, 2026 44 min 82 annotations

Episode 453: 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, 2026 Genesis Electrified GV70, A Long Digression About Cell Phone Design

What's this? The 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-in Electric Vehicle has zoomed onto the Unnamed Automotive Podcast for its review? Benjamin has plenty to talk about with this seriously refreshed compact crossover. Loaded with more range, a new interior and that same controversial third row, does this one of a kind PHEV make sense for today's buyers? And what is going on at Mitsubishi these days anyways? Then Sami talks quickly about the 2026 Genesis Electrified GV70, before quickly going on a tangent about weird car features that haven't been perfected and what that means for a mature market like the automotive industry. Thanks for listening everyone!

Jun 14, 2026 49 min 74 annotations

Episode 452: 2026 GMC Canyon AT4, 2026 Kia EV4

When a car is reviewed so well that one of our hosts actually considers buying one, you know its going to be a good podcast discussion. This week starts off with such talk with Benjamin's review of the 2026 GMC Canyon AT4, which was so perfectly suited for his lifestyle that he seriously pulled up the spreadsheets and budgets to see if it could work for him. Hear what makes this truck so good, and maybe one of the best mid-size trucks on the market. Then Sami jumps in with a review of the only-for-Canada (so far) 2026 Kia EV4, something he said was revolting to look at when Benjamin reviewed it last month, but now has much more to talk about after testing it for a week. He dishes his pros and cons with this affordable EV and comes out feeling pretty good about the state of entry-level electric cars. Thanks for listening!

Jun 07, 2026 56 min 133 annotations

Episode 451: 2026 Land Rover Defender Octa, 2026 Buick Encore GX, Hankook Tire Test

The Unnamed Automotive Podcast gets deep into it this week, with a "review" of the impressive and high end 2026 Land Rover Defender Octa, a performance oriented version of the off road SUV. While Jaguar and Range Rover get the SV treatment for their high output models, Defender gets an Octa badge, though it features the same BMW sourced turbo V8 and 6D suspension as the Range Rover Sport SV. Which JLR super SUV camp do you belong to? What makes a six figure SUV special? What differentiates this from a G63 AMG? Then Benjamin checks out the 2026 Buick Encore GX, a subcompact crossover that used to represent the growth of the American premium brand, but now seems a bit dated compared to other Buick vehicles. Benjamin explains it all with careful perspective of where the Encore stands with the impressive Envista sitting next to it. Then the show introduces a new concept: tire testing! Benjamin throws on some new summer rubber on his Daily Driver and can't wait to tell you the results. Thanks for listening!

May 31, 2026 49 min 126 annotations

Episode 450: 2026 Volkswagen Jetta Sport, 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor

Has the Unnamed Automotive Podcast really never reviewed a Volkswagen Jetta? That's situation has been resolved, and Benjamin has a full and thorough test of the German compact car, as Sami asks him tons of questions. What makes the Jetta a worthy pick over other small sedans? And how does it compare to hybrid options out there? Benjamin has plenty answers as we review this sedan for the first time ever. Then Sami checks out the 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor, an off road variant of the three-row crossover that replaces the old Timberline trim. Packed with a 3.0L turbocharged engine, the Ford Explorer has plenty of cool features and equipment, but Sami was really caught off guard by the hands-free driving tech. Thanks for listening!

May 24, 2026 46 min 94 annotations

Episode 449: 2026 Volkswagen Taos, Honda Posts A Loss, Listener Feedback

The Unnamed Automtoive Podcast jumps back into the subcompact sphere and gets to review the 2026 Volkswagen Taos. Benjamin wonders what the correct pronounciation of the crossover is, then gets into the nitty gritty about the pros and cons of this small, but steady SUV. They also talk about what makes for a good subcompact crossover, and what doesn't make the cut. Then Sami brings up some recent harrowing news about Honda, and the weird pricing strategy over at Toyota regarding its three-row crossovers. Thanks for listening!

May 17, 2026 50 min 97 annotations

Episode 448: 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer, 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid

What's the deal with the Jeep Grand Wagoneer? The Unnamed Automotive Podcast thoroughly explores the 2026 model which has a new design, revised lineup, reduced powertrain options and a million screens. Sami's review is all encompassing though he brings up a lot of competitors in the space. Then Benjamin shares his thoughts on the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid. It's the most powerful Crosstrek yet, and is barely the most efficient, but theres more to the story than that. Hear the full review to learn more! Thanks for listening!

May 10, 2026 52 min 113 annotations

Episode 447: 2026 Kia EV4, 2026 Lexus TX

Benjamin's 2026 Kia EV4 review may leave our American listeners confused since it isn't coming the the US market, but the Canadians get to enjoy this weird looking EV and its several positives. It looks good, has pretty good range and an attractive pricetag, so whats the catch? Then Sami reviews the 2026 Lexus TX with seven seats, and he gets to use all seven of those luxury-lined seats. The review leaves Benjamin and Sami wondering what other true three-row luxury crossovers are out there, and which ones can compete at the TX's price point. Thanks for listening!

May 03, 2026 50 min 117 annotations

Episode 446: Monster Trucks, 2026 Toyota BZ

How do you create a toddlers core memory? The Unnamed Automotive Podcast discusses Sami taking his son to see Monster Jam when it crashes and bashes into town. Hear how a child—who believes all trucks are monster trucks—can still enjoy the spectacle of jumbo-sized motorsports. Then Benjamin reviews the significantly redesigned and upgraded 2026 Toyota bZ, and has many things to say about it, both positive and negative! Is the bump in power and range really noticable? What about all of the bZs rivals? Benjamin shares his thoughts and more. Thanks for listening!

Apr 26, 2026 55 min 135 annotations

Episode 445: 2026 Mazda 3 Sedan, 2026 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport Manual

The Unnamed Automotive Podcast arrives this week with a thorough examination of how Benjamin tries to escape the swirling mess of constant bad news by moving some rocks around. Well, actually the show really hits its stride with Benjamin's review of the 2026 Mazda3 sedan. A surprisingly peppy compact with a design that causes some disagreement between our hosts, the Mazda3 has several positives elements as well as a few red flags. For anyone contemplating a compact car purchase in 2026, this review is a must-hear. Then Sami chimes in with his review of the 2026 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport. Armed with a six-speed manual transmission and little else, Sami wonders aloud, whats the big deal with the Taco? He discusses its impressive fuel economy, and its unimpressive stick-shift but comes to a lukewarm conclusion. Finally our hosts tackle a listener question about the Audi five-cylinder turbocharged engine. Thanks for listening!

Apr 19, 2026 61 min 154 annotations

Episode 444: 2026 Chevrolet Trax, Sung Kang Interview

The Unnamed Automotive Podcast is still looking at cars that are affordable and available with this weeks review of the 2026 Chevrolet Trax. One of the top choices for shoppers on a budget, Benjamin has found out that things aren't as cheap as they used to be—but that doesn't mean the Chevy is bad, does it? Maybe it just depends on where you're buying, as prices vary significantly when you cross the border. Also is a 1.2L turbo three-cylinder engine enough for keeping up with traffic? Benjamin has all the details. Then the show goes into some big-screen talk, as Benjamin recently interviewed Sung Kang, one of the stars of The Fast and The Furious franchise, as he prepares his new movie Drifter for release. Sung Kang talked about his first car, cars on set, and more to Benjamin who relays it all to you deal listener. Thanks for listening!

Apr 12, 2026 45 min 31 annotations

Episode 443: 2026 Chevrolet Equinox, 2026 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

The Unnamed Automotive Podcast has a couple of car reviews this week to share, but not before discussing things like wet keyfobs, pond entry/exit, and Canadian Tire clearance sales! The show eventually gets to the point and Benjamin reviews the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox. Not the electric one, but the gas model that faces off against a meaty segment full of favorites like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V and Ford Bronco Sport. Benjamin has a lot to say about Chevy's plucky crossover, and Sami has a few things to add, but is this oft-forgotten rival worth checking out in such a crowded segment? Then Sami shares his review of the 2026 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, one of the few sedans out there, and with its own fair share of pros and cons. How can one reasonably pick this over something like the Camry or Accord? Sami explains where the Sonata sings and where it falls flat. Thanks for listening!

Apr 05, 2026 54 min 28 annotations

Episode 442: 2025 Lexus IS 500, Space Shuttle Tire Testing Robot

When is a V8 powered sports sedan not a sports sedan? Benjamin tries his hardest to answer that question this week on the Unnamed Automotive Podcast, with his review of the 2025 Lexus IS 500. Powered by a sweet, naturally aspirated 5.0L V8 engine, the Lexus IS 500 promises the world and comes up a bit short in several important ways as Benjamin details its speed, power, and inadequacies especially in the harsh cold weather he's been experiencing lately. Then the show lands from orbit to discuss NASA testing its tires, and how they safely depressurize shuttle rubber. The remote-controlled answer will warm your heart! Thanks for listening!

Mar 29, 2026 41 min 31 annotations

Episode 441: 2026 Volkswagen Golf GTI, 2026 Genesis GV70

The Unnamed Automotive Podcast returns this week to discuss the hypothetical friendship survey, weird V8 powered FWD cars, engines that powered motorhomes and they even review a few new cars along the way. The first is a look at the 2026 Volkswagen Golf GTI, which Sami was already dismissive of due to its deletion of the manual transmission. However, some spirited drives helped change Sami's mind a bit. Is it enough to recommend it? Listen to find out! Then Benjamin shares his thoughts on the 2026 Genesis GV70, one of the newer faces among the luxury compact SUV segment, but one that is consistently recommended by our hosts. That's for a reason, as Benjamin explains, and the show further discusses who Genesis may be appealing to with all of its offerings. Thanks for listening!

Mar 22, 2026 51 min 32 annotations

Episode 440: 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line, 2026 Volkswagen Atlas, Honda's Huge EV Loss

Benjamin's takes on the 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line, a car inspired by the sport compacts of yore. The N Line features an upgraded engine and a sportier suspension system, but is it really an enthusiast oriented model, or just an excuse to hike up the price for Hyundai's compact car? Then Sami reviews the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas. After testing so many three-row crossovers lately, Sami turns his attention to the German family-friendly ride, which has been thoroughly refreshed in recent years. However, one glaring red flag spoils Sami's recommendation of the Atlas; can you guess what it is? Finally, the show shares some important and interesting news about Honda's deep-in-development EVs, which are now cancelled. Sami and Benjamin discuss what this means for the EV market in the US and the automotive industry as a whole. Thanks for listening!

Mar 15, 2026 54 min 34 annotations

Episode 439: 2026 Subaru Outback

What makes a Subaru Outback, the "Subaru Outback?" This week, the Unnamed Automotive Podcast crams to understand the brand's iconic vehicle, which has finally transitioned from wagon to SUV with the 2026 model year. Benjamin test drives it through the winter, while Sami shares his memories of his 2010 and experience with his 2020 model to see how they compare. Can the Subaru faithful get over the exterior design and appreciate what the automaker has been able to accomplish with this new generation? Is the powetrain up to snuff? Can it handle the snow? Find out all the answers in this weeks episode! Thanks for listening!

Mar 08, 2026 42 min 41 annotations

Episode 438: 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9, 2026 Acura RDX

The Unnamed Automotive Podcast arrives this week with a double review of the 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9, a three-row EV that has our hosts offering completely different takes. Sami thinks the all-electric Korean crossover is too expensive, while Benjamin thinks it's plenty fancy. Sami feels it rode awfully in the snow, while Benjamin says it was surprisingly responsive. This many opposite takes means plenty of discussion, and we're here for it! Then Benjamin shares his road-trip-road-test of the 2026 Acura RDX, which he says was surprisingly good, though has one fatal flaw. Is it enough to deter him from recommending it? Thanks for listening!

Mar 01, 2026 49 min 38 annotations

Episode 437: 2026 Nissan Leaf, 2026 Ford Expedition Tremor

The show starts with a review of the 2026 Nissan Leaf, which Benjamin tested out in the most wintery of conditions. How did the already limited range keep up with the low temperatures? And what about its handling of the snowy roads? Benjamin shares his experiences and more in this somewhat affordable EV. Then Sami tests out one of the bigger SUVs out there, the 2025 Ford Expedition Tremor. Able to haul 8 passengers and deal with off roading, this big truck-based family hauler has some cool new tech to discuss, and some worth nitpicking. Finally the show ends on a discussion about Mazdas new approach to their cars, namely cost cutting. Are they the only ones? Thanks for listening!

Feb 15, 2026 57 min 52 annotations

Episode 436: 2026 GMC Terrain Denali, 2026 Volvo XC60

Benjamin reviews the 2026 GMC Terrain Denali, a model we haven't even thought about since 2021! It's got good looks, plenty of equipment and a decent price... but why is Sami so annoyed by it? Maybe it has something to do with his ancient phone... Then Sami reviews the 2026 Volvo XC60, a car the guys haven't reviewed since 2022! It has a mild hybrid system, a punchy turbo-four and decent looks, so Sami and Benjamin get to the bottom of why this car has been overshadowed by other choices in the segment. That's it for this week, thanks for listening!

Feb 08, 2026 39 min 46 annotations

Episode 435: Guest Adi Desai of DoubleClutch, 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid, 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro

The Unnamed Automotive Podcast welcomes a fun guest and friend to this weeks episode, DoubleClutch.ca founder Adi Desai, who is here to talk about his eclectic collection of cars and fun stories about finding them. Is an unreliable, expensive to repair car still good if it's a fun, unique driving experience? Are your favorite video-game cover cars as good as you remember them when you transfer them from the digital world to the real one? Then Benjamin and Sami review the 2026 Hyundai Palisade, which has recieved a significant redesign this year with a new off-road trim and hybrid powertrain that injects new life into the three-row SUV. Finally we try to answer a reader question about Hemi V8s and the future of the Dodge Charger. Thanks for listening!

Feb 01, 2026 73 min 56 annotations

Episode 434: 2026 Toyota Sienna, The Hornet is Dead, The Bolt Is Almost Dead, Chinese EVs, Listener Questions

This weeks show starts with Sami's review of the 2026 Toyota Sienna minivan, which is apparently inspired by Japan's iconic bullet trains. Although our hosts struggle to see the direct connection, their discussion of the minivan covers all kinds of topics, ranging from the importance of max cargo room in a van, to whether shared media experiences are still valuable during a roadtrip. Then the guys talk about a few important news topics that came up, including the death of the Dodge Hornet, the arrival and cancellation of the new Chevy Bolt, and the arrival of new Chinese EVs on Canadian roads. Finally the show wraps up with an important reader question. We hope you enjoyed listening this episode as much as we loved recording it!

Jan 25, 2026 50 min 44 annotations