Unnamed Automotive Podcast

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 98 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 42 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 39 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 53 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 57 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 45 annotations

Episode 433: 2026 Toyota BZ, 2026 BMW M340i Jahre

First Benjamin shares his personal Pathfinder experience in the freezing cold Canadian winter while troubleshooting its windshield wiper woes. Then Sami jumps into action to review the new 2026 Toyota bZ. Not to be confused by the outgoing bZ4X or all-new and completely different bZ Woodland, the bZ gets tons of upgrades from the old Toyota EV. Still, Sami struggles to see the silver lining for such a late entry to the mainstream EV segment. Then Benjamin has a quick review of the 2026 BMW M340 xDrive 50 Jahre Edition, a special edition of the podcast favorite 3 Series. With fancy equipment and a great powertrain, Benjamin has mostly positive things to say about the new 3, except for its choice of winter rubber. Finally, the guys discuss some wild news from Stellantis regarding its PHEV vehicles, which gets them thinking about invisible vehicles (or the ones that have wandered off to "the island of misfit cars") Thanks for listening!

Jan 11, 2026 63 min 62 annotations

Episode 432: 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid, 2026 Toyota Camry XLE AWD

It is the first podcast of 2026 and we're so thankful to be starting the year right with our loyal listeners. Thanks so much for making 2025 (and every year!) so great. Todays episode starts with a discussion of the 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid, and the Japanese automaker's overall powertrain strategy. Listen as the guys talk natural gas, hydrogen, PHEV and more and where the CR-V sits among all those choices. Where will Honda go next? Maybe synthetic fuel like Porsche, or Soylent Green? Then Benjamin chimes in with his winter-weather review of the 2026 Toyota Camry. Available with all-wheel-drive and a hybrid powertrain, the Camry is a mainstay of Toyotas lineup, but has it recieved less attention from the automaker with each passing generation? Finally the show ends with a quick discussion of our hosts favourite and least favourite cars they've driven this year. Thanks for listening and have a great start to your year!

Jan 04, 2026 45 min 45 annotations

Episode 431: 2025 Jeep Wagoneer S, 2026 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid

First the show starts off with Benjamin's review of the 2025 Jeep Cherokee S, an electric crossover that's arrived a bit late, but with lots of power. Hear Benjamin's thoughts on Jeep's first electric car in North America and what's going right and wrong with this new EV. Then Sami reviews the 2026 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid, which isn't a huge change from the previous year, but packs an interesting Baby Mode, which catches the guys attention for a whole segment of the podcast. Thanks for listening everyone!

Dec 21, 2025 52 min 31 annotations

Episode 430: 2026 Chrysler Pacifica, 2026 Honda Odyssey

The show starts off with Sami's review of the 2026 Chrysler Pacifica AWD, which boasts a peachy engine and cool seats that can hide away for more storage as needed, but Sami points out there are more than a few concerns with the American company's minivan, and it may be starting to feel a bit old these days. Then Benjamin reviews the 2026 Honda Odyssey, which he pilots through a pair of hefty snowstorms. Though it lacks the all-wheel-drive and versatile seats of the Pacifica, he has more than few reasons to recommend this mighty minivan. Finally, Benjamin regales us with a tale of a near-death experience that he almost forgot about until reminded by Sami and a Facebook memory. Thanks for listening!!

Dec 14, 2025 55 min 33 annotations

Episode 429: 2025 Ford F-150 Powerboost Hybrid

The Unnamed Automotive Podcast powers through some troublesome false starts this week to tackle a tough topic: the 2025 Ford F-150 With the PowerBoost Hybrid powertrain. Featuring more power than the Ford Raptor (but not the R) this is a truck with plenty of giddy-up, and some extra features that are worth getting excited about. Benjamin details everything he's gone through with this truck including using its external generator feature, its hands-free driving assistance, and its punchy engine. Plus the guys get goofy talking about tailgates. Thanks for listening!

Dec 07, 2025 40 min 38 annotations

Episode 428: 2026 Nissan Kicks

This week on the Unnamed Automotive Podcast: OOPS ALL KICKS! The show this week centers around the entry-level 2026 Nissan Kicks. This is the first appearance of the second generation Kicks on the show, which is important considering how much our hosts like the previous models. Now the Kicks is available with lots of equipment, a bigger engine, and available all-wheel-drive. However, this bumps up the price of the Kicks to a new level, which is an important factor to consider when discussing the Nissan crossover. Hear the whole discussion and don't forget to head over to our website to send us your feedback and comments. Thanks for listening!

Nov 30, 2025 49 min 42 annotations

Episode 427: 2026 Hyundai Kona, 2026 Lexus NX 350h F Sport

This week the Unnamed Automotive Podcast reviews a pair of crossovers, starting with Sami's take on the 2026 Hyundai Kona. This isn't the oft-discussed EV, but a gas-powered version of the subcompact, which has Sami buzzing about its size and features. Is this among the best in its class? Then Benjamin reviews an F-Sport version of the 2026 Lexus NX350h. Fitted with a hybrid powertrain and more aggressive styling, this Lexus also boasts a gorgeous interior and plenty of technology, but do some of those features get in the way of recommending this vehicle? Thanks for listening!

Nov 23, 2025 45 min 42 annotations