Unnamed Automotive Podcast

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

Episode 426: 2026 Genesis Electrified GV70, Japan Mobility Show, Listener Questions

It's yet another EV this week, with Benjamin's review of the 2026 Genesis Electrified GV70. More than just a quirky name, this electric crossover boasts a fancy interior and an impressive drive, but not everything is rosy with this new electric vehicle as it transitions to a new charging standard. Hear all of Benjamin's concerns and Sami's rebuttals in this segment. Then Sami decides to give you all a quick refresher of the coolest stuff seen at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show, all revolving around some cool Lexus concepts. Vans? Wheelchairs? Sports Cars? YUP! Finally the show tackles some all-wheel-drive and safety questions sent to us from our listeners.

Nov 16, 2025 47 min 44 annotations

Episode 425: 2025 Lucid Air, 2025 Acura ADX

The show starts with the 2025 Lucid Air Sedans, which Benjamin thoroughly reviews. This EV sedan from a well-funded startup, promises lots of performance and range, but Benjamin has some thoughts to share about all that. And he wonders, why do we have to keep changing the way we turn cars on and off? Then Sami takes on the 2025 Acura ADX, a much needed subcompact crossover in the Japanese automakers lineup. Based around the Integra, Civic and (ugh) HR-V, the ADX features a punchy 1.5-turbo which may be able to help us gloss over the car's CVT. Sami has plenty of positives and negatives to discuss with the ADX, so be sure to listen to the whole segment to learn everything you need to know about this new crossover.

Nov 09, 2025 50 min 35 annotations

Episode 424: 2025 Chevrolet Blazer SS, 2025 Range Rover Sport SV Edition Two, Listener Questions

What has over 600 horsepower, and can sprint from 0-60 MPH in under 4 seconds? BOTH of the cars the Unnamed Automotive Podcast are reviewing! This weeks show starts with Benjamin's take of the 2025 Chevrolet Blazer SS EV, which is super heavy, features a huge battery, and a weird WOW feature to blast off to high speeds. But what else does it deliver for car enthusiasts? And why does it kind of look like an Equinox EV? Then Sami drives the 2025 Range Rover Sport SV Edition Two, another high-horsepower machine, but this time focused on track capabilities, with some of the biggest brakes found on the market, carbon fibre wheels, and 626 horsepower. Plus some weird gimmicky vibrating seats with tons of PR drivel around them. Finally our hosts answer a car-buying question from a listener who is concerned about towing and hauling, which lets Benjamin get his calculator out for the ultimate advice section. Thanks for listening!

Nov 02, 2025 59 min 46 annotations

Episode 423: 2025 Jeep Avenger, 2025 Subaru WRX tS, Jaguar Land Rover Hack

This weeks episode starts off with Sami's description and review of a strange little Jeep that he drove out in Europe: the Avenger EV. Limited with a small battery and front-wheel-drive, how does this compact car translate the Jeep design language to a new market? And what can we expect in North America, with the Avenger's design team penning the new Compass? Sami explains his thoughts, though you have to hang on to understand them all. Then Benjamin reviews the 2025 Subaru WRX tS, and can't stop bringing up his memories of the STI brand. While all kinds of sport compact newcomers keep popping up in the world the old WRX STI used to dominate, Subaru instead holds back, delivering a few upgrades for a lot of money. Why is Subaru limiting itself? Finally, our hosts tackle the complex issue of JLR's cybersecurity hack, which has cost the company about $2B in damages and lost sales. Yikes! Why isn't anyone else talking about this? Thanks for listening!

Oct 26, 2025 42 min 39 annotations

Episode 422: Guest Host Chad Kirchner, 2025 Nissan Versa S, Chevrolet Bolt is BACK

When Sami's away, only guest host Chad Kirchner has the gravitas to step into his shoes and keep the podcast vibes flowing. Chad and Benjamin talk about Benjamin's time in the 2025 Nissan Versa S, by far the most affordable new car on the market, and what you give up when shopping for a brand new vehicle at used vehicle prices. Then Chad spills the beans on the return of the Chevrolet Bolt, a longtime favorite of the podcast, and a car which seems likely to stick to its roots as a cheap EV.

Oct 12, 2025 55 min 46 annotations

Episode 421: 2025 Toyota 4Runner Trailhunter, 2026 Audi Q3, Benjamin Bought A New Car

Whats that you hear? Is it the sound of trails being hunted? Or roads being lit? No, you're right, its another episode of the Unnamed Automotive Podcast being beamed right to your devices! This weeks show starts off with our first review of the 2025 Toyota 4Runner TrailHunter, which Benjamin is towing with around town. Why is there yet another off-road oriented version of this off-road-oriented SUV? How does it differ from TRD-branded models? What's with the pricing? Benjamin breaks it down for you. Then Sami flies of the country to test out the 2026 Audi Q3 in Scotland. Armed with a new design, new infotainment system, new gear selector and new headlights, Sami is eager to talk about what makes this compact crossover so special, and what his reservations are about this whole class of small luxury vehicles. Finally, Benjamin finally reveals the latest addition to his garage. Thanks for listening!

Oct 05, 2025 73 min 49 annotations

Episode 420: 2025 Audi SQ6 E-Tron, 2026 Honda Passport Trailsport, Listener Questions

The show starts with Benjamin's review of the 2025 Audi SQ6 e-tron, a performance minded electric crossover which seems to nail so many thing, but falls short of its rivals in one key area; can you guess where? Benjamin's review of the EV expands to a wider discussion of its rivals that you don't want to miss. Then Sami shares his thoughts on the 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport, a rugged looking SUV with the same bones as the Pilot, but with fewer seats. While it looks tough and offers a few handy features that are useful off-road, Sami claims this isn't a true all-terrain SUV comparable to the likes of the Wrangler, 4Runner, Bronco and others. Then the guys wonder what's in the water at all the automaker HQs that make them so off-road-trim happy. The show finishes up by tackling a tough, Miata-minded question from a listener. Thanks for listening!

Sep 28, 2025 51 min 29 annotations

Episode 419: 2025 BMW M2, 2025 Honda CR-V TrailSport

This week the Unnamed Automotive Podcast is so revved up it's putting Benjamin to sleep! Even while Benjamin does tons of PR for his upcoming book (www.modeluncomic.com) he has time to review a car for us. He jumps into the pilots seat of the 2025 BMW M2, which has been totally redesigned on a new platform and feels very close to its M3/M4 cousins. While boasting plenty of power, and a manual gearbox, Benjamin wonders if there's something missing in the M2's typically exciting sauce. Then Sami climbs into the 2026 Honda CR-V TrailSport Hybrid, and comes away unimpressed. Yet another off-roading cosplaying trim arrives on the street with minimal real upgrades to capability and it sends out hosts into disassociation mode. What does Honda think its doing? Listen to find out!

Sep 14, 2025 41 min 15 annotations

Episode 418: 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander, 2026 Volvo XC90 PHEV, Nissan Pathfinder Cow Adventure

If you're after the latest reviews of some three-row crossovers of varying sizes, then you're listening to the right podcast! The Unnamed Automotive Podcast starts off with Benjamin's review of the 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander, loaded with three rows and a gas-powered motor, the Outlander begins to boil Sami's blood due to its lack of competitiveness in a field full of excellent options. Benjamin has more than a few nice things to say about the Outlander, but none of them are about the barely-useable third row. Then Sami chimes in about his plug-in experience with the 2025.5 Volvo XC90. Loaded with 455 ponies and 30-ish miles of range, the XC90 is sure to be a hit. But then Sami's attention turns to the Swedish automakers attempts at designing an infotainment system, and things fall apart a bit. While not as bad as the EX90, the XC90 has a few glitches of its own that make it hard to recommend. Then it's time for a classic Nissan Pathfinder cow adventure. Thanks for listening!

Sep 07, 2025 55 min 24 annotations

Episode 417: 2026 BMW iX xDrive60 Road Trip, Pebble Beach News Roundup

Our hosts have plenty of energy and stuff to talk about following Benjamin's road-trip vacation. After Benjamin's discussion of hot dog prices and charitable clowns, this weeks show starts off with a review of the 2026 BMW iX xDrive60. With over 350 miles of range on tap, this EV should have been the perfect chariot for a road trip, but Benjamin did have a few issues along his trip. Additionally, the guys go into a deep discussion about carbon fiber, clamshell hoods, and other premium EVs. Then Sami goes nuts over news following this year's Monterey Car Week and Pebble Beach Concours. From Lexus to Infiniti to Nissan and BMW, there's all kinds of fun news to pour over, and laugh about. Thanks for listening!

Aug 31, 2025 64 min 42 annotations

Episode 416: 2026 Cadillac Vistiq, 2025 Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid

Benjamin fires up the show with his take on the 2026 Cadillac Vistiq, an electric three-row crossover that seems to be replacing Caddy;s own XT6. With 102 kWh of battery on tap, and over 600 hp, this is a big player in the world of EVs, but what else makes it stand out? While the world of three-row EVs is relatively slim, Benjamin suggests that the Vistiq might have a chance to be the best in its class, if only GM could sort out some small teething issues first. Then the show turns towards plug-in hybrids, as Benjamin and Sami quickly discuss the 2025 Toyota Prius PHEV. Formerly crowned as car of the year, the guys pinpoint what makes this Prius special compared to previous ones, and whether this plug-in variant is one of the best commuter cars on the market. Thanks for listening!

Aug 17, 2025 47 min 21 annotations

Episode 415: 2025 Hyundai Kona Electric, 2026 Honda HR-V

This week, the Unnamed Automotive Podcast jams out with some subcompact crossovers. The show starts with Sami's review of the 2025 Hyundai Kona Electric, a perfectly fine EV that is a bit overshadowed by its market. With the competition offering better value, Sami and Benjamin argue that a used Hyundai Kona Electric is the smart choice for EV shoppers on a tight budget. Then the guys turn their focus to the 2026 Honda HR-V. Using Sami's previous experience as background information on his tester, Benjamin starts off thinking the Honda subcompact is pretty solid, but after spending more time with it, he wonders if there's a worse choice in the segment. Thanks for listening!

Aug 10, 2025 43 min

Episode 414: 2025 Cadillac Optiq, Listener Questions

Our hosts at the Unnamed Automotive Podcast are perfectly synchronized (unlike the 3rd gear in Sami's car) which means they can come to this weeks show to talk about their vastly different experiences in the same car. Up for review is the 2025 Cadillac Optiq, which both Benjamin and Sami had the pleasure of testing out, and both of them have plenty to say about. Sami seems charmed by its more mainstream roots, while Benjamin thinks the Optiq is the embodiment of GM's recent push for EVs. With plenty of range and space, there's a lot to like about the Optiq, but there are a few oddities too, including its class-exclusive hands-free driving mode too, which wasn't working so smoothly with one of our hosts. Then the guys talk about T-Tops, upcoming EVs and track cars, all questions asked by our fantastic listeners. Don't hesitate to head on over to the site to send us more questions, or connect with us on social media. Thanks for listening!

Jul 30, 2025 55 min

Episode 413: 2025 Porsche 911 Carrera T, 2025 Kia EV6

The Unnamed Automotive Podcast gets their hand on an iconic sports car and a sleek new EV this week. The show starts off with Sami's review of the 2025 Porsche 911 Carrera T, the only 911 with a manual transmission. That MT comes with a bunch of bits and bobs too, but there are 14 other 911 trims to choose from, with more power, more tech and more speed... what makes this one feel so good? Then Benjamin tackles a listener question about wagons by reviewing the 2025 Kia EV6, a long-roofed electric car, that may fit the bill as a wagon. However, this year, Kia made a huge change to the charging port of its mainstream EV, and it may ruffle a few feathers. Thanks for listening!

Jul 27, 2025 49 min

Episode 412: Benjamin Bought A New Car, 2025 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD Towing Test

This week, the Unnamed Automotive Podcast discusses Benjamin's newest addition to his garage; a second-generation Nissan Pathfinder! Find out what led him to this Japanese SUV, and what makes it so interesting (hint, it has something to do with its transmission!) Then Benjamin shares how his latest trip to Canadian Tire Motorsports Park went as he towed his way to the track in a Silverado HD 2500. Hear answers to questions like "did it have adaptive cruise control?" and "how much worse was the fuel consumption while towing?" and "do you need all that truck to tow a car?" Thanks for listening!

Jul 20, 2025 47 min

Episode 411: 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ, 2025 Cadillac Escalade Gas, Cars From Jordan

Following our summer spin-off episodes, the show returns to its normal off the wall self, as our hosts catch up on what's been going on. First up, Benjamin shares his thoughts on the large and technically impressive 2025 Cadillac Escalade IQ. His review covers both the good and the bad of this gargantuan EV. He also comments on Cadillac's approach of stuffing its large SUV with everything possible, and whether its a sensible, sustainable model of EV development. Benjamin then shares how the Cadillac IQ compares to the gas powered model, which is now only available with a thirsty V8, rather that the loveable diesel. While these two share a name, they seem wildly different, but a few important factors keep them so appealing. Thanks for listening!

Jul 13, 2025 51 min

Summer Bonus 2025 - Remembering Some Cars - Hans Zimmer

As part of our fun, special summer episodes, the Unnamed Automotive Podcast plays a game of "Remembering Some Cars." Take a trip down short-term memory lane, and see what Benjamin remembers from cars he reviewed a short time ago. Does he know the names of the trims he tested? How much power those cars had? Whether he even liked them or not? Any funny experiences he had while testing those cars? Hear it all on today's show. Thanks for listening!

Jul 06, 2025 29 min

Summer Bonus 2025 - Extinct Car Features

The Unnamed Automotive Podcast takes a look at some of the popular trends, and what happened to them. Dive deep into the world of T-tops, wood panelling, gesture controls, and more! And don't forget to tell us what you favorite dead trend is by heading over to our website or reaching out on social media.

Jun 29, 2025 34 min