Unnamed Automotive Podcast
Unnamed Automotive Podcast
Updated 6 days agoEvery week automotive journalists Benjamin and Sami review cars and get weird, and funny, and honest, about the automotive industry.
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Episodes (470)
Episode 404: 2025 Honda Odyssey Black Edition, 2025 Cadillac CT5, Slate EV Pickup
Why isn't a minivan considered a "long roof"? Why don't we name all cars based on their roofs? What's the right plural of roof? These questions and more are answered this week on the Unnamed Automotive Podcast! The show starts off with a review of the 2025 Honda Odyssey minivan, as Sami wonders why this Japanese van lacks the fun features many of its rivals have (and explains where the HondaVac went to.) But he comes across loving its single-minded approach to family transportation. What's holding the Odyssey, and other minivans, from getting widepsread appreciation? The guys give you the definitive answer. Then Benjamn shares his thoughts on the 2025 Cadillac CT5 - the entry-level model to boot! A tweener sedan with a high-tech cabin, the CT5 is likely missing on many buyers short-lists, but Ben says it may have earned a spot among those checking out smaller and less featured European options. Finally, our guys talk about the new Slate EV, a bare-bones $25,000 EV pickup a ton of customizability. Is this what people want? Let us know through our contact form or reach out to us on social media! See Sami's Review of the 2025 Honda Odyssey at AutoTrader.ca (https://www.autotrader.ca/editorial/20250526/2025-honda-odyssey-review)
Episode 403: 2025 Aston Martin DBX 707, 2025 Acura MDX A-Spec
First the show starts off with a review of the 2025 Aston Martin DBX 707, a ultra-high-performance exotic from one of the top British automakers. Faced with all kinds of inclement weather during his testing, Benjamin has a thorough take on this hyper SUV, and comes to a decisive conclusion about it, especially in comparison to some other high-hp SUVs out there. Then Sami offers several impressions of the 2025 Acura MDX A-Spec, which gets a mild exterior refresh and some important interior changes too. While the vehicle feels responsive with a well-tuned powertrain and ride, Sami says it fails to make an impact in a very competitive segment. The guys also jump through a few thoughts about in-car audio systems, and if 31 speakers is too many or just enough. Thanks for listening!
Episode 402: 2025 Mini Countryman SE ALL4 EV, 2025 Honda HR-V, Listener Question
The show starts off with Benjamin's review of the 2025 Mini Cooper Countryman SE All4, an all wheel drive, electric 'ute that manages to stay small, affordable and impressive to drive. What's the downside? Try the weird user interface and get back to us; or don't and listen to Benjamins gripes of the infotainment system, and his overall take on this Mini EV. Then Sami tries his hardest to not talk about the 2025 Honda HR-V, by first discussing the history of the Fit subcompact, and the era of Honda when it wasn't afraid of doing things it's own way. The new HR-V is lacking any personality, while being worse than many of its rivals in key specs like fuel economy and pricing. Sami asks what's the point? The guys finish up by discussing lease-friendly EVs to answer a listener question.
Episode 401: 2025 Acura RDX, 2024 Ford Ranger XLT
The Unnamed Automotive Podcast breaks into the big 4-0-0, but this week's episode lacks much fanfare or frills. After a brief discussion about the 399+ episodes that came before today, the guys dive right into talking about the new cars they've been testing. Sami delivers his verdict of the 2025 Acura RDX, a luxury SUV that goes against some very impressive rivals and has a few things to rave about, but a few more things that question the brand's commitment to the segment. Then Benjamin talks about a new powertrain option found in the Ford Ranger, one that may be faster than other, more performance oriented trucks. While the Ranger is smaller than an F-Series, it has a few important benefits, and Benjamin runs you through them all. Thanks everyone for listening to 400 (and more) episodes. We can't wait to deliver even more in the coming months and years!
Episode 400: Ford Mustang Mach-E GT, 2025 Genesis G80 3.5T Sport Prestige, Listener Question, Dog and Cat Shows
First up, Sami has a Ford Mustang Mach-E to talk about, but gasp! Its from last year? It still features a cool new upgrade that adds extra power, prompting our hosts to talk about these downloadable mods. What would they reasonably add to a car via a download button? Butterflies, weird algorithms and maybe some growing and fading vines are all on the table for Sami and Benjamin. Then Benjamin continues his fancy-pants parade of luxury cars as he reviews the 2025 Genesis G80. Refreshed for this year with a new look inside and out, Benjamin wonders if the Korean luxury brand still has the 'it' factor that made it so appealing when it first debuted. Benjamin explains what's happening with the G80 with all this context (and more.) Thanks for listening!
Episode 399: 2025 BMW 550e xDrive, Strange Automotive Merch, Listener Questions
The Unnamed Automotive Podcast tackles a plug-in hybrid luxury sedan sporting a similar name to an old V8 powered favorite. Benjamin has put the 2025 BMW 550e through its paces to see what the German automaker has done with electrifying its new-generation 5 Series. The result is nothing short of impressive, as the 550e seems to deliver on efficiency, performance and technology. But is it fun to drive? Then Sami brings up a listener question about reliability of established automakers, before finishing this weeks show with a discussion on automotive merch and bonuses. Thanks for listening!
Episode 398: 2025 Toyota Crown, 2025 Honda Pilot TrailSport, Fisker Ocean Rivian Connection
The Unnamed Automotive Podcast gets some second opinions this week. Today's show starts with Sami's review of the 2025 Toyota Crown, a car than Benjamin drove a few years ago. However, Sami's experience with the Crown has been changed by recent tests of the Camry and Accord, both of which were spacious, well equipped, efficient and responsive. Does the more expensive Crown have anything to offer that they don't? Then Benjamin finally gets his chance to drive the 2025 Honda Pilot TrailSport. A three-row crossover with some off-roading capabilities, the Pilot feels like it should be more interesting to drive and live with than other three-rows like the Highlander, Telluride and Palisade, but Benjamin points out that there are a few things that stop it from being a standout. Finally, the show closes up on checkup on Fisker, and an interesting law that means that Chase is sending Fisker Ocean buyers to Rivian dealerships. Thanks for listening!
Episode 397: 2025 Volvo EX30, 2025 Ram 1500 Rebel
Todays episode starts with a review of the 2025 Volvo EX30 that struggles to get a recommendation from both Benjamin and Sami. Benjamin explains the many reasons for his lack of endorsement with this small and affordable EV, but they all seem to revolve around its underbaked software. Then Sami reviews the 2025 Ram 1500 Rebel, which gets a whole new engine... and a new check engine light. Fortunately the warning light didn't stop the review, where Sami discusses the many pros and cons of this off-road oriented truck, but comes across struggling to put the Ram in a positive light, especially compared to better rivals. Thanks for listening!
Episode 396: 2025 Subaru Forester Limited, 2025 Lincoln Aviator
The show starts with Benjamin's take on the 2025 Subaru Forester, a car we haven't talked about for nearly three years! With a new generation and new lineup, Benjamin goes down memory lane to talk about what the Forester represented, and uses the new model to explain how Subaru has moved away from STI towards a more successful marketing strategy and lineup. He also shares what makes this Forester so good in the way appliances can often be. Then Sami brings up the 2025 Lincoln Aviator he recently piloted for a wintery getaway. Loaded with massage seats, hands-free driving technology, and tons of creature comforts, he seemed impressed, until he checked out the rest of the Lincoln lineup, and remembered the PHEV model from the past... Is the Aviator caught in a holding pattern? Then the guys quickly discuss a listener comment before signing off. Thanks for listening!
Episode 395: 2025 Subaru Outback XT, 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser
Are they off-road ready or just rugged? This week the Unnamed Automotive Podcast tackles two rough and tumble SUVs starting with Benjamin's review of the 2025 Subaru Outback XT, especially in light of an upcoming redesign which may ditch the classic wagon styling of the Subaru halo vehicle. While our hosts rag on the Outback's mainstreamification, they also worry that the future will lack the personality and capabilities that made it so interesting and popular in the first place. Then Sami shares his thoughts on the 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser, which changes the older FJ formula to something less capable and less luxurious than Americans are used to. Beyond that, Sami points out the difficult to swallow pricing of the new Land Cruiser and how it stacks up against other rugged SUVs. Then the guys talk about the quality and pricing of cars following the COVID Pandemic, and whether consumers can head into a dealership and get a good deal right now. Thanks for listening!
Episode 394: 2025 Toyota Crown Signia, 2025 BMW 330i xDrive
What's in a name? Listen along as Benjamin and Sami crack into the 2025 Toyota Crown Signia, an SUV that's related to the Toyota Crown, but has Sami comparing it more to the well recieved Camry. Also is this a SUV or a wagon? And where are all the wagons again? And what about the old Toyota Venza!? This description has too many questions, but they all get resolved on the show! Then Benjamin shares his thoughts on the 2025 BMW 330i xDrive , which recieved a hefty set of upgrades this year. Benjamin seems quite enamored with the new German Sport Sedan, and has plenty to say about it's performance, and interior, but is the tech and pricing up to snuff? Thanks for listening!
Episode 393: 2025 BMW X3, 2025 Genesis GV80, 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid Road Trip
This weeks show starts with a fun review of the 2025 BMW X3. Now entering its fourth generation, the X3 does a lot of things really well, but Sami is suggesting that the German crossover is getting a bit too tech-heavy for its own good. Our hosts also ask, what are the alternatives these days and how do they stack up? Then Benjamin gives us a review of the 2025 Genesis GV80. Available in two or three row configurations (thanks for the brief confustion Sami) and in either a conventional body style or coupe-like profile, the GV80 has become a fully realized nameplate in the Korean automakers portfolio. Benjamin answers the question: does it matter which model you pick? Then Benjamin gives us a quick followup review of the 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid which he took for a long road trip, and finds some flaws in Sami's initial review of the crossover. Thanks for listening!
Episode 392: 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor, 2026 Lexus GX 550
This week the Unnamed Automotive Podcast ditches its unibody for a body on frame setup as our hosts tackle a pair of off-road oriented trucks. Benjamin tests out the 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor, a performance-oriented version of the midsize pickup that has dune bashing and baja racing on its ECU. Benjamin discusses where the new Ranger improves upon the old one, and whether this is the king of off-road performance mid-size trucks. Then Sami dons his Prada sunglasses and jumps into the 2025 Lexus GX 550, a rugged off-road luxury SUV thats based on the Toyota Land Cruiser, but boasts a bigger engine and fancier appointments. This Overtrail+ model sports more ground clearance, but Sami thinks that Lexus has a lot to prove against something as tested as the Land Rover Defender. Thanks for listening!
Episode 391: 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid, 2025 Cadillac XT6
This week, the Unnamed Automotive Podcast tackles a pair of crossovers that may have slipped past your radars. The show starts with Sami's review of the 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid, an attractive compact crossover that gets mixed up with a hybrid powertrain from Toyota. Sami suggests things haven't been meshed so nicely with the addition of Toyota's DNA, and wonders where the Mazda charm has gone. Then Benjamin grabs the keys to the 2025 Cadillac XT6, a premium three-row SUV that's honest, but high-end. You may have forgotten about it, but Benjamin is here to remind you that this Caddy feels just right among a sea of overly complicated and unnecessarily high-tech options. Thanks for listening!
Episode 390: 2025 BMW M5, 2025 Mazda CX-70, 2025 Mazda CX-90, 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV
While the guys are thawing out from an icy cold winter season, they're eager to talk about some of the hotest new cars on the market. Benjamin starts this week off with a review of the 2025 BMW M5, a car that's heavier and more powerful than the vehicle it replaces, but now picks up a fancy plug-in hybrid powertrain that can pre-gear for more impressive launches using all 700+ of its horsepower. Benjamin is eager to describe just how special this new M5 is, but wonders who is this vehicle for, what with its varying goals and innovations. Sami suggests it's a car that can do it all, but is there a customer out there looking for what the BMW offers or should they opt for something else? Then Sami talks about his time in two new, but very similar Mazdas. The 2025 Mazda CX-70 and CX-90 are offered with the same powertrains, either a turbo six cylinder model or a plug-in hybrid, and both use the same platform, but are available in either a two or three-row setup. However, Sami points out that the five-seater CX-70 feels like a lackluster effort, and the automaker has a lot of other low points too, including the plug-in powertrain and cumbersome infotainment system. Is this the best Mazda can do? Then the guys riff on a listener question before closing it up for the week. Thanks for listening!
Episode 389: 2025 Toyota Camry Hybrid, 2025 Toyota Corolla Hybrid AWD, 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV
One last episode of the Unnamed Automotive Podcast to enjoy before the new year! This time Sami and Benjamin take a look at the hybrid, all-wheel-drive sedans in the Toyota lineup, starting with Sami's review of the 2025 Toyota Camry XSE AWD. Now exclusively available as a hybrid, this Camry has a whole new look and powertrain, but how does it compare to the Honda Accord Hybrid the guys talked about last week? And why does Sami feel a strange tapping in his back every time he stops? Then Benjamin brings up the smaller, more affordable 2025 Toyota Corolla Hybrid AWD, which delivers solid fuel efficiency, but is lacking other positive distinguishing factors, especially compared to other options in this segment. He also chimes in with some impressions about the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV. Finally the guys answer some listener questions about Chinese automakers taking over certain markets. Thanks for listening everyone, we'll see you in the new year!
Episode 388: 2025 Honda Accord Hybrid, 2025 Honda Civic Hybrid
The Unnamed Automotive Podcast goes full hybrid this week! After a brief conversation describing the type of friendship they possess and cherish, Sami and Benjamin dive right into the world of Honda Hybrids. Sami starts the episode off with the 2025 Honda Accord Hybrid Touring, a responsive, efficient and well equipped sedan that is easy to like, if it weren't for one pesky little issue: the price. Then Benjamin brightens up the discussion by bringing up the 2025 Honda Civic Sedan Hybrid, which uses much of the same running gear, but somehow whiffed on its infotainment system. Benjamin investigates as to whether he's the problem here, or if Honda has a wider software issue to resolve. Thanks for listening!
Episode 387: 2025 Genesis GV80 Coupe, 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid, 2024 Honda Pilot
The show starts with Benjamin's review of the 2025 Genesis GV80 Coupe, which features a sleeker profile, and a new powertrain with an electric supercharger. How does these changes affect the typically well recieved GV80 crossover? Benjamin spills all the details, while going on quick tangents about wireless charging and digital gauge clusters. Then Sami finds a solution for families on the go with a tight budget. While many may seek out something like the 2025 Honda Pilot, the new Hyundai Santa Fe may be everything families are looking for, especially in the affordable hybrid guise. Sporting 231 horsepower and 36 mpg combined, the Santa Fe feels like a better crossover than its price tag indicates. So whats the catch?
Episode 386: LA Auto Show, 2025 Ford Explorer ST, 2025 Genesis G80 Electrified, 500e Follow-up
This week the Unnamed Automotive Podcast tackles a pair of vehicles that haven't been discussed in over two years! First Sami reviews the 2025 Ford Explorer ST, which packs plenty of power with its three row setup. While Sami claims that's a good trick to help the Ford overcome its rivals, Benjamin argues that addition is not relevant enough or useful to shoppers. After that hot debate, Benjamin shares his thoughts on the 2025 Genesis electrified G80, a much loved executive sport sedan that made the transition to electron operated propulsion. That change comes with a few compromises as Benjamin notes, but do they tarnish the overall experience? Then the guys return to the Fiat 500e, where one of our listeners describe their use case scenario for the small EV and how it works in a completely different market.
Episode 385: 2024 Fiat 500e, 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan
Not every car is good at everything as Benjamin finds out on this week's Unnamed Automotive Podcast episode. While Sami drove the 2024 Fiat 500e its preferred city conditions, Benjamin tested the EV in the more rural settings he calls home. It's a harsh look at how useful a small, short ranged EV is in this environment and if it's worth it to spend a bit more to get something more versatile. Then Sami gives the scoop on the newly revealed 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan. The third generation compact crossover arrives with significant changes to the interior and a few funny gimmicks too. He explains what there is to like and dislike about the new VW and gives his prediction about it's future. Thanks for listening!
Episode 384: 2025 Mini Countryman S All4, 2024 Kia Sorento SX X-Line
The show starts off with the 2024 MINI Countryman S All4, an all-new version of the MINI crossover with a fresh platform along with revised styling inside and out. Benjamin gives his take on the small-ish vehicle, as well as what he thinks of the brands new infotainment system. Following that, Sami gives a quick review of the 2024 Kia Sorento SX X-Line, a known crossover with mild updates for this year. However, while this Sorento coasts its way to its retirement off the media press fleet, Sami has noticed a few concerning QA issues. Don't miss what he finds about this so-called family car! Thanks for listening!
Episode 383: 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV RS, 2024 Kia Carnival Hybrid
This week, Benjamin drives the 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV, a mainstream offering found on the same Ultium platform as many other high end EVs like the Acura ZDX and Cadillac Lyriq. Benjamin discusses his experience in the Chevy, and compares it to other popular mainstream options like the the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Nissan Ariya and VW ID.4. The pair also discuss whether GM is on track or not in this highly competitive segment. Then Sami checks out the 2025 Kia Carnival Hybrid, which swaps out the V6 from the gas model for a hybrid powertrain boasting nearly 50 percent better fuel efficiency, without much of a compromise. But is this upgraded Carnival a big deal in the minivan market? How does it compare to the Toyota Sienna, Chrysler Pacifica and Honda Odyssey? Sami discusses it all on this week's episode. Thanks for listening!!
Episode 382: 2024 Ford Mustang EcoBoost Convertible, 2024 Hyundai Kona EV, AMC Book Review, Will Honda Buiy Ram And Jeep
Sami has returned from his European adventure with a wonderful taste of life to share on the Unnamed Automotive Podcast. Or he tries to explain to Benjamin what the candy-like "smoothie melt"s he feeds his child are... Either way, there's lots to discuss in this week's episode, starting with the EcoBoost powered 2024 Ford Mustang convertible, which Benjamin reviews and compares to some other similarly priced sports cars. Then Sami talks about the 2024 Hyundai Kona EV, and how it fares compared to other affordable electric vehicles on the market. Finally the guys talk about an AMC-focused book and discuss if Honda would buy Jeep and Ram. Thanks for listening!
Episode 381: Guest Host Chad Kirchner, 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV First Edition RST
How far can you tow with an electric pickup ? How useful is a Midgate cargo box? How huge is the massive battery installed in Chevy's latest EV? Guest host Chad Kirchner helps Benjamin dig deep on his review of the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV First Edition RST, a full-size truck that outdoes its rivals on power and range but comes with a few caveats that might cramp the style of some buyers.
Episode 380: 2025 Ram 1500 Limited Hurricane, 2024 Volvo EX30
This week the Unnamed Automotive Podcast tackles a pair of vehicles with glaring bugs and issues. The episode starts off with Benjamin's review of the 2025 Ram 1500 Limited, now equipped with a high-output turbocharged straight six-cylinder engine. While attractive and high-tech, Benjamin put the truck through its towing paces and found it to be a headache at times. Hear his thoughts on what went right, and what went wrong with this new pickup. Then Sami tests out the latest small EV from Volvo, the EX30. A hatchback shaped vehicle with a minimalist interior, the EX30 looks interesting enough, but vast pricing differences between the US and Canada has Sami reeling. Making things worse, the Volvo had a poor infotainment experience, which marred the whole vehicle for our host. Thanks for listening!