Unnamed Automotive Podcast
Unnamed Automotive Podcast
Updated 3 days agoEvery week automotive journalists Benjamin and Sami review the cars, trucks, and SUVs they test drive, and get weird, and funny, and honest, about the automotive industry.
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Episodes (477)
Episode 315: 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid, 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
Hybrid crossovers seem to be everywhere, including the 2023 Honda CR-V lineup. While the gas-powered CR-V had some awful fuel consumption in our last test drive, we have some important notes about the new hybrid model. Additionally, Sami brought out the 2023 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid for much needed context. His tester was the charming Woodlands edition, with a tree-themed cabin and campy features. Hear how the Toyota fares on the market after many years on the market, and if its still a leader. If you liked what you hear, don't hesitate to review and rate us on your favorite podcatcher. Thanks!
Episode 314: 2023 Kia Telluride, GM's Insane Apple CarPlay Android Auto Decision
You'll want to check into this week's episode where both Sami and Benjamin test out the 2023 Kia Telluride. Refreshed and updated for 2023, the Telluride goes through some important changes, which may place it among the best in the class. Not only that, the guys got their hands on the two new Telluride trim levels, the X-Line and X-Pro, which boast some rugged appeal and extra ground clearance. Then we ask about Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and why GM is planning to omit these handy features from its next generation EVs. We discuss why they'd take such an easy loss here and what it means for car buyers. Thanks for listening!
Episode 313: Surviving An Ice Storm In The 2023 BMW i7, Listener Questions
Did you miss us last week? Well we have a very interesting and entertaining reason as Benjamin relates his experience in the 2023 BMW i7 electric flagship sedan. Dealing with a long-lasting electricity outage seems like a nightmare scenario for EV owners, but Benjamin's time in the dark shows that it's not all bad, as long as you have a six-figure budget for your electric sedan. The two talk about charging, road-tripping, and chilling out in the lounge-like rear-seats of the i7. Then the guys dive into an important question from one of their listeners. Thanks for all the messages and comments, we always love to hear from you all, so don't hesitate to reach out on social media or on our website
Episode 312: 2023 Genesis G90, 2023 Genesis GV70 Electric
This week the guys dive into a pair of Korean luxury cars in this "oops, all Genesis" episode! First up, Benjamin finally captures his White Whale, the 2023 Genesis G90. This large luxury sedan squares off against some of the most well-known cars in history. With its sleek yet stately design, Benjamin has some bold things to say about this land yacht, and you may be surprised! Then Sami keeps the Genesis conversation going with his impressions of the 2023 Genesis electrified GV70. Many want to know if the popular crossover can successfully make the transition from ICE to EV, even though it doesn't ride on a dedicated electric platform, and Sami is here to answer all the questions you may have about it. Thanks for listening! If you enjoyed this weeks episode, don't forget to chime in and send the guys a note at UnnamedAutomotivePodcast.com, or drop them a tip on their Ko-Fi page.
Episode 311: 2023 Nissan Ariya, 2023 Subaru WRX CVT
Sami jumps into the 2023 Nissan Ariya e-4orce, and explains how this EV will take on the tough competition, despite coming to the market relatively late. With nearly a dozen trim levels, is the Nissan's biggest asset choice or experience? Then Benjamin chimes in with his recent 2023 Subaru WRX experience, which was dulled by the implementation of the a fun-sapping CVT. CVTs are generally used for fuel savings, and Benjamin is unclear why the new Subaru offers such an option given that it actually uses more fuel than the standard manual gearbox. Given Subaru's performance-car history, does this new WRX measure up? Don't forget to subscribe, review and message our hosts! Thanks for listening!
Episode 310: 2023 Lexus RZ, 2023 Lexus NX 450h+
This week on the Unnamed Automotive Podcast, our hosts ask "What's good and what's merely adequate?" as they discuss two Lexuses...or is that Lexii? Whatever the plural, the conversation starts with the 2023 Lexus RZ450e, an all-electric crossover with the same platform as the Toyota bZ4x. With polarizing looks, uninspired specs and an unnecessary steering gimmick, our hosts have plenty to talk about, specifically regarding if Lexus put its best effort forward with its first EV. Then the conversation shifts to the brand's first plug-in hybrid, the 2023 Lexus NX450h+, which cribs much of the mechanicals from the Toyota RAV4 Prime, and puts it all into a sexy, high-end body from Lexus. Benjamin suggests that this what it Lexus wants to actually make—rather than its boring, bland EV offerings—and has many reasons to prove his point. Thanks for listening, and don't forget to subscribe, rate and message us on social media or our website!
Episode 309: 2023 Hyundai Palisade, 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E GT
When you've got over 300 episodes under your belt, you get the chance to see how things have changed in the industry, and this week at the Unnamed Automotive Podcast, the guys are applying a bit of hindsight to the cars they've been testing. First up Benjamin grabs the keys to the new 2023 Hyundai Palisade, and wonders if the industry has caught up to the standard set by the three-row back when it launched in 2019. Or is Hyundai just sitting back and waiting for its rivals to arrive? While discussing the latest updates to the crossover, Sami and Benjamin also reminisce about what the world was like when the SUV first dropped, whether things are any better in this segment, and shout out a few ideas about what automakers are following in Hyundai's footprints. Then Sami brings up the high-performance 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E GT. Having driven multiple EVs and even the standard Mach-E, the guys talk about whether the GT is special at all, and what it can do, if anything, that others can't. With so many EVs on the market boasting impressive straight-line speed, can the Mach-E still justify its $60k pricetag even with its lacking interior and frustrating user interface? Be sure to check out the website and don't hesitate to contact our hosts if you have any questions or comments! Thanks for listening
Episode 308: 2023 Toyota Mirai Hydrogen Fuel Cell Car, Why Hydrogen Doesn't Make Sense, Toyota Museum, Funky Toyota Sera Stereo
These guys went and did it again: an accidental "oops, all Toyota!" edition of the Unnamed Automotive Podcast flies out of the web and into your ears this week. First, Ben drives the 2023 Toyota Mirai so he can discuss the feasability of the hydrogen powered future that Toyota is harping on. With sleek styling, and harsh limitations and middling performance, is this really what Toyota sees as the future? Then the guys talk about the brands unwavering position against ZEV mandates, and whether they're just sour about being on the wrong side of the "EVs vs everything" fight. Finally, Sami talks about his recent experience in Europe and talks about the coolest Toyota vehicles he saw at their TWO museums in Cologne, Germany. Don't forget to rate, review, subscribe and get in touch with us through the website or social media. And if you had fun this week, consider leaving us a tip on Ko-Fi!
Episode 307: 2023 Genesis GV60, 2023 Honda Accord Hybrid, VW Escape Rooms For Employees
Did you know: electrons are powering the latest cars tested on the Unnamed Automotive Podcast, and also everything around you? We're slowly coming to terms with that as Benjamin and Sami try out some new EVs and hybrid vehicles. First up on the show, (beyond the food tangent that infrequently occurs on the podcast) is the 2023 Genesis GV60 and its oh so tempting BOOST button. Benjamin shares his thoughts on the Korean luxury EV, and why he hasn't gotten his E-GMP badge yet. To show that times are really changing, Benjamin even warms up to some of the biometric features found in the Genesis - a discussion you won't want to miss. Then Sami jumps into action to talk about the recently updated 2023 Honda Accord Hybrid. As large sedans lose their fun factor, Sami seems convinced that the Accord is managing the transition to comfy, family vehicle, with impressive fuel efficiency. At just over $30k this Honda should work for a lot of people, but time will tell if it maintains its popularity in this Crossover-crazy world. Speaking of crazy, if you were worried about something, would being forced to go into an escape room help? Don't miss our wacky news analysis coming straight from VW's recently concerned employees. Listen, rate, subscribe and do all that fun stuff!
Episode 306: 2023 Honda Passport Trailsport, 2023 Subaru Legacy Touring XT, Secrets Of Bulletproof Cars
Off-roading or on-roading, the Unnamed Automotive Podcast is here to help you get through your week. First up this week, Sami talks about the 2023 Honda Passport Trailsport, a somewhat MORE off-road oriented version of an SUV Honda proclaimed was already capable off-road. The Trailsport gets rugged-style tires, fun badging, and skid-plates, as well as a higher price point, but is that enough to make it recommendable over other, more off-road oriented SUVs? Plus how many times in a segment can Sami say sport? You be the judge! Then Benjamin brings up the 2023 Subaru Legacy XT, also known as the sedan counterpart of the popular and instantly recognizable Subaru Outback. Benjamin's time in the Legacy brought out many existential questions like 'is this car good?' 'why does this car matter?' and 'who is buying this car?' which could only be worked through on this week's episode of the podcast. Be sure to listen and chime in later. Finally, the guys talk about armored and bullet-proof vehicles, , what's involved in building them, and who needs such a service. Be sure to listen, review, subscribe and reach out to us on social media or our website.
Episode 305: 2023 BMW X3 M Competition, Guest Michael Banovsky, Deep Thoughts About Owning A Car In The City
It's "Special Guest Appearance" time at the Unnamed Automotive Podcast as Sami and Benjamin are joined by automotive journalist and content creator Michael Banovsky! Michael, from speedster.news and mayidriveyourcar.com is here to talk about cars, city planning, public transportation, and more! This week's episode also includes Benjamin's review of a 2023 BMW X3 M Competition, a luxury SUV with 503 horsepower, three-sport modes, a variety of transmission settings and the least winter-ready snow tires we've ever seen. At $80k, is this BMW X3 going to hit up a track on the way to the grocery store, or is it just drag racing everyone at the stop-light? Then as the guys close the podcast, we get into a deep discussion about snacks and treats, so don't stop listening to the VERY END! Thanks and see you all next week!
Episode 304: 2023 Toyota Sienna XSE AWD, 2023 Honda Odyssey
We hope you have a surgeon on speed-dial because this weeks episode of the Unnamed Automotive Podcast is entirely DEEP CUTS! Especially if you're familiar with the concept of GROWING UP! It's fun times in minivans here starting with Benjamin's review of the 2023 Toyota Sienna, with its funky design, hybrid powertrain and approachable pricing. In-between jokes about old vans and weird names, Benjamin explains that his time in the Toyota wasn't without incident, so be sure to listen to his whole experience to get the entire picture. Then Sami gets his fun captured by the CabinWatch camera found in the 2023 Honda Odyssey, which has lost its killer suction-related app but gained a few other weird gimmicks. With 280 VTEC ponies on tap, this minivan is a screamer, or at least its passengers were certainly making some noise! Hear how practical this minivan is and why minivans aren't getting so much love these days. If you enjoyed this weeks episode be sure to subscribe and review us using your favorite podcast client. Thanks for listening!
Episode 303: 2023 Honda Pilot, 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
This week, the guys are talking off-road-oriented SUVs, with significant redesigns. Right off the bat, Sami starts the episode by describing the all-new, totally different, completely redesigned 2023 Honda Pilot, much to Benjamin's skepticism. Sami jumps into the three-row crossover and its off-road TrailSport trim, and tells you all the ways Honda has made this family friendly vehicle more competitive and exciting. Plus they talk about Christian Slater a bit, and Benjamin admits Sami was right about one piece of obscure car history. Then Benjamin chimes in to explain his time in the 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport P400 SE. All new for this year, the Range Rover Sport has a lot of ground to make up in this cutthroat segment, and Benjamin has a lot of thoughts about how the European brand manages. While referencing the Defender he drove recently, Benjamin even forgets all about other pure-SUV brands like Jeep, so now we can point and laugh at him (but in a friendly way!) If you loved, or even liked this weeks episode, why not subscribe, or even review it? The guys love hearing from listeners so be sure to chime in on social media or on the Unnamed Automotive Podcast website.
Episode 302: 2023 Land Rover Defender 130, 2023 BMW M850i Coupe, 2024 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray
With 300 or so episodes under their belt, it seems like the hosts of the Unnamed Automotive Podcast are taking things a bit more seriously... that is, after the unbelivable holiday break and other international shenanigans. While Sami keeps things light-hearted and entertaining, Benjamin dives into the new 2023 Land Rover Defender 130, which is billed as "the more family friendly rugged off-roader." After the new Defender gains a whole new standard row of seating, and 500 pounds of mass, Benjamin has plenty to say about the big SUV, and where it stands in the never-ending list of SUVs on the market. Then the guys talk about the 2023 BMW M850i Coupe, a Grand Tourer that seemingly nails the execution and sticks the landing. Powerful, attractive, comfortable and high-tech, the guys wonder what the BMW can't do, and try to figure out which other vehicles simply check all the boxes they're supposed to without trying to be everything to everyone. Finally, the guys talk about the latest news from General Motors regarding the Chevrolet C8 Corvette e-Ray. Don't forget to subscribe and review, and if you liked today's episode why not tip the team through Ko-Fi.
Episode 301: 2023 Kia Sportage X-Line, 2023 Mazda CX-50 Meridian Edition, Contest Winner
New year, new S-You-Vs! The the Unnamed Automotive Podcast returns with a pair of 'off-road inspired' SUVs to talk about. Benjamin gets plenty of time in the new 2023 Kia Sportage X-Line, and asks if ruggedness was standard in past iterations of the Kia cute-ute. The pair discuss the variety of options and features available in the Kia, and compare it to the recent Honda CR-V to determine which one is best destined for buyers driveways. Then Sami chimes in about his experience with the 2023 Mazda CX-50 Meridian Edition with the Apex Package. A stylish crossover with high-end, off-road aspirations, Sami and Benjamin seem a bit puzzled at its place in the lineup. Can it still be a success story despite awkward pricing, size, and infotainment? Finally, Benjamin and Sami announce the winner of last month's contest! Be sure to listen, subscribe and review the podcast, and even consider tipping on Ko-Fi.
Episode 300: 2023 Genesis Electrified G80, 2023 Honda CR-V, Best Cars Of The Year 2022
If you want to spend your Christmas talking cars, your two favorite podcasts hosts are here for you. First Sami discusses his time in the 2023 Genesis Electrified G80, an all-electric version of the executive sedan that put the Korean luxury brand on the map. Hear Sami describe what compromises were made in this conversion, and whether the EV is a better buy over its gas-powered variant. Then Benjamin chimes in with his experience of the 2023 Honda CR-V, a car that's been thoroughly redesigned and updated, but doesn't look or feel like it has. Benjamin compares the CR-V experience to a variety of drinkable, seemingly innocuous liquids, in order to make a point that Sami struggles to make work in an audio format. The guys then talk about their favorite rides this year. Don't forget to subscribe, review and tip our hosts on Ko-Fi, we can't wait to go for another 300 episodes!
Episode 299: 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV, 2023 Subaru Ascent, Racing With Rich Energy Book Giveaway, Listener Shout-Outs
First up Benjamin grabs the 2022 Chevrolet Volt EUV, a vehicle that tries to defy established nomenclature and expectations of a crossover-fied car. Hear his thoughts on the affordable EV and how livable this former fire hazard is and wonder aloud with our hosts about the future of the Bolt nameplate. Then Sami chimes in with a recap of the 2023 Subaru Ascent, and relates it to his experience in the recently refreshed 2023 model. With more cameras, technology, and a segment leading 19 cupholders, Sami explains exactly where the Ascent stands today and whether you should buy one. Finally the guys remind listeners about the ongoing book contest and sling out a few shoutouts. Listen, review, subscribe and enjoy!
Episode 298: 2022 Chevrolet Silverado ZR2, Racing With Rich Energy Giveaway, Downloading Horsepower
It's another big week of car talk on the Unnamed Automotive Podcast. Before our hosts get on a roll with this week's discussion, they first share a few updates about the podcast, and what kind of year it's been thanks to our dedicated listeners. THANK YOU! Then Benjamin and Sami jump into talking about the new 2023 Chevrolet Silverado ZR2. As if trucks aren't rugged and capable, this model takes things even further by featuring a 6.2 liter V8 engine and a super high tech and impressive damper setup known as DSSV. Benjamin explains what the recently updated Chevy truck does right and wrong, and also gets into the nitty gritty of the high-performance offroad truck world. Then Sami talks about a new F1 book called "Racing with Rich Energy" and explains how you can get your hands on a copy for free! Finally the show concludes with a smattering of downloadable horsepower news. Thanks for listening and don't forget to subscribe and reach out to our hosts on social media!
Episode 297: 2022 GMC Sierra Denali Ultimate, Did Sami Actually Die Charging An Electric Car?
Benjamin spends a significant amount of time talking about the new 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali Ultimate, a truck that has luxury ambitions and a high-end price. While Sami balks at its MSRP, Ben goes through all the reasons this truck is worth it, the details of its emergency redesign, and why it needed to impress to help us forget all about the disappointing outgoing model. Then Sami chimes in to talk about his recent expereince in the 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5, and his journey to 10 different DC Fast Charging stations in his area. He barely made it out of his experience alive, witnessing plugs wrapped in duct Tape, plenty of exposed wires, chargers with big, intimidating red levers, and of course funky apps. The whole experience has left Sami warning others about how reliable the fast charging infrastructre is. Listen, enjoy and don't forget to subscribe, and tip our hosts on Ko-Fi. Thanks!
Episode 296: LA Auto Show Round-Up, 2023 Porsche 911 Dakar, 2023 Subaru Impreza, 2023 Fiat 500 EV, 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6, 2023 Toyota Prius
It's not common, but every once in a while, the Unnamed Automotive Podcast delivers a ton of new car information. Wait, isn't that what they do every episode? This week our hosts run down all the cool new arrivals from the 2022 Los Angeles Auto Show, including the off-road oriented 2023 Porsche 911 Dakar, the stylish new 2023 Toyota Prius, the EV-only Fiat 500e, the all new, and weird looking 2023 Hyundai IONIQ 6, and the hatchback-only new 2023 Subaru Impreza. Lots of fun talk about the latest and greatest cars, including fun stories, retrospectives and hot takes. Subscribe and listen!
Episode 295: 2023 Honda Civic Type R, 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQS 580
It's hatchback mania at the Unnamed Automotive Podcast—but these practical five-doors are more than a bit unusual. First Sami talks about the 2023 Honda Civic Type R, which has gotten a fairly substantial overhaul this year. Thanks to raised expectations from the more premium base Civic, the Type R feels more mature, yet Sami says this hasn't impacted the rowdiness of the hot hatch. After a few prodding and overly-personal questions, Benjamin and Sami decide whether the new Civic Type R is worth the $44k price tag it commands. Then Benjamin chimes in about his experience in the all-electric 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQS 580 4Matic, which features a roof-hinged rear cargo area, making it a hatchback, or sportback, or notchback, or something other than a sedan. With 350 miles of range, and plenty of power, this green flagshipalso happens to look almost completely anonymous. Still, it features a ride worthy of the 'S' letter, and Benjamin goes on to note several highlights and lowlights about the many features and gadgets in this six-figure ride. Don't miss next weeks episode by subscribing, and be sure to check in with the guys on social media.
Episode 294: 2023 Nissan Z, Benjamin Installs An EV Charger, Listener Questions
No sports cars were harmed in the making of this week's episode, as Benjamin and Sami talk about the brand new 2023 Nissan Z coupe, which features a unique blend of old and new. Benjamin managed to keep the Z for a whole week, and put it through its paces, testing out all aspects of the new coupe. With a twin-turbo V6 originally from Infiniti, a tweaked platform from the last gen 370Z, and exterior design cues borrowed from the Z's long history, there's plenty to talk about. Not to mention where the Z stands with its competitors, especially the new Toyota Supra. Benjamin then discusses the new electrified addition to his household, before answering a listener question. Don't hesitate to reach out and ask the guys any questions you may have, or send them a tip through Ko-Fi. Thanks for listening!
Episode 293: 2022 Subaru WRX, 2022 Volkswagen Golf R
If you felt that the podcast has been about EVs and crossovers, then catch this week's episode that focuses mostly on sporty compact cars. First Sami describes his time in the 2022 Subaru WRX, which gets a new look and motor, along with a redesigned cabin. Since there's no high end STI anymore, can the WRX carry the performance crown with its meagre setup? Sami and Benjamin talk about the company, CVTs, driving feel and refinement before adding another experience to the mix. Extra discussion arrives with the introduction of the 2022 VW Golf R, which is more expensive and more powerful than the WRX, but delivers a less authentic sport compact feel. Sami says it's high end and high tech, but the car has some significant issues, especially with its user interface. You'll want to hear all the juicy details from this week's episode and don't forget to subscribe so you get the latest episode as soon as it's available. Thanks for listening!
Episode 292: Benjamin's Press Vehicle Gets Stolen, 2022 Jaguar F-Pace SVR, 2022 Kia Sportage Hybrid
The more things change, the more they stay the same. Benjamin finds himself in yet another hulking V8 powered monster: the 2022 Jaguar F-Pace SVR. With 550 ponies and an accompanying eight-cylinder soundtrack to boot, he has plenty to say about this European SUV while the rest of its rivals wave goodbye to high displacement engines for good. Sami on the other hand is here to talk about the new 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid, and is amazed at how much it's grown over the years. Now reasonably high end, the Sportage has a few small issues but leaves some big impressions. Also, someone stole Benjamin's press vehicle this week. That sucks!
Episode 291: 2024 Polestar 3, 2022 Dodge Challenger RT Scat Pack Widebody, Cadillac Celestiq
Sami just jumped off a plane from Copenhagen where he got up close and impersonal with the 2024 Polestar 3. While the automaker claims this is the true expression of the Polestar brand, Sami and Benjamin dive into whether or not that's true, drilling into the design language, technology, interior and psychology of the brand. Also, is Polestar luxury or not? Whats the deal here? Then Benjamin rekindles his love affair with all things V8 and powerful by testing out the latest 2022 Dodge Challenger Scat Pack, a large coupe that's in its last year of production. Old-school and still cool, the Scat Pack seems to occupy a sweet spot in the Challenger lineup. Finally, the pair put their heads together and congratulate Cadillac for making a car by hand, something Tesla has done for way too long. The Celestiq will cost an eye watering $300,000 and will be one of the few truly special Caddys out there according to the guys, and you may want to hear why.