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 283: 2022 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 Madness, 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLB35
What's it like when you add 470 horsepower to a chassis that already shudders at half that output? Benjamin scrapes his brains off the floor and attempts to make sense of the 2022 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392, a truck so crazy that not even SRT was willing to put its name on it. Sami then explains how confusing his time in the 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLB35 was. Is this a hot hatch? A 'cheap' Mercedes-Benz that costs more than $60k? Or is it yet another in a line of front-wheel drive Silver Star-badged rides that continue to miss the mark at the entry level?
Episode 282: 2022 BMW i4 M50, Ford Lightning Towing Tragedy, Toyota GR 86 Engine Explosion, 2023 Chevrolet Colorado, 2023 Ford Maverick Tremor
Benjamin discusses his time in the 2022 BMW i4, and not just any ole i4, but the M50 version with incredible performance metrics. You'll want to hear all the details about how this EV-converted 4 Series feels on the road, and whether it follows the same mantra as BMWs other electric vehicle, the iX. From there the duo dive into a variety of topics including the shockingly bad range of electric pickups when they're towing, according to some tests done over at MotorTrend with the new F-150 Lightning. The pair then discuss a racing-related Toyota GR86 warranty denial, before getting to a pair of all new pickups from Ford and Chevy. You'll want to hear all the news, information and inside jokes this week and beyond, so don't forget to subscribe to get more.
Episode 281: 2022 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks, 2022 BMW iX xDrive50
House of WILDERNESS, TRD, TRAIL RATED and WILDTRAK your off-road romping days are numbered, as Benjamin and Sami arrive this week to talk about the new 2022 Ford Bronco Sport, a rugged alternative to the Ford Escape and a competitor to many other compact crossovers on the market. Outfitted with a turbocharged three-cylinder, Sami talks about how it handles the rigours of everyday driving, and the various pros and cons of pretending to go off-road. Then Benjamin chimes in about cruising around in the electrified 2022 BMW iX xDrive50. Ben admits he has a fondness for the car's massive grille, and expresses his appreciation for electric vehicles that don't feel janky or like science experiments. After hearing Mr. Hunting fawn over various aspects of the iX, while simultaneously criticizing its scale-busting curb weight, consider heading over to unnamedautomotivepodcast.com to subscribe, contact us or check out past episodes!
Episode 280: 2022 Kia EV6, Sami's Jordan Cars, Cadillac Says Hush About Lyriq, Weird Blazer EV Features, Confusing Toyota Crowns, Hazy Honda Pilot Memories
Sami and Benjamin have returned from their vacations with plenty of stories to tell. First the two catch up with all the cool cars and sights during their travels, with Ben reflecting on a certain era of vehicle that stands out in his mind after an unusual old school Honda Pilot encounter. Then the pair dive into a conversation about the new 2022 Kia EV6, an all-electric car that's mechanically similar to the Hyundai IONIQ 5, but with different styling and, somehow, more range. Benjamin describes his experience in vivid detail and explains why the EV6 nets 20 more miles on the EPA test cycle, along with the car's fatal flaw. You'll definitely want to hear whether or not you should pick one up over the similar IONIQ. Then the two talk about some news that's been burning through automotive circles. Cadillac has been caught trying to get buyers of its new Lyriq EV to sign an NDA, which caught the attention of NHTSA, which relies on owner information and reports to determine safety concerns. Then the guys talk about the weird new Toyota Crown, which sports a body style that defies convenvention, along with why you would ever design a car that offered FWD, RWD, and AWD in the same package. All that and more inside jokes and pure car talk can be found in this week's episode, so be sure to listen! Also consider sending us a review, or some feedback, since we love to hear from our listeners!
Episode 279: 2022 Toyota Tundra, 2022 Porsche Panamera Platinum, Crazy Sales Numbers
Benjamin talks about his recent drive of the all-new 2022 Toyota Tundra and it's turbocharged six cylinder engine. Considering the Tundra's predecessor hailed from the Jurassic era, Benjamin goes into detail about how much has changed this time around and whether the Tundra has what it takes to best America's popular trucks. Then listen closely as Sami shares the tale of his time in the 2022 Porsche Panamera Platinum Edition. The German sedan is pricey, large and far from sprightly, so of course Sami has a lot of questions about who this is for and why someone should get it. If you enjoyed this week's episode, don't forget to subscribe and review or even drop the guys a tip on Ko-Fi!
Episode 278: 2022 Mazda CX-50, Sami's Trip To Goodwood Festival Of Speed
We're back to discuss a new crossover and a wild enthusiast oriented event. First Benjamin talks about the new 2022 Mazda CX-50, which looks rugged and tough in all the marketing, but as it turns out that marketing is doing all the heavy lifting. Is the CX-50 comparable to a Forester Wilderness? And how much does that matter? Then Sami comes back from merry old England and the Goodwood Festival of Speed, which he described as a celebration of all things performance and speed. He talks about the new race cars, the hill climb and bowing to Dukes, because he was raised that way. Listen, subscribe and don't forget to get in touch! The guys are always eager to hear from you.
Episode 277: 2022 Toyota Sienna, 2022 Subaru Forester WILDerness, The Future Of Mercedes-Benz And Car Tech
The guys take two completely different paths this week on the Unnamed Automotive Podcast. First Sami goes the family friendly route with the 2022 Toyota Sienna. Available only as a hybrid, Sami starts off by describing a few of the vans shortcomings before diving into what makes this a smart entry in the world of three row vehicles. Then Benjamin takes a walk on the wild side with the 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness, an all-new trim package that boasts several off road modifications, similar to last year's Outback Wilderness. He seems pretty impressed with the effort applied by Subaru but he eventually gets pulled into a conversation about who exactly this crossover is made for. Finally the duo discuss an interview on The Verge with Ola Källenius, the CEO of Mercedes-Benz where the concepts of legacy and marketing collide in predictably awkward fashion. Drop in, listen, subscribe and stay in touch! Thanks for listening to the Unnamed Automotive Podcast!
Episode 276: 2022 Rolls-Royce Phantom, 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Welcome to the "Oops! All bangers!" edition of the Unnamed Automotive Podcast, where Ben and Sami dive into two of the coolest cars around. First Sami talks about the eighth-generation Rolls-Royce Phantom Series II that he drove (and was driven in) through Nice and Monaco. He talks how the company spent five years developing new wheel designs, and put twinkling stars in the headlight enclosures before describing the various customized models he got to check out before discussing the ultra luxury market and its clientele in detail. Then Benjamin gets ample time to chat about the one of best cars on the market for automotive enthusiasts: the 2022 Mazdza MX-5 Miata. He tested the SOLD OUT Club model, describes what's important about that model, and decides whether it's worth buying above the base edition. Of course he also brings up the Japanese automaker's new direction in the automotive industry, and whether the Miata will ever be this good again. Thanks for listening, be sure to subscribe, and send us a review, or reach out to us on social media.
Episode 275: 2022 Honda Ridgeline, 2022 Kia Telluride, Infotainment Sucks, Datsun Z Update
They shook the magic eight ball and it came up "trucks." Sami and Benjamin dive into some rugged, practical machines this week, with Mr.Hunting starting with a closer look at the 2022 Honda Ridgeline. Now facing stiff competition from new trucklets like the Ford Maverick and Hyundai Santa Cruz, how can the Ridgeline stay appealing to shoppers? Benjamin points out a few of the flaws in Honda's approach, and the two brainstorm what is needed from the Japanese automaker to keep its name in peoples mouths. Then Sami jumps into the 2022 Kia Telluride, a former darling of the automotive media. The Kia had also seen new rivals in the form of the new Jeep Grand Cherokee L and the Nissan Pathfinder. Can it still keep up? Should shoppers wait for the newly announced 2023 model? Sami jumps into each of those questions with reckless abandon and little time to think, so be ready for off-the-cuff answers. Finally the two talk automotive news and Apples automotive dashboard design that's a part of iOS16, before Benjamin shares an update on his Datsun. Hear it all right here and be sure to subscribe to hear all the latest episodes throughout the summer.
Episode 274: 2022 Toyota GR 86, Sami's Monaco F1 Adventure. Endless New Car Announcements, Listener Questions
It's time to talk about everything speedy, fun and joyful. First up, Benjamin describes his time in the 2022 Toyota GR86, the successor to the lightweight, fun-to-drive 86 that caught the attention of enthusiasts everywhere. He recaps the importance of the older 86, which is important context to his experience in the new GR86, which recieves a new powertrain and updated interior along with a new exterior design. Are all these upgrades a good thing? Listen to Benjamin tell it all, and explain what kind of situation the modern automotive enthusiast finds themself in. Then Sami describes what the PokerStars Red Spade Pass is and how it gave him the experience of a lifetime at the Monaco GP. He pours out everything he knows about F1, the track, the racers and the experience of helicoptering and yachts. Finally Sami tells Benjamin all about the news running through the automotive industry. From EVs to special editions to updates, they do a lighting round with all kinds of thoughts before wrapping up with a listener question. Don't forget to subscribe and rate!
Episode 273: 2022 Acura MDX Type S, 2022 BMW iX M60 EV, More Datsun Trouble
This week on the Unnamed Automotive Podcast, the duo jump into action to discuss the 2023 BMW iX M60, a combination of BMW's M, i and X brands that looks... frumpy. Besides the exterior design, the M60 sports a ton of power and performance, especially in a straight line. But everyone knows that a BMW M product has to sound cool too, so be sure to hear Sami explain how the iX M60 achieves its signature soundtrack. Then Benjamin dives in to talk about the 2022 Acura MDX Type S, which leverages Acura's once sexy sport trim for a new (nefarious?) purpose. With a turbocharged 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine, is the MDX Type S hot enough to be worthy of that name? Where else does its performance shine? Will Benjamin end up begging listeners to help him understand where Acura is going with this Type S branding? Finally, Benjamin shares an update on his Datsun woes, and how he hopes to resolve his issues to get back on the track again. Thanks for listening! Be sure to subscribe and review!
Episode 272: 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5, 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar, News Round-Up, Datsun Woes
Benjamin talks about his first impressions of the 2022 Hyundai IONIQ 5, the Korean automaker's mainstream EV which rides on an entirely EV-oriented platform. He discusses the vehicle's unique and approachable styling, the range and charging performance and touches on the driver assistance features before delivering his verdict on whether this is an EV worth checking out. Then Sami finds himself in the driver's seat of a 2022 Land Rover Range Rover Velar, an SUV that used to look stylish, modern and fresh, but is now feeling a bit unrefined and out of sorts following the latest updates elsewhere in the Range Rover lineup. Hear his thoughts on the dizzying technology within the Velar, the start-stop system and the luxurious appointments of the cabin, before sharing his fears of being carjacked. Finally, Sami and Benjamin discuss the latest news in the industry, including the reports of a new Thunderbird, a huge 8-seater Land Rover Defender and a funny looking rally Juke. Listen to it all and don't forget to subscribe if you haven't yet. Or leave us a review!
Episode 271: 2022 Audi RS e-tron GT, 2022 Toyota Yaris Cross, 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer Datsun Towing Adventure, BMW Honey Taste Test
Benjamin and Sami are back after a short hiatus! The duo explain their mysterious absence before jumping back into whatever it is that makes the Unnamed Automotive Podcast so unstoppable. This week Benjamin describes his experience in the 2022 Audi RS e-tron GT, the speedy alternative to the Porsche Taycan and his first high performance EV experience. Does it make the right noises for an RS badged model, or does that even matter as battery-powered cars consistently eclipse their gas-powered rivals? Sami then shares his thoughts on the European market after having spent two weeks abroad, including some fun road trips in the 2022 Toyota Yaris Cross. The subcompact crossover is quirky and efficient, and managed to impress it's fair share of fans. Benjamin follows with an explanation of what it's like to tow his Datsun Z track car with the new 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer. Will his wallet will ever be the same? Finally the pair wrap up a secret, sticky, sweet feature that's only our die hard fans will really appreciate. Listen, like, rate and enjoy!
May 1, 2022 Update
No episode this week or next, but stay tuned because we've got the Audi RS e-tron GT, the BMW iX, and the Toyota Yaris Cross all coming your way when we resume podcasting May 15.
Episode 270: 2022 Audi S3, 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe, The Sound of the Batmobile
When luxury car makers like Audi ask you how much performance you want, the options are Mild, Medium or Spicy. This episode Benjamin dives into the Medium flavour in the form of the 2022 Audi S3, and decides whether this middle ground is balanced or compromised, and how BMW and Mercedes-Benz fit into in the strange entry-level landscape. Then Sami describes how the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee gets the 4xe treatment, having tested it out in Austin, Texas. Listen to him explain how the heavy battery pack impacts performance, whether it can still off-road, how much this electrified version of the vehicle costs, and if it's worth the extra cost. Finally, Ben and Sami go nuts over the new Batmobile after watching The Batman, before closing out this weeks episode. Be sure to listen, subscribe and send us your feedback and questions so we can answer them all in the next episode.
Episode 269: 2022 Land Rover Range Rover, 2022 Lexus NX 350h Hybrid, Listener Questions
Weren't you just wondering a bunch of random things about the 2022 Land Rover Range Rover? Get ready for all the details about the secret air-suspension setting, the weird second sharkfin antenna, the non-JLR engine under the hood, the motorized accessories and the overall luxuriousness of it all as Sami spills the beans after his first drive experience. Then Benjamin talks about his time in the 2022 Lexus NX 350h, an overwhelmingly popular luxury vehicle that was in need of a winning update. Is what we got a little too underwhelming? The pair wrap things up with a listener question about the reappearance of another legendary Honda nameplate. Listen to it all right here and don't forget to subscribe, like and send us your feedback!
Episode 268: 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness, 2022 Kia Sorento PHEV, Listener Questions, The Fate Of The Dodge Journey
Sami talks about his time and experience in the 2022 Subaru Forester WILDerness. This vehicle seems intent on reminding shoppers where Subaru lands on the SUV ruggedness scale, and that's 'at the tippy top.' With more ground clearance, beefy tires, skid plates and additional cooling, it's designed to be a rugged Forester, even though that seemed to be the default Subaru method not too long ago Benjamin jumps in to talk about empeegees with the 2022 Kia Sorento PHEV. Is its teeny turbo gas engine and electric drivetrain enough to motivate this three row, six passenger SUV? Ben talks about efficiency and performance, and how they balance out the styling and pricing of the new model. Finally the duo answer questions from listeners about new age parking strategies and the Dodge Journey. Listen, subscribe, and enjoy!
Episode 267: 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross, 2022 Toyota CH-R, Hurricane Turbo Motor, Honda ASIMO Retires
This week on the Unnamed Automotive Podcast, witness something that's as rare as a double-rainbow: the double-Toyota subcompact crossover conversation. Sami and Benjamin discuss their experiences in Toyota's TWO small crossovers: the 2022 Corolla Cross and the C-HR. Is is a problem for Toyota and its customers? Which one of these two vehicles is better positioned for success? The pair also dive into the origin stories of the two cars and where they find the most love around the world. Benjamin and Sami then celebrate the retirement of our longtime listener and fan, the Honda ASIMO, who will now go to a cushy robo retirement facility in Florida to live out the rest of its years. Additionally, our hosts dissect the new Hurricane engine from Stellantis, which signals that the era of awesome ICE propulsion isn't over yet. Do like the posters on the wall say: Live, Laugh, Love, or in our case, Listen, Laugh, Like." Note:_ A previous version of this episode went out a full day early with a few minutes of pre-podcast banter (disguised as CH-R/Corolla Cross research) somehow appended to the beginning. We apologize for the lack of professionalism on that premature launch, which can be blamed entirely on Benjamin, whose cognitive skills are rapidly deteroriating with age._ Thanks so much to the listener who brought the problem to our attention!
Episode 266: 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee, 2022 Volvo C40, 2022 Volvo XC60 T8, Ridiculous Car Trim Names
Benjamin talks about the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee and comes away thinking this may be a real competitor against the likes of German luxury. Hear him brag about the number of screens in his tester, and how Jeep manages to keep infotainment and other controls modern and simple. Sami chimes in with his confusing experience in the 2022 Volvo C40 Recharge, a battery-electric vehicle with the same dimensions, powertrain and range as the XC40 EV, not to mention the Polestar 2. So what does the C40 do differently? Listen to Sami's highlights of the C40 and hear how Volvo is artificially inflating its showrooms. Then the duo chats about weird and confusing car trim names but like FOOLS they forgot to mention the long list of night-time related black-out models. Finally, they end the episode on a riff of this weeks news, including details about an Infiniti crossover that will fit between the QX50 and QX60 and won't be called the QX55. Don't forget to listen, subscribe, review and contact us with your thoughts!
Episode 265: 2022 Volkswagen Taos, No More WRX STI, Acura Integra Sadness, This Or That Game Sami Edition
As reliable as a 20 year old Toyota, we have yet another fun episode of the Unnamed Automotive Podcast for you to listen to this week. First Benjamin jumps in and talks about the massive hole left in VW's lineup that is being replaced by the 2022 Volkswagen Taos subcompact crossover. While the old Golf was a compact-car favorite, VW felt that Americans just didn't deserve it anymore, so here comes the spacious and efficient Taos. Benjamin ponders the new motor, the ride and the pricing, and explains what was going on at VW behind the scenes to produce in this vehicle (and whether there's any reason to check one out). Then the duo rip through some of the hot news in the automotive industry. Specifically, there's super-sad information about the next generation Subaru WRX STI, and all the juicy details about the new Acura Integra. Finally, Benjamin takes Sami for a spin with his version of This-or-That, called That-or-This. Listen through, and don't forget to send us your thoughts on the episode through social media or our website www.unnamedautomotivepodcast.com
Episode 264: 2022 Ford Maverick 2.0T AWD, 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5
Its another twisty-turvy episode of the Unnamed Automotive Podcast, so buckle in and get ready! First Benjamin describes how he wasn't on the hype-train for the new 2022 Ford Maverick compact pickup truck. After hearing tons of other journalists, and even Sami talk it up a pedestal, Benjamin still had to try it for himself. Given his love for the Hyundai Santa Cruze, could the Maverick ever measure up? Also what did he put in the small cubbie on the dash? Find out his thoughts on where the Maverick fits in the wide automotive landscape, and whether its worth the money Ford is asking for it. Then Sami jumps in to explain his contrasting experience with the 2022 Hyundai IONIQ 5. Everyone said good things, so he went in expecting a world-class vehicle, but does it deliver? What's the deal with modern EVs anyways? Is 300 miles just the plateau of performance and range? What does the horizon of EVs look like. All of those questions and more are answered in this weeks fun-filled episode, so be sure to listen all the way through (or even multiple times, if you're that into it!)
Episode 263: 2022 BMW M240i xDrive, Kia Synthesizer, Hands On a Hardbody
It's another episode of the Unnamed Automotive Podcast, and this time, we're talking cars. Benjamin has a lot to say about the latest two door BMW, the 2022 M240i xDrive. With more power, and a longer wheelbase, this coupe is a departure from what the 2 series used to represent, and hints towards the future that BMW is building for its brand. Is more power ever a bad thing? What does this mean for the future M2? Where are all the useless gimmicks? All that and more are answered. Then Sami brings up some news topics, including Kia's push for EVs which may or may not include some pickup trucks, which has our hosts wondering, are there enough EV pickups? Speaking of which, news was shared about the upcoming Ram EV Pickup, which will use a body on frame design, making it fairly unique in the world of EVs. Then we get a closer look at the upcoming Jeep EV. Benjamin also shares his mild enthusiasm for a recently released Kia musical instrument. Finally, to end the episode, Benjamin describes a '90s phenomenom known as Hands on a Hard Body. A contest that stressed out participants mentally and physically, it left a mark on Benjamin with its sad 2000s coda. Listen to all of this and don't forget to rate, review and subscribe for more great automotive content.
Episode 262: 2022 Infiniti QX60, 2022 Lexus NX, 2022 BMW X3, 2022 Genesis GV70, McDonald's Arch Deluxe, Lightning Round Game
Benjamin drives the new 2022 Infiniti QX60 and frames his take on it by discusshing the heirarchy of luxury car brands. What is Tier 1 Luxury anyways and where does Infiniti rank? While the QX60 shares many components with the Nissan Pathfinder, the styling and effort with the details are supposed to make it stand out, so find out what Benjamin thinks after his time with the 3-row Japanese luxury SUV. Then Sami goes on a wild discussion about three of the newest and hottest luxury crossovers on the market. The 2022 Lexus NX has a new look and touch-screen interface, but is that enough to overcome the other options in the segment? The 2022 BMW X3 has the best motor in the segment, and a familiar cabin and experience, though can feel a bit choppy at times. Finally the 2022 Genesis GV70 seems like the jack-of-all-trades, with an experience that's good enough for most. Finally, Sami surprises Ben with a new lightning round game called "This or That." You won't want to miss it! Download, stream, rate, review, subscribe or do whatever you want to do! Thanks for listening! Arch Deluxe!
Episode 261: 2022 BMW Alpina B8, 2022 Toyota Highlander, 2022 Volvo V90 Cross Country, Weird Lexus Infotainment Designer Story, Benjamin's Nightmare Teeth
We're back with a other jam packed episode of the Unnamed Automotive Podcast. First Benjamin shakes off the post surgery blues in a green (paint, not personality) Alpina B8. This BMW+1 brand has made a name for itself over the years but it's recently stepped up its charms. Benjamin runs down what makes it so special and why it might be the coolest new BMW on the road. Sami then shares his thoughts on the 2022 Toyota Highlander, after his time comparing it to the Nissan Pathfinder. The Toyota always sits atop the sales charts, and Sami shares exactly why that is. The two go on a bit of a tangent about the Lexus infotainment system and how it is finally changing for the better, before Benjamin talks about the driver assistance woes of the 2022 Volvo V90 Cross Country. Then Benjamin's horrific mouth calls it a day and the two close up the podcast for another week. Be sure to listen, subscribe and review!
Episode 260: 2022 Volkswagen Golf R, 2022 Subaru Ascent. Utes
You might have heard that North Americans only get the 2022 Volkswagen Golf in enthusiast grade GTI and R forms. Recently, Benjamin picked up the keys to the more powerful of the two, and while there was a massive winter storm blowing snow during his testing, it wasn't the weather conditions that left him cold. Hear what VW has done to the most recent generation Golf R and whether Benjamin would recommend it. Sami then talks about how Subaru reached relevancy with its Ascent three-row back when it launched, but has struggled to do anything worthwhile with it since. Is the basic family crossover still good enough for 2022 or is the competition's more premium and powerful entries stealing the spotilgiht? Finally, Sami and Benjamin discuss another forbidden-fruit market segment: the 'Ute. Once mildly popular in North America, the 'ute was a bigger deal in other parts of the world. The duo ponder why and try to figure out if there are any hopes for more 'utes for us in the future. Be sure to subscribe, rate, and send us a note on our website UnnamedAutomotivePodcast.com