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 259: 2022 Hyundai Kona N Line, 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback, 2022 Kia Forte5, High Performance Driving Tips
Benjamin discusses his go around in the 2022 Hyundai Kona N-Line, a crossover that strives to be the median point beween the standard Kona and the speedy Kona N. Hyundai is trying to follow the path of the German M Sports and AMG Lines, but is the Kona N-Line a successful push in the right direction? Is this just a style and attitude package, a weak echo of the Pontiac Trans Am Firehawk? Sami then chimes in with his recent experience in two compact hatchbacks. A dying breed, the 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback and the Canada-only 2022 Kia Forte5 GT are both available with manual transmissions. Sami seems to think the hatchback styling of these cars stray too close to the sedan variants, and that cars like these are slowly losing their relevance to crossovers. Finally, the duo discuss high-performanc driving techniques and how they apply to driving in the snow. Listen now to get the whole scoop, and don't forget to subscribe and review.
Episode 258: 2022 Honda Civic Si, 2022 Hyundai Veloster N DCT, Benjamin's Jeep Grand Wagoner Auction Rant
This week our hosts go fast and the furious. 2022-style, with a pair of sporty compact cars. First Sami talks about the 2022 Honda Civic Si, a sedan that's grown up over the past few generations. Benjamin wonders why Honda won't give the Si more than 200 horsepower from the factory, and Sami asks if the Civic is still true to its sport-compact roots. Benjamin then jumps to the 2022 Hyundai Veloster N, which is now the only model in the Veloster lineup. This quirky three door hatchback has impressed him in the past, but does it still feel good with the new dual-clutch transmission? Sami wonders if the niche Veloster is on the way out, or if quirky vehicles like the Veloster need to be alive in order to secure any charm in the market. Finally Benjamin talks about the recent sky-high auction prices of the classic Jeep Grand Wagoneer, and how that impacts his ownership experience. Listen to it all right here, and don't forget to check in with our hosts on social media or email.
Episode 257: 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV, 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross, Guest Stephen Elmer
It's time for another great guest host. Sami and Benjamin are joined by the one and only Stephen Elmer from the Truck King YouTube channel. First the three discuss the new 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, where the L stands for "Third Row," a phrase which doesn't contain a single L within it. Or maybe it stands for "Premium Interior," another statement without the 12th letter of the alphabet. It could also stand for "Baby Wagoneer" or "Bigger Cherokee," but you'll have to listen to the whole episode to get the real scoop on this longer wheelbase, family-friendly Jeep. Then our guest Stephen Elmer brings up the recently revealed 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV, its Avalanche-inspired design, Hummer-derived powertrain, house-capable tow rating, and girthy price spread. Is the world ready for these electric truck wars? Are the roads ready? Are the charging stations ready? (Probably no to all those questions) Finally, the guys get Sami to talk about the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross, a subcompact crossover that will make you forget about the Japanese automaker's previous effort in that segment (the lamented C-HR).
Episode 256: 2022 Ford Maverick, 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5, 2022 BMW X3 M40i, Guest Chad Kirchner, Listener Questions
For 2022, Benjamin, Sami Haj-Assaad and guest Chad Kirchner from EV Pulse ask you to consider 3D printing your own podcast, much like how the much hyped 2022 Ford Maverick provides you with instructions to DIY your own accessories. The trio talk about the little Ford trucklet in great detail, and determine if it's worthy of praise, or if it's just a modern take on the cheap truck template. Chad then discusses about his recent test of the Hyundai Ioniq 5, an all new EV from the Korean automaker, with a new platform, design language, technology, and battery setup. With a la-z-boy style recliner seat and a bunch of screens, it seems perfect for playing a made up augmented reality game that combines Pokemon Go and Carmageddon—not to mention providing a potential answer to our latest listener question. Finally Ben jumps into the 2022 BMW X3 M40i and describes how sport-leaning SUVs have become less comfortable and slightly more annoying to drive. Also in this episode: the trio discuss new ideas for a viral Instagram account detailing Ford Maverick Fails.
Episode 255: 2022 Nissan Pathfinder, Best Cars Of The Year 2022 Edition
Before they get ready for the holidays, the hosts of the Unnamed Automotive Podcast get together for one more episode. Benjamin shares his experiences aboard the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder and tries to decide if it really is a "return to rugged" or just another three-row SUV in a crowded field of contenders. To get to that answer, he dives into a rabbit hole of Pathfinder info, discussing past generations and their impact on the Nissan portfolio, before pointing out the highlights of Nissan's latest effort to build a strong identity for its popular sport-utility vehicle. Sami and Ben also share their thoughts on their favourite cars and trucks for 2021. Make your bets early, because there are so many picks that the hosts don't really give you a moment to think about it. Thanks for listening and be sure to subscribe and even leave us a note to tell us which models we left off the list that deserved some extra recognition.
Episode 254: 2021 Ford Bronco Wildtrak, 2021 Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid, Forbidden Fruit Kei Cars, BMW M Book Review, Listener Questions
Benjamin talks about his experience in the new 2021 Ford Bronco Wildrak, and explores how the Blue Oval has worked to keep up with the legacy and momentum of the Jeep Wrangler. Was the Wrangler as easy of a target as Ford thought it was? Benjamin decides whether the Bronco beats its Jeep bogey in any meaningful way, and whether the hype machine surrounding the Ford is warranted. The Sami jumps into the newly-electrified 2021 Ford Escape PHEV, and wonders if this vehicle was made to satisfy an eco-cred quotient, or if it had an intended target in the market. With 37 miles of consistent electric range to compare to the Tucson PHEVs 33 and RAV4 Prime's 42, is the Escape a happy medium between the two? Finally, the pair dive into a new segment this week, talking about an entire class of vehicle that eluded the North American market—the kei cars of Japan—before wrapping things up with a BMW M book review and a listener question. Tons of stuff to listen to this week, but don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or comments!
Episode 253: 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz Pickup, 2022 Genesis GV70 2.5, Performance Driving Tips, Listener Emails
Benjamin dives deep into the crossover-turned-pickup-truck known as the 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz. As Sami chants "Utes not Coupes," he explains why this quirky compact trucklet is in the running for his Car of the Year. Or would that be Truck of the Year? Sami gets another go in the 2022 Genesis GV70, but this time it's the more affordable 2.5T model. Considering there's a $20,000 gap between the entry level turbo 4 and the top trim V6, his experience provides a rounded understanding of the Korean luxury crossover., one that sends the duo on a nostalgic trip to a time when Infiniti was a competitive brand There's also a new segment this week, where Benjamin explains the importance of understanding your tire's contact patch and how time at the track can help you feel confident and safe driving in winter weather. Don't just read this description, start listening to the Unnamed Automotive Podcast!
Episode 252: 2022 Volvo XC60 B6, 2021 Toyota Prius Prime
On this week's episode our hosts dive deep into a pair of cars that struggle to impress. First Sami describes the mild updates to the 2022 Volvo XC60 B6, which gets a new Johan De Nysschen-like nomenclature to go along with a Google-branded operating system and a beefy 48-volt electrical system. Is the twin-charged motor and minimalist styling enough to save this Swedish luxury crossover from Sami's ire and discontent? Next, Benjamin gets his hands on the 2022 Toyota Prius Prime, a plug-in variant of the popular, yet one-note hybrid. Listen to how Benjamin's frustrating experience with the car's electric range fails to match up with its advertised figures, then hear his one weird trick to using as little gas as possible. Don't forget to visit unnamedautomotivepodcast.com to get in touch with us or check out past episodes.
Episode 251: 2022 Rolls-Royce Ghost Black Label, 2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness, 2022 Nissan Rogue
If you're the type to have a whole different 'podcast listening vibe' at night versus during the day, then this week's episode is for you! Sami starts out with his experience in the new 2022 Rolls-Royce Ghost Black Badge: its history, its relevance, and its weird placement in RR lore that certainly doesn't suggest it's the perfect ride for a nocturnal pyschopath on a killing spree. Benjamin then shares his thoughts on the 2022 Subaru Outback WILDerness, and whether it's the real off-roading Subaru deal or just another somewhat goofy trim package for those secret Pontiac stans who really, really love plastic body cladding. Finally, Sami and Benjamin talk about marketing versus real-world fuel numbers in the new variable compression, turbo three-equipped 2022 Nissan Rogue, where Sami reveals his deep-seated fears that someone, somewhere, is playing an elaborate trick on would-be Nissan buyers.
Episode 250: 2022 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X, 2022 BMW 2 Series, LA Auto Show, Dolphin-Safe Cars
Sami and Benjamin team up again to talk about the 2022 Nissan Frontier, a vehicle that hasn't seen a significant update since before pop culture references were a thing! Hear whether Benjamin digs the styling, the interior updates, the powerful new engine or the nine-speed automatic transmission. Or more likely hear how his wimpy arms can't handle the hydraulic power steering setup. The duo discuss whether the Nissan Frontier is a pack leader, or just a truck stuck in limbo, waiting for the world to be taken over by lifestyle pickups like the Hyundai Santa Cruz and Ford Maverick. Sami also dives into the larger, heavier, biggers, heavier, faster, heavier and wider 2022 BMW 2 Series Coupe. He seems to suggest that it's bigger, but that can't be true, can it? Hear his impressions, both positive and negative on this weighty subject, and how the modern era of BMW weighs in compared to what we know and love about the brand. Finally, the pair discuss the latest goofy reveals from the 2022 LA Auto Show. Listen, review, subscribe and do all your favorite things!
Episode 249: 2022 BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe, 2022 Kia Carnival, Forza Horizon 5, Hot Wheels Unleashed Video Game
Sami starts things off with a discussion of the new 2022 BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe, a weird car that fills a narrow space in the industry, but seems to capture the hearts of enthusiasts (or at least Sami's) in a way that no robot (Subaru or Honda branded one) can match. Also, the pair ponder where a scorpion would hide out from the heat within the folds of the BMW's design. This segment has a ton of fun segues, including "remember the (insert random acroynm of BMW vehicle here)?" and "What's better, a weird hatchback, a wagon, or a lifted wagon with body cladding?" Benjamin then brings up how much fun he had with the 2022 Carnival, Kia's new minivan that goes all-in on luxury. While Sami whines that "minivans are for families," Benjamin remains perfectly composed in describing the true K-luxury offered by #vanlife. Finally, Sami talks quickly about a pair of video games he's been playing that seem to treat car enthusiasts honestly: Forza Horizon 5 and Hot Wheels Unleashed. As usual, check out the website for more content, and don't forget to subscribe or send a review!
Episode 248: 2022 Mini Cooper S 4-Door, 2022 Mercedes-AMG SL-Class, Did O.G. Hummer Have A Chance, Rivian's Toxic Bro Culture
It's time for a fantastic voyage into the four-door 2022 Mini Cooper S. As Benjamin compares the experience of driving this against the John Cooper Works convertible he had a few weeks ago, Sami brings up the vast amount of available features and extra cost items that can be had on a modern Mini. Hear their final thoughts on whether the four-door Cooper is the one to get, or even if its worth considering at all in a market full of strong compacts. The pair then chat about the new 2022 Mercedes-AMG SL Class, and ponder about its journey from flagship roadster to the also-ran status it's heading towards. With all-wheel-drive, rear seats, a soft top, and AMG development, it sounds more and more like a 911 wannabe than a true SL, which was a sought-after classicfor decades. Then the car talk shifts to another icon, but this time of the late '90s and early 00s: Hummer. Benjamin theorizes that the Hummer nameplate could have survived if other automakers jumped into the same market it was competing in, and describes three 2000s-era concepts that never came to fruition: the Dodge Power Wagon, Ford Equator and the Hummer HX/H4. Finally, the pair discuss some ugly news coming out of Rivian and tackle the challenges presented by allegations regarding its toxic bro culture.
Episode 247: 2022 Bentley Flying Spur, 2022 BMW M4 Competition Track Tested, 2022 BMW Alpina B8 Gran Coupe
Benjamin slumps into his chair and sighs, missing the 2022 Bentley Flying Spur he's recently tested. It's his first taste of Bently goodness and he has a lot to say about about the ultra-luxurious, ultra exclusive sedan. He goes through some of the pricey options (like the hood ornament) and intimately describes the car's flashy James Bondian dashboard. Sami then gives us his quick impressions of the new all-wheel-drive 2022 BMW M4 Competition, which he drove on the curvy course at Thermal. He follows that up 2022 BMW Alpina B8 Gran Coupe, a car that may look like the average 8 Series, but which hides a far more exclusive secret, forcing Benjamin to grill Sami about his sensibilities by asking if this Alpina worth nearly $10,000 more than the M8 Gran Coupe that the two podcast hosts enjoyed just a year ago. Listen to get all the details as well as to hear a deep Hellraiser reference, coming in hot for our spookiest holiday.
Episode 246: 2022 Lexus NX, 2022 Toyota Tundra, 2022 Genesis G70 3.3T AWD
Last week on UAP Sami and Benjamin agreed that the 2022 Genesis GV70 SUV is a class leader, but this week Sami is already flip-flopping on that statement. It turns out the new 2022 Lexus NX plug-in hybrid has caught his attention and he's blabbering non-stop about the new Japanese compact crossover. The pair take a few tangents into Volvo XC40 territory, before bringing up the new 2022 Toyota Tundra and its sneaker inspired powertrain. While other truckmakers offer V8s and diesels, will Toyota survive with just a pair of V6 offerings? Does it have a chance against the hybrid Ford F-150? Finally Benjamin shares all the details of his roadtrip experience in the refreshed 2022 Genesis G70. While he gushes about the powertrain and value, he also wonders if Genesis is ready to abandon its entry level sport sedan like much of the rest of the industry seems set to do. Listen for all the juicy details, specifications, and banter, and please be sure to comment on or review the podcast after you listen!
Episode 245: 2022 Ford Bronco, 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz, 2022 Genesis GV70
Sami and Benjamin are BACK! Sami gives his first impressions of Fords Jeep Wrangler-rival, aka the 2022 Bronco. Does it fill all the gaps left behind by Jeep's iconic SUV? Did he get wet from a leaky roof? Can a vehicle with the name BAD in its trim be a success? You gotta listen to find out! Then Sami jumps into the 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz, and reassures listeners that this isn't a Subaru Baja re-do. Benjamin follows up with his thorough review of the 2022 Genesis GV70, (even though he forgot KEY DETAILS ABOUT THE POWERTRAIN) as well as it's somewhat confusing controls and biometric monitoring. Is the only thing holding Genesis back from mainstream success a mention in a Jay Z track?
Episode 244: 2022 Mini Cooper John Cooper Works Convertible, 2022 Nissan Sentra vs. 2022 Toyota Corolla, 2022 Toyota Tundra Redesign
Summers not over till we say it is (and because Benjamin is out there getting his tan on in a drop top Mini). Hear his thoughts on the 2022 John Cooper Works convertible discover if this unique compact caught his attention, or if the Mini-BMW connection has fatigued the British brand. Sami then talks compact car rankings, with the always popular 2022 Toyota Corolla and the less lower-profile 2022 Nissan Sentra going head to head before he explains where they among the best in the segment. Finally, the conversation takes an abrupt shift north to talk about the new 2022 Toyota Tundra redesign.
Episode 243: 2022 Hyundai Elantra N-Line, 2021 Chevrolet Suburban Duramax Diesel
Sami takes the 2022 Hyundai Elantra N-Line for a spin, which is the right car for those that want a sporty compact but are afraid of jumping in with both feet. The pair compare the new N-Line to the old Elantra Sport and ask if enough progress has been made in this enthusiast friendly market segment or if buyers should look outside of the Hyundai showroom. Benjamin then jumps into the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban Duramax Diesel, a large and in charge SUV that proves to be perfect for road trip duty. Warning: This episode also takes random tangents into discussion of the redesigned Subaru WRX and the Ford Expedition Timberline.
Episode 242: 2021 Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio, 2022 Honda Civic
Benjamin plops himself into the driver seat of yet anout $70,000 machine boasting more than 500 horsepower,, This time it's the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio. After driving a pair of hi-po BMW M cars back-to-back, how does this rare Italian fare? Sami gets his hands on the accessible and impressive 2022 Honda Civic, a "compact" car that's as long as a not-so-old Honda Accord. The pair wonder if compact cars are gone for good while Sami explains the major differences between this Civic and the previous generation.
Episode 241: 2021 BMW M3 6-Speed, 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E Road Trip
"Save the manuals!" is something every enthusiasts believes with their whole heart, yet after driving the 2021 BMW M3 6-speed Benjamin wonders if every stickshift is worthy of consevation. Listen as 'Mr. Moneybags' even calls the $70k super sedan 'affordable' as he compares it to last week's M4 Competition. Sami then explains his ill-fated plan to go road tripping in the 2021 Mustang Mach E, where he finds out first-hand why the long-distance experience in an EV is cumbersome and clumsy. You'd think as a journalist, he'd have researched these things in advance, but as usual his confidence outweighs his professionalism.
Episode 240: 2021 BMW M4 Competition, 2022 Genesis GV70, The Hyundai Multiverse
Benjamin gets a taste of the 2021 BMW M4 Competition, which has a magical grille that causes him to make up words and endure uncomfortable seats. He claims it's ok that the coupe is automatic-only because it provides a serious power upgrade for very little cash—even compared to similarly-priced muscle cars like the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 and the Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye. Sami samples the 2022 Genesis GV70, a vehicle that has the entire weight of the Genesis brand on its fenders. Luckily, it has features like a 3D gauge cluster and a fingerprint reader to accomplish its mission. Is it good enough to overshadow its German SUV rivals? Finally, the pair poke fun at a weird multidimensional press release from Hyundai.
Episode 239: 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer, 2021 Subaru Outback Wilderness
For decades, scholars and researchers have pondered: how many screens are too many? Benjamin and Sami get to the bottom of this topic after a long drive in the 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer, which is a brand new model in the Jeep portfolio that doesn't wear a Jeep badge anywhere in sight. Later, Sami changes his mind about Subaru's midsized crossover and goes full-Sasquatch for the 2021 Subaru Outback Wilderness trim, which he says is what the model should have been in the first place. Now we all know what to get Sami for Christmas: more plastic body cladding.
Episode 238: 2022 Toyota GR86, 2021 Lexus LC500 Convertible, Listener Questions
Sami brings hands-on impressions of the car that changes its name every other year, 2022 Toyota GR 86, followed by Benjamin's time in the unanimously great Lexus LC500, which somehow gets better after losing a core part of its structure. The pair talk about Japanese rear-wheel-drive coupes as if they're a dying breed. Wait... are they a dying breed? Then it's time to answer some (non-personal) listener questions, before going off on yet another tangent about something completely unrelated.
Episode 237: 2021 Land Rover Defender 90, Listener Questions
It's time to talk Defender, which you'd think would be the latest Marvel superhero movie but in this case is actually an off-road nameplate that is making its way to North America for the first time—officially—after decades of grey market imports. Benjamin and Sami each spent a week in the two-door 2021 Land Rover Defender 90, and they've got some definite thoughts about this latest, and not-so-luxurious, yet so-very-capable effort from the British brand. Plus, a whole bunch of listener questions answered!
Episode 236: 2021 Mercedes-Benz E450 4MATIC Cabriolet, Jeep Grand Wagoneer Project Update, Summer Free-Association
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz E450 4MATIC Cabriolet is Benjamin's first encounter with the Silver Star's new inline-6 turbo engine, and it turns out to be the most impressive aspect of this mid-size top-down cruiser. After an update about the latest twists and turns in Benjamin's Jeep Grand Wagoneer LS swap project, the pair head down a rabbit hole of summertime free-association car talk.
Episode 235: 2021 Mercedes-AMG E63 S 4MATIC Wagon, 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander vs. 2021 Kia Sorento, Listener Questions
The 2021 Mercedes-AMG E63 S 4MATIC wagon is an enthusiast's dream, with over 600 horsepower in a long-roof package that glares aggressively across the showroom at overweight SUVs. Benjamin spends a week behind the wheel of the E63 S wagon to try and decide whether the longtime segment leader is a match for the upstart Audi RS6 Avant. Sami heads into crossover country to match up the compact 2021 Mitsubishi Outlander three-row versus the mid-size 2021 Kia Sorento in a bid to discover whether it makes sense to get more features and less passenger room in a compact SUV or instead enjoy the extra space of a modestly-equipped mid-sizer choice. Plus, listener questions!