Wheel Bearings
https://wheelbearings.media
Updated 6 days agoWheel Bearings is a podcast about cars and transportation hosted by Sam Abuelsamid, Nicole Wakelin and Roberto Baldwin
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Episodes (462)
Declining Value Proposition
Nicole is on the road this week so we have Perry Stern joining us a guest. Over the past couple of weeks Perry has been driving the Porsche 718 Boxster and the new 2025 Toyota Camry which now comes exclusively with hybrid power. Robbie took a road trip in the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Sam had the Honda Ridgeline Trailsport before his vacation and then the Mercedes-Benz EQS 450+ SUV to drive around northern California.In the news Ford has done a mid-cycle update of the Maverick and finally has an all-wheel-drive hybrid available but the price has climbed by an average of $2,400, still modest by current truck price standards, but no longer the screaming deal it was just two years ago. Audi has launched a new electric only A6 and once popular brands Recaro and BBS have both filed for bankruptcy protection. A Tesla owner using "full-self-driving" mode has killed a motorcyclist in Seattle and Ford is offering a torque upgrade for the Mach-E GT as an OTA update. Ineos has decided to scrap plans to expand its lineup and focus on higher-marging bespoke models instead. Toyota is adding an automatic transmission option to the GR Corolla for those that want to focus on handling instead of shifting. ElectraMeccanica went bust with its single-seat Solo EV and now all of them are set to be crushed. Perry took the states with Mini and we answer listener questions.Wheel Bearings listeners get an extra 3 months for free when they sign up for ExpressVPN at https://www.expressvpn.com/wheelbearingsLinks2025 Ford Maverick, value evaporatingAudi A6 e-tronBBS and Recaro circling the drainSeatle motorcyclist killed by Tesla FSDMach-e gets an OTA performance updateIneos to focus on margins over volumeGR Corolla gets an automaticElectraMeccamica Solos wait to be crushedMINI Takes the StatesAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Manila Vanilla, It's Yellow
This week, Sam is enjoying a much-deserved vacation, so we have Jill Ciminillo, managing editor for Pickup Truck + SUV Talk as a special guest. Jill drove the Acura TLX while Robbie had some time with the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio, which he can drive but can’t pronounce. Nicole was in the Toyota bZ4X which she loved, aside from one rather large issue.In the news, the Cadillac Sollei concept made its debut as a 2-door convertible in a color we all question, but with stunning design details. Rivian opened a COutpost outside Yosemite with free coffee (yes!) and the Honda Civic Si is back with a manual transmission only (yes again!). Acura is ditching Sirius XM, which isn’t’ as big a deal as it seems, but Stellantis may cut underperforming brands from its portfolio, which definitely is a big deal. Volvo is the latest automaker to adjust its EV plans and Toyota issues an engine recall that has them replacing the entire engine in around 100,000 vehicles.Wheel Bearings listeners get an extra 3 months for free when they sign up for ExpressVPN at https://www.expressvpn.com/wheelbearingsLinksCadillac Sollei - 2 door convertible Celestiq conceptRivian Yosemite charging outpostHonda Civic Si ReturnsAcura ditches in-car SiriusXM appStellantis May Cut BrandsVolvo EV Plans May SlowToyota Engine RecallSam's Corvette ZR-1 deep diveAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Basically A Fast Economy Car
This week, Nicole is driving the refreshed Genesis GV80, Robbie had the Mercedes-Benz EQS sedan and BMW XM and Sam got to play with the Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally.In the news, Sam spotted Hyundai and Kia testing NACS/J3400 charging ports on an Ioniq 5 and EV6 at a Supercharger. Cadillac is putting a 55-inch screen in the gas Escalade. Honda is working on a new generation Passport that might be more off-road capable. Ford is using its Oakville, Ont. assembly plant to build Super Duty trucks that will get electrified and Nicole and Sam drive the refreshed Explorer. Nicole went to Germany to see the new Audi A5 and Lexus is offering a fancier version of the GR Corolla Morizo, but in Japan only.Wheel Bearings listeners get an extra 3 months for free when they sign up for ExpressVPN at https://www.expressvpn.com/wheelbearingsLinksHyundai/Kia testing J3400 EVs2025 Cadillac Escalade2026 Honda PassportYandex Self-Driving is now Avride2025 Ford ExplorerFord Expanding Super Duty production and electrifyingLexus LBX Morizo2025 Audi A5Audi's Still Doing ICEAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
No Real Safety Benefit
This week Sam has been driving the 2024 Ford F-150 Tremor. Nicole had the Mazda CX-70 and Robbie has just started on the Mercedes-Benz EQSFor 2024, Toyota has improved the abysmal charging performance of the AWD bZ4X and Electrify America is piloting an 85% charge limit. Nissan has launched an off-roady-ish Rogue that now has hands-free driving assist. Ford unveils its 2025 Dakar challenger and Mazda is putting a Rav4 hybrid system into the CX-50. Ford has launched a new EV in Europe that looks like the Polestar 2 and bears the name of a 1970s sports coupe. Tesla's market share continues to decline and partial automation systems don't seem to help safety.Wheel Bearings listeners get an extra 3 months for free when they sign up for ExpressVPN at https://www.expressvpn.com/wheelbearingsLinksToyota Improves bZ4X chargingNissan Rogue Rock CreekFord Raptor T1+EA pilots 85% charging limitEarly automotive navigationMazda CX-50 HybridNew Ford CapriTesla drops to 50% US EV sharePartial Automation doesn't boost safetyAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
It's An Electric Flex
This week Robbie takes a road trip to southern California in the BMW i7, Nicole gets an unexpectedly eye-catching Ford Bronco Sport and Sam belatedly comes to the realization that the awesome Kia EV9 is basically an electric Ford Flex.Sam provides a follow-up on the 2025 Ram 1500 and its batteries. GM got a fine from the EPA over excess CO2 emissions and had to give up a bunch of C02 credits. Small car sales are picking up and Jim Farley want's people to buy more of them, even though Ford doesn't actually offer any right now. Land Rover launches a high performance Defender and Ineos indefinitely delays the electric Fusilier. BMW is working on a new coupe based on the electric Neue Klasse platform and the Supreme Court may have made it way harder to introduce any new regulations.Finally, make sure to listen all the way to the Q&A at the end because we have a special treat question from long-time listener Adam J.Wheel Bearings listeners get an extra 3 months for free when they sign up for ExpressVPN at https://www.expressvpn.com/wheelbearingsLinksGM fined for excess CO2 emissionsEPA on GM excess emissionsAre Small Cars Back?Land Rover Defender OctaIneos Fusilier delayedBMW Neue Klasse CoupeEV Mandates May Be Next SCOTUS victimCarbuzz on SCOTUSAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
It's About The Style
This week Nicole is driving the Ford Maverick and Sam has the new Fiat 500eNicole went to the Busan Motor Show in Korea last week to deliver an award to Kia. While there she got to see the new Kia EV3 and the little Hyundai Casper EV. GM Design has been posting images from the design archives on Instagram including a concept for a second-generation G8 that sadly never made it to production. Cox Automotive gave a mid-year update and EV leasing is growing dramatically. Automakers are pushing back on NHTSA's new automatic emergency braking rules. VW is turning to Rivian to try to solve it's software problems and BMW has a new plug-in hybrid M5. While someone that owns the rights to the Delorean brand has shown an electric concept, a UK company is restomodding original examples. Rimac has shifted from electric supercars to robotaxis with the help of Mobileye. Volvo is also having software issues that have caused a stop sale on the new EX30 in Europe, while tarrifs have delayed the US launch. Sam participated in a Q&A with Jaguar Cars managing director Rawdon Glover to learn about the future of the brand.LinksThe last Pontiac G8 conceptCox Automotive mid-year updateAutomakers push back on AEB rulesVW and Rivian partnership2025 BMW M5Actual Electric DeloreanRimac RobotaxiVolvo EX30 delayedHyundai Casper EVAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
1.6 Miles Of Copper
This week in the garage, Nicole has been driving two cars that are basically the same but oh so different, the Buick Envista Avenir and the Porsche Cayenne GTS while Sam tries out some hands-off highway driving in the new 2025 Ram 1500 Limited.In th news, Lexus should soon be launching a successor to the LFA that will form the basis of its next GT3 race car. Uber and Lyft are adopting the Toyota bZ4X. 15 years ago, we expected to see light duty pickups from Detroit with diesel V8s but they all got cancelled. However, some prototypes of the GM 4.5L Duramax has occasionally popped up. That engine was specifically designed to fit in the suprisingly compact package envelope of the classic GM small block. One of the places that small block V8s occasionally show up is in Miatas, and friend of the show Tommy Mica tries one out.Fisker has finally filed for bankruptcy and Sam got a look at the Leapmotor C10 from China. Accidental Tech Podcast host Casey Liss had a crazy engine failure in his family's Volvo XC90. Sam has more on the updated Rivian R1 and a 3,600 mile Tesla road trip demonstrates why we need more emphasis on AC charging to make EVs truly mainstream. TFL Truck's Andre Smirnov gets a deep dive on the Ford SuperTruck that is tackling Pikes Peak this week.Wheel Bearings listeners get an extra 3 months for free when they sign up for ExpressVPN at https://www.expressvpn.com/wheelbearingsLinksCayenne GTSLexus LFR comingToyota bZ4X as NYC UbersThe Chevrolet 4.5L Duramax V8Tommy drives a V8 MiataFisker files for bankruptcyCasey's engine goes boom (1:41)Leapmotor C10Rivian R1 updatesAnother case of why we shouldn't depend on DC fast chargingAndre checks out the Lightning SupertruckAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Do You Need An AI Best Friend?
This week, Nicole has been driving the Genesis GV60 Performance, Robbie spent time with the Ineos Grenadier and Quartermaster and Sam drove the Ford Mustang Dark Horse.Nicole also went on an electric off-road adventure with the Polaris Ranger EXP in Michigan's Upper Penninsula and drove the new GMC Acadia. Sam went to the Stellantis investor day and got to try out the Peugeot e-3008 and rode in the Maserati Gran Turismo Folgore. Dealers are once again demonstrating why customers hate them by slapping huge markups on the Chevrolet Equinox EV. We also answer listener questions.Wheel Bearings listeners get an extra 3 months for free when they sign up for ExpressVPN at https://www.expressvpn.com/wheelbearingsLinksVW ID Buzz CampersStellantis investor dayPolaris off-road adventureMaserati Gran Turismo FolgorePeugeot e-3008STLA Brain, Cockpit, AutodriveGMC Acadia first driveDon't pay markups for the Chevy Equinox EVHamilton's North Coast AdventuresAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Plug-in Hybrids Are Or Are Not Fine
Robbie has the updated the Ford Mustang Mach-E with a lithium iron phosphate battery, Nicole has the Hyundai Sonata and Elantra N-Line and Sam has the 2024 Ford Ranger XLT.Ford is attacking the Pikes Peak Hillclimb with another EV, this time the Lightning Supertruck. Rivian has done its first major update the R1 series with new motors, battery packs and electronics. Nicole spoke with some Fisker employees about the s**tshow in Manhattan Beach. Two three-row, electric SUVs started production in the US, the Kia EV9 and Volvo EX90. IIHS crash tested full-size SUVs and the results were not great. Friend of the show Jonny Lieberman wrote a rant against plug-in hybrids and Robbie made a video about them. Finally, Sam has a conversation with Michigan's chief mobility officer Justine JohnsonWheel Bearings listeners get an extra 3 months for free when they sign up for ExpressVPN at https://www.expressvpn.com/wheelbearingsLinksFord Lightning Supertruck to Pikes PeakRivian R1 updatesFisker Employee Inside StoryKia EV9 US productionVolvo EX90 start US productionIIHS tests big SUVsIIHS Crash testsJonny is wrong about PHEVsUnderstanding Plug-in hybridsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
The Best EV Value
This week Robbie was carless but Nicole has to vehicles to tell us about, the Lexus TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid and the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison. Meanwhile Sam describes his disappointment with the Nissan Z Nismo, at least as a sports car for the street.We also have a first drive review of the new Chevrolet Equinox EV, which despite GM's claims is most definitely not a compact but it is very good. We have first looks at the production Jeep Wagoneer S and Cadillac Optiq. With all of the safety issues we have on the road, some regulators and politicians have decided to set their sights on a tiny niche of a niche, the Japanese Kei car. For those tired of weeding out all the automatic transmission cars on Bring a Trailer, there is now a manual only auction site. 14 years after racing a hybrid 911, Porsche finally has a production model for 2025. The Geneva Motor Show has been cancelled indefinitely and we answer listener questions.Wheel Bearings listeners get an extra 3 months for free when they sign up ExpressVPN at https://www.expressvpn.com/wheelbearingsLinksChevrolet Equinox EV first driveJeep Wagoneer SCadillac OptiqThe war on Kei carsManual only auction site2025 Porsche 911 GTS hybridGeneva Motor Show canceled indefinitelyAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Too Heavy
Nicole is traveling again this week so it's just the boys. Robbie had nothing to drive, but Sam hit the road to the MAMA Spring Rally at Road America #MAMA24SR in the Nissan Rogue AWD Platinum.We have a first drive review of the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV RST First Edition and Sam shares some thoughts on some of the vehicles he drove at the Rally including the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, Kia EV6 GT, Ineos Grenadier, Polaris Slingshot, Volvo EX30, Hummer EV SUV and Mustang Dark Horse. Kia unveiled the new EV3, hopefully coming to America in 2025. Honda showed off the updated Civic, now with hybrid power. Apple wants to make it easier to read a phone in the car without getting sick. California wants automatic speeding warnings and BMW unveils the new Skytop concept.Wheel Bearings listeners get an extra 3 months for free when they sign up ExpressVPN at https://www.expressvpn.com/wheelbearingsThanks to ExpressVPN and listeners for supporting Wheel BearingsLinks2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV RST First EditionKia EV32025 Honda Civic HybridiOS Tackles motion sicknessCalifornia considers speed alert requirementPolaris Slingshot RBMW SkyTop conceptAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Two Transmissions in One
This week Nicole had a Chevy Blazer EV that had to go home early and a Hyundai Kona. Robbie drove the Fiat 500e and Sam drove the BMW 530i xDrive.Despite some recent skepticism because of the Supercharger layoffs at Tesla, EVgo is moving forward with installing J3400 connectors on its DC fast chargers. Rivians run Android Automotive and are getting Google Cast support. Honda provides an EV update. BYD has a plug-in hybrid midsize pickup called the Shark, and Motor Trend disproves Tesla's 911 Cybertruck drag race claims. BMW's Neue Klasse EVs will charge really fast and Nicole has thoughts on a French safety campaign. Dodge boss Tim Kuniskis retires and we answer listener questions.Wheel Bearings listeners get an extra 3 months for free when they sign up ExpressVPN at https://www.expressvpn.com/wheelbearingsThanks to ExpressVPN and listeners for supporting Wheel BearingsLinksEVGo begins NACS deploymentAndroid Automotive gets Google Cast support starting with RivianHonda EV updateBYD SharkMotor Trend drag races the Cybertruck and 911BMW Neue Klasse - 186 miles in 10 minutesFrance encourages everyone to drive like a womanAudi/Porsche PPE platformTim Kuniskis retiresAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
A Little Digital Kiss
Robbie is back from Japan and driving the BMW i5 M60. Nicole jumps from last week's Suburban into the Nissan Altima and Sam had the Cadillac Lyriq with new better door handles and fully functional software.In the news, will Rivian partner with Apple on something? Infotainment, ADAS? Will the US impose 100% tarrifs on Chinese made EVs? Ford is scaling back orders for EV batteries, but how much are they really losing per electric vehicle? On the combustion side, nearly 1/4 of F-150s are now hybrids. The aftermath of Tesla gutting its charging team is still playing out as other companies scramble to pick up the pieces. Cadillac has a new documentary about its Le Mans racing program and Hyundai steps in to save Motional and its automated driving efforts. Finally ZF had a technology demo day and Sam got to try out some cool stuff.Wheel Bearings listeners get an extra 3 months for free when they sign up ExpressVPN at https://www.expressvpn.com/wheelbearings Thanks to ExpressVPN and listeners for supporting Wheel BearingsLinksApple and Rivian to partner?100% Tariffs on Chinese EVs?Ford Cuts Battery Orders, How Much Are They Really Losing on EVs?Nearly 1/4 of F-150s now hybridIt's all about the chargingBP Pulse and Shell interested in Supercharger sitesNo Perfect Formula TrailerTrying to get a speeding ticket in a slow carZF Demo DayHyundai spending nearly $1B to keep Motional drivingNissan Altima ReviewAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
The Girl In The Trunk
As Robbie and his wife celebrate 18 years of marriage with a vacation in Japan, we're joined this week by our friend Jill Ciminillo. Jill shares her thoughts on one of the most affordable new cars still offered for sale in the US, the Nissan Versa SR. Nicole hwas been driving something nearly large enough to hold a Versa inside, the Chevrolet Suburban High Country and Sam has the Infiniti QX55 with its silly dual screen infotainment system.We also have a first drive review of the new 2024 Chevrolet Traverse and a discussion of why Mercedes-Benz won't be adopting the next-generation Apple Carplay. That rolls into a discussion of GM's decision to drop Carplay support from its EVs. NHTSA is looking into why there were two fatal crashes of vehicles running Ford's hands-free BlueCruise system. Tesla has fired its whole Charging team. By 2029 all new vehicles in the US will need automatic emergency braking systems capable of working at speeds up to 90 mph. The woes for Fisker Ocean owners continue with a lack of parts availability.Links2024 Chevrolet TraverseMercedes-Benz Won't Let CarPlay Take OverNHTSA Investigating BlueCruiseTesla fires supercharger teamTesla fires supercharger teamAEB up to 90 mph to be mandatory by 2029Fisker Ocean totalled over a $910 door dingFisker cannibalizing prototypes for service partsChevy Blazer EV infotainment demo Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Finding The Hidden Charge Port
Nicole is back and she shares her impressions of driving a Lynk&Co 01 that she and her husband rented in France during their vacation. Robbie will have more to share next week about the BMW i5 and Sam has driven the Land Rover Defender 110 and Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray.In the news, the Ram TRX has been shelved for now, but Ram has a six-cylinder powered version called the RHO. Mercedes-Benz has revealed an all-electric version of the new G-Wagen with four motors. There were several interesting reveals at the 2024 Beijing Motor Show and some of them might make it to North America. The Mini Aceman is all electric, but it doesn't directly replace the discontinued Clubman. The Mazda EZ-6 is a great looking electric sedan that should come to America along with the Buick Electra L and LT. While the design of the Toyota bZ4X is polarizing, the bZ3C and bZ3X are much more appealing. Honda and its partners will invest $11 billion into an EV production ecosystem in Alliston, Ontario and NHTSA has closed one Tesla Autopilot investigation and opened up another.LinksLynk & Co 012025 Ram 1500 RHOTesla Autopilot has caused hundreds of crashes, dozens of fatalitiesMini AcemanMazda EZ-6Toyota BZ3C and BZ3XBuick Electra L, LT conceptsHonda $11B investment in Canada EV productionMercedes-Benz G-Wagen EQAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
No Soap Please
Nicole is still cruising European rivers so it's just the boys this week. Robbie drove the Range Rover Sport and used a Ford Transit to get his bands to Salt Lake City for a couple of shows (hence why there was no episode last week). Sam has been driving the Subaru CrossTrek Wilderness.In the news, VW workers in Tennessee join the UAW, and Mercedes-Benz is voting next. Toyota launches a 6th gen 4Runner. Sam sees the BMW Vision Neue Klasse X in person and talks with Designworks CEO Julia de Bono. Kia is testing the EV3 and it may sticker for under $35,000. GM launches its vehicle to home charging products. Alfa Romeo unveils its first EV as the Milano and almost immediately changes the name. Back in the 1980s, Porsche was developing a Miata competitor before the Mazda launched. Maserati shows off the stunning Gran Cabrio Folgore and Honda is launching a new design language for its Ye EVs in China.LinksVW Workers in Tennessee Vote for UAW, M-B next?2025 Toyota 4RunnerBMW Vision Neue Klasse XSoapy Cybertruck RecallKia EV3 may be under $35,000GM Launches V2H productsAlfa Romeo Launches Milano EV, Quickly Renames it JuniorWhat if Porsche built a Miata Competitor?Maserati Gran Cabrio FolgoreHonda Ye EVs for ChinaAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Still Too Much
This week Nicole and her husband compare the 2024 Jeep Wrangler 4XE to their 2022 model that they own. Robbie takes the Kia EV9 on a snowboarding trip and is unimpressed by the new Lincoln Nautilus. Sam drives the 2024 Polestar 2 dual motor performance model.Nicole shares her impressions of driving the updated Jeep Gladiator in Moab and Hyundai has unveiled a race version of the Ioniq 5 N. Friend of the show Alex Dykes shares his impressions of a Fisker Ocean he rented on Turo. Chevrolet officially prices the Silverado EV RST first edition and cuts the price by $10K from what was originally announced while JerryRigEverything goes 460 miles on a charge. Tesla kills its $25K car to focus on a robotaxi and Ford delays its next EVs by up to 2 years. Our friend Tommy Mica from TFL decides to driving his 1915 Model T in the snow and a listener asks about a Mitsubishi pickup truck in California.LinksIONIQ 5 N eN1 Cup car2024 Jeep GladiatorAlex on Fisker, 12V problems and broken vents460 Miles in the Silverado EV RSTChevy Cuts Silverado EV RST price by $10KTesla scraps $25K EVFord delays next-gen EVs up to 2 yearsDriving a Model T in the snowMitsubishi TritonAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Faster Than Magma
This week, friend of the show Perry Stern is filling in for Robbie and he's been driving the Mercedes-AMG GLB. Nicole tries out the latest variant of Honda's pickup truck the off-road-ish Ridgeline Trailsport and Sam has the Acura TLX Type-S.Perry went to the New York for the Auto Show this week and gives us a rundown on what he saw including the new Genesis Neolun concept and the GV60 Magma performance model. Kia also unveiled the new entry level K4 sedan and teased an upcoming hatchback version. Hyundai showed off mid-cycle refreshes for the Tucson and Santa Cruz that look a bit more truckish and bring back the buttons on the center stack. Nissan also unveiled a new version of the Kicks and the Infiniti QX80.Instead of New York, Nicole went to Moab for the Easter Jeep Safari and got to try out a bunch of cool Jeep concepts. Fisker is inching closer to bankruptcy and BMW has a new Neue Klasse SUV concept. For those concerned about buying used EVs, Cox has a new battery health reporting tool and Chinese phone maker Xiaomi is getting into the EV game with the SU7 sedan.LinksFisker almost doneFisker couldn't track millions in paymentsGenesis Neolum and GV60 Magma2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz2025 Hyundai TucsonBMW Vision Neue Klasse XJeep Gladiator Mojave in MoabCox rolling out battery health reports to Manheim auctionsXiaomi SU7Kia K4Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Jumping Raptors
While Robbie is off doing some late winter snow boarding, Nicole and Sam are holding down the fort. Nicole has been driving Buick's new entry level model, the Envista and the Hyundai Palisade. Meanwhile Sam had the new Toyota Prius Limited AWD and the very pricey Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV.Nicole gives a preview of the concepts coming up at this year's Easter Jeep Safari in Moab. We've got a first drive review of the blocky new Hyundai Santa Fe with some more rigorous off-roading than the last Hyundai SUV we tried. We also drive the new Ford Ranger and Ranger Raptor. The New York Auto Show is coming up this week and none of us will be there so of course there are some interesting vehicle launches. Nissan has both ends of its product lineup covered with a second-generation Kicks crossover and an all-new Infiniti QX80 that really steps up its game in the big luxury SUV segment. Kia also has a new entry model with the new K4 sedan replacing the Forte. After the uproar over the news that GM was sharing driver data with data brokers, GM has decided to halt that new approach to monetization.While attending Nvidia GTC in San Jose, Sam took some time to ride Waymo robotaxis in San Francisco and then sat down in the new Volvo EX90 with the Swedish automaker's head of software engineering Alwin Bakennes. Finally, we answer some listener questions.Links2024 Hyundai Santa Fe2024 Ford Ranger2024 Ford Ranger Raptor2025 Infiniti QX802025 Kia K42025 Nissan KicksGM stops data sharingRiding with WaymoRunning the Ranger Raptor in the desertAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Touch The Vent Not The Screen
This week Sam has been driving the Honda Passport Trailsport.Sam assesses the new Lincoln Nautilus and likes the big screen, but there are other issues. Don't forget to check out the video Sam and Nicole did with the Nautilus. Porsche is finally bringing out a hybrid version of the 911. Renowned automotive Designer Marcello Gandini has died at 85. Are automakers sharing too much of our data? Polestar cuts the price of the 3 before it even arrives. Audi is forcing subscriptions on the new A3. Dan Edmunds and Motor Trend look at the Cybertruck and Automotive News no longer classes Tesla as a luxury brand. Finally, Rivian drivers can start using superchargers.Links2024 Lincoln Nautilus First DriveSam's Nautilus takeHybrid Porsche 911Polestar 3 US pricing down by $10KMarcello Gandini dies at 85Data from connected carsAudi A3 subscriptionsDan Edmunds examines the cybertruckMotor Trend on the CybertruckTesla no longer a luxury brandRivian Supercharging now workingAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Return of the Gremlin
This week Sam has been driving the Genesis Electrified G80. Robbie was picking speakers for his band in the Land Rover Defender 130 and Nicole has the Infiniti QX60.The core of Henrik Fisker's original design for the Karma continues to live on, now as part of the Karma Automotive and the Chinese-owned company has just launched a refreshed version that ditches the plug-in series hybrid for a full electric powertrain. Nissan has addressed one of the biggest complaints about the Ariya EV by cutting the price. There are currently no EVs that will charge at 500 kW, but Gravity Mobility has installed just such a charger in New York. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is still relatively new, but it's already getting an update.We frequently complain about automakers putting controls into the touchscreen and now EuroNCAP is going to cut their safety ratings if they don't bring back physical controls.Rivian has revealed now just one, but two new vehicles, but they won't start arriving for at least two years. The Blazer EV is back on sale and now has a significantly lower price. Finally Sam has been using a local Tesla Supercharger station with Ford and Genesis vehicles.LinksKarma GyeseraNissan cuts Ariya prices500 kW charger in NYCHyundai Ioniq 5 refresh gets more battery, rear wiperEuroNCAP calls for return of physical buttonsRivian R2 and R3Return of the Blazer EV with a lower priceSupercharging a Ford Mustang Mach-ECharging a G80 with a Magic DockAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Who Cares About Efficiency?
This week Nicole is driving the Ford Maverick Tremor, Robbie has the Range Rover plug-in hybrid and Sam has new Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road.We've got lots of news this week. After a decade of work and billions of dollars spent, Apple has apparantely finally abandoned the idea of building a car. Ford took its latest electric Supervan and had Romain Dumas set a new lap record at Mount Panorama. Ford is also hosting a camping party at the Austin Bronco Off-Rodeo for the upcoming total solar eclipse and Ford EV drivers can now Supercharge.Sam went to a secret location to see the production version of Dodge's new e-Muscle car, the Charger Daytona. Honda has introduced a new plug-in hybrid CR-V with a fuel cell and VW has done some upgrades to the ID4. Fisker warns that they are almost out of money and then Nissan steps up to possibly save the company. Finally Red Bull has a crazy drone that can track a Formula 1 car.LinksThe end of the Apple car2024 Dodge Charger DaytonaFord SuperVan 4.2 Bathurst recordFord EVs can now access SuperchargersTotal Solar Eclipse at Bronco Off-RodeoHonda CR-V e:FCEV2024 VW ID4 upgradesFisker warns of running out of cashFisker talking to NissanWorld's Fastest camera drone chases Red Bull F1 carRoman Breaks a new TacomaAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
What's Happening at Jeep?
This week Robbie got to spend some time with something really fast, the new McLaren 750s. Meanwhile, Nicole and Sam had some more pedestrian rides. Nicole got a few days with the Volkswagen ID.7 as well as the Jeep Hornet PHEV. Sam had the Toyota Crown Platinum.In the news, we've got first drive reports on the updated 2025 Ram 1500, now powered only by six-cylinder engines and the Honda Prologue, the brand's firsrt purpose-built EV for North America. Sam also talks with Prologue chief engineer John Hwang. Jeep's new CEO provide's an update on the SUV brand's plans and we get a first look at the upcoming Wagoneer S and Recon electric SUVs. Ineos is developing an electric off-roader as well called the Fusilier. The soon to arrive US-built Kia EV9 may not have full tax credit eligibility at launch. Waymo's expansion plans in California are paused and Cruise problems will put a damper on GM bonuses. We also have listener questions.LinksJeep UpdateHonda Prologue first drive2025 Ram 1500 first driveIneos Fusilier EVUS Built Kia EV9 soon, without full tax creditWaymo expansion suspended40% of GM bonuses based on EV, software, CruiseAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Testing Tires
Robbie is back from Colorado where he attended the Bridgestone winter driving school and spent time with the Toyota Rav4 and 4Runner in the snow. He also rented a Ford Transit van to move ping-pong tables and drove a Kia Carnival. Nicole has been spending time in the psuedo off-road Honda Passport Trailsport and Sam had the Audi Q8 e-Tron Sportback Launch edition.In the news, GM is expanding the driving domain of Super Cruise and has priced the Chevy Equinox EV which might eventually go on sale when the software issues are fixed. As more vehicles start to use Tesla Superchargers, Kyle Connor is finding there are interoperability issues. The multi-automaker DC fast charging network is now operational and called Ionna. Being made of stainless steel doesn't make Cybertrucks corrosion proof and Stellantis won't be buying any more EV credits from Tesla. Shell has shut down its California hydrogen stations and a crowd in San Francisco burned a Waymo robotaxi that drove by during lunar new year celebrations.Finally, we are joined by Tire Rack's tire testing manager TJ Campbell to talk about rubber.LinksSuper Cruise expanding to 750K milesChevrolet Equinox EV $35-47K, 319 miles w/FWDInteroperability issues with SuperchargersCybertruck rust?Shell closes California H2 stationsSan Francisco crowd burns WaymoStellantis done buying EV creditsTire RackIonna Charging NetworkAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Killing Unused Features
Robbie is off visiting some family this week, but even with just Nicole and Sam it's a long episode. Sam has been burning up the gas in a Ford F-250 XL 4x4 while Nicole has a much more reasonably sized Subaru Outback.Nicole and Sam were both in Chicago this week and talk about the future of auto shows. While in Chicago we saw a bunch of stuff including mid-cycle updates for the Kia K5 sedan and Carnival minivan (sorry, I meant MPV). Parking large or heavy vehicles in Paris will soon be much more expensive. A majority of workers at VW's Chatanooga factory have signed up to join the UAW and an official vote may be coming soon. Americans are loosing trust in automated vehicles and companies like Cruise and Tesla have only themselves to blame. We saw the Cybertruck and Sam has some serious safety concerns. Automakers collect data from connected vehicles on which features customers actually use. Ford is using this data as justification to drop automater parking assist because no one uses it. We talk with Julie and Chris Ramsey about their Pole to Pole road trip in a Nissan Ariya. We also spoke with Chris Feuell, CEO of the Chrysler brand about the new Halcyon concept and what we can expect from the brand in the next couple of years. We also answer some listener emails.LinksParis votes to charge large, heavy vehicles more for parkingMajority of VW workers sign UAW cardsFord Skunkworks team developing low cost EVAmericans losing trust in AVsCybertruck safety issues2025 Kia Carnival2025 Kia K5Ford Killing Active Park AssistChrysler HalcyonIonna Charging NetworkAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy