Unnamed Automotive Podcast

First up Sami reviews the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450e 4Matic, a plug-in hybrid SUV equipped with a four-cylinder turbo that has 48 miles of all electric range and costs around $70k. Sami talks about the highs, lows and more importantly, the competition of this Mercedes, and whether or not you should check it out. Then Benjamin brings up the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid, a larger three-row crossover from the Japanese automaker, and one he wonders might kill the non-Grand Highlander altogether. With decent size, fuel efficiency and pricing, the Grand Highlander seems like a winning combination, but Benjamin's experience with the vehicle's safety systems gives him some pauses about recommending it. Finally, the guys discuss a news story about Kia Canada witholding deliveries of cars this year, before answering a listener's question about electric vehicles. Thanks for listening everyone and have a happy holiday season and wonderful New Years!

This week, the Unnamed Automotive Podcast welcomes guest Chad Kirchner from EVPulse, which means a great and fun discussion of electric vehicles. Our guest arrives following his test drive of the highly anticipated 2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV. Available with three different drive configurations (front-, rear, or all-wheel-drive) but no Android Auto or Apple CarPlay support, the Blazer has a lot of questions to answer, and Chad has the answers ready. Then Benjamin reviews the 2024 Buick Envista, a budget friendly, premium crossover that has surprised many critics. Is he among the converts? What makes this small car draw so many headlines, and will it help reverse the brand image associated with Buick? Benjamin has a lot to say on the matter! Then the guys discuss Chad's recent Great Lakes Challenge, before going off on a tangent about junk food. Be sure to hear the whole discussion and then send us your feedback at our website or socials. Thanks for listening!

The mercury is dropping but the Unnamed Automotive Podcast is still blazing a trail through your ears with another great episode. Not only do our hosts ponder about how integral their friendship is to the show, they also bring up the 2023 Lexus RX 500h F Sport that Benjamin recently tested (and apparently Sami drove but didn't tell anyone about.) Always the popular choice for luxury crossover buyers this RX boasts a totally new powertrain that should make it stand out from previous generations of the vehicle. More than that, there is so much tech to discuss—but does all of that detract from a premium driving experience? Then the guys talk about the biggest highlights, surprises and duds of this year. Thanks for listening! Don't forget to review or send us some feedback!

As Spotify Wrapped comes flying into your inboxes, the Unnamed Automotive Podcast can hold off no longer with this weeks episode. The "No Procastination Special" shows up with roughly 40 minutes of focused car-talk, all centering around two (or maybe three) vehicles. Hey, if you listen carefully you may find real consumer advice here... First up Benjamin has plenty to say about the 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQE 500 4Matic SUV. Despite its wacky name, this all-electric SUV should be a highlight in the world of luxury EVs, but there are a few factors that stand in its way, including its price, performance and technology. It all has our hosts asking: "How much is that three-pointed star badge really worth?" Then Sami chimes in with his experience in the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Sport, and compares it to the recently reviewed 2024 Hyundai Kona. To make things extra-thorough, Benjamin discusses his time in the 2024 Crosstrek base model, and the two come to many of the same conclusions, which, given the long history of th

Benjamin and Sami jump into action this week to discuss two polar opposites in the automotive industry. First up Benjamin tests the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD. This big bruiser of a pickup truck has a price that needs hauling, but is the equipment and experience worth it? Benjamin has plenty of stories from his time with the heavy duty truck as well as an important conclusion about these big ole pickups. Then Sami tests out the 2024 Hyundai Kona N-Line which has undergone a complete transformation for this year. Gone are the awkward lines and lame interiors and in their place is a sleek, high tech look with plenty of features. The old Kona was already one of the best in the segment, will these changes push it over the top? The guys wrap things up with an answer to a listener question about EVs before signing off for the week. Thanks for listening!

This week, the guys ask: How many off road trims should a mid-size truck offer? Benjamin explores this concept with his review of the 2023 Chevrolet Colorado Trail Boss, which sits alongside the Z71 and ZR2 models as an off road oriented truck. However, the Trail Boss is surprisingly cheaper and pared down compared to those other models. Does that help or hurt it's chances in the market? Benjamin shares the full scoop! Then Sami gives an update about the LA Auto Show, and all of the new reveals, from the expected, to the confusing and bizarre. The guys close up the episode with a laugh as they reference an interview with Volvo CEO Jim Rowan. Thanks for listening!

Weird cars come and go, but the Unnamed Automotive Podcast is here forever! Or at least until the end of interesting cars in general. Speaking of which, the guys have some curious cars to talk about this week, starting with Benjamin's take on the new 2023 Toyota Crown. A sedan/sportback mix with a hybrid powertrain, this vehicle seems to combine the best elements of the ultra successful Camry and RAV4. But is that really the outcome? Benjamin has the whole scoop and a thesis about what kinda buyer Toyota is after with this four-door. Then Sami discusses the 2024 VW Atlas Cross Sport. Having driven the vehicle several years ago at it's debut, Sami is here to report that the Atlas has received significant updates that really bring the crossover into the top tier of the segment. With new packaging, equipment, and a refreshed style, Sami went from lukewarm to red hot on this German offering. Then the guys answer some questions about Netflix and Samis parenting journey. Thanks for listening!!

No podcast has the hard hitting truth about ELECTRIC VEHICLES like the Unnamed Automotive Podcast! This week we hear what makes the 2023 Mazda MX-30 such a "disappointing effort" according to Sami, who spent plenty of time testing and driving the little Japanese EV and dealing with its range anxiety inducing design. What possible redeeming factors are there for this Mazda with limited availability? You'll have to hear the whole episode to find out! Then Benjamin chimes in with some thoughts on the 2023 Nissan Ariya. Seeing how Nissan used to have a foothold in the EV space with the leaf, but slowly lose that edge over the years to Hyundai, Kia and Ford, Benjamin seeks the truth about the latest Nissan EV, and you won't want to miss his definitive verdict of the brand's latest electric car. Then the guys wrap up the episode responding to listener feedback. If you've got questions or comments to share, don't hesitate to visit the website: UnnamedAutomotivePodcast.com or reach out to use on social media. Thank

Benjamin starts things off with the 2023 Dodge Challenger Swinger Last Call edition, which brings us the final iteration of a beloved muscle car. While we're very familiar with the Challenger, we can't help but wonder what is coming next for the credit, and what made the large coupe so special. Could the next generation recreate the magic find in this model? The guys wonder about the possibilities. Then Sami continues his run of family friendly vehicles with a test of the 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge. A plugin hybrid with 455 HP and 36 miles of all electric range, there's a lot to like about this vehicle, but Sami says the third row accessibility isn't ideal, which begs the question, why are people buying three row vehicles if they can't climb in the back? Though Sami confesses a few elements that are enjoyable of the XC90, he wants to know what's the real purpose of these crossovers. Then the guys have some fun discussing a Tokyo mobility show concept and recalling some of the significant supercars of the 70s.

New engines and different powertrains are on the menu today on the Unnamed Automotive Podcast. The show starts with Benjamin describing a long-wheelbase, full-size SUV, the 2023 Jeep Grand Wagoneer L. The bigger Grand Wagoneers introduce with a completely new engine, the 3.0-liter twin turbo six-cylinder "Hurricane." How does this new powertrain feel in the big SUV and can it take on such a huge vehicle? Benjain has all the answers along with some surprising revelations about the newly updated Jeep. Then Sami chimes in with his explanation of the 2024 Lincoln Corsair PHEV, which is a barely mentioned luxury compact crossover. While it's similar to the Escape PHEV, it gains all-wheel drive and other fancy features, but loses the value packaging of the Ford. How does that impact the overall image of the Lincoln plugin? Sami also explains how Lincoln fares these days in the world of electrified luxury. Then the guys address some listener comments and questions about infotainment systems, pause buttons and dr

Are unpopular and sorta strange cars really actually good? That's the question this week's episode is pursuing as our hosts drive some weird and wonderful cars that have had a bad reputation in the past. First up Benjamin drives the 2023 Toyota Prius Prime, aka "the sexy Prius." With 44 miles of all electric range, the Prius Prime is no longer the geeky favourite of Leonardo DiCaprio, but a surprisingly good looking, functional car that isn't too bad to drive, or so Benjamin says. Listen the whole segment to get his final say, not to mention a fun tangent about other phevs that disappeared over the years. Then Sami brings up the 2024 Kia Carnival, which played dad van duties when his extended family dropped in. With tons of tech, space and cool powered second row seats, the Carnival should be a hit with families, but Sami says the Korean minivan has a fatal flaw which may make it fall out of favor with those looking for a three row superstar. On the other hand, Benjamin's recent moving experience with the 20

First up Sami talks about the 2024 Volvo XC40 Recharge, which is now available in a more efficient, longer range, rear-wheel-drive model. Sami fills us in about all the changes for this years car along with what works and what doesn't (spoiler: its the infotainment system, it's ALWAYS the infotainment system.) Then Benjamin talks about the 2023 Honda Passport Elite, and how it fits in the grand scheme of things as a mid-sized off-roader, especially compared to the rugged looking Trailsport model. Should buyers just get an Elite and kit it out? What's out there for Honda enthusiasts looking to get off road? Benjamin shares all, and also asks whats going on with the Passports future. Then the guys share some recent listener feedback before signing off. Thanks for listening!

First up Benjamin talks about the 2023 Genesis Electrified GV70, and whether the Korean automaker has successfully adapted an electric powertrain to a popular gas powered crossover. Along with its hidden charge port, Ben discusses how Genesis made this car a reality and why it stands out against other EV rivals. Then the guys talk about their own recent car buying experiences, and why they struggled to find the perfect fit for their needs among their enthusiast mindsets. But Benjamin closes the episode by talking about his new addition to his garage and why it may be such a surprise to listeners! Thanks for listening to this week's episode, we can't wait to get you all another fun episode next week!

Typically you hear the Unnamed Automotive Podcast discuss the latest and greatest new cars, which are loaded to the brim with all the features you can think of. But this week, your hosts have their chance to drive some lesser equipped vehicles, which allow for some thorough testing. First up Sami talks about his time in the 2023 Mercedes Benz GLC 300, which has been updated to a level that should satisfy even the most skeptical Mercedes fan. But the GLC has a few fatal flaws, namely with its infotainment system that Sami says can ruin the whole experience. Then Benjamin gets his hands on a relatively no frills version of the 2023 Ford F-250. Towing with the heavy duty truck proves to be no problem, but Benjamin has a few more notes to share about this truck and whether a HD will work for your load or not. He also gives a fun update on tracking his Datsun Z over at Watkins Glen raceway, which put a huge smile on his face. Is this a world class track? You let us know by sending us an email or message on social

The sun's out and it's hot, so of course it's a perfect time to hear the latest episode of the Unnamed Automotive Podcast, especially since we've got one of the few sub-$100k roadsters left on the market to discuss. To save you the trouble of guessing, we'll just say it's the drop top Toyota Supra, aka the 2023 BMW X4, which has been lightly refreshed ("kinda" according to Benjamin.) The Z4 has apparently gotten quicker thanks to the fusion of some some German and Japanese witchcraft, and Benjamin has more than a few things to share about his experience in one of the few luxury droptops available. Then Sami chimes in to talk about the refreshed 2024 Kia Seltos X-Line, which gets a rugged new design, and an upscale looking interior. But Sami isn't convinced that this is the best Is can do, so be sure to hear what is making him tick about this Korean subcompact. Finally the guys discussion subscription features, Corvettes and hot hatch resale values before closing out the show. Thanks for listening!

The boys are back in podcast form to give you some hot takes like you've never heard! Following his stint in the 2023 Nissan Z Sami has a lot of feelings about the new Japanese sports car. While it lacks involvement from another automaker, Sami says the new Z packs a ton of power but has a few drawbacks that makes it struggle to stand out. The whole ordeal has the guys asking "what's going on over over at Nissan?" Then Benjamin gets his kicks in the 2023 Land Rover Range Rover, which now arrives with a seven seater configuration. Benjamin gets a go in this exact configuration and has plenty of ideas about what a luxury SUV is capable of and what it's measuring up against. Thanks for listening and don't forget to subscribe and reach the guys on social media to get a shout out or some fun discussion going!

Expectations can be a confounding thing. This week our hosts get to talk about when expectations go awry, starting with the 2024 Mazda CX-90, a large, premium three-row SUV that plays the role of flagship vehicle for the small Japanese brand. Benjamin discusses why the new car has such high hopes, and whether it meets those lofty goals through the use of a turbo-inline-six cylinder engine, a rear-wheel-drive platform and an all new infotainment system. Can Mazda really leapfrog over the other mainstream competitors with this recipe? Then the guys talk about the weird 2025 Acura ZDX, and whether or not it carries the quirky nature of the brand and the history of the ZDX nameplate. Now an EV engineered by GM, will Acura be taking the zero-emissions mandate seriously? Finally the guys discuss some listener comments about annoying overly nanny-ish features. Thanks for listening!

What's good Unnamed Automotive Podcast listeners? We'll tell you what isn't: the two vehicles the guys are talking about this week. First up is the 2023 Toyota Sequoia, which Benjamin points out has some highs and lows, but mostly lows with a vehicle with a limited audience, even though it's been thoroughly redesigned. Packing three rows and a hybrid powertrain, the Sequoia has a small audience, and one that doesn't seem to be growing in any significant way, but wait till you hear Ben's description of the ride, cargo space and pricing which is the SUV's death toll. Then Sami brings up the 2023 Ford Escape PHEV, which was recently refreshed with a new look and cabin, but has been overshadowed by the Bronco Sport. Is Ford giving up on its hybrid crossover? Based on Sami's experience, there are a few fatal flaws to the new Escape, and ones that are making it a hard sell compared to its rivals. Finishing up this weeks podcast is a discussion of annoying audio systems, thanks to dedicated listeners who send us com

First up, Benjamin drives the 2023 BMW M2, which leaves him with a far different impression from when he first heard about the performance oriented coupe. Bigger, faster, and just over $60,000, our host thinks the M2 is making some other performance cars completely irrelevant, despite some claiming that it's missing the original M2 ethos. Then Sami jumps in to complete his recent truck testing treasure trove by taking the smallest option on the market, the 2023 Ford Maverick Tremor. Notable the Tremor is off-road oriented, like other Ford trucks, but is it rugged enough for a unibody pickup that's not much more than a compact crossover with a bed? Sami certainly thinks so, but hear Benjamin poke a few holes in his theory. Thanks for listening, and be sure to subscribe to get the latest Unnamed Automotive Podcast content as soon as it hits the net

A new pony car has arrived on the scene just as all of its competitors are departing. Sami tells us all about his time in the 2024 Ford Mustang, starting with the EcoBoost model and its auto-only setup and then the real-deal GT with its 5.0-liter V8 engine. While that's enough for most, the Mustang seems loaded gimmicky features like drift brake, remote rev, line-lock and retro-themed digital dashes. Is it even trying at this point as all of its rivals wave from the sidelines, or is this the best Mustang yet? Then Benjamin has his time in the all-show, no-go version of the Alfa Romeo Giulia Estrema Edizione. Looking like the 505-hp Quadrifoglio, but packing a more modest powertrain, Ben flips between loving and hating this Italian sport sedan, and for good reason. Be sure to hear his explanation before subscribing to the podcast, and maybe even connecting with us over email or social media. Thanks for listening!