Synopsis
Benjamin and Sami are two journalists who take a weekly look at the funnier side of the automotive industry, the cars they drive, the places they go, and the weirdness that surrounds the industry at all times.
Episodes
-
Episode 306: 2023 Honda Passport Trailsport, 2023 Subaru Legacy Touring XT, Secrets Of Bulletproof Cars
19/02/2023 Duration: 53minOff-roading or on-roading, the Unnamed Automotive Podcast is here to help you get through your week. First up this week, Sami talks about the 2023 Honda Passport Trailsport, a somewhat MORE off-road oriented version of an SUV Honda proclaimed was already capable off-road. The Trailsport gets rugged-style tires, fun badging, and skid-plates, as well as a higher price point, but is that enough to make it recommendable over other, more off-road oriented SUVs? Plus how many times in a segment can Sami say sport? You be the judge! Then Benjamin brings up the 2023 Subaru Legacy XT, also known as the sedan counterpart of the popular and instantly recognizable Subaru Outback. Benjamin's time in the Legacy brought out many existential questions like 'is this car good?' 'why does this car matter?' and 'who is buying this car?' which could only be worked through on this week's episode of the podcast. Be sure to listen and chime in later. Finally, the guys talk about armored and bullet-proof vehicles, , what's involved
-
Episode 305: 2023 BMW X3 M Competition, Guest Michael Banovsky, Deep Thoughts About Owning A Car In The City
12/02/2023 Duration: 55minIt's "Special Guest Appearance" time at the Unnamed Automotive Podcast as Sami and Benjamin are joined by automotive journalist and content creator Michael Banovsky! Michael, from speedster.news and mayidriveyourcar.com is here to talk about cars, city planning, public transportation, and more! This week's episode also includes Benjamin's review of a 2023 BMW X3 M Competition, a luxury SUV with 503 horsepower, three-sport modes, a variety of transmission settings and the least winter-ready snow tires we've ever seen. At $80k, is this BMW X3 going to hit up a track on the way to the grocery store, or is it just drag racing everyone at the stop-light? Then as the guys close the podcast, we get into a deep discussion about snacks and treats, so don't stop listening to the VERY END! Thanks and see you all next week!
-
Episode 304: 2023 Toyota Sienna XSE AWD, 2023 Honda Odyssey
05/02/2023 Duration: 46minWe hope you have a surgeon on speed-dial because this weeks episode of the Unnamed Automotive Podcast is entirely DEEP CUTS! Especially if you're familiar with the concept of GROWING UP! It's fun times in minivans here starting with Benjamin's review of the 2023 Toyota Sienna, with its funky design, hybrid powertrain and approachable pricing. In-between jokes about old vans and weird names, Benjamin explains that his time in the Toyota wasn't without incident, so be sure to listen to his whole experience to get the entire picture. Then Sami gets his fun captured by the CabinWatch camera found in the 2023 Honda Odyssey, which has lost its killer suction-related app but gained a few other weird gimmicks. With 280 VTEC ponies on tap, this minivan is a screamer, or at least its passengers were certainly making some noise! Hear how practical this minivan is and why minivans aren't getting so much love these days. If you enjoyed this weeks episode be sure to subscribe and review us using your favorite podcast cl
-
Episode 303: 2023 Honda Pilot, 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport
29/01/2023 Duration: 41minThis week, the guys are talking off-road-oriented SUVs, with significant redesigns. Right off the bat, Sami starts the episode by describing the all-new, totally different, completely redesigned 2023 Honda Pilot, much to Benjamin's skepticism. Sami jumps into the three-row crossover and its off-road TrailSport trim, and tells you all the ways Honda has made this family friendly vehicle more competitive and exciting. Plus they talk about Christian Slater a bit, and Benjamin admits Sami was right about one piece of obscure car history. Then Benjamin chimes in to explain his time in the 2023 Land Rover Range Rover Sport P400 SE. All new for this year, the Range Rover Sport has a lot of ground to make up in this cutthroat segment, and Benjamin has a lot of thoughts about how the European brand manages. While referencing the Defender he drove recently, Benjamin even forgets all about other pure-SUV brands like Jeep, so now we can point and laugh at him (but in a friendly way!) If you loved, or even liked this wee
-
Episode 302: 2023 Land Rover Defender 130, 2023 BMW M850i Coupe, 2024 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray
19/01/2023 Duration: 43minWith 300 or so episodes under their belt, it seems like the hosts of the Unnamed Automotive Podcast are taking things a bit more seriously... that is, after the unbelivable holiday break and other international shenanigans. While Sami keeps things light-hearted and entertaining, Benjamin dives into the new 2023 Land Rover Defender 130, which is billed as "the more family friendly rugged off-roader." After the new Defender gains a whole new standard row of seating, and 500 pounds of mass, Benjamin has plenty to say about the big SUV, and where it stands in the never-ending list of SUVs on the market. Then the guys talk about the 2023 BMW M850i Coupe, a Grand Tourer that seemingly nails the execution and sticks the landing. Powerful, attractive, comfortable and high-tech, the guys wonder what the BMW can't do, and try to figure out which other vehicles simply check all the boxes they're supposed to without trying to be everything to everyone. Finally, the guys talk about the latest news from General Motors re
-
Episode 301: 2023 Kia Sportage X-Line, 2023 Mazda CX-50 Meridian Edition, Contest Winner
08/01/2023 Duration: 36minNew year, new S-You-Vs! The the Unnamed Automotive Podcast returns with a pair of 'off-road inspired' SUVs to talk about. Benjamin gets plenty of time in the new 2023 Kia Sportage X-Line, and asks if ruggedness was standard in past iterations of the Kia cute-ute. The pair discuss the variety of options and features available in the Kia, and compare it to the recent Honda CR-V to determine which one is best destined for buyers driveways. Then Sami chimes in about his experience with the 2023 Mazda CX-50 Meridian Edition with the Apex Package. A stylish crossover with high-end, off-road aspirations, Sami and Benjamin seem a bit puzzled at its place in the lineup. Can it still be a success story despite awkward pricing, size, and infotainment? Finally, Benjamin and Sami announce the winner of last month's contest! Be sure to listen, subscribe and review the podcast, and even consider tipping on Ko-Fi.
-
Episode 300: 2023 Genesis Electrified G80, 2023 Honda CR-V, Best Cars Of The Year 2022
25/12/2022 Duration: 40minIf you want to spend your Christmas talking cars, your two favorite podcasts hosts are here for you. First Sami discusses his time in the 2023 Genesis Electrified G80, an all-electric version of the executive sedan that put the Korean luxury brand on the map. Hear Sami describe what compromises were made in this conversion, and whether the EV is a better buy over its gas-powered variant. Then Benjamin chimes in with his experience of the 2023 Honda CR-V, a car that's been thoroughly redesigned and updated, but doesn't look or feel like it has. Benjamin compares the CR-V experience to a variety of drinkable, seemingly innocuous liquids, in order to make a point that Sami struggles to make work in an audio format. The guys then talk about their favorite rides this year. Don't forget to subscribe, review and tip our hosts on Ko-Fi, we can't wait to go for another 300 episodes!
-
Episode 299: 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV, 2023 Subaru Ascent, Racing With Rich Energy Book Giveaway, Listener Shout-Outs
18/12/2022 Duration: 46minFirst up Benjamin grabs the 2022 Chevrolet Volt EUV, a vehicle that tries to defy established nomenclature and expectations of a crossover-fied car. Hear his thoughts on the affordable EV and how livable this former fire hazard is and wonder aloud with our hosts about the future of the Bolt nameplate. Then Sami chimes in with a recap of the 2023 Subaru Ascent, and relates it to his experience in the recently refreshed 2023 model. With more cameras, technology, and a segment leading 19 cupholders, Sami explains exactly where the Ascent stands today and whether you should buy one. Finally the guys remind listeners about the ongoing book contest and sling out a few shoutouts. Listen, review, subscribe and enjoy!
-
Episode 298: 2022 Chevrolet Silverado ZR2, Racing With Rich Energy Giveaway, Downloading Horsepower
11/12/2022 Duration: 37minIt's another big week of car talk on the Unnamed Automotive Podcast. Before our hosts get on a roll with this week's discussion, they first share a few updates about the podcast, and what kind of year it's been thanks to our dedicated listeners. THANK YOU! Then Benjamin and Sami jump into talking about the new 2023 Chevrolet Silverado ZR2. As if trucks aren't rugged and capable, this model takes things even further by featuring a 6.2 liter V8 engine and a super high tech and impressive damper setup known as DSSV. Benjamin explains what the recently updated Chevy truck does right and wrong, and also gets into the nitty gritty of the high-performance offroad truck world. Then Sami talks about a new F1 book called "Racing with Rich Energy" and explains how you can get your hands on a copy for free! Finally the show concludes with a smattering of downloadable horsepower news. Thanks for listening and don't forget to subscribe and reach out to our hosts on social media!
-
Episode 297: 2022 GMC Sierra Denali Ultimate, Did Sami Actually Die Charging An Electric Car?
04/12/2022 Duration: 44minBenjamin spends a significant amount of time talking about the new 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali Ultimate, a truck that has luxury ambitions and a high-end price. While Sami balks at its MSRP, Ben goes through all the reasons this truck is worth it, the details of its emergency redesign, and why it needed to impress to help us forget all about the disappointing outgoing model. Then Sami chimes in to talk about his recent expereince in the 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5, and his journey to 10 different DC Fast Charging stations in his area. He barely made it out of his experience alive, witnessing plugs wrapped in duct Tape, plenty of exposed wires, chargers with big, intimidating red levers, and of course funky apps. The whole experience has left Sami warning others about how reliable the fast charging infrastructre is. Listen, enjoy and don't forget to subscribe, and tip our hosts on Ko-Fi. Thanks!
-
Episode 296: LA Auto Show Round-Up, 2023 Porsche 911 Dakar, 2023 Subaru Impreza, 2023 Fiat 500 EV, 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6, 2023 Toyota Prius
27/11/2022 Duration: 30minIt's not common, but every once in a while, the Unnamed Automotive Podcast delivers a ton of new car information. Wait, isn't that what they do every episode? This week our hosts run down all the cool new arrivals from the 2022 Los Angeles Auto Show, including the off-road oriented 2023 Porsche 911 Dakar, the stylish new 2023 Toyota Prius, the EV-only Fiat 500e, the all new, and weird looking 2023 Hyundai IONIQ 6, and the hatchback-only new 2023 Subaru Impreza. Lots of fun talk about the latest and greatest cars, including fun stories, retrospectives and hot takes. Subscribe and listen!
-
Episode 295: 2023 Honda Civic Type R, 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQS 580
20/11/2022 Duration: 52minIt's hatchback mania at the Unnamed Automotive Podcast—but these practical five-doors are more than a bit unusual. First Sami talks about the 2023 Honda Civic Type R, which has gotten a fairly substantial overhaul this year. Thanks to raised expectations from the more premium base Civic, the Type R feels more mature, yet Sami says this hasn't impacted the rowdiness of the hot hatch. After a few prodding and overly-personal questions, Benjamin and Sami decide whether the new Civic Type R is worth the $44k price tag it commands. Then Benjamin chimes in about his experience in the all-electric 2022 Mercedes-Benz EQS 580 4Matic, which features a roof-hinged rear cargo area, making it a hatchback, or sportback, or notchback, or something other than a sedan. With 350 miles of range, and plenty of power, this green flagshipalso happens to look almost completely anonymous. Still, it features a ride worthy of the 'S' letter, and Benjamin goes on to note several highlights and lowlights about the many features and gadg
-
Episode 294: 2023 Nissan Z, Benjamin Installs An EV Charger, Listener Questions
13/11/2022 Duration: 55minNo sports cars were harmed in the making of this week's episode, as Benjamin and Sami talk about the brand new 2023 Nissan Z coupe, which features a unique blend of old and new. Benjamin managed to keep the Z for a whole week, and put it through its paces, testing out all aspects of the new coupe. With a twin-turbo V6 originally from Infiniti, a tweaked platform from the last gen 370Z, and exterior design cues borrowed from the Z's long history, there's plenty to talk about. Not to mention where the Z stands with its competitors, especially the new Toyota Supra. Benjamin then discusses the new electrified addition to his household, before answering a listener question. Don't hesitate to reach out and ask the guys any questions you may have, or send them a tip through Ko-Fi. Thanks for listening!
-
Episode 293: 2022 Subaru WRX, 2022 Volkswagen Golf R
06/11/2022 Duration: 33minIf you felt that the podcast has been about EVs and crossovers, then catch this week's episode that focuses mostly on sporty compact cars. First Sami describes his time in the 2022 Subaru WRX, which gets a new look and motor, along with a redesigned cabin. Since there's no high end STI anymore, can the WRX carry the performance crown with its meagre setup? Sami and Benjamin talk about the company, CVTs, driving feel and refinement before adding another experience to the mix. Extra discussion arrives with the introduction of the 2022 VW Golf R, which is more expensive and more powerful than the WRX, but delivers a less authentic sport compact feel. Sami says it's high end and high tech, but the car has some significant issues, especially with its user interface. You'll want to hear all the juicy details from this week's episode and don't forget to subscribe so you get the latest episode as soon as it's available. Thanks for listening!
-
Episode 292: Benjamin's Press Vehicle Gets Stolen, 2022 Jaguar F-Pace SVR, 2022 Kia Sportage Hybrid
30/10/2022 Duration: 47minThe more things change, the more they stay the same. Benjamin finds himself in yet another hulking V8 powered monster: the 2022 Jaguar F-Pace SVR. With 550 ponies and an accompanying eight-cylinder soundtrack to boot, he has plenty to say about this European SUV while the rest of its rivals wave goodbye to high displacement engines for good. Sami on the other hand is here to talk about the new 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid, and is amazed at how much it's grown over the years. Now reasonably high end, the Sportage has a few small issues but leaves some big impressions. Also, someone stole Benjamin's press vehicle this week. That sucks!
-
Episode 291: 2024 Polestar 3, 2022 Dodge Challenger RT Scat Pack Widebody, Cadillac Celestiq
23/10/2022 Duration: 39minSami just jumped off a plane from Copenhagen where he got up close and impersonal with the 2024 Polestar 3. While the automaker claims this is the true expression of the Polestar brand, Sami and Benjamin dive into whether or not that's true, drilling into the design language, technology, interior and psychology of the brand. Also, is Polestar luxury or not? Whats the deal here? Then Benjamin rekindles his love affair with all things V8 and powerful by testing out the latest 2022 Dodge Challenger Scat Pack, a large coupe that's in its last year of production. Old-school and still cool, the Scat Pack seems to occupy a sweet spot in the Challenger lineup. Finally, the pair put their heads together and congratulate Cadillac for making a car by hand, something Tesla has done for way too long. The Celestiq will cost an eye watering $300,000 and will be one of the few truly special Caddys out there according to the guys, and you may want to hear why.
-
Episode 290: 2023 Lamborghini Huracan Tecnica
13/10/2022 Duration: 33minDid you miss supercar chats on the Unnamed Automotive Podcast? This week's episode will certainly help satiate your need for mid-engine information, as Sami describes his recent drive experience of the 2023 Lamborghini Huracan Tecnica. Following the invite to 'take all his souls to drive,' Sami blasted off to Palm Springs to check out the latest and perhaps last example of the Lamborghini Huracan. Hear Sami explain in detail what it's like to handle a 630 hp, rear-wheel drive, mid-engine beast through the south circuit of the Thermal Club. In an era where so many supercars handle the sensation of speed for you, Sami says the Tecnica still asks you to respect it, especially at speed. Don't hesitate to follow our hosts on social media, visit or site for more information, or head to Ko-fi to support the podcast.
-
Episode 289: Kia Boyz Part 2, Massive News Round-Up, Ford Explorer Hybrid Complaints
06/10/2022 Duration: 44minGet up to speed with Unnamed Automotive Podcast this week, which dives into a number of new automotive stories. First our hosts explain the Kia Boyz, their TikTok fuelled social media thefts, and Hyundai/Kia's half-assed response to the vulnerability left in a large number of their cars. Then the guys discuss a news piece about an unlucky Hyundai Elantra N owner, whose car was deregistered for having an excessively loud exhaust setup... except that setup was totally stock. Then Sami brings up the new Corvette Z06, as well as the new Audi R8 GT, before seguing into a discussion about the Audi TT, which is celebrating its 25th birthday with a special TT RS Iconic Edition. Finally, Ben shares a quick review of the 2022 Ford Explorer Hybrid, and his wishy-washy feelings on this large SUV. Don't hesitate to reach out to our hosts on social media, or on our website unnamedautomotivepodcast.com, and be sure to check in next week. Thanks for listening!
-
Episode 288: 2022 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing, Porsche Taycan GTS Charging Revelations
29/09/2022 Duration: 57minAnother high speed podcast from your favorite high speed hosts! Benjamin and Sami dive into some serious discussions about a pair of sport sedans. First up Ben gets his hands on the 668 hp 2022 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing. As the owner of a first gen CTS-V there are few more qualified to describe just how this fiery four-door drives. Listen to Benjamin run down the history of sport sedans and why the Blackwing is such a highlight these days. Then Sami comes on to dish some high speed electric car knowledge after his long distance trip in the 2022 Porsche Taycan GTS. From preconditioning batteries to high speed chargers and special drive modes, Sami teaches a bewildered Ben how much electric vehicle drivers have to go through to get the same road trip experience that gas powered cars can handle without a second thought. After listening, don't forget to head on over to the website, subscribe or leave us a tip on ko-fi!
-
Episode 287: 2022 Lexus LX 600, 2022 Volvo S90 Recharge
22/09/2022 Duration: 51minAren't you tired of hearing the Unnamed Automotive Podcast cover mainstream cars that you might actually see on the road? This weeks episode deals with those blahs you're feeling with a pair of niche luxury vehicles. First up Benjamin talks about the 2022 Lexus LX600, which rides on a new platform and features a fresh powertrain. But things aren't aligning properly for Ben, who isn't sure if this is really a Escalade competitor, or a Land Cruiser replacement. Sure it has the 'golden ratio,' but what does that mean when it's almost impossible to fit in the rear seat without an advanced contortionist's degree? Sami chimes in with his own confusing thoughts on the 2022 Volvo S90 Recharge. While he's sure to mention the impressive power and torque from this speedy PHEV, don't miss his thoughts on how it charges...eventually. Our hosts also discuss the conflict of ideas going on at Volvo, and how the company has ended up delivering cars with potential but limited execution. Don't forget to head to the website to