Unnamed Automotive Podcast

We start with Sami's take on the 2027 Kia Seltos. Totally redesigned with a rugged exterior and a modern interior, Sami has so much to talk about this new compact crossover that's loaded with tech and features, but has a few small issues that are worth thinking about for anyone interested in adding a new small crossover to their garage.

Then Benjamin gets to drive the 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport around for a week, and comes away with many positive thoughts and interesting perspectives. Is this Honda's Outback? There's some magic sauce on this Passport that Sami and Benjamin dissect while trying to understand what makes this Passport so different than anything else in the Honda lineup. What do you think? Thanks for listening!

Check out our new Patreon series 25 Cars That Define The 90s

We go deep on one of our favorite eras of automotive design, the 1990s. Weekly posts that discuss not just the 25 most important cars from that decade, but also other car-focused bonus episodes that don't fit the main feed.

Click here to listen to the first episode for free!

Benjamin explains that the 2026 Acura Integra Type S is practically a Honda Civic Type R with a different exterior design. Sami says that it has one of the most entertaining packages he's driven in a long time, and Benjamin asks, why can't all Honda/Acura cars be this good? With over 300 hp, a sweet limited slip diff, and one of the nicest six-speed manual transmissions on the market, the Integra Type S makes its mark on a really niche market segment that should be appealing to all enthusiasts.

Then Benjamin has a couple of product reviews. Starting with a Chemical Guys snow foam wash, he explains his cleaning habits, and how this new product was put to use, and if it was as easy as advertised.

Then Benjamin discusses his attempt to use a thermal camera for automotive purposes. What he thought was going to be useful for track days, turned out to be something different, but still interesting. Thanks for listening!

Links:

• Check out our Patreon series, 25 Cars That Define The 90s — We go deep on one of our favorite eras of automotive design, the 1990s, in this series on Patreon. Weekly posts that discuss not just the 25 cars we think are most important from that decade, but also other car-focused bonus episodes that don't fit the main feed.

It's our 10 year anniversary! And we've got a new Patreon series called 25 Cars That Define The 90s! Check out the link below!

The 2027 M3 CS Handschalter is here to send off this generation of M3 in all of its rear-wheel-drive, manual transmission glory. But first, listen to a pair of "automotive experts" struggle to explain the confusing M3 lineup, and where this special edition lands within it. Then the guys talk about the legacy of this M3, and its potential future.

Benjamin also shares his thoughts on the sweet, not sour 2026 Toyota GR86 Yuzu Edition. Ben says "no notes" about this rear-wheel-drive coupe, though Sami has a bit more to add about the evolution of this car and its price point. The guys go over its cool new body kit and exhaust and offer some advice to prospective buyers.

The episode closes out with an add-on rear wiper for the Hyundai IONIQ 5, and a cool book about automotive design. Thanks for listening for 10 years!

Links:

• Check out our new Patreon series, 25 Cars That Define The 90s — We go deep on one of our favorite eras of automotive design, the 1990s, in this series on Patreon. Weekly posts that discuss not just the 25 cars we think are most important from that decade, but also other car-focused bonus episodes that don't fit the main feed.

Class is back in session as the Unnamed Automotive Podcast tackles the BMW Neue Klasse, the platform that underpins the 2027 iX3 that Benjamin is reviewing this week. This electric SUV (well, maybe more like a wagon) is designed to optimize it's EV powertrain, and Benjamin has a lot to say about the new iX3's performance and interior. Of course using an all-new platform means the car features an equally fresh infotainment system, and that's where the majority of this week's discussion takes place. What is a gimmick? What is safe? Why are screens and information so far away?

After that Sami gives an update on the Ford Explorer Tremor he's testing, with the four cylinder engine this time. Then the guys say good bye, but be aware of the show's ten year anniversary that's coming up!

Links:

• Like what you hear? Tip us at Ko-Fi — Send a dollar our way using Ko-Fi to help support the Unnamed Automotive Podcast.
• Check out our new Patreon series, 25 Cars That Define The 90s — We go deep on one of our favorite eras of automotive design, the 1990s, in this series on Patreon. Weekly posts that discuss not just the 25 cars we think are most important from that decade, but also other car-focused bonus episodes that don't fit the main feed.

Are compact coupes making a comeback? Sami and Benjamin discuss the 2026 Honda Prelude this week. Featuring a hybrid powertrain, sporty suspension and just two doors, the Prelude doesn't seem to fit into any previously known market segments, but that didn't stop Honda from making it anyways! The guys talk about the major flaws with the Prelude, and whether it's worth the relatively high asking price.

Then Sami chimes in with an updated look at the 2026 Ford Mustang Mach-e GT. Fitted with tons of power and torque, the Mach-e is a rocket, but it seems to have a comfort issue that's making it hard for Sami to recommend. Can't they just release an over-the-air update to fix it? Thanks for listening.

Links:

• Like what you hear? Tip us at Ko-Fi — Send a dollar our way using Ko-Fi to help support the Unnamed Automotive Podcast.
• Check out our new Patreon series, 25 Cars That Define The 90s — We go deep on one of our favorite eras of automotive design, the 1990s, in this series on Patreon. Weekly posts that discuss not just the 25 cars we think are most important from that decade, but also other car-focused bonus episodes that don't fit the main feed.

First the show starts with Sami (and his in-laws) review of the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid. Loaded with impressive (and sometimes gimmicky) technology, the Santa Fe is popular with Sami's out of town guests. But is it a true three-row vehicle, and is it useful for new parents?

Then Sami jumps right into a frank discussion about his expectations and experience of the 2027 Chevrolet Bolt. Is it a good cheap EV or just a cheap EV? And Sami talks briefly about his Nissan Leaf comparison.

Finally, Benjamin gets another road trip experience with an electric Toyota/Subaru collab which goes by the 2026 Toyota bZ Woodland. This time he gets a working plug adapter and the guys talk about the business of making EVs and whether Toyota is fully 'in' or not. Thanks for listening!

Links:

• Like what you hear? Tip us at Ko-Fi — Send a dollar our way using Ko-Fi to help support the Unnamed Automotive Podcast.
• Check out our new Patreon series, 25 Cars That Define The 90s — We go deep on one of our favorite eras of automotive design, the 1990s, in this series on Patreon. Weekly posts that discuss not just the 25 cars we think are most important from that decade, but also other car-focused bonus episodes that don't fit the main feed.

First up, he dons his racing monocle to test out the new Lamborghini Temerario, the replacement for the long-running and much loved Huracan. Put through its paces on the track, Benjamin details the whole 907 hp experience to you and explains what makes this supercar something unexpected in a world of hybrids.

Then he jumps out of the high-speed exotic world for something more sedate and chill. The 2026 Genesis G90 arrives with fancy doors, a smart notification system, buttons for all kinds of controls and much more, though Benjamin has a few complaints to share about this fancy machine's drivetrain. The review leads our hosts to discuss the flagship vehicle world, and whether automakers are paying attention to Genesis and its developments or not.

Finally, Sami chimes in with another segment of his "here's some cars he thought would work as a family car, but he likely won't buy" discussing a variety of cool European wagons. Thanks for listening everyone!

Links:

• Like what you hear? Tip us at Ko-Fi — Send a dollar our way using Ko-Fi to help support the Unnamed Automotive Podcast.
• Check out our new Patreon series, 25 Cars That Define The 90s — We go deep on one of our favorite eras of automotive design, the 1990s, in this series on Patreon. Weekly posts that discuss not just the 25 cars we think are most important from that decade, but also other car-focused bonus episodes that don't fit the main feed.

This week the Unnamed Automotive Podcast delivers a two pronged approach to the 2027 Subaru Uncharted, a new EV for the Japanese brand that is basically the Toyota C-HR with a different front end design. Both Sami and Benjamin share their take on the new Toyobaru EV, and come up with the same conclusions about its price, performance, size and efficiency. The guys discuss whether this really is a Subaru or not and how it manages to fit in the Subaru lineup. And naturally, Benjamin discussed the fast charging experience and continuing NACS adapter headaches.

Then Benjamin talks about his road trip experience in the incredibly powerful 2026 BMW i4 M60. With tons of performance and excellent range Benjamin expands his review to discuss how the car looks, turns heads and starts discussions at public charging stations. Also he found some BYD engineers testing cars, so he talks about that too!

Then the guys give some updates on Benjamin's Datsun and Sami's car buying long list. Thanks for listening!

Links:

• Like what you hear? Tip us at Ko-Fi — Send a dollar our way using Ko-Fi to help support the Unnamed Automotive Podcast.
• Check out our new Patreon series, 25 Cars That Define The 90s — We go deep on one of our favorite eras of automotive design, the 1990s, in this series on Patreon. Weekly posts that discuss not just the 25 cars we think are most important from that decade, but also other car-focused bonus episodes that don't fit the main feed.

The Unnamed Automotive Podcast returns this week with a review of the 2026 Cadillac Lyriq-V, a higher performance version of the mid-size crossover. Packing more power but asking for more dollars is a tough thing when EVs are already plenty quick. Benjamin breaks it down and explains whether this version of the Caddy is the one you want, or if you should stick with the other models instead. He also tackles some listener feedback about the Lyriq, including some experiences that we just don't get a chance to encounter during our review timeframes.

Then Sami jumps into the saddle of the 2026 Ford Bronco Heritage Edition, which is loud, inefficient and cumbersome, but finds it delightfully endearing for Ford buyers who want something off-road oriented. Our hosts struggle to find out what makes the Bronco gain an advantage over other off-roaders, but wonder if that's ok in the long run.

Then we discuss some listener feedback about the Chevy Bolt and Nissan Leaf, before Sami goes on to discuss some more cars he's thinking of replacing his FRS with. Thanks for listening!

Links:

• Like what you hear? Tip us at Ko-Fi — Send a dollar our way using Ko-Fi to help support the Unnamed Automotive Podcast.
• Check out our new Patreon series, 25 Cars That Define The 90s — We go deep on one of our favorite eras of automotive design, the 1990s, in this series on Patreon. Weekly posts that discuss not just the 25 cars we think are most important from that decade, but also other car-focused bonus episodes that don't fit the main feed.

Can a car be good but also get a bad review? The Unnamed Automotive Podcast gets its hands on the already cancelled 2027 Chevrolet Bolt, which is an affordable, useful EV, but as Benjamin explains, comes with some serious baggage in the form of charging issues.

Then Sami reviews the 2026 Acura MDX Type-S, which feels 'good enough' but is up against some tough rivals that offer more space, tech, power, and refinement. This discussion leads the hosts to try to pinpoint Acuras position in the automotive world, and highlight another automaker, Genesis, who is seemingly doing everything right with the reveal of a new flagship SUV.

Thanks for listening!

Links:

• Like what you hear? Tip us at Ko-Fi — Send a dollar our way using Ko-Fi to help support the Unnamed Automotive Podcast.

The show starts with Sami reviewing the 2026 Toyota 4Runner, with his tester featuring limited equipment and the entry-level powertrain. How does this impact his impression? Quite a bit, it seems!

Then the show pivots to EVs with Benjamin's review of the 2026 Subaru Trailseeker, which looks good but can't seem to shake a few significant concerns. Then Sami's weekly feature returns with his inspection of a manual, all wheel drive sedan. Thanks for listening!

Note: We reached out to Subaru to confirm the Trailseeker's battery size as 74.7 km. This makes Benjamin and Sami's observed range 389 km / 243 miles, versus the advertised up to 444 kms and 281 miles (depending on wheel size). It's a drop of 14 percent.

Links:

• Like what you hear? Tip us at Ko-Fi — Send a dollar our way using Ko-Fi to help support the Unnamed Automotive Podcast.
• Check out our Patreon series, 25 Cars That Define The 90s — We go deep on one of our favorite eras of automotive design, the 1990s, in this series on Patreon. Weekly posts that discuss not just the 25 cars we think are most important from that decade, but also other car-focused bonus episodes that don't fit the main feed.

Ladies and gentlemen, Sami is BACK! Our dedicated host has returned after witnessing the birth of his child, and is here to talk about cars, toddlers and EVs! This week's show begins with Benjamin's review of the 2026 Kia EV5, an electric car that isn't coming to the US but will land in Canada, allowing us to get a glimpse of what kind of affordable EVs Americans are missing out on.

Then Sami reviews the 2026 Honda Civic Sport Hybrid Touring, which he'd describe as an absolute peach, with just one fatal flaw: its price. Is this an adequate replacement for the Si? Would you take MPGs or a MT? The guys try to figure it out.

Finally, Sami tries to introduce a new weekly segment where he tries to figure out what his next possible family friendly car will be. Thanks for listening!

Links:

• Like what you hear? Tip us at Ko-Fi — Send a dollar our way using Ko-Fi to help support the Unnamed Automotive Podcast.
• Check out our Patreon series, 25 Cars That Define The 90s — We go deep on one of our favorite eras of automotive design, the 1990s, in this series on Patreon. Weekly posts that discuss not just the 25 cars we think are most important from that decade, but also other car-focused bonus episodes that don't fit the main feed.

With Sami taking a break to welcome his new child into the world. guest host Chad Kirchner drops by to talk about the Rivian R2 EV - and to endure Benjamin's endless digressions about diesel trucks, towing, and, for some reason, Alaska.

Links:

• Like what you hear? Tip us at Ko-Fi — Send a dollar our way using Ko-Fi to help support the Unnamed Automotive Podcast.
• Check out our Patreon series, 25 Cars That Define The 90s — We go deep on one of our favorite eras of automotive design, the 1990s, in this series on Patreon. Weekly posts that discuss not just the 25 cars we think are most important from that decade, but also other car-focused bonus episodes that don't fit the main feed.
• Check out Chad's Star Trek podcast - Temporal Investigations! — All things Trek, hosted by Chad Kirchner, with Benjamin sometimes appearing as a guest.

When a three-row crossover advertises big towing figures, you just know that the Unnamed Automotive Podcast will have something to say about it. This week, Benjamin reviews the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder, which promotes a 6,000 lbs tow rating. Benjamin puts the crossover through its paces with and without a load to let you know how it fares. Also, while on the subject on the Pathfinder, our hosts discuss the pros and cons of its future, and whether it will succeed with a body on frame future, or if it makes any difference at all.

Then the guys share some listener feedback about the Dodge Charger and its platform/suspension history. Thanks for listening!

Links:

• Like what you hear? Tip us at Ko-Fi — Send a dollar our way using Ko-Fi to help support the Unnamed Automotive Podcast.

The Unnamed Automotive Podcast gets its first taste of Lotus this week as Benjamin test drives the new Eletre. This large electric SUV might not be the most Lotus thing you could think of, but it represents a new chapter of the automaker, one that has left Benjamin with many thoughts and impressions that he is keen to share.

Then Sami reviews the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport, a car he had trouble understanding in the past, but now totally gets, especially in light of all these other fake off-road trims that have come out. With a bunch of upgrades and features, the Bronco Sport stands out, but is a bit expensive. Sami details more Pros and Cons in his full take of this cute-ute. Thanks for listening!

Links:

• Like what you hear? Tip us at Ko-Fi — Send a dollar our way using Ko-Fi to help support the Unnamed Automotive Podcast.

The show starts with Sami's thorough review of the 2026 Subaru Trailseeker, an electric wagon that shares its bones with the Toyota bZ Woodland. Can a Subaru feel like the rest of its family while being so closely related to a Toyota, or does no one actually care if it feels all that different from an Outback or Forester?

Then Benjamin pilots the 2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata around the rural backroads to find his happy place. A focused machine with no true rivals, Benjamin has plenty to say about the latest Miata, with a mostly positive spin.

Finally Benjamin gives us an update on the new Hankook Ventus tires fitted to his Subaru Outback, and responds to some listener feedback. Thanks for listening!

Links:

• Like what you hear? Tip us at Ko-Fi — Send a dollar our way using Ko-Fi to help support the Unnamed Automotive Podcast.

The Unnamed Automotive Podcast open-door policy is in full effect as we welcome another great guest, journalist Bradley Iger, who jumps in to discuss the unbelievably cool, made-in-America Czinger 21C VMax hypercar. Beyond its amazing looks and incredible design philosophy, Iger talks about what it's like to pilot one of these legitimate racecar for the streets from the centre seat.

Then Benjamin chimes in to review the 2026 Ram 2500 Laramie, which was tasked with his own racecar towing duties. How'd the big diesel truck fare when dealing with the long road between Montreal and Toronto? Maybe a better question is, how did Benjamin deal with a track day gone wrong, and how has that changed his outlook on the sport?

Finally, our hosts discussed the 2026 Dodge Charger one more time, this time with Bradley's perspective of being a multiple-time owner of the previous generation Dodges. What was the American automaker going for, and what mishaps further explain just how compromised this car really is? Thanks for listening!

Links:

• Like what you hear? Tip us at Ko-Fi — Send a dollar our way using Ko-Fi to help support the Unnamed Automotive Podcast.

Welcome guest Chad Kirchner on this week's episode which is loaded with all kinds of interesting car discussion. The show starts off with Benjamin's review of the 2026 Dodge Charger Scat Pack, which boasts a 550 horsepower inline six cylinder engine. However, Ben notes some important details about the size of this new muscle-y car, and suggests that it's stuck in a sort of limbo with few actual customers and rivals.

Then Chad reports on the newly detailed Slate Auto's EV pickup truck. Now with an official price, and list of features (or features missing), our round table can really begin. How influential will this startup be, when it lacks a paint job, radio, and power windows? Are other automakers checking their rear view mirrors about the Slate truck? Chad shares his thoughts and more! Thanks for listening!

Links:

• Like what you hear? Tip us at Ko-Fi — Send a dollar our way using Ko-Fi to help support the Unnamed Automotive Podcast.

The Unnamed Automotive Podcast goes full EV this week, starting with Benjamin's review of the 2026 Honda Accord Hybrid. He says it's not dull, or bland, but NORMCORE, whatever that means. Well, let him explain! It seems to do everything it needs to and can maybe even out-do its crossover cousins across the Honda showroom in a few things, like, say fuel economy. It's an interesting review of a sedan when there's so few to choose from in the first place.

Then Sami revisits the 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-in Hybrid. Following Benjamin's positive impression of the Japanese crossover, Sami took it upon himself to compare it to the 2026 Kia Sportage PHEV, to find out if the Mitsubishi is actually good, or just good in a vacuum. Lots of surprises here! Then the show ends on a kind note from a listener. Thanks for listening!

Links:

• Like what you hear? Tip us at Ko-Fi — Send a dollar our way using Ko-Fi to help support the Unnamed Automotive Podcast.

What's this? The 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-in Electric Vehicle has zoomed onto the Unnamed Automotive Podcast for its review? Benjamin has plenty to talk about with this seriously refreshed compact crossover. Loaded with more range, a new interior and that same controversial third row, does this one of a kind PHEV make sense for today's buyers? And what is going on at Mitsubishi these days anyways?

Then Sami talks quickly about the 2026 Genesis Electrified GV70, before quickly going on a tangent about weird car features that haven't been perfected and what that means for a mature market like the automotive industry. Thanks for listening everyone!

Links:

• Like what you hear? Tip us at Ko-Fi — Send a dollar our way using Ko-Fi to help support the Unnamed Automotive Podcast.