Unnamed Automotive Podcast
Every week automotive journalists Benjamin and Sami review the cars, trucks, and SUVs they test drive, and get weird, and funny, and honest, about the automotive industry.
Episode 457: 2026 Subaru Trailseeker, 2026 Mazda Miata, Hankook Tire Test Update, Listener Questions
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.
...
Episode 456: Guest Bradley Iger, Czinger 21C Supercar, 2026 Ram 2500 Tow Test, Benjamin Has A Bad Track Day, Bradley Talks Charger Take Two
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...
Episode 455: Guest Chad Kirchner, 2026 Dodge Charger Six Pack Scat Pack, Hankook Ventus S1 Tire Test Update, Slate Pickup, Polestar Leave U.S.
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...
Episode 454: 2026 Honda Accord Hybrid, 2026 Kia Sportage PHEV vs. 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, Listener Mail
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...
Episode 453: 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, 2026 Genesis Electrified GV70, A Long Digression About Cell Phone Design
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...
Episode 452: 2026 GMC Canyon AT4, 2026 Kia EV4
When a car is reviewed so well that one of our hosts actually considers buying one, you know its going to be a good podcast discussion. This week starts off with such talk with Benjamin's review of the 2026 GMC Canyon AT4, which was so perfectly suited for his lifestyle that he seriously pulled up the spreadsheets and budgets to see if it could work for him. Hear what makes this truck so good, and maybe one of the best mid-size trucks on the market.
Then Sami jumps in with a review of the only-for-Canada (so far) 2026 Kia...
Episode 451: 2026 Land Rover Defender Octa, 2026 Buick Encore GX, Hankook Tire Test
The Unnamed Automotive Podcast gets deep into it this week, with a "review" of the impressive and high end 2026 Land Rover Defender Octa, a performance oriented version of the off road SUV. While Jaguar and Range Rover get the SV treatment for their high output models, Defender gets an Octa badge, though it features the same BMW sourced turbo V8 and 6D suspension as the Range Rover Sport SV. Which JLR super SUV camp do you belong to? What makes a six figure SUV special? What differentiates this from a G63 AMG?
Then Benjamin checks out the 2026...
Episode 450: 2026 Volkswagen Jetta Sport, 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor
Has the Unnamed Automotive Podcast really never reviewed a Volkswagen Jetta? That's situation has been resolved, and Benjamin has a full and thorough test of the German compact car, as Sami asks him tons of questions. What makes the Jetta a worthy pick over other small sedans? And how does it compare to hybrid options out there? Benjamin has plenty answers as we review this sedan for the first time ever.
Then Sami checks out the 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor, an off road variant of the three-row crossover that replaces the old Timberline trim. Packed with a 3.0L...
Episode 449: 2026 Volkswagen Taos, Honda Posts A Loss, Listener Feedback
The Unnamed Automtoive Podcast jumps back into the subcompact sphere and gets to review the 2026 Volkswagen Taos. Benjamin wonders what the correct pronounciation of the crossover is, then gets into the nitty gritty about the pros and cons of this small, but steady SUV. They also talk about what makes for a good subcompact crossover, and what doesn't make the cut.
Then Sami brings up some recent harrowing news about Honda, and the weird pricing strategy over at Toyota regarding its three-row crossovers. Thanks for listening!
Links:
Benjamin's new comic book, Dead Air #3, is...Episode 448: 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer, 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid
What's the deal with the Jeep Grand Wagoneer? The Unnamed Automotive Podcast thoroughly explores the 2026 model which has a new design, revised lineup, reduced powertrain options and a million screens. Sami's review is all encompassing though he brings up a lot of competitors in the space.
Then Benjamin shares his thoughts on the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid. It's the most powerful Crosstrek yet, and is barely the most efficient, but theres more to the story than that. Hear the full review to learn more! Thanks for listening!
Links:
Benjamin's new comic book, Dead Air #3, is...Episode 447: 2026 Kia EV4, 2026 Lexus TX
Benjamin's 2026 Kia EV4 review may leave our American listeners confused since it isn't coming the the US market, but the Canadians get to enjoy this weird looking EV and its several positives. It looks good, has pretty good range and an attractive pricetag, so whats the catch?
Then Sami reviews the 2026 Lexus TX with seven seats, and he gets to use all seven of those luxury-lined seats. The review leaves Benjamin and Sami wondering what other true three-row luxury crossovers are out there, and which ones can compete at the TX's price point. Thanks for listening!
<...Episode 446: Monster Trucks, 2026 Toyota BZ
How do you create a toddlers core memory? The Unnamed Automotive Podcast discusses Sami taking his son to see Monster Jam when it crashes and bashes into town. Hear how a child—who believes all trucks are monster trucks—can still enjoy the spectacle of jumbo-sized motorsports.
Then Benjamin reviews the significantly redesigned and upgraded 2026 Toyota bZ, and has many things to say about it, both positive and negative! Is the bump in power and range really noticable? What about all of the bZs rivals? Benjamin shares his thoughts and more. Thanks for listening!
Links:
Be...Episode 445: 2026 Mazda 3 Sedan, 2026 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport Manual
The Unnamed Automotive Podcast arrives this week with a thorough examination of how Benjamin tries to escape the swirling mess of constant bad news by moving some rocks around. Well, actually the show really hits its stride with Benjamin's review of the 2026 Mazda3 sedan. A surprisingly peppy compact with a design that causes some disagreement between our hosts, the Mazda3 has several positives elements as well as a few red flags. For anyone contemplating a compact car purchase in 2026, this review is a must-hear.
Then Sami chimes in with his review of the 2026 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport...
Episode 444: 2026 Chevrolet Trax, Sung Kang Interview
The Unnamed Automotive Podcast is still looking at cars that are affordable and available with this weeks review of the 2026 Chevrolet Trax. One of the top choices for shoppers on a budget, Benjamin has found out that things aren't as cheap as they used to be—but that doesn't mean the Chevy is bad, does it? Maybe it just depends on where you're buying, as prices vary significantly when you cross the border. Also is a 1.2L turbo three-cylinder engine enough for keeping up with traffic? Benjamin has all the details.
Then the show goes into some bi...
Episode 443: 2026 Chevrolet Equinox, 2026 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
The Unnamed Automotive Podcast has a couple of car reviews this week to share, but not before discussing things like wet keyfobs, pond entry/exit, and Canadian Tire clearance sales! The show eventually gets to the point and Benjamin reviews the 2026 Chevrolet Equinox. Not the electric one, but the gas model that faces off against a meaty segment full of favorites like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V and Ford Bronco Sport. Benjamin has a lot to say about Chevy's plucky crossover, and Sami has a few things to add, but is this oft-forgotten rival worth checking out in such...
Episode 442: 2025 Lexus IS 500, Space Shuttle Tire Testing Robot
When is a V8 powered sports sedan not a sports sedan? Benjamin tries his hardest to answer that question this week on the Unnamed Automotive Podcast, with his review of the 2025 Lexus IS 500. Powered by a sweet, naturally aspirated 5.0L V8 engine, the Lexus IS 500 promises the world and comes up a bit short in several important ways as Benjamin details its speed, power, and inadequacies especially in the harsh cold weather he's been experiencing lately.
Then the show lands from orbit to discuss NASA testing its tires, and how they safely depressurize shuttle rubber. The remote-controlled...
Episode 441: 2026 Volkswagen Golf GTI, 2026 Genesis GV70
The Unnamed Automotive Podcast returns this week to discuss the hypothetical friendship survey, weird V8 powered FWD cars, engines that powered motorhomes and they even review a few new cars along the way. The first is a look at the 2026 Volkswagen Golf GTI, which Sami was already dismissive of due to its deletion of the manual transmission. However, some spirited drives helped change Sami's mind a bit. Is it enough to recommend it? Listen to find out!
Then Benjamin shares his thoughts on the 2026 Genesis GV70, one of the newer faces among the luxury compact SUV segment...
Episode 440: 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line, 2026 Volkswagen Atlas, Honda's Huge EV Loss
Benjamin's takes on the 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line, a car inspired by the sport compacts of yore. The N Line features an upgraded engine and a sportier suspension system, but is it really an enthusiast oriented model, or just an excuse to hike up the price for Hyundai's compact car?
Then Sami reviews the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas. After testing so many three-row crossovers lately, Sami turns his attention to the German family-friendly ride, which has been thoroughly refreshed in recent years. However, one glaring red flag spoils Sami's recommendation of the Atlas; can you guess what it is? <...
Episode 439: 2026 Subaru Outback
What makes a Subaru Outback, the "Subaru Outback?" This week, the Unnamed Automotive Podcast crams to understand the brand's iconic vehicle, which has finally transitioned from wagon to SUV with the 2026 model year. Benjamin test drives it through the winter, while Sami shares his memories of his 2010 and experience with his 2020 model to see how they compare. Can the Subaru faithful get over the exterior design and appreciate what the automaker has been able to accomplish with this new generation? Is the powetrain up to snuff? Can it handle the snow? Find out all the answers in this weeks...
Episode 438: 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9, 2026 Acura RDX
The Unnamed Automotive Podcast arrives this week with a double review of the 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9, a three-row EV that has our hosts offering completely different takes. Sami thinks the all-electric Korean crossover is too expensive, while Benjamin thinks it's plenty fancy. Sami feels it rode awfully in the snow, while Benjamin says it was surprisingly responsive. This many opposite takes means plenty of discussion, and we're here for it!
Then Benjamin shares his road-trip-road-test of the 2026 Acura RDX, which he says was surprisingly good, though has one fatal flaw. Is it enough to deter him from recommending...
Episode 437: 2026 Nissan Leaf, 2026 Ford Expedition Tremor
The show starts with a review of the 2026 Nissan Leaf, which Benjamin tested out in the most wintery of conditions. How did the already limited range keep up with the low temperatures? And what about its handling of the snowy roads? Benjamin shares his experiences and more in this somewhat affordable EV.
Then Sami tests out one of the bigger SUVs out there, the 2025 Ford Expedition Tremor. Able to haul 8 passengers and deal with off roading, this big truck-based family hauler has some cool new tech to discuss, and some worth nitpicking.
Finally the show...
Episode 436: 2026 GMC Terrain Denali, 2026 Volvo XC60
Benjamin reviews the 2026 GMC Terrain Denali, a model we haven't even thought about since 2021! It's got good looks, plenty of equipment and a decent price... but why is Sami so annoyed by it? Maybe it has something to do with his ancient phone...
Then Sami reviews the 2026 Volvo XC60, a car the guys haven't reviewed since 2022! It has a mild hybrid system, a punchy turbo-four and decent looks, so Sami and Benjamin get to the bottom of why this car has been overshadowed by other choices in the segment. That's it for this week, thanks for listening!<...
Episode 435: Guest Adi Desai of DoubleClutch, 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid, 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro
The Unnamed Automotive Podcast welcomes a fun guest and friend to this weeks episode, DoubleClutch.ca founder Adi Desai, who is here to talk about his eclectic collection of cars and fun stories about finding them. Is an unreliable, expensive to repair car still good if it's a fun, unique driving experience? Are your favorite video-game cover cars as good as you remember them when you transfer them from the digital world to the real one?
Then Benjamin and Sami review the 2026 Hyundai Palisade, which has recieved a significant redesign this year with a new off-road trim...
Episode 434: 2026 Toyota Sienna, The Hornet is Dead, The Bolt Is Almost Dead, Chinese EVs, Listener Questions
This weeks show starts with Sami's review of the 2026 Toyota Sienna minivan, which is apparently inspired by Japan's iconic bullet trains. Although our hosts struggle to see the direct connection, their discussion of the minivan covers all kinds of topics, ranging from the importance of max cargo room in a van, to whether shared media experiences are still valuable during a roadtrip.
Then the guys talk about a few important news topics that came up, including the death of the Dodge Hornet, the arrival and cancellation of the new Chevy Bolt, and the arrival of new Chinese...
Episode 433: 2026 Toyota BZ, 2026 BMW M340i Jahre
First Benjamin shares his personal Pathfinder experience in the freezing cold Canadian winter while troubleshooting its windshield wiper woes. Then Sami jumps into action to review the new 2026 Toyota bZ. Not to be confused by the outgoing bZ4X or all-new and completely different bZ Woodland, the bZ gets tons of upgrades from the old Toyota EV. Still, Sami struggles to see the silver lining for such a late entry to the mainstream EV segment.
Then Benjamin has a quick review of the 2026 BMW M340 xDrive 50 Jahre Edition, a special edition of the podcast favorite 3 Series. With...
Episode 432: 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid, 2026 Toyota Camry XLE AWD
It is the first podcast of 2026 and we're so thankful to be starting the year right with our loyal listeners. Thanks so much for making 2025 (and every year!) so great. Todays episode starts with a discussion of the 2026 Honda CR-V Hybrid, and the Japanese automaker's overall powertrain strategy. Listen as the guys talk natural gas, hydrogen, PHEV and more and where the CR-V sits among all those choices. Where will Honda go next? Maybe synthetic fuel like Porsche, or Soylent Green?
Then Benjamin chimes in with his winter-weather review of the 2026 Toyota Camry. Available with all-wheel-drive and...
Episode 431: 2025 Jeep Wagoneer S, 2026 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid
First the show starts off with Benjamin's review of the 2025 Jeep Cherokee S, an electric crossover that's arrived a bit late, but with lots of power. Hear Benjamin's thoughts on Jeep's first electric car in North America and what's going right and wrong with this new EV.
Then Sami reviews the 2026 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid, which isn't a huge change from the previous year, but packs an interesting Baby Mode, which catches the guys attention for a whole segment of the podcast. Thanks for listening everyone!
Links:
Like what you hear? Tip us at Ko-Fi — Se...Episode 430: 2026 Chrysler Pacifica, 2026 Honda Odyssey
The show starts off with Sami's review of the 2026 Chrysler Pacifica AWD, which boasts a peachy engine and cool seats that can hide away for more storage as needed, but Sami points out there are more than a few concerns with the American company's minivan, and it may be starting to feel a bit old these days.
Then Benjamin reviews the 2026 Honda Odyssey, which he pilots through a pair of hefty snowstorms. Though it lacks the all-wheel-drive and versatile seats of the Pacifica, he has more than few reasons to recommend this mighty minivan.
Finally...
Episode 429: 2025 Ford F-150 Powerboost Hybrid
The Unnamed Automotive Podcast powers through some troublesome false starts this week to tackle a tough topic: the 2025 Ford F-150 With the PowerBoost Hybrid powertrain. Featuring more power than the Ford Raptor (but not the R) this is a truck with plenty of giddy-up, and some extra features that are worth getting excited about. Benjamin details everything he's gone through with this truck including using its external generator feature, its hands-free driving assistance, and its punchy engine. Plus the guys get goofy talking about tailgates. Thanks for listening!
Links:
Like what you hear? Tip us at...Episode 428: 2026 Nissan Kicks
This week on the Unnamed Automotive Podcast: OOPS ALL KICKS! The show this week centers around the entry-level 2026 Nissan Kicks. This is the first appearance of the second generation Kicks on the show, which is important considering how much our hosts like the previous models. Now the Kicks is available with lots of equipment, a bigger engine, and available all-wheel-drive. However, this bumps up the price of the Kicks to a new level, which is an important factor to consider when discussing the Nissan crossover.
Hear the whole discussion and don't forget to head over to our...
Episode 427: 2026 Hyundai Kona, 2026 Lexus NX 350h F Sport
This week the Unnamed Automotive Podcast reviews a pair of crossovers, starting with Sami's take on the 2026 Hyundai Kona. This isn't the oft-discussed EV, but a gas-powered version of the subcompact, which has Sami buzzing about its size and features. Is this among the best in its class?
Then Benjamin reviews an F-Sport version of the 2026 Lexus NX350h. Fitted with a hybrid powertrain and more aggressive styling, this Lexus also boasts a gorgeous interior and plenty of technology, but do some of those features get in the way of recommending this vehicle? Thanks for listening!
<...Episode 426: 2026 Genesis Electrified GV70, Japan Mobility Show, Listener Questions
It's yet another EV this week, with Benjamin's review of the 2026 Genesis Electrified GV70. More than just a quirky name, this electric crossover boasts a fancy interior and an impressive drive, but not everything is rosy with this new electric vehicle as it transitions to a new charging standard. Hear all of Benjamin's concerns and Sami's rebuttals in this segment.
Then Sami decides to give you all a quick refresher of the coolest stuff seen at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show, all revolving around some cool Lexus concepts. Vans? Wheelchairs? Sports Cars? YUP!
Finally the show...
Episode 425: 2025 Lucid Air, 2025 Acura ADX
The show starts with the 2025 Lucid Air Sedans, which Benjamin thoroughly reviews. This EV sedan from a well-funded startup, promises lots of performance and range, but Benjamin has some thoughts to share about all that. And he wonders, why do we have to keep changing the way we turn cars on and off?
Then Sami takes on the 2025 Acura ADX, a much needed subcompact crossover in the Japanese automakers lineup. Based around the Integra, Civic and (ugh) HR-V, the ADX features a punchy 1.5-turbo which may be able to help us gloss over the car's CVT. Sami...
Episode 424: 2025 Chevrolet Blazer SS, 2025 Range Rover Sport SV Edition Two, Listener Questions
What has over 600 horsepower, and can sprint from 0-60 MPH in under 4 seconds? BOTH of the cars the Unnamed Automotive Podcast are reviewing! This weeks show starts with Benjamin's take of the 2025 Chevrolet Blazer SS EV, which is super heavy, features a huge battery, and a weird WOW feature to blast off to high speeds. But what else does it deliver for car enthusiasts? And why does it kind of look like an Equinox EV?
Then Sami drives the 2025 Range Rover Sport SV Edition Two, another high-horsepower machine, but this time focused on track capabilities, with some...
Episode 423: 2025 Jeep Avenger, 2025 Subaru WRX tS, Jaguar Land Rover Hack
This weeks episode starts off with Sami's description and review of a strange little Jeep that he drove out in Europe: the Avenger EV. Limited with a small battery and front-wheel-drive, how does this compact car translate the Jeep design language to a new market? And what can we expect in North America, with the Avenger's design team penning the new Compass? Sami explains his thoughts, though you have to hang on to understand them all.
Then Benjamin reviews the 2025 Subaru WRX tS, and can't stop bringing up his memories of the STI brand. While all kinds...
Episode 422: Guest Host Chad Kirchner, 2025 Nissan Versa S, Chevrolet Bolt is BACK
When Sami's away, only guest host Chad Kirchner has the gravitas to step into his shoes and keep the podcast vibes flowing. Chad and Benjamin talk about Benjamin's time in the 2025 Nissan Versa S, by far the most affordable new car on the market, and what you give up when shopping for a brand new vehicle at used vehicle prices. Then Chad spills the beans on the return of the Chevrolet Bolt, a longtime favorite of the podcast, and a car which seems likely to stick to its roots as a cheap EV.
Links:
Benjamin's new...Episode 421: 2025 Toyota 4Runner Trailhunter, 2026 Audi Q3, Benjamin Bought A New Car
Whats that you hear? Is it the sound of trails being hunted? Or roads being lit? No, you're right, its another episode of the Unnamed Automotive Podcast being beamed right to your devices! This weeks show starts off with our first review of the 2025 Toyota 4Runner TrailHunter, which Benjamin is towing with around town. Why is there yet another off-road oriented version of this off-road-oriented SUV? How does it differ from TRD-branded models? What's with the pricing? Benjamin breaks it down for you.
Then Sami flies of the country to test out the 2026 Audi Q3 in Scotland...
Episode 420: 2025 Audi SQ6 E-Tron, 2026 Honda Passport Trailsport, Listener Questions
The show starts with Benjamin's review of the 2025 Audi SQ6 e-tron, a performance minded electric crossover which seems to nail so many thing, but falls short of its rivals in one key area; can you guess where? Benjamin's review of the EV expands to a wider discussion of its rivals that you don't want to miss.
Then Sami shares his thoughts on the 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport, a rugged looking SUV with the same bones as the Pilot, but with fewer seats. While it looks tough and offers a few handy features that are useful off-road, Sami claims...
Episode 419: 2025 BMW M2, 2025 Honda CR-V TrailSport
This week the Unnamed Automotive Podcast is so revved up it's putting Benjamin to sleep! Even while Benjamin does tons of PR for his upcoming book (www.modeluncomic.com) he has time to review a car for us. He jumps into the pilots seat of the 2025 BMW M2, which has been totally redesigned on a new platform and feels very close to its M3/M4 cousins. While boasting plenty of power, and a manual gearbox, Benjamin wonders if there's something missing in the M2's typically exciting sauce.
Then Sami climbs into the 2026 Honda CR-V TrailSport Hybrid...
Episode 418: 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander, 2026 Volvo XC90 PHEV, Nissan Pathfinder Cow Adventure
If you're after the latest reviews of some three-row crossovers of varying sizes, then you're listening to the right podcast! The Unnamed Automotive Podcast starts off with Benjamin's review of the 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander, loaded with three rows and a gas-powered motor, the Outlander begins to boil Sami's blood due to its lack of competitiveness in a field full of excellent options. Benjamin has more than a few nice things to say about the Outlander, but none of them are about the barely-useable third row.
Then Sami chimes in about his plug-in experience with the 2025.5 Volvo XC90. Loaded...