Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Wheel Bearings
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Losing the Buzz | 27 Aug 2024 | 01:43:31 | |
Robbie is back from Germany where he got to drive the updated Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo and he wants one. Nicole got to drive a pair of new Hyundai Santa Fes at home and at a family wedding. Meanwhile, Sam got surprisingly good efficiency from the latest edition of the VW ID4 but those window switches are still dumb. In the news, the US market version of the VW ID Buzz finally has a price and let's just say affordability isn't part of the formula. Ford has again pivoted on its electric vehicle plans and there won't be anything fresh in showrooms for a few more years. GM is bringing some plug-in hybrid powertrains to its US lineup, but the new Equinox won't be home to this system. Ford has updated the Bronco Sport for 2025 with some cool new lifestyle features. Tesla has been purging old claims about Autopilot and Full Self-Driving but the internet never forgets and Robbie visited Electrify Expo and you can too. Links VW ID Buzz pricing and range Elon's 2016 Autopilot V2 conference call Chevrolet won't give us Chinese developed Equinox PHEV Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Should Have Saved The Name | 17 Aug 2024 | 01:51:31 | |
Our regular lineup is back together, after a delayed arrival from Robbie. Robbie got to spend some time with the new Toyota Prius Prime while spending a couple of days in Detroit. Sam drove the Hyundai Kona Electric and Nicole has been in the latest Subaru Impreza RS and Mazda CX-90 since she last appeared. This week Sam got to visit the Volvo Cars factory near Charleston, South Carolina where they have just added production of the Polestar 3 in addition to the Volvo EX90. JD Power continues to survey EV drivers about their satisfaction with the public charging experience and while it has ticked upward overall just a but this year, it still has a lot of room for improvement. While traditional auto shows are flagging, Monterey Car Week has become the place to launch premium and expensive machines and wild concepts. We discuss the Cadillac Opulent Velocity and Acura Performance EV concepts and the production 2025 Lincoln Navigator. In China, GM like most other non-Chinese brands is struggling against surging domestic competitors. One of those competitors is Zeekr which has launched a new battery capable of some impressive charging speeds. Links Charging satisfaction improves - a bit Cadillac Opulent Velocity concept New fast charging Zeekr LFP battery Acura Performance EV concept Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Do You Need An AI Best Friend? | 17 Jun 2024 | 01:47:27 | |
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/wheelbearings Links Polaris off-road adventure STLA Brain, Cockpit, Autodrive Don't pay markups for the Chevy Equinox EV Hamilton's North Coast Adventures Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| A Taller Prancing Horse | 20 Sep 2022 | 01:26:53 | |
Nicole is travelling somewhere in the Earth's biosphere so it's just the boys this time around. Since this was recorded just a few days after the last episode, Robbie hasn't driven anything but Sam shares his thoughts on the Hyundai Santa Cruz. In the news, Ferrari has unveiled its first four-door regular production model, the Purosangue (don''t call it an SUV). Honda has significantly the raised the base price on the new CR-V and the final Chrysler 300 won't get a Hellcat. Tesla faces a class action lawsuit over unfullfilled promises about Autopilot and Full Self-Driving. The VW ID Aero will replace the Arteon and the 2023 Lincoln Corsair gets a bigger grille. Finally, Sam has a conversation with Schaeffler Group CTO Jeff Hemphill about some of the technologies the supplier is developing to improve EV efficiency. Links Not enough hellcats for Chrysler 300C VW ID Aero to replace Arteon by 2024 Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Getting Buzzed | 17 Sep 2022 | 01:32:35 | |
Over the past week we've had an assortment of travel and gigs but we're back in the saddle with fresh material. Now that the embargo has lifted, Robbie can finally share his thoughts on driving the VW ID Buzz, while Nicole had the new Kia Sportage. Before heading out to San Francisco, Sam had the Volvo C40 Recharge and while in the Bay area he drove a Chevrolet Bolt EV. In the news, we've seen a bunch of new upcoming products in the leadup to the return of the much diminished Detroit Auto Show. The week before the show, Jeep started to reveal its 2024 EVs including the all-new Recon and Wagoneer S. Chevrolet also took the wraps off the Equinox EV. The big only big reveal at the show itself was the reworked 2024 Ford Mustang that's coming next summer. The king of designing devices with fewer buttons, Jonny Ive said that cars should have more buttons and less touch. Ram is ending production of the diesel version of the 1500 pickup so order yours now. While in San Francisco, Sam and Robbie both got to tour Cruise headquarters and ride in actual self-driving robotaxis. Links Jonny Ive wants more buttons in cars Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Don't Fake Fires | 04 Sep 2022 | 01:36:20 | |
As summer winds down, we've got lots of cool stuff that we've been driving this week. Nicole had the plug-in hybrid version of the Hyundai Tucson Limited with all-wheel-drive. Roberto has the Chevrolet Bolt EUV and Sam had the Toyota GR86 Premium and the Lucid Air Grand Touring. There are lots of EV related stories in the news this week starting with using the Ford F-150 Lightning as a generator after a heavy storm whipped through. In another part of the country, a doctor powered a vasectomy with a Rivian R1T. Buick wants to go all electric this decade and it wants dealers that will be fully supportive. Toyota is converting a pair of Japanese engine plants to battery production and expanding plans for a US battery plant. Fuel cells are likely to play an important part in electrifying larger vehicles. German Insurance company AXA messed in trying to demonstrate EV safety. Links Buick offers to buy out dealers that don't want to go electric Toyota converting 2 engine plants to battery production Toyota nearly triples investment in NC battery plant Fuel cells still a thing for larger vehicles German insurer fakes battery fire Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Power is Not Enough | 28 Aug 2022 | 01:33:54 | |
The crew reconvenes to catch up on the Acura Integra, Polestar 2 single motor, Toyota Corolla Cross, Ford F-150 Raptor and Jeep Grand Cherokee 4XE. Since they haven't spoken since before Woodward Dream Cruise and Monterey Car week, Robbie and Nicole share their impressions of the Dodge Charger Daytona SRT concept. Robbie tells us about the Acura Precision Concept EV and we discuss naming Acura's first EV the ZDX. There was also the Lincoln L100 concept and the Meyers Manx EV. A Swedish study says touchscreens are bad, and we all agree. Lamborghini says it will need more than power to compete in the EV age. An Australian Bank will stop providing financing for ICEs in 2025 and sales of new ICEs are getting banned in 2035. Links Lamborghini needs more than power Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| An EV With An Exhaust System? | 21 Aug 2022 | 01:09:02 | |
This week Sam is flying solo and he's got interviews with Dodge CEO Tim Kuniskis, Stellantis head of propulsion Micky Bly and Ford Mustang and Shelby marketing and brand manager Jim Owens. Links Dodge Charger Daytona SRT concept Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| A Really Long Dirt Driveway | 15 Aug 2022 | 01:41:46 | |
This week, Roberto tells us about driving the other trucklet, the 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz. Nicole drives the Mazda CX-30 and takes a road trip in the Nissan Rogue with its new 1.5-liter three-cylinder turbo and Sam has a blast in the Hyundai Elantra Na. All three of our intrepid hosts ventured to North Carolina to drive the refreshed Hyundai Palisade on a really long dirt driveway. EV prices are heading up instead of down and you'll be able to chow down on Swedish meatballs and cinamon rolls as Electrify America is coming to the home of the flat pack. Nicole has some thoughts on Cadillac's new model names. Finally Ralph Nader takes aim at Tesla "full self-driving" and we answe a bunch of questions. Links Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| How Much For The Paint? | 07 Aug 2022 | 01:48:29 | |
This week Sam went through two vehicles that are basically the same, internal combustion engine, 4 wheels, 4 doors plus a hatch and neat paint jobs, the Toyota Corolla Hatchback and the Maserati Levante Trofeo. One is slightly more expensive than the other. Nicole has been driving Mazda MX-5 RF and Robbie is still foregoing new cars while he catches up on a backlog of reviews In the news, VW has started US production of the ID.4 with a new cheaper standard model with less range and more screen. VW is also confirmed as the customer for the $4 billion lidar order from Innoviz and GM is doubling the number of roads where Super Cruise can be used. Toyota has just barely started selling the bZ4X and is already considering a buyback. Sam spoke with Hyundai's VP of Product and Mobility Olabisi Boyle and we answer some questions. Links GM expands Super Cruise to 400K miles of roads Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| You Are The Kindling | 02 Aug 2022 | 01:33:00 | |
This week Robbie is catching up on a backlog of articles he has to write so he didn't have anything to drive. But Nicole found the Ford Expedition Max to be the perfect mount for getting to a gathering of extended family in the White Mountains. Meanwhile, Sam finally got his hands on the lovely Audi e-Tron GT. In the news, we catch up on the Cadillac Celestiq that Sam forgot to add to the rundown last week. Chevrolet has revealed the next-generation of its midsize Colorado pickup with only crew cab shortbed configuration and turbo four-cylinder engines. Expanded EV tax incentives are back (maybe depending on what Sen. Sinema decides to do) and GM and Ford continue to try to fight back against customers and dealers flipping and gouging on their most popular models. Among those popular models is likely to be the new Ford Maverick Tremor. We also have a bunch of listener questions. Links GM and Ford fight dealer markups and flippers Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Failure to Charge | 25 Jul 2022 | 01:57:37 | |
We took a week off to recharge but we're back with a packed show. Roberto went to Germany to drive the Mercedes-Benz EQXX concept and the production EQB evs. Sam drove the 2023 Nissan Z and the Ford Mach-E GT Performance Edition. Nicole had the Mercedes-AMG GLB. In the news, Chevrolet unveiled its Mach-E/Model Y challenger, the 2024 Blazer EV. Scott Keogh is moving over from running VW of North America to establish Scout as an all-EV SUV and truck brand. Mercedes is prepping to launch the its hands-off/eyes-off Drive Pilot assist system in the US in 2023. Toyota is bringing the new Crown to America. Sam finally encounters a major charging fail with Electrify America and Ford is bringing CATL lithium iron phosphate batteries to the Mach-E and Lightning. Links Mercedes-Benz Drive Pilot to America Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Locked in the Center | 12 Jul 2022 | 01:12:38 | |
In the garage this week, Robbie had the Ford F-150 Lightning XLT with the big battery but he somehow neglected to haul any mulch. Sam had a last minute schedule change that led to substituting the Chevrolet Bolt EUV with Super Cruise. Nicole also had a scheduling hickup that meant she still had the same Nissan Altima from last week. In the news, while everyone is rolling out EVs as fast they can, Mazda has opted to launch an all-new 3.3-liter inline-six diesel engine for the CX-60 in Europe. We also discuss the challenges of parking in your driveway if live in San Francisco. Ford has filed two new trademarks, Escape Active for an updated version of the compact crossover and Thunder for trucks. Tesla will start opening some of its Supercharger stations in the US to other EV brands by the end of the year. Despite being an EV, using a Hummer EV leads to more CO2 emissions than driving a Chevy Malibu. Finally, a new crowd-sourced website lets car shoppers figure out which dealers have the biggest markups and which are selling at sticker price. Links US access to Tesla Superchargers GMC Hummer EV emits more CO2 than Malibu Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Plug-in Hybrids Are Or Are Not Fine | 08 Jun 2024 | 02:04:59 | |
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 Johnson Wheel Bearings listeners get an extra 3 months for free when they sign up for ExpressVPN at https://www.expressvpn.com/wheelbearings Links Ford Lightning Supertruck to Pikes Peak Volvo EX90 start US production Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Into the Swamp | 04 Jul 2022 | 01:28:25 | |
This week in the garage Sam has been driving the 2023 Kia Sportage hybrid which is now longer and electrified. Nicole has Nissan Altima with AWD and Robbie has just started testing some e-bikes. Nicole got to do a first drive in the Ford Bronco Everglades through the swamps of Michigan's Drummond Island. Ford will no longer allow customers to buy out their EVs at the end of the lease while Hyundai gives the first official glimpse of the Ioniq 6 electric sedan. At Pikes Peak, Randy Pobst almost ran off the side of the mountain because he couldn't find the windshield defroster control on the touchscreen menu of the Tesla Model S Plaid he was racing and the TFL Truck crew put the Ford F-150 Lightning to the towing test. Finally we answer listener questions and Sam interviews Toyota executive vice president of sales Jack Hollis. Links TFL Truck tows with the Lightning Touchscreens and hillclimbs don't mix Ford won't let EV lessee's buy at the end of the contract Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Cadillac Sings a New Tune | 28 Jun 2022 | 01:20:09 | |
This week in the garage, Sam drives the Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing (unfortunately with an automatic transmission) and Nicole gets the new Acura Integra (spoiler, Mr Nicole who owned an original Integra back in the day approves). Unfortunately, a flight cancellation means Nicole didn't make it to Utah to drive the new Cadillac Lyriq, Sam and Robbie did get to try it out. Nicole did however, get to drive the second-generation Honda HR-V. At Goodwood, Polestar demoed the prototype of the 5, their new 884-hp GT sedan and Sam went for a spin in Ford's new simulator. Links Sam’s take on the Cadillac Lyriq Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Broncos Big and Small | 20 Jun 2022 | 01:32:32 | |
This week, Sam has a comparison of two of the first electric pickup trucks, the Ford F-150 Lightning and Rivian R1T. Roberto, has the Kia Stinger and drives the new Lunar Rover in GM's simulator. Nicole has the Ford Bronco Sport at home and drove the new Bronco Raptor in California. Cadillac will build its new electric flagship the Celistiq at a facility on its Warren, Mich tech center campus. NHTSA drops the first batch of data on crashes while using assisted and automated driving systems and you'll never guess who had the most crashes. Sony is forming an EV joint venture with Honda. Sam also answers lots of Lightning listener questions. Links Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Talking About Pie | 13 Jun 2022 | 01:41:38 | |
In this week's garage, Robbie reveals that he is the last journo to drive the Kia Stinger, Nicole spends time with the Ford Bronco 2-door and Sam has the refreshed edition of the Lincoln Navigator. Polestar has revealed the first photo of the 3 electric crossover with the full unveiling coming in October. Renders of the new Ford Ranger-based Volkswagen Amarok are out but the truck isn't coming to North America. Honda has a larger Civic-based HR-V coming to the US market. Lightning owners get an adapter to let their trucks charge stranded Teslas. The Biden administration has rules for EV charging companies that want federal dollars. Nicole has driven the Cadillac Escalade-V and Sam talks with Toyota product planning VP Cooper Ericksen. Links Lightnings with Tesla adapters Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| ToyotaPalooza 2022 | 08 Jun 2022 | 01:55:33 | |
In the garage this week, Nicole is back in the Mercedes-Benz GLS450 while Sam has the dual motor, all-wheel-drive version of the VW ID4. Last fall, Robbie was about to review the refreshed 2022 Chevrolet Bolt when he got a call just after receiving it, telling him not to drive it. Since then, GM has replaced batteries in all of the Bolts built to date and they are safe again so Robbie is taking another stab at it. Last week, Toyota held the second annual edition of its all-Toyota-all-Lexus auto show at its North American headquarters in Plano, TX. Nicole and Sam got to check out the new but very familiar looking 2023 Lexus RX, see the Morizo Edition of the GR Corolla and drive the hybrid-only 2023 Sequoia. They also got to see some stuff that they can't talk about or even acknowledge yet. Sam also spoke with Lexus NA chief Andrew Gilliland about where the brand is going. Oh yeah and Buick announced it's going all electric and released a hot new concept that they probably won't build. Links Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Teslas Can't See Aircraft | 29 May 2022 | 01:18:26 | |
This week, Robbie has been testing out the Audi Q5 Sportback, Nicole continues Hyundai-Fest with the new Tucson N-Line and Sam drives the Hyundai Ioniq 5. Sam also got a Kia EV6 for an EV road trip to Wisconsin. In the news we discuss why it's not ok that Tesla FSD can't recognize airplanes. NHTSA finally has an administrator after 5 years without one. Rivian loses its manufacturing boss while getting a new COO. BBS introduces new universal fit wheels and the Fisker Pear is coming to Lordstown, Ohio. Links Steven Cliff confirmed as new NHTSA administrator Rivian mfg chief leaves, new COO incoming Fisker Pear coming in 2024, under $29,900 Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| The Porter Wins | 24 May 2022 | 01:20:55 | |
We've had a quite a variety of vehicles to drive in the past week. Robbie went all the way to Germany to drive the new BMW iX M60 from Munich to Lake Como in Italy. Nicole has been juggling Hyundais with a Sonata N-Line sedan at home and most of the brand's electrified lineup in Nashville with the Ioniq 5, Kona EV, Tucson PHEV and Santa Fe PHEV. Sam finally got to spend some quality time with the new Toyota Tundra as well. In the news, Porsche revealed a preview of what might be its next car for a single make race series, the battery powered, 1,000+ hp 718 Cayman ePerformance. Honda released the first teaser sketch of the 2024 Prologue electric crossover that will be built by GM on its Ultium platform. Robbie shares his impressions of the Concorso D'eleganza and Nissan and Mitsubishi have a new electric Kei car in Japan called the Sakura, that American drivers can't have. Sam also shares his thoughts on the new New York Times documentary Elon Musk's Crash Course. Links Porsche 718 Cayman ePerformance Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| The Scout Lives | 16 May 2022 | 01:14:05 | |
This week Nicole has two quite different machines to discuss, the updated, extended range Volvo XC60 T8 Recharge and the Mazda3 Turbo. Roberto has the BMW M240i that hearkens back to the classic E36 3 Series and Sam has a reprise of the Ford F-150 Platinum hybrid. Sam also got to spend a couple of quality hours blasting around in the new 2023 Nissan Z. In the news, Lordstown has completed the sale of its factory to Foxconn, but there is far from a guarantee that the Endurance will ever get to full production. Motor Trend gets some very disappointing charging results from the new Toyota bZ4X AWD. With the post-IPO lockup expired, Ford has sold off two large tranches of its Rivian stock on the way to what will likely be a full divestment in time. Finally, Volkswagen announced that it will revive the old International Scout brand for an upcoming electric SUV and pickup truck. Links Lordstown closes sale of plant to Foxconn, Fisker Pear to be produced there Toyota BZ4X slow DC charging when cold Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Lightning Strikes | 11 May 2022 | 02:20:31 | |
This week in the garage, Roberto and Sam have been evaluating electric driving range. Robbie has been pushing the BMW iX to its limits while Sam has been driving the Hyundai Tucson plug-in hybrid. Meanwhile Nicole has been on the road and in the desert with the 2022 GMC Sierra in Denali Ultimate and AT4X forms. Nicole and Sam have finally gotten behind the wheel of the Ford F-150 Lightning and they share their impressions and answer a bunch of questions. Sam also sat down with Darren Palmer, VP of electric vehicle programs at Ford to talk about charging, range estimation and how the Lightning came to be. We also discuss Robbie's recent article on whether it's better to keep driving an old beater or buy a new EV. Tesla doesn't support Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, but one creative person got it sort of working with the help of a couple of Raspberry Pis. Meanwhile, BMW does support AA and Carplay, but cars built since the beginning of the year are missing the functionality as the automaker rewrites the code for a new chip they are now using. Links BMWs being delivered without Android Auto/Apple Carplay Getting Apple CarPlay to work in a Tesla ... with Android Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| The Deer Ran Into Me | 01 May 2022 | 01:13:58 | |
This week on the show, Roberto reviews the Kia Soul rental car he had on Kauai last week, Nicole drives the baby Range Rover, the Evoque, and Sam discusses the new eighth-generation Volkswagen GTI. In the news, Chevrolet teased out upcoming hybrid and electric versions of the Corvette and all of GM's Ultium platform EVs are getting a heat pump energy recovery system as standard equipment. Dodge is expanding its lineup with a compact crossover called the Hornet which we'll see in August and Nissan is working on a new ADAS system using Luminar lidar. Finally, a dealer in Colorado has opened a used car store that only sells hybrids and EVs and we answer some questions. Links GM Ultium Energy Recovery System Colorado dealer that only sells used EVs and hybrids Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| The Best EV Value | 03 Jun 2024 | 01:30:33 | |
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/wheelbearings Links Chevrolet Equinox EV first drive Geneva Motor Show canceled indefinitely Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Some Compromises | 25 Apr 2022 | 02:04:39 | |
Robbie is on vacation this week, but Nicole is back. She's been driving the Infiniti QX55 and the Toyota 4Runner, one of which was very pleasant. Sam had the Mazda CZ-9 Signature. We've got lots of news this week starting with the Lincoln Star concept that previews the design direction for Ford's premium brand as it goes electric and Sam spoke with design director Kemal Curic. On the same day that the Lincoln was revealed, BMW showed off its new 7 series including the electric i7 and Lexus dropped the RZ450e electric crossover. Nicole and Sam both recently drove the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4Xe plug-in hybrid. Nicole also provides her impressions of the Subaru Solterra. Links Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Coexisting Assistants | 17 Apr 2022 | 01:31:10 | |
Nicole is off again this week caring for her mom, but the boys are carrying on. Roberto has been putting more miles on the BMW i4 and found it to be surprisingly efficient. Meanwhile Sam also got very good fuel efficiency while driving the Honda Civic Si which retains a rapidly nearing extinction manual gearbox. In the news, the New York Auto Show was this week where Genesis showed off a new electric luxury coupe concept, Ford expanded its relationship with Amazon Alexa and some cool Radwood cars appeared on the show floor. BMW also announced a mid-cycle refresh of the X7 and Sam again spoke with Alfa Romeo NA boss Larry Dominque. Links Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Not A Crazed Squirrel | 13 Apr 2022 | 01:35:27 | |
This week on the show, Roberto went all the way to Germany to drive the new Mercedes-Benz EQE midsize electric sedan. Nicole had a very different Mercedes, the seven-seat GLS450 SUV as well as the Hyundai Santa Cruz. Sam tested his new EV charger with the Mini Cooper SE. Nicole and Roberto also drove the GMC Hummer EV while Sam and Nicole tried out the Toyota bZ4X. A San Francisco police officer pulled over a driverless Cruise AV. Jeep is launching an even bigger version of the Wagoneer with the new Hurricane inline-six and Lincoln is teasing its upcoming EV concept. Links 2023 Jeep Wagoneer L/Grand Wagoneer L Manheim auctions tests used EV batteries Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| 100 HP Per Cylinder | 03 Apr 2022 | 01:09:42 | |
Nicole is attending to her mom this week, so it's just the guys. Robbie had two different EVs off the same platform, the Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo and the Audi RS e-tron GT. Sam drove the GMC Canyon AT4. Rolls-Royce has released testing images and video of its first EV, the Specter undergoing winter testing in Sweden. Honda and Acura have extended their certified pre-owned car program to models as old as 10 and Toyota has released its hottest hatch yet, the Corolla GR. NHTSA also announced plans to raise corporate average fuel economy standards to over 40 mpg by 2026. Links Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Orange is Rugged | 30 Mar 2022 | 01:35:50 | |
The end of quarter travel is still going strong this week. Since our last regular episode Roberto has driven two new electric vehicles, the Lucid Air Dream Edition and the Nissan Ariya. Meanwhile, Sam having just returned from California on a red-eye talks about the Kia Sorento plug-in hybrid. Nicole was going the opposite direction from Sam and slid in late after being in transit from San Diego airport for the first part of the show. She has been playing with the Honda Passport Trailsport, complete with orange trim. Sam and Nicole shared some impressions of the updated Volvo XC60 Recharge with its longer 35-mile electric range. Stellantis is trailing the pack in fuel economy so since it expects to be still selling internal combustion vehicles into the 2030s, it has developed a new engine called Hurricane to replace the Hemi V8s. Lotus has revealed its first crossover, the electric Eletre. Nicole also shares her driving impressions of the new Mazda CX-50 and we answer questions. Links Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Electric Volvos and More | 19 Mar 2022 | 01:25:53 | |
This week our usual recording time coincided with both Roberto and Nicole being in transit somewhere while Sam is hitting the road again in a couple of days. But rather than let you down, we do have some fresh content for you. First off, both Nicole and Sam drove the new Volvo C40 Recharge and sat down in a garden afterward to discuss their impressions. While at the Volvo event, Sam also chatted with Volvo Cars NA chief Anders Gustafsson and Senior product manager Christina Vasandani. We also have the rest of the interviews Sam recorded at the Chicago Auto Show including Steve Gehring, safety regulation and policy executive director at Hyundai, Jasen Turnbull, marketing manager for the the Ford F-150 Lightning and Arie Groenveld, Ford Bronco Raptor chief engineer Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| The Buzz is Back | 13 Mar 2022 | 01:32:49 | |
This week Roberto has two vehicles to discuss, the Ford Maverick Lariat and the Kia EV6. Nicole has the massive Jeep Grand Wagoneer and Sam drives the not-a-minivan Jeep Grand Wagoneer. In the news, VW has finally unveiled the production version of the ID Buzz which Europeans get this summer and Americans will have to wait for until 2024. PG&E is testing bidirectional charging with GM and Ford. Honda is making a plan to make a plan to maybe make EVs with Sony. Rivian is still facing some production challenges. There won't be a new gas powered Subaru STi and questions are answered. Links GM and PG&E to test bidirectional charging Honda and Sony may tie up on EVs Rivian still having a hard time building Extended warranties on Car Talk Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Gliding Actively Sometimes | 06 Mar 2022 | 01:53:26 | |
Unfortunately, Roberto woke up today with a massive migraine so it's just Nicole and Sam this week. Nicole has been driving the refreshed 2022 Acura RDX A-Spec, while Sam has been shuttling around in the 2022 Infiniti QX60 Autograph. The embargo has lifted on drive impressions of the updated 2022 Lincoln Navigator, the first model in the lineup with hands-free driving assist and we have some thoughts. Sam also had a conversation with Mike Sprague, North America director for Lincoln about the brand and where it goes in the future. Mike's boss, Jim Farley, made a big announcement about reorganizing Ford and we talk about how that might affect dealers and customers. Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares laid out a vision for the company through 2030 and showed off first renders of the upcoming 2023 Jeep EV and 2024 Ram 1500 EV. Polestar revealed a stunning new electric roadster concept and Rivian had a bad day with a pricing announcement. As usual we also answer questions. Links 2022 Lincoln Navigator first drive First Look at Jeep EV for 2023 Rivian announces new dual motor configuration and raises prices Rivian rethinks price increase Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| They've Seen Cars With 4 Wheels | 27 Feb 2022 | 01:48:12 | |
Nicole is back doing the Disney thing with her family this week so it's just the boys. Roberto spent time with the new Subaru WRX and the eighth generation VW GTI (sadly with an automatic). Sam has been driving the 2022 GMC Sierra Limited AT4 with the lovely 3.0-liter inline-six diesel engine. In the news, Virgin Hyperloop has given up on carrying passengers while Morgan is back with an all-new 3-wheeler. Polestar is shifting from using Volvo shared platforms to purpose built aluminum architectures with help from Lotus veterans. NHTSA is finally about to update headlight rules to allow adaptive lamps and it is possible to go topless in winter weather. We also have an interview with Steve Kosowski, manager of long range strategy and planning at Kia America. Links Virgin Hyperloop pivots to cargo Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| They Can't Be Hard When It's Cold | 20 Feb 2022 | 01:54:20 | |
This week in the garage, Roberto enjoyed some top down time with the Jaguar F-Type Roadster, Nicole finished her time with the Nissan Sentra and Sam drove the Mitsubishi Eclipese (not a real Eclipse) Cross. Robbie shares his impressions of ice driving in Colorado with Bridgestone. Nissan is going to build two new electric sedans in Mississippi and probably kill off the Titan to do it. Toyota has pattened a simulated manual shift complete with a clutch for EVs. Sam talks with Chevrolet Silverado chief engineer Nichole Kraatz (patrons already got this last week). Most car buyers are payng over sticker and seeing bouncing Impalas caused a search spike. Links 80% of car buyers paid over sticker in January Nissan to build 2 new EVs in Mississippi GMC Hummer Battery weighs almost 3,000 pounds. Manual transmission electric Saturn Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Too Heavy | 26 May 2024 | 01:38:24 | |
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/wheelbearings Thanks to ExpressVPN and listeners for supporting Wheel Bearings Links 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV RST First Edition California considers speed alert requirement Polaris Slingshot R Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| A Saucy Badger | 13 Feb 2022 | 01:37:29 | |
This week we have a pair of SUVs that can go off-road almost anywhere with the Ford Bronco Wildtrack Sasquatch and the Land Rover Defender 110 SE. We also have a pair of decidedly on-road machines in the Hyundai Tucson and Nissan Sentra. Nicole and Sam went to the Chicago Auto Show this week and didn't see any new completely new models, just some stuff that's already been shown like the Bronco Raptor, Chevrolet Silverado EV and Toyota Sequoia along with new trim variants like the Ram 1500 Firefighter edition. Before the show, Alfa Romeo revealed the new Tonale and its accompanying NFT but didn't bring it to Chicago. Sam did speak with Alfa North America boss Larry Dominique. The biggest but least surprising news was the new Camp Jeep climbing hill and Nissan brought a trio of Frontier concepts including two decided retro variants. Links Automated Driving Must Be Fail Operational Tesla removes redundant steering control in China, doesn't tell customers Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| 400 LBs of Snow and Ice | 06 Feb 2022 | 01:34:55 | |
This week in our review section, Robbie drove the Ford Escape plug-in hybrid and came up well short of its rated electric range. Sam also came up short of the EPA fuel economy with the F-150 hybrid, but it was driving in snow and had about 400 lbs worth of snow and ice in the bed. Nicole had the new two-row version of the Jeep Grand Cherokee. In the news, the EPA isn't happy about the postal service's choice not to get electric delivery trucks and Ford CEO Jim Farley isn't happy with his dealers gouging customers. However, the Spirit of Ecstasy is getting a refresh for the upcoming Rolls-Royce Spectre. We also answer a bunch of questions. Links Poor Fuel Economy of new Postal Trucks Jim Farley calls out dealers for price gouging Rolls-Royce refreshes the Spirit of Ecstasy Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Into the Wilderness | 01 Feb 2022 | 01:25:25 | |
Nicole is back and she's been driving the 2022 Infiniti QX60 and the Subaru Outback Wilderness which arrived just in time for a couple of feet of snow to get dumped on New England. Robbie finishes his stint in the Cadillac CT5V Blackwing and Sam hits some unpaved rural roads in the 2022 Ford Explorer Timberline. Tesla has apparently added some code designed to disable the power seat adjustment if you use it too much. Ford is going Pro with it's new EVs and Roberto got to drive the new e-Transit and ride along for a few minutes in the F-150 Lightning. Both Robbie and Nicole also got to drive the new Kia EV6 and we answer a bunch of listener questions Links Tesla turns off seat controls if you use them too much Roberto drives the Ford e-Transit Roberto rides in the F-150 Lightning Street tires for the F-150 Raptor Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Going Wide | 24 Jan 2022 | 01:46:45 | |
This week it's just Roberto and Sam as Nicole gets some Disney time. Sam was double booked in the garage this week with the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander and Toyota Camry XSE Hybrid. Meanwhile Robbie is enjoying one of the last manual transmission high-performance sedans with the Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing. Staying with Cadillac, they released first images of the Escalade V with more to come in the next couple of months. Ford will start taking orders for the 2022 Bronco Raptor in March and they are also forming a vehicle security joint-venture with ADT called Canopy. BMW is preparing to build its final batch of V12 powered production cars with a run of 12 M760is in June. 2022 will be the last year when Lamborghini builds internal combustion models exclusively. Sam interviewed TrueCar CEO Mike Darrow about the company's new online sales platform at the LA auto show Links Ford-ADT security joint venture Lamborghini prepares for electrification Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| And The Winner Is ... | 16 Jan 2022 | 01:09:30 | |
Robbie's driveway was empty of loaners this week, but Nicole has been driving the Honda Civic Sport Touring hatchback with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and CVT and Sam had the new Nissan Pathfinder Platinum AWD. In the show, the Civic was misidentified as the regular Sport rather than the Sport Touring. In the news, we discuss the North American Car Truck and Utility vehicle of the Year awards. Jason Torchinsky wrote about how they made the garbage luxury cars of the 1980s, used cars are too expensive. Bollinger pulls the plug on its electric pickup and SUV and Honda shows off the next-gen Civic Type-R. Links North American Car, Truck and Utility vehicle of the year Used cars are getting expensive Bollinger cancels pickup and SUV Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Going With the Flow | 11 Jan 2022 | 01:40:38 | |
CES 2022 is behind us and none of the team actually went to Las Vegas this year, but we did cover what was announced either in person there or virtually. Last time we covered the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado and the Chrysler Airflow concept. This time we have the Mercedes-Benz Vision EQXX with its more than 600 mile range. GM also teased us with the first renders of the $30,000 Chevy Equinox EV that is coming in fall 2023, and Volvo, Zenseact and Luminar shared more on the partially automated Ride Pilot system that is planned to start testing in California this year and eventually come to production. Finally, BMW showed a concept version of the new iX covered in e-ink that can change between white, black or any shade of grey in between. In the garage, Roberto drove the new Mercedes-AMG SL roadster, Nicole braved New Hampshire winter weather in the Ford Bronco and Sam drives the Genesis GV70. Links Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Return of Avalanche and Airflow, Eventually | 05 Jan 2022 | 01:59:44 | |
We're kicking off 2022 with lots of battery powered vehicles. Nicole gets a first drive in the Lucid Air Dream edition, Roberto drives the Mini SE and Sam is the outlier with the 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback. In the news, it's CES week and while the team have all opted to stay away from Las Vegas this year thanks to Omicron, there's plenty of news. GM moved the Mary Barra keynote online but Sam got a preview look at the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV just before Christmas. Over at Stellantis, there apparently is a future for the Chrysler brand as they reveal the Airflow concept and Sam talks with brand CEO Chris Feuell. Waymo and Geely team up for a purpose-built robotaxi and we answer a bunch of listener questions. Links Waymo and Geely partner for a custom robotaxi Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Great In Principle | 26 Dec 2021 | 01:27:18 | |
On the morning after XMas, it's just Nicole and Sam. Nicole has been testing out the updated 2022 Jeep Compass Trailhawk in New Hampshire while Sam has had dissappointing fuel efficiency from the 2022 Lexus RX450h. In the news, a threat from NHTSA got Tesla to turn off game play while driving, we now know the battery sizes for the 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning, we discuss whether solar panels on cars make sense, GM wants to sell some of its EV parts to other companies and charging on the VW ID EVs gets faster with an OTA software update. We also answer a bunch of questions. Links Tesla turns off in motion game play Ford F-150 Lightning battery sizes VW ID vehicles get faster charging thanks to OTA software update How American electricity is generated Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| I See Pixels | 19 Dec 2021 | 01:41:36 | |
This week we've got multiple opinions on a couple of cars. All three of the hosts drove the new Hyundai Ioniq 5 EV while both Nicole and Sam had 2022 Genesis GV70s. Nicole got a rear driver while Sam had all-wheel-drive, both with the 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6. Roberto had something completely different, the Arcimoto Roadster, an electric three-wheeler. In the news, Rivian reports its first quarterly earnings and loses big on a small number of deliveries but already has plans for a second factory. GM has first deliveries of its two newest EVs, the GMC Hummer and BrightDrop EV600. Sam also has an interview with Trevor Lai, director of product planning for EVs at Hyundai of America and we answer some questions. Links Sam's first impressions of the Ioniq 5 Roberto's video review of the Ioniq 5 GMC Hummer and BrightDrop EV600 deliveries Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| That's a Giant Wiper | 12 Dec 2021 | 01:32:39 | |
This week Nicole is taking some time off and flying out to meet her daughter for a long drive back home for the holidays so it's just the boys without supervision so we start off with a tangent about pies. Roberto has only had a brief time with the BMW X5 plug-in hybrid so the garage is mostly the 2022 Hyundai Kona electric that Sam has been driving. In the news, Ford will be moving production of the electric Explorer and Lincoln Aviator somewhere other the Mexican plant where the Mustang Mach-E is built so they can more than triple production of the Mach-E. If congress manages to pass the Build Back Better act, it should include some expanded EV tax incentives but because Elon Musk hates unions and competitors, he thinks the incentives should be abolished all together. VW confirmed that it will build a pop up camper version of the new electric ID Buzz and a new Tesla Cybertruck prototype has been spotted with a single giant windshield wiper. We also have Sam's interview with Rob Filipovic, director of product planning for Jaguar Land Rover North America Links Ford to Triple Mustang Mach-E production How the propsed new EV incentive structure works Transitioning connected cars from 3G to 4G VW ID.Buzz California camper is coming Jason Torchinsky's review of the VW T6 California Giant Cybertruck windshield wiper Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Two Transmissions in One | 21 May 2024 | 01:34:34 | |
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/wheelbearings Thanks to ExpressVPN and listeners for supporting Wheel Bearings Links Android Automotive gets Google Cast support starting with Rivian Honda EV update Motor Trend drag races the Cybertruck and 911 BMW Neue Klasse - 186 miles in 10 minutes France encourages everyone to drive like a woman Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Hauling Anything But Ass | 05 Dec 2021 | 01:28:40 | |
This week Nicole has been having fun blasting around in the 2022 Honda Civic Si with a six-speed manual gearbox. Roberto has been hauling cement turtles in the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder and Sam has been avoiding making eye contact with the Toyota Prius Prime. In the news, BMW released a concept version of a new M-only model codenamed "RockStar" and badged as XM. Anyone that wants a Toyota GR86 in Europe will have to hurry before new emissions regulations kill it there and Polestar gives a preview of what's coming next. Links Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| The Perfect Mulch Hauler | 30 Nov 2021 | 01:45:59 | |
Lots of stuff in the garage in this week as Nicole gets to spend more time with the 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness. On the opposite coast, Robbie has one of his two ideal cars, the Audi RS6 Avant and also shares some thoughts on the BMW 330e plug-in hybrid. Sticking with the PHEV theme, Sam had a first drive in the new Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring and also got to try out GM's new Android Automotive based infotainment system in the 2022 Chevrolet Tahoe. In the news, GM and Ford are both doing deals with chip makers to try to avoid future shortages, Genesis shows the exterior of the next generation G90 luxury sedan and Nissan announces some of its electrification plans between now and 2030. We also have an interview that Sam recorded in LA with Aditya Jairaj, director of EV marketing and sales strategy at Nissan Links Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||
| Driving a whole bunch of stuff | 21 Nov 2021 | 01:37:24 | |
The whole team has bugged out of southern California after several days of checking out what is new. Sam returned to chilly Michigan to drive the BMW M3 Competition xDrive on summer tires. Nicole landed back in New Hampshire to pick up the Lexus UX250h which has now been reclassified as an SUV-over. Robbie was in between rides at home, but sampled a whole bunch of stuff during the annual World Car of the Year drive off including the new BMW 2 series coupe. Both Robbie and Nicole have sampled Hyundai's new sport models, the Elantra N and Kona N While in SoCal, the whole team went to the truncated LA auto show which was all about EVs this year including the debut of the production intent Fisker Ocean (make sure to listen to ep 221 for an interview with Henrik Fisker) and the latest collaboration between Subaru and Toyota, the Solterra and bZ4X electric SUV-over twins. We also discuss the Tesla server outage that left some owners locked out of their cars and answer a bunch of listener questions. Links Why cars need a local mechanism for access Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy | |||