In Wheel Time Podcast

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Electric Revolution: Hybrids, EVs, and the Future of Driving May 09, 2025

Show notes

The automotive landscape is rapidly evolving beyond traditional gasoline engines, and navigating the options can be overwhelming. Alex Kwanton from US News joins us to break down their 2025 Best Hybrids and Electric Vehicles awards, revealing which electrified options truly deliver value, performance, and efficiency without compromise.
Remember when buying a hybrid meant settling for a tiny, underpowered econobox? Those days are gone. The Toyota Camry—now exclusively offered as a hybrid—leads the pack with an impressive 44-51 mpg while costing thousands less than competitors. It's joined by standouts like the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid and Lexus NX Hybrid that blend efficiency with genuine driving pleasure.
The electric vehicle conversation takes us from the astonishing 512-mile range of the Lucid Air to the genuine off-road capability of the Rivian R1S. We explore how these premium offerings justify their price tags through groundbreaking technology and luxury experiences. Meanwhile, more accessible options like the distinctively designed Hyundai Ioniq 5 and 6 prove that compelling EVs exist at various price points.
Perhaps most surprising is our discussion of the F-150 Lightning, which continues to prove that electric trucks can deliver on the promise of traditional pickups while adding benefits like instant torque, quieter operation, and significant energy savings. For those not ready to go fully electric, we examine how plug-in hybrids from Mazda and Volvo offer a compelling middle ground with meaningful electric-only ranges.
Whether you're considering your first hybrid, curious about electric vehicles, or simply want to understand where automotive technology is heading, this episode provides invaluable insights into the vehicles leading the charge toward a more efficient future. Visit carsusnews.com to explore detailed rankings of all the award winners discussed.

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The Savoy Museum blends automobile history with artistic presentation while Lincoln delivers luxury with the 2025 Nautilus. May 08, 2025

Show notes

Automotive artistry takes center stage as we visit Georgia's Savoy Auto Museum with curator Mary Agrusa. Unlike typical car museums focusing solely on mechanics, the Savoy presents vehicles as cultural artifacts for artistic appreciation, complete with historical storytelling.
Mary reveals how Cartersville has become Georgia's "museum city" with four major institutions. The Savoy Museum itself features display techniques allowing 360-degree viewing with lighting that showcases each vehicle's design elegance. The museum's approach to interpretation, where each car's technical specs mix with historical significance, and often surprising backstories—like the unrestored 1925 Model T purchased under the strict condition it would never be restored, preserving its authentic century-old character.
The Savoy connects with its community, including partnerships with local schools to encourage students to participate in prestigious events like the Great Race, fostering a new generation of automotive enthusiasts. Whether you're planning a road trip through the Southeast or seeking a destination with multiple attractions, Cartersville's museum quarter offers something for everyone.
The second half of our show features a review of the 2025 Lincoln Nautilus, with its revolutionary door-to-door digital display and luxury exterior styling. This midsize luxury SUV delivers comfort to compete with rivals from Mercedes-Benz, Genesis, and Acura. Excellent fuel economy and a smooth, sophisticated driving experience, the Nautilus represents Lincoln's return to the luxury segment.
Ready for your next automotive adventure? Tune in for our upcoming broadcast from the Lone Star Street Rod Association State Run in Granbury, Texas on June 12th—bringing you more fascinating stories from America's diverse car culture.

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The 2025 Lincoln Nautilus, VW Amarok, and the Ford Ranger! May 07, 2025

Show notes

Slip behind the wheel of luxury as we explore the redesigned 2025 Lincoln Nautilus, a midsize SUV that's redefining automotive elegance. From the moment you lay eyes on its symmetrical wheel openings and sophisticated body sculpting to the Black Label grille adorned with chrome star-like dots, this vehicle demands attention for all the right reasons.
The true revelation happens inside the cabin, where Lincoln has implemented a revolutionary door-to-door digital display that spans the entire dashboard. This stunning technological achievement, paired with adjustable massage seating and premium materials throughout, creates an interior experience that left our reviewers speechless. Despite being assembled in Hangzhou, China, the Nautilus maintains its distinctly American luxury character with a smooth, comfortable ride that makes every journey a pleasure.
Powered by a capable 2-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder delivering 250 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, the Nautilus balances performance with efficiency, achieving 25.5 mpg during our testing. Starting at $51,790, it positions itself against competitors like the Mercedes-Benz GLC, Genesis GV70, and Acura RDX, offering a distinctive alternative in the luxury SUV landscape.
We also dive into the fascinating world of global automotive partnerships, exploring how Ford and Volkswagen's collaboration has yielded the impressive Amarok pickup, built on the Ford Ranger platform with 7,700 pounds of towing capacity. Our review of the Ford Ranger Lariat 4x4 reveals how today's midsize trucks now match the dimensions and capabilities of what used to be considered full-size pickups just decades ago. Subscribe to our podcast for more insightful automotive reviews and discussions about the rapidly evolving vehicle landscape!

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Luxury Pop-Up: Test Drive Your Dream Car May 06, 2025

Show notes

Luxury car enthusiasts, mark your calendars! We're joined by RoShelle Salinas to reveal an exciting pop-up luxury ride and drive event happening May 9-10 at The Revere venue near Old Katy Road and 610. This last-minute addition to Houston's automotive calendar addresses a gap many noticed during January's Houston Auto Show - the absence of certain high-end brands that many were eager to experience.
The collaborative event brings together luxury and electric vehicles that are currently on the market, all in one convenient location without the typical dealership pressure. Imagine test driving a Maserati, then hopping into the new Lucid Gravity, followed by experiencing Porsche's electric lineup with the Macan EV and Taycan - all within a single morning. Mercedes-Benz is bringing the EQS sedan, GLE plug-in hybrid, and will have the electric G-Wagon and a Maybach on display.
What makes this event particularly special is its accessibility. At just $8 per ticket, anyone 18+ with a valid driver's license and proof of insurance can participate in these luxury test drives. The Revere's location offers the setting for meaningful test drives, with routes specifically mapped for 6-10 minute experiences on low-traffic roads. Whether you're actively shopping for your next luxury vehicle or simply want the thrill of experiencing these automotive masterpieces, this pop-up event is for any automotive enthusiasts.
Don't miss this rare opportunity to compare multiple luxury brands side-by-side in a relaxed environment. The event runs 10am-2pm on both Friday and Saturday, with tickets available online or at the venue. Visit HoustonAutoShow.com today to secure your spot and prepare for an unforgettable luxury driving experience!

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Coast-to-Coast: The Transamerica Trail Adventure May 05, 2025

Show notes

Mercedes and Andy Lilienthal take us on a deep dive into their ambitious plans to traverse the Transamerica Trail - a 7,100-mile network of back roads, dirt paths, and trails stretching from North Carolina to Oregon. This adventure represents the ultimate American road trip for off-road enthusiasts who want to experience the country's hidden landscapes.
With years of experience between them, the Lilienthals break down the preparation required for their month-long journey. Their 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness will serve as both transportation and home base. Outfitted with a rooftop tent, recovery gear, specialized lighting, reinforced components, and carefully considered power management solutions to make a long stay feasible. Mercedes explains her methodical approach to navigation, using a combination of digital GPX files and traditional paper maps to guide their path across 15 states.
What makes this journey particularly challenging is the ever-changing nature of the trail itself. Recent hurricanes and flooding have altered sections of the route, requiring extensive research and flexibility in planning. The couple shares insights into their emergency preparedness strategy, including redundant communication devices and how they approach the inevitable challenges of remote travel.
Beyond the technical aspects, they offer a glimpse into the human side of such an ambitious undertaking - how they manage the dynamics of spending a month together in close quarters, their methods for documenting the journey, and what they hope to gain from this coast-to-coast adventure on America's less-traveled paths.
Curious about their progress or planning a similar journey yourself? Follow their adventure through social media and their website at @CrankshaftCulture, where they'll be sharing updates, photographs, and insights throughout their Transamerica Trail expedition.

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The Lupe' Tortilla Restaurants
Lupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Cruising with Classics: Inside the Hot Rod Tour of Texas May 02, 2025

Show notes

What happens when 300+ hot rods descend upon Houston's best-kept secret? We found out when the Hot Rod Tour of Texas rolled into Spindle Tap Brewery, transforming this hidden north Houston gem into a classic car paradise.
Bobby Sparkman, the mastermind behind the tour, shared with us how the journey began with 302 vehicles cruising across Texas. Though a few participants encountered mechanical challenges along the way—including one enthusiast who decided that blowing a transmission was the perfect excuse for an upgrade—the spirit of the tour remained undiminished with over 200 hot rods continuing the adventure.
The real discovery of our broadcast was Spindle Tap Brewery itself. Elizabeth Valentine, their Marketing and Events Manager, pulled back the curtain on this nine-year-old establishment that's far more than just a place to grab a craft beer. Sprawling across 3.5 acres, this family-friendly venue offers everything from putt-putt golf to cornhole tournaments, multiple music stages, and enough space to host both corporate events and car shows simultaneously.
What struck us most was how Spindle Tap has created something truly uncommon: a craft brewery where families are welcome at all hours, where award-winning IPAs share space with stouts and lighter options, and where the business model extends beyond beer to include logistics, crating, and warehousing operations. Their distribution now reaches seven states, yet they've maintained that local, hidden gem quality that makes stumbling upon them feel like finding buried treasure.
Whether you're a car enthusiast, a craft beer aficionado, or simply someone looking for a unique place to spend an afternoon, Spindle Tap represents the perfect intersection of Texas hospitality and craftsmanship. Next time you're looking for something off the beaten path, point your hot rod (or family sedan) toward this unexpected oasis where good people, good cars, and good beer come together.
Check out our upcoming broadcasts and subscribe to catch more hidden gems and automotive adventures!

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The Hot Rod Tour Takes Texas: Adventures on the Road May 01, 2025

Show notes

Take a ride with us as we catch up with the Hot Rod Tour of Texas at Spindletap Brewery on Houston's north side. What started four years ago as a modest gathering has evolved into a 300-car caravan of classic automobiles winding through the scenic back roads of the Lone Star State.
Tour organizer Jeremy reveals the behind-the-scenes efforts that make this automotive adventure possible – months of scouting routes, coordinating police escorts, and finding unique venues that can accommodate hundreds of vintage vehicles. The tour deliberately avoids highways and toll roads, instead taking participants through charming small towns where children line up outside schools to wave at the procession of rumbling engines.
The heart of the Hot Rod Tour isn't just about the impressive machinery – it's about the community that forms when car enthusiasts share the open road. When a breakdown occurs, multiple vehicles pull over to help. One participant even brought a trailer specifically to assist anyone experiencing mechanical troubles. These moments of camaraderie, along with experiences like dining inside the Lone Star Flight Museum or visiting the Hack Winery in Santa Fe, create lasting memories that keep participants returning year after year.
The conversation shifts to a broader discussion about American versus foreign cars, with interesting statistics about where vehicles are actually assembled (Tesla tops the list of American-made cars at 89%) and changing perceptions about quality and longevity. The hosts also touch on the growing hybrid market as a pragmatic middle ground between traditional vehicles and fully electric options.
Whether you're a dedicated gearhead or simply appreciate the rolling art of classic automobiles, this episode captures the spirit of Texas car culture and the special connections formed when enthusiasts gather to celebrate their passion. Visit hotrodtouroftexas.com to learn more about joining next year's tour through the Hill Country or possibly East Texas!

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American Cars vs. Foreign Cars: The Battle for Your Garage Apr 30, 2025

Show notes

The great automotive debate of our time isn't just about horsepower or fuel economy—it's about where your car comes from. We dive deep into the fascinating world of American versus foreign automobiles, challenging preconceptions and revealing surprising statistics that might change how you think about your next vehicle purchase.
Did you know Tesla assembles more cars in America than any other manufacturer? Or that Nissan builds over half its vehicles on U.S. soil? These revelations only scratch the surface of our conversation about what "American-made" really means in today's globalized manufacturing landscape. We explore how perceptions of quality have evolved since the 1960s and 70s when Japanese manufacturers first made inroads into American markets with reputations for durability that domestic brands couldn't match at the time.
The podcast takes a fascinating historical journey through automotive longevity, from an era when cars struggled to reach 100,000 miles to today's vehicles routinely achieving 300,000 miles with proper care. We discuss why hybrid technology has matured into a compelling option for new car buyers and share a comprehensive review of the 2025 Genesis GV80 Coupe—a Korean luxury vehicle challenging established German brands with impressive features and performance. Whether you're a dedicated American car enthusiast or considering your first foreign vehicle, this episode provides valuable context for one of the most significant purchasing decisions you'll make. Subscribe now and join our conversation about the past, present, and future of global automotive competition!

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Under the Hood: Hot Rod Tour of Texas Apr 29, 2025

Show notes

Buckle up for a high-octane journey through the heart of Texas as we broadcast live from Spindletap Brewery during the annual Hot Rod Tour! The brewery's industrial-chic atmosphere provides the perfect backdrop for this gathering of automotive enthusiasts, with vintage beauties continuously rolling into the parking lot throughout our show.
We kick things off with a comprehensive roundup of the latest automotive recalls that you need to know about. From Audi's e-tron issues to Honda's lighting problems, but the most concerning might be GM's recall of full-size pickups and SUVs from 2021-2024 with the 6.2-liter V8 engines experiencing catastrophic failures. If you own one of these vehicles, this segment alone is worth your time.
The heart of our episode features the always entertaining "Hemmings Sold Car Roundup" game, where we guess the selling prices of classic automobiles. You might be surprised to learn what a restored 1960 Corvette C1 convertible or a 1949 Cadillac 62 commands in today's market! These insights provide valuable perspective for collectors and enthusiasts alike on where the classic car market stands in 2023.
Our automotive history segment transports you back to pivotal moments including Plymouth's introduction of the first power retractable top in 1939 and the first Earth Day in 1970 that revolutionized emissions standards. We also reflect on the bittersweet end of the Pontiac brand in 2009, with the underwhelming G6 serving as its final model.
We wrap up with sobering economic news for the automotive industry – tariffs are projected to reduce vehicle production by nearly one million units this year alone, with North America bearing the brunt of these impacts. Whether you're a car enthusiast, industry professional, or simply curious about how these economic forces might affect your next vehicle purchase, our analysis provides context you won't want to miss.
So grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and join us for this special episode that celebrates automotive heritage while keeping you informed about the present and future of the industry we all love. What's your favorite stop on a car tour like this?

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The Hot Rod Tour of Texas: Victoria's Downtown Magic Apr 28, 2025

Show notes

The rumble of engines and scent of coffee fills the air as we broadcast live from Spindletap Brewery for the fourth annual Hot Rod Tour of Texas. This event has grown from humble beginnings to become a must-attend gathering for automotive enthusiasts across the Lone Star State.
Our special feature takes you behind the scenes in Victoria, Texas, where we chat with Street Manager Kate Garcia about the town's remarkable transformation. Once merely a pass-through on the way to Corpus Christi, Victoria has reinvented itself as a destination worth exploring. The historic De Leon Plaza now hosts over 800 events annually, including the unique pairing of hot rods and symphony music that kicks off this tour. "Two demographics you would never think would go together go together like peanut butter and jelly," Garcia explains as classic cars and classical music create an unexpectedly perfect harmony.
We dive deep into the 2025 Genesis GV80 Coupe, a luxury vehicle that challenges traditional definitions. Despite having four doors, this fastback SUV carries the "coupe" designation, sparking debate among automotive purists. With 375 horsepower from its twin-turbo 3.5-liter engine and a price tag of $87,780, we explore whether this Korean luxury offering can compete with established European rivals like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Porsche.
Our "Motor Minute" reveals fascinating statistics about Texas' booming auto restoration industry – 1,207 shops statewide with Houston alone hosting 247 restoration specialists. We discuss how many of these businesses began as passion projects by individual enthusiasts before growing into established operations, reflecting the enduring love affair between Texans and their vehicles.
Whether you're a hot rod enthusiast, luxury car shopper, or simply appreciate the coming together of diverse communities through shared passions, this episode captures the spirit of Texas car culture. Join us for this journey through small towns, classic restorations, and modern luxury as we celebrate the machines that move us and the people who love them.

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