The Drive with Alan Taylor

As Emperor Palpatine once said, “Good! Use your aggressive feelings, boy. Let the hate flow through you!” We might not be letting the dark side take control, but we are most definitely letting off some steam about cars that confound us and the sterilization of motorsports. Starting off the show, Co-founder of CarTender and Freelance Automotive Journalist for CarGurus, Boston Globe, and U.S. News and World Report, George Kennedy III, gives a glowing review of the 2019 Infiniti QX80. This mammoth-sized SUV sports a spacious, luxurious interior, V8 Engine, ample towing capacity, and… a busy infotainment system adorned by a slightly dated touch screen? Also, George discusses the electric vehicle battery range in winter, the corporatization of motorsports, and delivers a critical review of the 2019 Nissan Kicks. Shifting gears, automotive journalist, Steven Cole Smith, continues the conversation on the decline of NASCAR and the public image issue that was the Daytona 500 race. Steven isn’t without suggestions, and he gives us some of his best (and worst) ideas on how to fix NASCAR. Also, Steven recently got to drive the Jeep Gladiator, and while he can’t tell us much, he can tell us that it is awesome! Closing out the show, Founder and CEO, Alex Littlewood, tells us about his new website, Motoroso. Offering a venue for car nuts to show off their latest projects, link to gear used for the build within a picture, and get inspiration from a community of gear heads, Motoroso is a must-see for all car enthusiasts. Don’t miss this episode of THE DRIVE with Alan Taylor. ·[00:00:00] World of Podcast and the Infiniti QX80·[00:06:42] Touch Vs. Analog in Infiniti QX80·[00:12:30] Nissan Kicks, Kicked to the Curb·[00:19:51] Do Not Judge Too Harshly·[00:28:31] Winter EV Battery Range Warning·[00:35:52] Motorsports: Corporatized and Sterilized·[00:42:12] Does Daytona 500 Make NASCAR Look Bad?·[00:48:39] Steven Cole Smith’s “We Fix NASCAR”·[00:54:43] Motorsports Well-Check·[01:02:04] Attention to Detail in Jeep Gladiator·[01:08:47] Tell Your Car’s Story On Motoroso.com·[01:18:06] Find Inspiration, Start A New Project [00:00:00] World of Podcast and the Infiniti QX80It seems like everybody has a podcast these days, but there’s still a prestige to a national radio show. Thankfully, whatever end of the spectrum you’re on, we have a solution for you! Listen to our broadcast Saturdays at 9 AM EST on radio stations across America, or check out our podcast afterward on iTunes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Changing gears, Co-founder of CarTender and Freelance Automotive Journalist for CarGurus, Boston Globe, and U.S. News and World Report, George Kennedy III, gives us a quick review of the 2019 Infiniti QX80; this vehicle is an absolute monster. [00:06:42] Touch Vs. Analog in Infiniti QX80The Infiniti QX80 is a mammoth-sized SUV with a luxurious, spacious interior, and a 5.6L V8 engine; there’s no doubt that this vehicle is well worth the starting price of $65,000. Co-founder of CarTender and Freelance Automotive Journalist for CarGurus, Boston Globe, and U.S. News and World Report, George Kennedy III, notices that there is a particular analog feel to the vehicle, but the infotainment system is busy and the touchscreen is dated. This makes us wonder, what happened to all of the knobs? While the younger generations are touch-screen friendly, some of us that are entering our golden years still prefer the tactile feel of a knob. Do you think there needs to be a better balance of knobs and touchscreens in vehicles going forward? [00:12:30] Nissan Kicks, Kicked to the CurbNow that we’ve got our praising of the Infiniti QX80 out of the way, it’s time to give another vehicle its just deserts. Co-founder of CarTender and Freelance Automotive Journalist for Car...

Today we talk about all of the new, redesigned SUV’s on the market. Bj Killeen, Automotive Journalist and Voice of Reason, and Alan discuss the new 2021 Nissan Rogue he just bought his wife. They talk about the impressive new features and upgrades as well as the many new global vehicle introductions Nissan is planning over the next 20 months! BJ and Alan close out their time together comparing several other SUV’s on the market. Up next we have Josh Hancock, JoshCAR Hollywood Car Consultant, and Alan dishing on the impressive new Ford Bronco lineup. Josh talks about the new group of car buyers that have been named “new, new buyers” and how this new demand for vehicles is causing a lack of inventory for dealers. Steven Cole Smith, Automotive Journalist for Autoweek, Automobile Magazine and Grassroots Motorsports, joins in to talk all things racing with Alan. They share their thoughts about Romain Grosjean’s crash and George Russel’s unfortunate race loss due to a pitstop error. Steven shares about seeing Jimmy Johnson this week and also witnessing the new Toyota Supra GT4 in action. Closing out today’s show with us is Ed Justice Jr, President and CEO of Justice Brothers Inc. Ed and Alan chat about Jimmy Johnson’s recovery from COVID-19 and his transition to open wheel racing. Ed talks about his book, Legacy of Justice, and how it covers 100 years of the Justice family history with racing, including Ed’s father and uncles being the first sponsors of NASCAR. They talk about how inefficient and unsafe the guardrails are at the races and how they really need some redesign and modifications. Join us for more on the hottest automotive industry news! ·[00:00:00] 2021 Nissan Rogue SL AWD ·[00:06:29] Test Drive Before You Buy! ·[00:12:30] Nissan’s 10 New Global Vehicle Introductions ·[00:19:51] All-New Mid-Sized SUV’s ·[00:29:19] People Are Going Nuts Over The New Ford Bronco ·[00:35:53] “New, new buyer’s” ·[00:42:14] Romain Grosjean’s Miraculously Walks Away From Fiery Crash ·[00:48:55] A Little On Lewis Hamilton and George Russell ·[00:54:46] All Things Racing! ·[01:02:06] Jimmy Johnson’s Shifting Gears from Stock Car to Open Wheel Racing ·[01:10:46] Legacy of Justice, Over 100 Years of Family History in Racing! ·[01:18:07] Dangerous Guardrails Credits Host: Alan TaylorProducer: Dave MilliganAudio Engineer: Dave MilliganCopy Editor: Dave MilliganContributor: BJ KilleenContributor: Josh HancockContributor: Steven Cole SmithContributor: Ed Justice Jr. Explore More with Helpful Links: ·Contributor: BJ Killeen | Automotive Journalist, Voice of Reason . Contributor: Josh Hancock | JoshCAR Hollywood Car Consultant ·Contributor: Steven Cole Smith | Automotive Journalist for Autoweek, Automobile Magazine and Grassroots Motorsports ·Contributor: Ed Justice Jr | Justice Brothers, Inc. President and CEO Vehicles Discussed: Nissan Rogue, Subaru Ascent, Nissan Armada, Nissan Kicks, Honda Pilot, Acura MDX, Genesis GV70, Genesis GV80, Ford Bronco, Ford Bronco Sport, Toyota Supra GT4 Our Sponsors & Supported Charities: ·Austin Hatcher Foundation ·

Firing up today’s show we have George Kennedy III, Co-Founder of Cartender, Freelance Automotive Journalist for CarGurus, Boston Globe, and U.S. News & World Report. George and Alan discuss the Kia Telluride and how it is almost impossible to get one right now. George test drove the 2021 Nissan Rogue and was really impressed by the vehicle. Alan is searching for a new SUV for his wife…could the Nissan Rogue fit the bill? Next up we have Brian Moody, Executive Editor for Autotrader.com, joining us. Brian and Alan talk about the best new auto tech vehicles of 2021. Some of the noteworthy vehicles include the Cadillac Escalade and Mercedes Benz AMG GLE 63. They also chat about the best larger sedans on the market right now. Shifting gears we have BJ Killeen, Automotive Journalist and Voice of Reason,  jumping in. Alan asks BJ for suggestions on a new SUV for his wife. BJ thinks the Hyundai Palisade would be a great choice. She also talks about her experience in some of Hyundai’s other model vehicles. Coming into the home stretch with us is Karl Brauer, Automotive Industry Analyst, Forbes Auto Contributor, North American Car and Truck of the Year Juror and Board Member, and Executive Analyst of ISeeCars.com. They talk about the new Dodge commercial that plays on the movie Talladega Nights. Alan shares how easy and convenient ISeeCars.com has been in his hunt for a new SUV. Karl suggests Alan buy his wife the Porsche Macan or Hyundai Kona EV. Join in as we dish on more of the new and exciting automotive news! ·[00:00:00] Kia Telluride Selling like Hotcakes! ·[00:06:32] 2021 Nissan Rogue is Super Sporty with the New CVT ·[00:12:31] Rogue’s New Infotainment  & Safety Systems are Great! ·[00:19:52] Best New Auto Tech Vehicles for 2021 ·[00:28:02] 2021 Mercedes Benz AMG GLE 63 ·[00:35:53] Best Large Sedans on the Market ·[00:42:13] If You’re Serious About Coffee, You Need a Jura! ·[00:48:10] Alan asks for Vehicle Suggestions for Wife’s New SUV ·[00:54:45] Hyundai Elantra N Line Offers a 6-speed Manual Transmission ·[01:02:05] Dodge’s New Commerical plays on Talladega Nights. ·[01:13:01] Alan Talks About Using ISeeCars.com for Wife’s SUV Search ·[01:18:08] Karl Suggests Alan Buy the Porsche Macan or Hyundai Kona EV Credits Host: Alan TaylorProducer: Dave MilliganAudio Engineer: Dave MilliganCopy Editor: Dave MilliganContributor: George Kennedy IIIContributor: Brian MoodyContributor: BJ KilleenContributor: Karl Brauer Explore More with Helpful Links: ·Contributor: George Kennedy III | Co-Founder of Cartender and Freelance Automotive Journalist for CarGurus, Boston Globe and U.S. News & World Report . Contributor: Brian Moody | Executive Editor for Autotrader.com ·Contributor: Steven Cole Smith | Automotive Journalist for Autoweek, Automobile Magazine and Grassroots Motorsports ·Contributor: BJ Killeen | Automotive Journalist, Voice of Reason . Contributor: Karl Brauer | Automotive Industry Analyst Vehicles Discussed: Kia Telluride, Nissan Rogue, Cadillac Escalade, Mercedes Benz AMG GLE 63, Rolls-Royce Ghost, Toyota Mirai, Chevy Impala, Toyota Avalon, Chrysler 300, Kia Cadenza, Hyundai Palisade, Hyundai Sonata N Line, Hyundai Elantra N Line, Porsche Macan, Hyundai Kona EV

It seems like there’s big news coming out every week around this time of year due to the plethora of international car shows that are taking place, like the Chicago Auto Show (CAS). First up to bat to fill us in on CAS happenings is Autotrader Executive Editor, Brian Moody. The 2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road, 2020 Kia Telluride, and 2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI gave Brian a lot to be excited about. While a few SUVs and sedans did stand out, the Chicago Auto Show had a clear focus on trucks. Automotive journalist, BJ Killeen, shares how manufacturers are pushing their trucks further and further, which vehicles caught her eye, and which rides fell flat. Next up, Executive Publisher for Kelley Blue Book, Autotrader.com, and Dealer.com, Karl Brauer, talks about his Rubella scare after the Detroit Auto Show, and the reintroduction of Sublime (a bright green) green to Mopar cars at CAS. Speaking of Mopar cars, Alan and Karl have both had their Dodge Demons for a year and it’s time for their extended review of this beast of a machine. Another monster machine that Alan owns is his 1-of-1 2016 Dodge Viper ACR, but he’s trying to not own it anymore; check out this future classic on ClassicCars.com. Closing the show, the Owner of Collins Bros Jeep, Dennis Collins, gushes about the 2019 Dodge SRT Hellcat Redeye; this car loses to the Demon ever so slightly on horsepower but makes up for it everywhere else. Also, we find out how Black Mountain Jeep’s licensee program works, how the trade wars are affecting business, why Dennis isn’t banking on the restomod market, and what kind of plans Dennis has for the rebirth of the Jeep Gladiator. Tune in for another exciting week of auto show coverage and monster car reviews.  ·[00:00:00] 2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road·[00:05:22] Kia Telluride, Subaru Legacy, Shelby GT500·[00:12:30] 2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI at CAS ·[00:19:50] 30 Year Anniversaries and Awesome Trucks·[00:28:18] BJ’s Top Picks from Chicago Auto Show·[00:35:51] New Chevrolet Blazer a Disappointment?·[00:42:10] Sublime Green is Back and Rubella Scare·[00:48:00] Tesla Loses Tax Credit and Autonomy ·[00:54:41] Dodge Demon One Year Report Card·[01:02:01] It’s Time to Let the 2016 Viper ACR Go·[01:08:57] Dodge Redeye and Restomod Market·[01:18:01] Black Mountain Jeep, Tariffs, Gladiator [00:00:00] 2020 Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road Since Alan didn’t get to go to the Chicago Auto Show, we have to fill in the blanks with experts like Executive Editor of Autotrader.com, Brian Moody. Unsurprisingly, Brian reports that Toyota announced a host of Toyota Racing Development (TRD) models; what was surprising was their new TRD Pro Series of Sequoia and Four Runner. Perhaps the most interesting revelation was Toyota’s new 2020 RAV4 TRD Off-Road edition; the RAV4 now has more bite to go with its newly masculine look. Are you going to get a Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road?  [00:05:22] Kia Telluride, Subaru Legacy, Shelby GT500 There was a lot to see at the Chicago Auto Show. Here to help us cut through the clutter is Autotrader’s Brian Moody. The updated 2020 Subaru Legacy caught Brian’s eye with its beautiful interior, huge touchscreen, and Subaru-standard features like AWD and unmatched reliability. Another car making waves at CAS was the 2020 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500. Rumored to have over 700 horsepower, this Mustang is catching up with the huge horsepower of Dodge Hellcat series muscle cars. Lastly, the 2020 Kia Telluride is set to dominate a crowded market by bringing features at an extra-affordable price range of $30,000. Find out more about Brian’s top picks from the Chicago Auto Show.

From Super Bowl LIII ads to a good old fashioned set of brakes, we’ve got automotive news galore in this week’s episode. First up, we chat with automotive journalist, BJ Killeen, about her favorite Super Bowl LIII commercials, the Chicago Auto Show, and import vehicles. Changing lanes, Co-founder of CarTender and Freelance Automotive Journalist for CarGurus, Boston Globe, U.S. News & World Report, George Kennedy III, discusses the willful ‘sports ball’ ignorance, the Super Bowl LIII halftime show, winter vehicles, and the exceptional work being done by Jeep and Hyundai. Then, Hollywood Car Consultant, Josh Hancock, gives us an insider’s look into the film industry, confirming a new entry into the Ghostbusters franchise, and getting us pumped up for Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs and Shaw. Also, Josh reviews his test drive of the fresh 2019 Volvo S90 sedan; it’s the epitome of luxury. Closing the show, we explore the decline in popularity of paper publications, the amazing story (and brakes) of Brembo, and motorsports news with freelance automotive journalist, Steven Cole Smith. Don’t let this week’s automotive news pass you by. ·[00:00:00] Amazing Age of Automotive Technology·[00:05:27] Our Favorite Super Bowl Commercials·[00:12:59] Chicago Auto Show and Import Vehicles·[00:20:20] Willful Ignorance of the Sports Ball·[00:28:58] Halftime Shows and Winter Vehicles·[00:36:20] Jeep and Hyundai, Dressed to Impress·[00:42:40] Volvo Steps It Up in Luxury Segment·[00:48:57] Volvo S90: Only One Engine Option?·[00:55:11] “Hobbs and Shaw” and “Ghostbusters”·[01:02:31] The Plight of Paper Publications·[01:11:19] Brembo, The Only Brakes You’ll Care About·[01:18:32] Upcoming Races Update [00:00:00] Amazing Age of Automotive TechnologyBurr, it’s cold outside, and it has Alan thinking about the amazing technology in his truck that keeps him warm. Heated seats, heated steering wheels, push-button start – all of these conveniences make it so nice to take refuge from the elements in Alan’s RAM 3500 dually. Alan is also blown away by the fuel economy he can squeeze out of such a massive truck; in optimal conditions he was getting 22 mpg! Switching gears, we also discuss the spectacles that Super Bowl commercials have become. Do you watch the Super Bowl for the commercials? [00:05:27] Our Favorite Super Bowl CommercialsFor those that watched, the Super Bowl was a spectacle not just on the field, but during the commercial breaks as well. The automotive industry showed up in full force this year, putting on what seemed like mini-movies to win over our hearts and minds. Although she didn’t watch American sports’ greatest event, automotive journalist, BJ Killeen’s curiosity still lead her to check out some of the commercials on YouTube, and ads like the Mercedes-Benz’s A-Class, Kia, Hyundai, and Audi caught her eye. Which automotive ads shined through the deluge for you? [00:12:59] Chicago Auto Show and Import VehiclesThe Chicago Auto Show may not have the most reveals, but it is still the country’s largest auto show, with a million square feet at the Mccormick Convention Center. We can only guess as to what is going to be unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show, as they’re keeping everything very hush-hush; but automotive journalist, BJ Killeen, thinks Toyota would be remiss not to announce something surround their Tacoma pickup in response to recent segment competition. Speaking of the Toyota Tacoma, Alan is amazed by the price older model imports are fetching at car auction events like Barrett-Jackson. Are you a Toyota fan? [00:20:20] Willful Ignorance of the Sports BallNot everyone is a true football fan, and that’s fine! Co-founder of CarTender and Freelance Automotive Journa...

BJ Killeen, Steven Cole Smith, Karl Brauer, and Brian Moody chat about the off-road and truck wars that are heating up between FCA and Ford, car reviews, +more!

Josh Hancock, George Kennedy III, Perry Stern, BJ Killeen, and Jamie Page Deaton discuss Ram 1500 TRX, Cadillac XT-6, Rolls-Royce Cullinan, cars for teens,+more

BJ Killeen, Brian Moody, Steven Cole Smith, and Perry Stern chat about the Mazda CX-9, the best performance and electric vehicles, motorsports news, 1000HP cars

We chat with Perry Stern, Karl Brauer, BJ Killeen, and George Kennedy III, about BMW M series, Cadillac Lyriq, Toyota Tacoma, Lexus LC 500, Honda Odyssey, +more

BJ Kileen, Josh Hancock, and Lauren Fix discuss the death of Regis Philbin, Lexus IS 350, Mercedes-Benz, GMC Sierra AT4, Ford Ranger, car deals and more!

BJ Killeen, George Kennedy III, Karl Brauer, and Brian Moody discuss Kia, Hyundai, McLaren, BMW, AMG, the Ford Bronco, the best compact SUVs of 2020, and more!

We chat with Karl Brauer, Dick Messer, and Ed Justice, Jr. about the new V8 Jeep Wrangler, 2021 Ford Bronco, Toyota RAV4, Alan's Cars and Coffee, and more!

Josh Hancock, George Kennedy III, BJ Killeen, and Steven Cole Smith chat about the state of the car market and COVID-19, the Lexus ES, Hyundai Palisade, + more!

We chat with BJ Killeen, Brian Moody, James Bell, and Karl Brauer, about the new Ford F-150 powertrain options, the Kia Optima name change, new SRT, and more!

We chat with Lauren Fix, Jeff Dorgay, Josh Hancock, and George Kennedy III, about the new Ford Bronco, F-150, Jeff's BMW collection, Tesla Cybertruck, and more!