In Wheel Time - Cartalk Radio

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

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 i

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. Despi

The passion behind automotive culture shines brightest when enthusiasts gather to share their stories. At the Tailpipes and Tacos Cruise-In at the Lupe' Tortilla Tex-Mex in Katy, we experienced this firsthand as we awarded our signature Chili Pepper trophies to three remarkable vehicles.Mr. Hoggo's 1932 Ford Highboy stole the show with its masterfully crafted fiberglass body—so convincing that even SoCal Speed Shop experts needed nearly an hour to determine it wasn't metal. Powered by a beastly 640 horsepower 383 stroker engine, this yellow beauty combines old-school aesthetics with modern performance.The most touching moment came when 17-year-old Madden Morgan received his very first trophy for his 1989 Chevy 1500. Built alongside his father, this daily-driven pickup represents exactly what car culture is about—passion passed between generations, creating bonds that last a lifetime. Seeing the pride on both father and son's faces reminded everyone why we gather at events like this.We also

A lavender 1957 Chevy Nomad steals the spotlight at our Tailpipes and Tacos Cruise Inn broadcast from Lupe' Tortilla Tex-Mex in Katy, Texas. Owner Jim Craven shares his three-year journey with this head-turning classic, detailing what makes a Nomad special beyond just being a two-door station wagon - from the angled window pillars to the nine distinctive grooves on the car's top.Under the hood, this beauty houses a monstrous 502 cubic inch crate motor with dual four-barrel carburetors that, in Jim's words, "will lay rubber in second and third gear." While Jim initially had reservations about the lavender paint when buying sight unseen, it's now the car's most celebrated feature, routinely earning trophies and starting conversations at every show.What resonates most is Jim's refreshing philosophy about classic car ownership. Unlike those who treat vehicles as untouchable museum pieces, he drives his Nomad regularly, believing classics should be enjoyed rather than preser

From a pandemic hobby to podium finishes at prestigious races, Judd Holt's meteoric rise in the racing world exemplifies what's possible when passion meets persistence. Judd's story begins just four and a half years ago when, tired of pandemic isolation, he decided to try his hand at motor racing. What started as a curiosity quickly evolved into competitive racing in spec cars, then an M2 for endurance events, and now to professional competition in a factory-built BMW M4 GT4.The fascinating world of GT4 racing centers on a unique premise - every car must be identical according to strict regulations. With manufacturers like BMW, Mercedes, and Ford all building to the same specifications, there's nowhere to hide behind superior technology. When Judd stood on the podium at Long Beach, it was pure driver skill that put him there. "The car is basically the same," he explains. "They're identical... you can't jack with it."The physical and mental demands are extraord

The rumble of vintage engines and the aroma of breakfast tacos fill the air as we broadcast live from the Tailpipes and Tacos cruise-in at Lupe' Tortilla in Katy, Texas. This popular gathering of automotive enthusiasts provides the perfect backdrop for conversations with passionate car collectors and restorers who share the stories behind their prized vehicles.Stan Holt, the proprietor of Loopy Tortilla and host of the event, sits down with us to discuss his impressive 52-car collection. With characteristic humor, Stan shares the tale of his impulsive purchase of a 1941 Packard at a Mecum Auction despite not registering as a bidder. "The guy was asking me where's your bidder number? I said I don't have a bidder number. He said you can't bid without a bidder number. I said oh yeah, you can. I just bought that," Stan recounts with a laugh. His collection includes everything from this beautiful Packard to a 1971 Cadillac Coupe DeVille with period-correct avocado green interior.We al

Automotive passion takes center stage as we broadcast live from the Tailpipes and Tacos Cruise-In at Lupe' Tortilla Tex-Mex in Katy, Texas. The spring air is filled with the rumble of engines, the scent of breakfast tacos, and the undeniable camaraderie that defines car culture.Our featured guest, John Thuman, brings his breathtaking 1965 Cobra Daytona Coupe replica that stops everyone in their tracks. This isn't just any kit car – it's a meticulously built Factory 5 Racing creation powered by a Gen 3 Coyote engine pumping out 500 horsepower in a 2,500-pound package. Painted in what John calls "Medina yellow" (a deliberate jab at Ferrari enthusiasts), this tubular-frame beauty represents the perfect blend of vintage aesthetics and modern performance. When John casually mentions reaching speeds of 160 mph because he "ran out of road, not out of car," you understand this isn't just transportation – it's a passion project that demands respect.The show shifts gears wit

Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas Gulf Coast Auto ShieldPaint protection, tint, and more!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.---- ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time? In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy! Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.----- -----Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12noonCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!Twitt

Trump's tariffs have created a labyrinth of regulations in the automotive world, with 25% duties on vehicle imports and additional tariffs layered on top for certain countries. This complex system has manufacturers, dealers, and consumers scrambling to understand what it means for vehicle pricing and availability.Aiden Bergsman from Anderson Economic Group breaks down this puzzle for listeners, explaining how these tariffs affect everything from manufacturing decisions to consumer prices. The good news for car shoppers? Vehicles already on dealer lots won't see these price increases, creating an unusual opportunity for those in the market right now. Some manufacturers are even offering special pricing to move current inventory before tariff-affected vehicles arrive.The conversation shifts to broader economic impacts, with insights on how these trade policies affect investment portfolios and retirement accounts. While market volatility creates anxiety, historical perspective suggests patience usually

The evolution of family transport has come a long way from the wood-paneled station wagons of yesteryear. We take the wheel of two distinctly different approaches to modern family hauling with the 2025 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid and the 2025 Infiniti QX60.The Tucson Hybrid Limited AWD immediately stands out with its angular wheel well flares and distinctive styling that breaks from conventional SUV design. Built in Korea, this compact hybrid combines a 1.6-liter gas engine with electric power for 268 combined horsepower while achieving an impressive 35 MPG. Perhaps most appealing for urban families is the ability to travel up to 30 miles on electric power alone—perfect for school runs, grocery trips, and daily errands without burning a drop of fuel.Taking a more luxury-oriented approach, the Tennessee-assembled Infiniti QX60 delivers a premium three-row experience with our Luxe AWD test vehicle featuring the striking Black Edition package. The sophisticated interior includes leather seating, a 12.3-inch infotainme

Automotive nostalgia takes center stage as we explore five legendary car manufacturers that deserve resurrection in today's market. From AMC's innovative Javelin AMX with its performance-focused design to Pontiac's revolutionary GTO that birthed the American muscle car movement, these vanished brands left tire tracks too deep to be forgotten. The distinctive bullet-nosed Studebaker Champion once captured hearts with its unique styling and affordability, while Mercury established itself as America's sixth most popular car brand in the early 1950s with classics that remain custom car holy grails. Plymouth's no-frills Roadrunner proved that accessible performance could dominate the muscle car scene.Our Hemings' Sold Car Roundup segment reveals surprising current values for classic automobiles. A 1989 Cadillac Alante sells for just $5,400, while a pristine '64 Chevelle commands $31,500. These figures demonstrate that classic car ownership remains attainable for many enthusiasts,

The road is calling, and the Hot Rod Tour of Texas is answering with an epic 488-mile journey across some of the Lone Star State's most scenic regions. Bobby Sparkman and Jeremy Taylor join us to unveil their meticulously crafted route for the tour's fourth year, which has already attracted over 300 classic car enthusiasts for the sold-out event.Starting in Victoria (the self-proclaimed "best kept secret in Texas"), participants will enjoy a unique garage crawl through five local automotive businesses before kicking off the evening with live music from The Crowbars in the downtown square. From there, the adventure truly begins with a police-escorted departure from historic Riverside Stadium, winding through coastal towns like Port Lavaca and Palacios where shrimping fleets and waterfront vistas create perfect photo opportunities.The journey continues with exclusive stops at Haak Winery, the Lone Star Flight Museum (complete with flight simulators!), Spindletap Brewery, and the impressive G

Tucked away in Brookshire, Texas stands a temple to American automotive culture that defies expectations. This week, we broadcast live from HEMI Hideout, where owner John Hovis welcomes us into what he modestly describes as "a man cave that got a little bit out of control."The result is breathtaking – over 4,500 pieces of rare automotive memorabilia and signage covering nearly every available surface, alongside a meticulously curated collection of classic Mopar muscle cars. Walking through HEMI Hideout feels like stepping into a time capsule, with neon and porcelain signs dating back to the early 1900s creating a dazzling backdrop for Detroit's finest horsepower machines.John shares fascinating stories about his collection process, revealing that only 7% of his 324 neon signs are actually illuminated – an optical illusion that makes the space feel even more vibrant and alive. The wooden interior siding carries its own history, salvaged from his grandparents' two-story dry goods store built

From the fabulous HEMI Hideout in Brookshire, Texas comes an automotive enthusiast's dream episode packed with car reviews, market insights, and plenty of automotive banter.We kick things off with a thorough examination of the 2025 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, assembled right here in America at Georgetown, Kentucky. This small SUV delivers an impressive 41 mpg city while maintaining enough zip to keep driving enjoyable. With sporty handling reminiscent of more premium vehicles, it strikes a perfect balance between daily practicality and weekend adventure capability. At $37,560 for the base hybrid trim, it competes effectively against offerings from Hyundai, Honda, and Ford.The heart of our show features our beloved Hemmings Sold Car Roundup game, where we attempt to guess the actual selling prices of classic vehicles. The results were eye-opening – from a 1969 Chevelle commanding $73,500 to a pristine 1961 Ford Thunderbird selling for a surprisingly affordable $18,900. These market insights reveal which classics

The automotive world spans an incredible spectrum from practical daily drivers to ultra-luxury vehicles that cost more than many homes. We dive deep into both extremes with our detailed examinations of the completely redesigned 2025 Infinity QX80 Autograph AWD and the efficient 2025 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid XSE AWD.The third-generation QX80 represents Infinity's flagship luxury SUV, combining imposing presence with incredible comfort features. With heated, ventilated, and massaging seats for both front and second-row occupants, a cutting-edge 14.3-inch touchscreen, digital instruments, and advanced safety features, this seven-passenger behemoth delivers a first-class experience. Powered by a twin-turbocharged V6 generating 450 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, it also offers substantial capability with 8,500 pounds of towing capacity. We explore whether its smooth air ride suspension, opulent quilted leather, and 24-speaker Klipsch audio system justify the eye-watering $113,965 price tag (yes, that incl

The rumble of Hemi engines echoes through the cavernous space of the Fabuloso Hemi Hideout in Brookshire, Texas as we explore one of America's most impressive Mopar collections. John Hovis began his automotive journey at 18 years old in 1970, explaining his special affinity for vehicles from that iconic year - and what a collection he's assembled!From the moment we step inside, we're surrounded by automotive royalty. The banana yellow 1970 Dodge Superbee with its 440 six-pack engine represents just one of 599 ever built with matching numbers. But that's just the beginning. The 1970 Plymouth Superbird, with its distinctive aerodynamic nose and towering rear spoiler, tells the story of how Mopar changed NASCAR forever before the design was ultimately banned for being too dominant on the track.The crown jewel might be John's personal favorite: a sublime pearl green 1971 Plymouth Cuda boasting a monstrous 528 cubic inch all-aluminum Hemi V8 generating 739 horsepower. With its pistol grip

Broadcasting from John Hovis's legendary Hemi Hideout in Brookshire, Texas, we invite listeners into a wonderland of automotive memorabilia, rare Mopar muscle, and glowing neon signs. This special venue has transformed dramatically since opening a decade ago, now serving as both museum and gathering place for car enthusiasts. Today's open house welcomes visitors with breakfast tacos, camaraderie, and the opportunity to support local charities through matched donations.Our automotive journey begins with a fascinating look at the 1971 Plymouth GTX – perhaps the most criminally overlooked muscle car of the Mopar golden era. This sleek fastback with coke-bottle curves arrived just as muscle car mania began cooling, resulting in just 2,900 sales despite its impressive 440 cubic inch V8 engine options. The rarest configuration – just 326 examples with the 440 Plus 6 and four-speed manual – now commands upwards of $166,000 at auction, demonstrating how collectors have finally recognized this hidden gem.We

Something massive is about to shift in the American automotive marketplace. Starting next Wednesday, 25% tariffs will hit vehicles and parts imported from Canada, Mexico, Europe, Japan, and essentially any foreign country—and these will stack on top of existing tariffs.Our conversation with Aiden Bergsman from the Anderson Economic Group reveals just how complex this situation is becoming. Modern vehicles aren't simply built in one country—components cross borders repeatedly during manufacturing. That engine in your Chevy might have started in Canada, crossed to Detroit, had Mexican parts added, then crossed back to Canada before returning as a finished vehicle. Each crossing potentially triggers tariffs, and Bergsman's analysis suggests these could raise vehicle prices by $3,000-$10,000, with EVs potentially seeing even steeper increases.Manufacturers face impossible choices: absorb unsustainable costs, pass them to already-stretched consumers, frantically relocate production to the U.S., or discon

A silver Chevy Equinox EV glides silently through city streets—presenting a study in contrasts to the raw power of NASCAR's most intimidating drivers featured in today's jam-packed automotive roundup.Ford's quality control takes center stage as we dissect an alarming series of recalls affecting models across their lineup. From steering column shifters that may detach to unexpected vehicle movements and rearview cameras displaying incorrectly, these aren't just assembly issues—they're fundamental product design problems requiring immediate attention. The frequency and severity of these recalls raise serious questions about reliability and safety that potential Ford buyers should consider.Transitioning to market values, our Heming's Sold Car Roundup reveals fascinating insights into what collectors are willing to pay for automotive history. A 1963 Corvette Restomod commands a jaw-dropping $142,590 while a beautifully preserved 1978 Toyota FJ40 fetches $47,250. Meanwhile, a 2006 Mas