In Wheel Time - Cartalk Radio

Dive into the electrified future of SUVs as we explore two distinctly different approaches to modern transportation. Our hands-on review of the 2024 Chevy Equinox EV reveals the practical realities of living with an all-electric vehicle – from its impressive 319-mile factory range to the sometimes frustrating home charging experience that adds just 2.1 miles per hour. The Equinox EV impresses with its technology package, featuring a massive 17.1-inch display, heads-up display, and surround view camera. But does the Google-based infotainment system measure up for Apple users? We break down everything from the surprisingly quiet ride to the real-world implications of battery degradation over the eight-year warranty period.Between our vehicle reviews, we take an entertaining detour into NASCAR history, examining the sport's most intimidating and aggressive personalities. From Dale Earnhardt's commanding presence to Kyle Busch's firebrand style, these drivers defined racing with attitude rather tha

Richard Tomlin of Apex Auto Works takes us behind the scenes of high-performance vehicle builds and international racing adventures that push the boundaries of what's possible. From a meticulously restored Panos destined for a private museum to unconventional engine swaps that challenge conventional wisdom, Richard's projects showcase the ingenuity that defines passionate automotive specialists.The heart of our conversation reveals the calculated risks automotive enthusiasts take when pursuing their passion. Despite Mexico being under a Level 4 travel warning with cartels recently classified as terrorist groups, Richard explains why his team still plans to participate in their upcoming Mexican road racing event. "Where we're going, it's not usually a case," he notes, distinguishing between their federale-protected route and the more isolated desert racing that occurs elsewhere. This fascinating risk assessment offers listeners an authentic glimpse into how automotive enthusiasts

Car enthusiasts across Texas are buzzing with activity as spring brings perfect weather for cruises, shows, and community gatherings. This episode takes you right into the heart of the action with a live call to Vernon Wilhelm, president of the Northside Mustang Club, who's hosting a rain-soaked but enthusiastic car show at Rudy's on Highway 105.Vernon gives us a window into the vibrant community he leads – 125 members strong and spread across the state – while detailing their impressive calendar of upcoming cruises to destinations like the National Forest, Lake Livingston, and the historic Painted Churches. The star of their current show? A head-turning 2025 Mustang in "Molten Magenta" that's causing quite a stir among attendees.The conversation shifts to a significant change coming for Texas drivers: House Bill 718, which eliminates temporary paper tags in favor of metal license plates issued directly at dealerships starting July 1st. This move aims to combat the rampant criminal ac

What makes a vehicle truly family-friendly? Is it just about having enough cupholders and space for car seats, or is there something more to consider when shopping for your family's next ride? Alex Kwanton from U.S. News & World Report joins us to reveal the results of their comprehensive "Best Cars for Families 2025" research, which evaluated over 100 vehicles across nine different classes.The conversation dives deep into what features actually matter for families, from the obvious (passenger and cargo space) to the overlooked (teen driver controls, surround-view cameras, and rear seat reminders). We explore both established winners like the six-time champion Kia Telluride and newcomers like the Kia EV9, which offers three-row electric versatility at a more accessible price point than its $80,000+ competitors.Some of the findings might surprise you. Did you know the compact Hyundai Tucson offers just 0.8 inches less rear legroom than a full-size Chevrolet Tahoe? Or that the Honda Accord&ap

Classic American cars evoke powerful nostalgia, and during this episode, we dive deep into the iconic models of yesteryear – from the star-studded headliners of the Pontiac Star Chief to the chrome-laden beauty of the Buick Wildcat. These automotive masterpieces featured intricate details that modern vehicles simply can't match, with headlight bezels alone containing upwards of 14 perfectly fitted chrome parts.The conversation shifts to modern vehicle technology with a spirited debate about auto start-stop systems. While environmentally beneficial, these fuel-saving features can create dangerous situations in Houston traffic when quick acceleration is needed. We share real-world experiences with various implementations of this technology, highlighting why some drivers immediately disable it when entering their vehicles.The highlight of the show is our comprehensive review of the 2025 Lexus UX300H hybrid SUV. This compact luxury vehicle impressed with its outstanding fuel economy (45mpg city/41mpg highway

The automotive landscape offers increasingly sophisticated choices, and our dual review of the 2025 Lexus UX 300h and Mitsubishi Outlander reveals two Japanese manufacturers delivering exceptional value in different segments.The Lexus UX 300h emerges as a standout in the luxury compact SUV class. Assembled in Miyawaka, Fukuoka, Japan, this hybrid marvel offers a compelling combination of premium features and remarkable efficiency. The F-Sport handling package elevates the driving experience while distinctive styling elements like the oversized spindle grille and sculpted fastback design create visual interest without sacrificing function.What truly distinguishes the UX 300h is its value proposition. With a starting price of $36,540, it significantly undercuts German competitors like Audi, BMW, and Mercedes while delivering superior fuel economy (45 city/41 highway MPG). During extensive testing over 682 miles, our team achieved 40.7 MPG while enjoying the UX's surprisingly smooth ride, comfortable interi

Peering behind the curtain of modern automotive manufacturing reveals a complex web of global dependencies that few consumers ever consider. Our deep dive into recent recalls uncovers how Tesla's futuristic Cybertruck faces very traditional manufacturing challenges, with nearly all 46,096 produced in the first 15 months being recalled for detaching exterior panels. This highlights the industry's increasing reliance on adhesives rather than mechanical fastening—a practice that proves problematic when vehicles bake in scorching parking lots.The revelation that Ford produces hundreds of thousands of F-Series Super Duty pickups on American soil while sourcing every single engine from Canada or Mexico exposes the vulnerability of cross-border manufacturing arrangements. With potential tariffs looming, Ford faces a potential crisis costing up to $75,000 in duties per truckload of engines. This situation illustrates how interconnected North American manufacturing has become and the cascading effects that p

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!ProAm Auto AccessoriesProAm Auto Accessories: "THE" place to go to find exclusive and hard to find parts and accessories!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,

When your spouse responds to broken axles with "Why don't you just upgrade to one tons now?" you know you've found a keeper in the off-roading community. Tim Haffey, president of Lone Star Jeep Club, takes us deep into Texas Jeep culture, sharing stories from recent adventures including their Polar Express charity run in Oklahoma and Valentine's Day excursion at Hidden Falls.For those looking to enter the world of off-roading, Tim details their "101 class" – a comprehensive program combining classroom instruction with hands-on trail experience designed to help new Jeep owners understand their vehicles' capabilities. The conversation showcases the educational approach serious enthusiasts take to helping newcomers navigate their first off-road experiences safely.The hosts and Tim explore favorite off-roading destinations across Texas, with Barnwell Mountain Recreational Area in the Piney Woods region emerging as a standout for its extensive trails, camping facilities, and

Gear up for an adrenaline-fueled exploration of competitive drag racing as we dive deep into the Texas Muscle Car Club Challenge with organizers Sarah and Scott. They reveal how this unique organization has become "the largest club-on-club drag racing association in America," bringing together automotive enthusiasts from across Texas and Oklahoma for team-based competition. From safety protocols to their upcoming race schedule, you'll get an insider's perspective on this thrilling motorsport community.The conversation shifts gears when Jeff Dziekan presents his research on "carguments" - those inevitable disagreements that erupt during road trips. You'll discover surprising statistics about which age groups argue most frequently (hint: it's not who you think), what triggers these disputes, and how even modern navigation technology hasn't eliminated the classic "you're going the wrong way" battles between drivers and passengers.Marrs delivers a compre

Performance enthusiasts and luxury SUV shoppers have two compelling new options to consider in the automotive landscape. We take a deep dive into the track-focused 2025 Subaru WRX TS and the premium 2025 Mazda CX-70 PHEV, exploring what makes each vehicle unique in today's market.The WRX TS emerges as Subaru's answer to drivers seeking track-day thrills in a practical sedan package. With its aluminum hood and fenders, gold Brembo brakes, and moonroof delete, this performance-oriented trim delivers the genuine WRX experience with enhanced capabilities. The 271-horsepower turbocharged boxer engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission offers an increasingly rare connection between driver and machine. Inside, Recaro seats hold you firmly through corners while the new 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster displays performance data to satisfy data-hungry enthusiasts. At $45,750, the TS positions itself competitively against rivals like the Golf R and GR Corolla.Shifting gears completely, the 2025 Mazda C

The used car market is experiencing a financial crisis that's hitting consumers right in the wallet. With negative equity on trade-ins reaching a staggering record high of $6,838, many car owners are finding themselves trapped in vehicles they can no longer afford to keep—or trade in.Brad Parker, CEO of PrivateAuto, joins us to break down this troubling trend and explain why so many Americans are underwater on their car loans. The perfect storm began during the COVID era when inventory shortages drove prices to unprecedented levels. Consumers who purchased vehicles then are now facing a harsh reality: their cars are worth significantly less than what they still owe, creating a financial trap that's increasingly difficult to escape.The ripple effects are being felt throughout the automotive ecosystem. Dealerships struggle to source used inventory as fewer trade-ins hit the market. Banks tighten lending standards as their portfolios show signs of stress. And with the average new car costing around $45

Scott Hoke from Mecum Auctions joins us from Indianapolis to share what makes the upcoming Houston auction such a compelling destination for car enthusiasts. With his broadcasting career spanning back to 1979, Scott brings decades of automotive passion to our conversation about collector cars and the unique experience Mecum creates."It's the best car show that you'll ever attend because you're probably going to find something or see something that you've never seen before," Scott explains, highlighting how Mecum events offer value beyond just bidding opportunities. The nostalgia factor drives deep connections as visitors reminisce about cars from their past – whether personally owned, admired from afar, or part of family history.The Houston auction, happening April 3-5 at NRG Center, will feature approximately 1,000 vehicles including several standout offerings. A 1963 Chevy II Nova convertible with dark blue exterior and baseball glove leather interior promises to turn heads, wh

Ever wondered how Consumer Reports determines which vehicles truly deserve a top recommendation? In our latest episode, we pull back the curtain on their rigorous testing process with automotive engineer Alex Knizek, who reveals the science behind their coveted 2025 vehicle ratings.Alex takes us through Consumer Reports' unique approach to vehicle evaluation - one where they purchase every test vehicle directly from dealerships rather than accepting manufacturer loaners. Each vehicle undergoes approximately 50 different tests at their Connecticut facility, with results combined with reliability data from thousands of CR members to produce their authoritative rankings.The 2025 top picks feature some surprising winners. The Nissan Sentra earns recognition in the small car category for its combination of comfort, features, and value at around $25,000. Subaru secures two spots with the Crosstrek and Forester, both praised for their straightforward functionality and impressive ride quality in an era of overly

Tammy Dooley, affectionately dubbed the "Hot Rod Queen of Granbury," joins us to share the excitement surrounding the upcoming Lone Star Street Rod Association's 50th anniversary celebration this June. As Granbury's Convention and Visitors Bureau Director, she reveals how this charming lakeside town has transformed from a simple day-trip destination to a vibrant weekend getaway that's captivating visitors from across Texas and beyond.What makes Granbury special? Picture a historic town square (the first in Texas to receive historic registry designation) combined with lakefront appeal, creating an atmosphere Tammy describes as having "a European vibe." The town buzzes with activity when hundreds of street rods arrive each Father's Day weekend, creating a community-wide celebration that's become a signature event.Our conversation takes an unexpected turn when Tammy shares the fascinating history of the Nuthouse Hotel, named after two blind brothers who became wealthy

The 2025 Toyota Crown hybrid sedan offers impressive ride quality with SUV-like stance, while the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 delivers serious off-road capability in a mid-size truck package. Side camera mirror systems represent the future of automotive visibility with improved safety features despite some adaptation challenges.• 2025 Toyota Crown Platinum combines sedan styling with SUV-like height• Hybrid turbocharged engine delivers 340 horsepower with approximately 30 mpg efficiency• Premium interior features 12.3-inch infotainment screen and vertical phone charger• $58,169 as tested with "million-dollar ride quality"• Side camera mirror systems provide wider field of view and reduce blind spots• Camera mirrors can integrate with advanced safety features despite higher costs• 2025 Chevy Colorado ZR2 designed for serious off-road use with skid plates and protective features• ZR2 package includes beadlock-capable wheels and specialized suspension• Surround-view camera system helps navigate difficult te

The 2025 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 delivers impressive off-road capability in a mid-size package that still fits in your garage, featuring beadlock-capable wheels, skid plates, and 430 pound-feet of torque for serious adventure seekers.• Detailed review of the 2025 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 four-wheel drive crew cab• Third-generation Colorado offers five trim levels with the ZR2 as the premium off-road option• Specialized features include LED lighting, off-road front bumper, skid plates, and rocker panel protection• 2.7-liter turbo max engine provides 310 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque• Interior includes 11.3-inch touchscreen with surround view camera system showing underneath the vehicle• Competitive pricing starts at $49,600 for the ZR2 trim with test model at $64,340• Mercedes-Benz developing new V8 combustion engine, slowing electric vehicle plans• Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis posted higher US sales while Ford, Toyota, and Honda declined• Upcoming events include Clear Lake Cars and Coffee and the Hot Rod

During this episode of In Wheel Time, we explore the evolving automotive landscape through technological innovations and economic challenges affecting the industry today. The future of automotive visibility takes center stage as we examine how camera-based systems are poised to replace traditional side-view mirrors.• Tribute to legendary car builder Gene Winfield who recently passed away in his 90s• Discussion of automotive tariffs and their impact on car companies with cross-border operations• Examination of the one-month exemption for automakers from 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico• Deep dive into side camera mirror systems and their advantages over traditional mirrors• Analysis of potential downsides to camera systems including higher costs and adaptation challenges• Exploration of how tariffs affect automotive supply chains and manufacturing processes• Reflection on Gene Winfield's contributions to car customization and his legacy in automotive cultureJoin us every Saturday morning from 10 to 12noon

Step right into the world of automotive innovation with a captivating exploration of the Houston Auto Show's highlights and insider insights from Mazda. We sit down with Britton Smith from Jeff Haas Mazda, who shares firsthand experiences and knowledge about Mazda's current lineup and its distinguishing qualities that make it a standout in today's market. If you’ve ever wondered what sets Mazda apart from traditional competitors like Toyota and Honda, this episode reveals all the secrets: from the intricacies of their design philosophy to their commitment to creating a seamless driving experience.Throughout our conversation, Britton discusses Mazda’s core models like the popular CX-5, its heritage, and future models on the horizon. We delve into the captivating story behind Mazda, examining how the company's philosophy of craftsmanship and attention to detail serves as the foundation for each vehicle, giving it soul and character. You’ll learn about the core driving philosophy known as “Ji

Step into the world of automotive excitement with our latest podcast episode from the Houston Auto Show!