In Wheel Time - Cartalk Radio

Can a small SUV redefine luxury and efficiency? Discover how the 2025 Lexus NX 350h challenges the ordinary with its striking design and powerful hybrid engine, setting a new standard in the world of small SUVs. From its distinguished spindle grille to the luxurious interior finishes, we unravel the details that make this Canadian-built marvel a head-turner. As we navigate through its standout features, explore how it measures up against non-hybrid rivals like the BMW X3 and Acura RDX, and gain insights into its hybrid drivetrain that promises both power and fuel efficiency. We also take a nostalgic detour to appreciate the legacy of the Pontiac Grand Prix and its design evolution over eight generations.Shift gears with us as we explore the 2025 Subaru Outback, a vehicle that seamlessly marries performance with versatility. Whether you're intrigued by its 2,700-pound towing capacity or its commendable 24.7 mpg fuel efficiency, this SUV caters to those with a penchant for adventure and off-road escapades.

Automobile enthusiasts and industry insiders, get ready to uncover the secrets behind the rapid advancements in car quality and standards with automotive expert Jack Nerad. What drives the relentless quest for excellence among vehicle manufacturers? This episode promises insights into the intense competition that has spurred unprecedented improvements from the humble models of the 1980s and 1990s to the sophisticated machines we see today. By highlighting the role of regulators and external suppliers, such as those involved in the Takata airbag recall, we reveal the myriad forces shaping the safety and innovation of modern vehicles. Experience how comparison tests now showcase the razor-thin margins separating today's competitors in specifications and offerings.The landscape of the automotive industry is in constant flux, and staying ahead means navigating through challenges and strategic pivots. We explore the evolving world of electric vehicles (EVs) and the calculated approaches of companies like Toyo

Randy Borcherding from Painthouse steals the spotlight as he takes us on a thrilling journey through the SEMA show in Las Vegas. He unveils the secrets behind his stunning 1965 Mustang Fastback and the award-winning 1970 Cougar Convertible, delving into the challenges of car preparation and the unpredictable nature of transportation logistics. Randy also shares a personal note on how COVID affected his sense of smell, adding a unique layer to our conversation. Whether you're a gearhead or just love a great story, Randy's insights into the world of custom cars and the art of navigating SEMA are sure to captivate.Join us as we discuss the latest buzz in NASCAR with Chevrolet's surprising decision to drop the Camaro branding, sparking speculation about Cadillac's future in the racing scene. We also venture into the luxurious realm of the 2025 Lexus NX 350h, highlighting its impressive design and cutting-edge features. Along the way, we tackle the scarcity of quality upholstery shops, debate t

Have you ever wondered how the 2025 Dodge Durango manages to stay relevant amidst changing automotive trends? Buckle up as Mr. Marrs takes us on an exhilarating journey through the unexpected wonders of this premium all-wheel drive SUV. From its Hellcat-inspired hood to its LED lighting, we dive into its features while debating whether it's a midsize or full-size vehicle. As we share our surprise at its continued production, our lively discussion transitions into holiday cheer, where we reminisce about Thanksgiving and express our gratitude for George Skelton's delightful gift from Perini Ranch.For classic car enthusiasts, our Hemmings Sold Car Weekly Roundup will ignite your nostalgic spark. Join us for a friendly guessing game that takes us through the glory days of the 1979 Jeep CJ-7, the 1956 Chevy Bel Air, and more. Personal stories and automotive insights flow as we predict the values of iconic vehicles like the 1977 Ford F-250 and the uniquely charming 1948 Pontiac Streamliner. It’s a joyful

Rodney Rodriguez takes us on a thrilling ride through the fast-paced world of oval track racing and his Hollywood escapades. We kick off by reminiscing about good times at Twin Peaks and Hooters, where the food is almost as memorable as the stories shared. Rodney updates us on the current racing season, mentioning his highly anticipated trip to the Gateway Nationals in St. Louis. As our conversation unfolds, we touch on his role with Texas Sports Unfiltered, where he'll bring his unique insights to the post-game broadcast of the Texas Longhorns vs. Texas Aggies football showdown. Whether you’re a racing aficionado or just love a good laugh, this episode promises a lively blend of camaraderie and sports talk.Switching lanes, we dive headfirst into the controversial corners of NASCAR, from debated race stages to what fans truly crave in a 500-mile spectacle. Our chat spotlights Texas's vibrant dirt track scene, especially Cleveland's 105 Speedway, and provides a sneak peek into the promising futu

Ready to elevate your SUV knowledge? Discover the all-new 2024 Lexus GX 550, an SUV that blends style with rugged capability, as we explore its Overtrail four-wheel drive trim. Picture a Land Rover Range Rover's sturdy elegance, now infused with Lexus luxury and a modern twist. Enjoy the ride as we share our firsthand experience with its impressive design, both inside and out, and delve into how its 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 engine promises to deliver a thrilling performance. We'll weigh its price and features against formidable rivals like the Land Rover Defender, Ford Bronco, and Jeep Wrangler. Don’t miss our candid thoughts on Lexus’ bold spindle grille design and a sneak peek into the upcoming feature on decoding vehicle window stickers.Unlock the secrets of vehicle window stickers and the value of understanding what you're really paying for. Using the 2021 Ford Expedition as our example, we break down crucial details like standard and optional equipment, pricing, and fuel efficiency, essenti

Discover how to transform your holiday shopping with our latest episode, featuring John Rawson from ProAm Auto Accessories. Expect to be inspired as John unveils incredible gift ideas for car enthusiasts, taking us from high-performance suspensions to custom installations like the sleek Corbeau seats. Experience the evolution of ProAm's online shopping through their collaboration with Amazon, ensuring a seamless experience for all car lovers. Our engineer, David Ainsley, keeps the mood light-hearted with his humorous take on post-Thanksgiving kitchen chaos, it's an episode brimming with automotive passion, festive spirit, and practical advice.Join us as Jeff Dziekan demystifies car window stickers, empowering you with knowledge for your next vehicle purchase. From decoding model specifications to understanding warranties and optional equipment, Jeff ensures you're armed with all the essential information. We also explore the world of car accessories, with a spotlight on high-quality waxes, poli

Join us for an adrenaline-fueled exploration of classic Mopar vehicles with Troy Hawkes from the Hawkes Mopar Nest. Discover the captivating tale of his 1970 Plymouth, distinguished as a world record holder in the SCTA road racing scene. Feel the passion as Troy recounts its origins with racing legend Jim Lindsley, its thrilling journeys across Bonneville and El Mirage, and the remarkable modifications that make it unique, including the legendary 426 Hemi engine. Troy's personal stories and his connection to the Lindsley family bring the vehicle’s storied past to life, making this a must-listen for Mopar lovers everywhere. We'll also speed through the fascinating history of the iconic Superbird, including its aerodynamic innovations that reshaped NASCAR. Hear about the pivotal role this car played in enticing Richard Petty back to Plymouth, and the stories behind John Hovis and his extraordinary collection at the Hemi Hideout. From the structural integrity of the wing to the thrill of showcasing the

What if an iconic vehicle from the past could be reimagined for a sustainable future? Join us as we chat with John Vincent from US News & World Report about the buzz surrounding Volkswagen's nostalgic yet modern ID Buzz. This electric tribute to the classic VW bus is stirring emotions with its retro design, but it also has us debating its limited range and significant price point. We also navigate through Volkswagen's post-Dieselgate journey, discussing their refreshed lineup, including the revamped Tiguan that says goodbye to the third-row seat.Shift gears with us as we celebrate the winners of the Best Vehicle Brand Awards. We explore Honda's unwavering commitment to sedans, with the beloved Accord and Civic models standing strong amidst an SUV-dominated market. Hyundai impresses with its affordable and stylish SUV offerings like the Kona and Santa Fe, while the luxurious ride of the Ram 1500 and 2500 earns them a top spot in the pickup category. Meanwhile, Texas is bustling with automoti

Ever wondered how to protect your luxury boat from the harsh elements or what makes a bourbon collection truly exceptional? Join us on the In Wheel Time Car Talk Show as we welcome John Gray from Gulf Coast Auto Shield. John shares some thrilling updates about the company's expansion into a new location in Sugar Land and their innovative leap into the marine segment with state-of-the-art paint protection films. We dive into the nitty-gritty of maintaining luxury boats and the unquestionable advantages of these protective technologies. Meanwhile, Jeff Dziekan and Mike Marrs inject the episode with their insights on luxury car brands, culminating in an exciting review of the Infiniti QX80.Switching gears, we raise a glass to the art of customer interaction and the pleasure of a well-stocked whiskey collection. The conversation flows as we showcase personal favorites like Blanton's from Japan and Pike Creek whiskey, while also sharing a laugh over the more budget-friendly options like Red Rooster whisk

Picture yourself back in the whimsical winters of childhood, sledding down icy hills and feeling the sting of cold air on your cheeks. We kick off our episode with a nostalgic reflection on these cherished memories before transitioning into a world of automotive intrigue. From the latest recalls shaking up giants like Hyundai and GM to peculiar vehicle issues such as unexpected sunshade operations, we're here to unravel these pressing matters with a mix of wit and insight. We don't just stop at current conundrums; you'll even hear our educated guesses on the auction block prices for legendary classic cars like the 1969 Pontiac Parisienne convertible.But hold on, there's more excitement in store! We switch gears to discuss the Tex-Mex delights of Lupe' Tortilla, a staple for those craving beef fajitas and frozen margaritas. As if that's not enough to whet your appetite, our racing fans won't want to miss the latest buzz in Formula One, including potential game-changing moves

Discover the secrets to finding the perfect tire for your vehicle with insights from Ryan, our expert guest from Consumer Reports. We promise you'll learn how to choose top-rated tires that balance performance, safety, and value. Explore why tires like the Michelin Defender II rank high for treadwear and long mileage, and how investing in quality tires can be more economical over time. We'll also examine the importance of considering regional factors, such as snow traction and fuel efficiency, in your purchasing decision.Join us as we explore the world of aggressive-looking tires for trucks and Jeeps, which offer style without compromising performance. We also tackle the practicalities of winter tires in areas with occasional snow, such as Houston, and weigh their benefits against storage and usage frequency. Sports car enthusiasts will be intrigued by our discussion of high-performance tire options, including the Michelin Pilot Sport All Season 4 and Pilot 4S, known for their reliable performance a

What if turbocharged engines aren't built to last? We tackle this intriguing question as we dissect the 2025 Mazda CX-90, especially the 3.3 Turbo S Premium Plus model. Marvel at its sleek design, from its conservative front grille to the alluring chrome accents, but don't miss our candid take on its less-than-stellar infotainment system. With a robust 340 horsepower under the hood, this SUV doesn't skimp on power, but how does it stack up against rivals like the Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, and Toyota Grand Highlander? We also sprinkle in a fascinating historical tidbit about a 1938 Mercedes-Benz that hit a jaw-dropping 269 miles per hour, adding a touch of nostalgia to our automotive exploration.Join us as we shift gears to examine a luxury SUV powered by a formidable 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine. This vehicle makes a bold statement with 450 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, redefining the move away from traditional V8 engines. We dive into its nine-speed automatic transmission a

Chase Murray joins us at the Tailpipes & Tacos Cruise-In in Katy, Texas, bringing along tales of fatherhood and fast cars. Chase, now a proud dad to baby Ty Alexander Murray, shares his hilarious adventures of juggling life as a car enthusiast with the sleepless nights and unexpected joys of new parenthood. The warmth of the car community shines through as we chat about Chase’s recent marriage, settling into a new home, and the traditional humor of bubblegum cigars. There’s even a nod to his dad’s work at Diamondback Performance and some playful anecdotes about Hot Wheels cars.Shifting gears, our conversation veers into the world of catering and racing, where Don reminisces about his time with Jaime and his ingenious meal plans during busy event days. We fondly recall the old days at Lupe Tortilla and Jaime’s impact in Beaumont, before diving into car collections, notably Stan's 45-car lineup featuring a white GTO. Amid laughter and future plans, like a Junior Dragster for the new baby, we look forwa

Have you ever felt the pulse of a community coming together over a shared love for cars? Join us as we bring you the exhilarating experience of the In Wheel Time Car Talk Show's bi-annual car show at the vibrant Lupe' Tortilla Tex-Mex in Katy, Texas. With our friends Chase Murrey lending expertise from the drag racing scene, we celebrated not just the cars but the stories behind them. Listen as we revel in the excitement of crowning Mr. Bill's '34 Ford as Best Hot Rod, Steve Sonnia's '69 Camaro SS as Best Classic, and Will Ditton's '99 GTR as Best Modern Classic. The event takes a heartfelt turn as young Owen Ditton beams with pride holding his first trophy, a testament to the enduring family spirit at the heart of our gathering.The joy isn't just in the competition; it's in the collective passion that fuels discussions and reflections about the evolution of car culture. We explore how modern lithium batteries are transforming classic car experiences and ponde

What if a faulty part in your car could compromise your safety? Discover the latest automotive recalls affecting major manufacturers like Tesla, GM, and Mazda, and learn why keeping up with vehicle safety updates is crucial. Join us at the lively Tailpipes & Tacos Cruise Inn at Lupe' Tortilla Tex-Mex Restaurant in Katy, Texas, where we bring you an engaging mix of humor and hard-hitting news. From the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's scrutiny of Ford's recall practices to the hidden dangers of unrepaired airbags in older Volkswagen models, we cover it all with a blend of serious discussion and lighthearted banter. Plus, catch our amusing take on the beloved beverage V8!Step into the world of classic car restoration as we share tales of transforming vintage beauties, like upgrading a cherished car's interior with bucket seats and a console from a '62 Oldsmobile Starfire. Hear about the meticulous process of sourcing rare parts, battling rust, and maintaining a prist

Unlock the secrets of the 2024 Toyota Sequoia and find out if this much-anticipated SUV lives up to the hype. We'll take you straight to the buzzing Tailpipes and Tacos Cruise Inn at Lupe' Tortilla Tex-Mex in Katy, Texas, where we dissect the Sequoia's impressive horsepower and towing prowess, courtesy of its twin-turbo V6 engine. Does its off-road design charm or does that pesky roof rack noise steal the spotlight? Let’s not forget the interior; we navigate through its tech and discover why the plethora of buttons might just push your patience. Then, buckle up as we embark on a journey through time with Brian and his 1966 Barracuda Formula S. We unravel the story behind this rarity, known for its cheese grater grille and the engineering marvel of squeezing a 273 V8 into a frame meant for a slant six. Find out why this car, with its massive back window and manual transmission, is a collector's delight. As we cruise into the holiday season spirit, we tour Pro-Am Auto Accessories in Houston,

Join us for a laughter-packed session at Tailpipes & Tacos with the charismatic Stan Holt, founder of the beloved Lupe' Tortilla. Stan, who has navigated the thrilling world of car racing, shares his fascinating journey through stock and super stock classes and the demanding comp car class. You'll also hear the touching tale of a custom-built dragster given as a wedding gift, a testament to the race-loving family's dedication and passion. Get ready for wild stories and camaraderie that will have you eager to experience the joys and challenges of automotive life.Our journey takes a nostalgic turn as we recount some of the most unforgettable escapades, including a legendary party at Craig Bierman's house that featured limousine rides and a pool entrance via a jet fuselage. It's an uproarious mix of personal tales, like Don's shift from working for Stan to diving into the catering industry, all wrapped up in a reflection on the evolution of humor. We promise you a Ralph Williams

Ever wonder what it's like to trade a 1927 T-Bucket for a 1966 Chevelle gasser painted by the legendary Rat Fink? Join us as special guest Kurt Buckhholtz spins an unforgettable tale of his prized possession, taking us back to its roots in Alvin, Texas, and its thrilling transformation into a head-turning gasser. With a 327 motor and a 471 blower under the hood, this classic car not only roars through its storied past but continues to make an impression in the present, turning heads and stealing shows wherever it goes.Our automotive escapade doesn't stop there. We wax nostalgic about a stunning collection of classics like a 1966 model with its original upholstery and a 1946 Packard boasting just 38,000 miles. The conversation veers towards a unique 1970 GTO, loaded with rare factory options that underscore the importance of matching cars with owners who truly appreciate their value. Amid shared laughs and recollections, we celebrate the growing popularity of our podcast, which resonates with enthusi

Discover the luxurious world of SUVs and uncover what makes the 2025 Buick Enclave Avenir a standout against its competitors. Imagine yourself behind the wheel of this midsize marvel as Mr. Marrs shares his firsthand experience with its premium leather interiors, panoramic views through a sunroof, and the impressive 30-inch infotainment system. With a powerful 2.5-liter turbo engine boasting 328 horsepower, the Enclave Avenir offers both style and performance. We also give you the lowdown on how Buick's new logo is being received and how this vehicle sizes up against the Acura MDX, Hyundai Palisade, and Kia Telluride in terms of features and pricing.Switching gears, we tackle the hefty yet intriguing 2024 Toyota Sequoia, equipped with a beastly V6 engine that churns out 437 horsepower, ready to conquer anything from city streets to rugged trails. We humorously wrestle with its weight issues and discuss what that means for real-world fuel efficiency and payload capacity, all while comparing price points w