Episode 451: 2026 Land Rover Defender Octa, 2026 Buick Encore GX, Hankook Tire Test

Episode 451: 2026 Land Rover Defender Octa, 2026 Buick Encore GX, Hankook Tire Test

Author: Unnamed Automotive Podcast May 31, 2026 Duration: 49:24

The Unnamed Automotive Podcast gets deep into it this week, with a "review" of the impressive and high end 2026 Land Rover Defender Octa, a performance oriented version of the off road SUV. While Jaguar and Range Rover get the SV treatment for their high output models, Defender gets an Octa badge, though it features the same BMW sourced turbo V8 and 6D suspension as the Range Rover Sport SV. Which JLR super SUV camp do you belong to? What makes a six figure SUV special? What differentiates this from a G63 AMG?

Then Benjamin checks out the 2026 Buick Encore GX, a subcompact crossover that used to represent the growth of the American premium brand, but now seems a bit dated compared to other Buick vehicles. Benjamin explains it all with careful perspective of where the Encore stands with the impressive Envista sitting next to it.

Then the show introduces a new concept: tire testing! Benjamin throws on some new summer rubber on his Daily Driver and can't wait to tell you the results. Thanks for listening!

Links:


You’re probably used to car reviews that stick to horsepower figures and trim levels, but Unnamed Automotive Podcast takes a different exit. Each week, automotive journalists Benjamin and Sami sit down to tear apart the latest models and the industry at large, but they do it with a blend of genuine expertise and unscripted humor that feels more like a conversation in a garage than a formal critique. They get into the weird quirks of car culture, share honest opinions that often bypass the usual press kit talking points, and aren’t afraid to laugh at the absurdities they encounter. This isn’t just specs and performance data-though that’s in there, too-it’s about the stories, the personalities, and the unexpected moments that happen when you’re truly passionate about cars. Tuning into this podcast feels like hanging out with two friends who happen to know everything about automobiles, making it a perfect mix for anyone who loves cars, comedy, or just hearing a fresh, unfiltered take. You’ll find their chemistry drives the discussion, turning each episode into a ride that’s as entertaining as it is informative.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 100

Unnamed Automotive Podcast
Podcast Episodes
Episode 452: 2026 GMC Canyon AT4, 2026 Kia EV4 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:29
When a car is reviewed so well that one of our hosts actually considers buying one, you know its going to be a good podcast discussion. This week starts off with such talk with Benjamin's review of the 2026 GMC Canyon AT…
Episode 450: 2026 Volkswagen Jetta Sport, 2026 Ford Explorer Tremor [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 46:13
Has the Unnamed Automotive Podcast really never reviewed a Volkswagen Jetta? That's situation has been resolved, and Benjamin has a full and thorough test of the German compact car, as Sami asks him tons of questions. Wh…
Episode 448: 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer, 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 52:59
What's the deal with the Jeep Grand Wagoneer? The Unnamed Automotive Podcast thoroughly explores the 2026 model which has a new design, revised lineup, reduced powertrain options and a million screens. Sami's review is a…
Episode 447: 2026 Kia EV4, 2026 Lexus TX [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 50:39
Benjamin's 2026 Kia EV4 review may leave our American listeners confused since it isn't coming the the US market, but the Canadians get to enjoy this weird looking EV and its several positives. It looks good, has pretty…
Episode 446: Monster Trucks, 2026 Toyota BZ [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 55:06
How do you create a toddlers core memory? The Unnamed Automotive Podcast discusses Sami taking his son to see Monster Jam when it crashes and bashes into town. Hear how a child—who believes all trucks are monster trucks—…
Episode 445: 2026 Mazda 3 Sedan, 2026 Toyota Tacoma TRD Sport Manual [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:01:31
The Unnamed Automotive Podcast arrives this week with a thorough examination of how Benjamin tries to escape the swirling mess of constant bad news by moving some rocks around. Well, actually the show really hits its str…
Episode 444: 2026 Chevrolet Trax, Sung Kang Interview [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 45:06
The Unnamed Automotive Podcast is still looking at cars that are affordable and available with this weeks review of the 2026 Chevrolet Trax. One of the top choices for shoppers on a budget, Benjamin has found out that th…
Episode 443: 2026 Chevrolet Equinox, 2026 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 54:03
The Unnamed Automotive Podcast has a couple of car reviews this week to share, but not before discussing things like wet keyfobs, pond entry/exit, and Canadian Tire clearance sales! The show eventually gets to the point…
Episode 442: 2025 Lexus IS 500, Space Shuttle Tire Testing Robot [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 41:11
When is a V8 powered sports sedan not a sports sedan? Benjamin tries his hardest to answer that question this week on the Unnamed Automotive Podcast, with his review of the 2025 Lexus IS 500. Powered by a sweet, naturall…