The Hook Turn Podcast

In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss whether Leapmotor's new B05 EV hatch has enough to vault it past rivals from MG and BYD in the affordable EV segment. We also talk about whether Lexus can keep its hold on the premium rideshare market with the launch of the new ES sedan, now also available as a hybrid and an EV. Finally, from withheld customer rebates to distribut...

In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss Hyundai's futuristic new i30 sedan (also known as the Elantra or Avante). We also cover BMW's impressive new X5 with a whopping 140 kWh (!) battery, and examine whether Slate's innovative modular truck concept is enough to bring it success in the US market. Show notes: - Hyundai i30 sedan: https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-...

In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss the launch of Skoda's all new flagship EV SUV, the Peaq, and whether it has the chops to take on rivals from the Kia EV9 and Hyundai Ioniq 9, to the Volvo EX90. We also discuss Toyota and Nissan warning Japanese customers that the imported Tundra and Murano may not be up to scratch with a range of minor defects. Finally, we have a...

In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss the BMW M Concept Neue Klasse, and what this might mean for the next M3. We also cover the inoffensive new Audi Q7, the brand's large family SUV, and the sexy Genesis Magma GT - with what appears to be an absolutely gorgeous interior. Show notes: - BMW M Concept Neue Klasse: https://www.drive.com.au/news/2027-bmw-m3-ev-breaks-cove...

In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss Audi's new supercar which ushers in an entirely new bauhaus design philosophy in a production car for the first time. We also discuss the value-packed MG S6 EV, its direct rival to the BYD Sealion 7 and Tesla Model Y, amongst many other entrants in the midsize electric SUV segment. Finally, hot off the press from Apple's annua...

In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss two cars that have captured our attention. Firstly, the Ferrari Luce, the storied brand's first EV, whose controversial design has captured the world's attention. And secondly, on the other end of the spectrum, the BYD Sealion 7, which has captured our co-host Sanbib's affections. Show notes: - Ferrari Luce: https://www.ca...

In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss BMW's relaunch of the Alpina brand with the stunning new Vision Alpina Coupe. We also cover Australian pricing for the gorgeous new EX60, and French stalwart Citroën going back to basics with an EV reinterpretation of its iconic 2CV. Show notes: -BMW Vision Alpina: https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/vision-bmw-alpina-concept-re...

In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast (our 50th episode!), we discuss VW finally bringing the storied GTI nameplate to an electric model, with the new ID. Polo GTI. Will its corner carving credentials be enough to offset its relatively modest straight-line performance? We also discuss whether Subaru's new Uncharted EV is actually good value for money, and Australian pricing for t...

In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss Australian pricing and specifications for the new Mercedes-Benz CLA. We also comment on Lexus' all-new large electric SUV, the TZ. Finally, we speculate on whether what many are calling the Chinese Mini, the Nio Firefly, will actually make a dent in small EV sales in the Australian market. Show notes: - Mercedes-Benz CLA: https://...

To say that Australia's new car market is competitive is putting it lightly. With more than 60 brands competing in a market of approximately 1.2 million new vehicles, it is a brutal fight for customer dollars.* In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we gaze into the crystal ball with very special guest and market expert Mike Costello. We chat about who will survive, and who will...

In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss VW finally returning to good design, inside and out, with the new ID. Polo small EV hatch. We also speculate on whether Suzuki has gone crazy with the pricing of the new e-Vitara small electric SUV. Finally, we discuss what our picks for an EV would be if we had a budget of $30k. Show notes: - VW ID. Polo: https://www.volkswagen-newsr...

In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss Mercedes' new C-Class Electric, and BMW's latest application of its Neue Klasse philosophy with the updated flagship 7 Series. Given the lack of success that MG has had with its Cyberster, we also speculate on whether the Denza (BYD's premium brand) 7 convertible will have any more success. Show notes: - Mercedes-Benz C-Class Electric: ht...

In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, Vivek discusses his reflections from attending the Melbourne Motor Show. We also talk about VW's heavily revised ID. 3 Neo. Finally, we examine Nissan's attempt to make us worry less about having a car accident, by revealing a car that already looks like it's had a side impact in the new Nissan Juke. Show notes: - Melbourne Motor Sho...

In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss Mazda looking to China to help stave off those emissions fines and retain market share in the hotly contested midsize EV SUV segment, with the new Mazda CX-6e. We also discuss Subaru's latest take on this segment with its ongoing Toyota partnership, namely the Trailseeker. Finally, BYD is on a hot streak, coming 3rd in the new car...

In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss Land Rover partnering with Chery to turn its dormant Freelander into a standalone brand. We also discuss Lucid's attempt to crack the UK (and potentially Australian) markets with the new Cosmos SUV. Moving away from electrified SUVs, we also discuss the rugged new Hyundai Boulder SUV, which takes aim at the Jeep Wrangler, Ford Bro...

In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss Xpeng having a dispute with its Australian distributor, and the importance of retaining customer trust. We also discuss the return of the iconic Toyota Celica, and chat about what car sold overseas we'd most like to see down under. Show notes: - Xpeng: https://zecar.com/reviews/true-ev-distribution-external-administration - Toyota...

It's finally happening!! Sanbib and I have both been very excited to hear more about BMW's Neue Klasse, and in this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss Australian pricing for the iX3, and the full reveal of the production i3 - with an incredible 900km (WLTP) of range! We also discuss a potential return to form for Audi, with news that the A2 is making a comeback. Finall...

In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss VW's attempt to be 'the chosen one' in the small car segment with the facelifted ID. 3 Neo. Going in the opposite direction, this week brings confirmation that Honda is also scrapping its dramatic 0 series sedan and SUV models - what does this mean for the storied Japanese brand known for its engineering nous? Finally, we discuss a pair o...

In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we touch on the latest from the Australian F1 Grand Prix in Melbourne. Cadillac is one of the new teams in the 2026 Formula 1 season, but they're also expanding their road car lineup in Australia. We discuss the new Optiq and Vistiq and whether they have any chance at taking pole position in their segments. We also discuss the latest on a hu...

In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we continue discussing the ongoing trend by carmakers to backtrack on EVs - this time, with some upcoming models from Mercedes and Lamborghini. Finally, we discuss MG. MG was the hottest Chinese brand in 2023, but sales have fallen over the last two years despite a push to move upmarket and lots of new metal. What's happening? Show notes: -...

In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss Honda's decision to backtrack from some of its more ambitious EV goals. Is this a smart realignment, or another episode in what has been a worryingly scattershot approach to BEVs ? We also cover the (finally) good looking Audi RS 5, and speculate on whether yet another new Chinese brand, Avatr, heralds a new dawn in the luxury EV...

In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss the interior reveal of the Ferrari Luce, the storied Italian brand's first EV, and first collaboration with former Apple designer Jony Ive. We also discuss news that ANCAP, Australia's unofficial vehicle safety agency, will be advocating against flush door handles. Finally, we discuss more disappointing news about the Mazda CX...

In this week's episode of the Hook Turn podcast, we discuss Genesis making a bold decision to develop a bespoke new platform just for itself, that covers the full gamut of electric, hybrid and range-extender powertrain options. We also discuss Stellantis continuing its chaotic track record with yet another multi-billion dollar strategic error, as the European giant backtracks from going all-in...

When Elon rolled out his master plan for Tesla, he infamously revealed that his model naming strategy was to have a lineup of vehicles that spelt 'SEXY.' To paraphrase a famous song from Justin Timberlake, in this week's episode of the Hook Turn podcast, we discuss Musk's failure to bring S3XY back by ditching the S and X. We also discuss Mercedes continuing to infest as many scree...

In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, Sanbib comes up with an extremely dull choice for his favourite Aussie-made car. We also discuss Volvo's attempt to banish range anxiety with the all-new EX60, as well as Bugatti unveiling the ultimate Veyron as a one-off for a very special customer. Show notes: -Volvo EX60: https://www.drive.com.au/news/2026-volvo-ex60-electric-suv-with-810...