Podcast · Leisure & Travel

The Hook Turn Podcast

by Vivek Shah and Sanbib Ahmed · English · Leisure & Travel

The Hook Turn Podcast is your serving of banter, unabridged commentary and hot takes on all things cars. We look at the latest new models and try predicting what’s next in the crazy world of today's automotive industry.

New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 42 min
Latest: 8 Oct 2026
Language: English

Latest episode

8 Oct 2026 · 43 min

67: Jaguar serves us humble pie, new EVs from Saudi (!) and the first UK Autotrader challenge

We have criticised Jaguar a lot for their controversial (to say the least) rebranding. In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we gladly eat humble pie following the reveal of the all new Type 01. We also cover an entirely new car brand, Ceer, from Saudi Arabia, and do the first ever Autotrader UK challenge, looking at people movers under £15k. Show notes: - Jaguar Type 01: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C09gp5ioryw - Ceer: https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/ceer-exobot-sedan-and-suv-are-saudi-arabias-first-locally-made-evs

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Earlier episodes 29 most recent

S2 · E37 · 27 Sep 2026 · 53 min
66: Bentley's first BEV, Xpeng goes all out and MG reveals the most capable electric ute yet
In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss whether Bentley's new Torcal is a Porsche in fancy clothing, or really something special befitting the Bentley brand. We also cover a very, very attractively priced new SUV from Xpeng that comes in both battery-electric (BEV) and relatively unique EREV (extended-range electric vehicle) flavours. Finally, we touch on whether MG's new U9 EV ute has the chops to take on the HiLux BEV with its 3.5 tonne braked towing capacity. Show notes: - Bentley Torcal:…
S2 · E36 · 20 Sep 2026 · 42 min
65: A brand new EV for under $20k (!), VW's electric GTI and Volvo's impressive hybrids
In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, competition is really heating up in the EV space as the Chinese OEMs undercut each other on price. The latest strike? BYD reducing the price of its Atto 1 to $19,990 drive away, which apart from recalling a sticker price from about 20 years ago, not only makes it Australia's cheapest EV, but Australia's cheapest new car, full stop. We discuss whether it's good value even at this low price. We also cover off Sanbib's visit to the Everything Electric motor show, and some additional electrified news from VW and Volvo. Show notes: -BYD Atto 1…
S2 · E35 · 13 Sep 2026 · 1 hr
64: An incredible Scottish adventure, and Mitsubishi & Audi bring back their icons
In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss Vivek's epic Scottish road trip. We also cover off on Audi unveiling the production version of its super-efficient A2 compact EV. In news that will perhaps interest our listeners even more, we discuss Mitsubishi finally revealing an all-new Pajero to take on rivals such as the Toyota LandCruiser Prado head-on. Show notes: - Isle of Skye (Scotland) travel guide: https://www.earthtrekkers.com/perfect-isle-of-skye-itinerary/ - Audi A2: https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/2027-audi-a2-classic-name-revived-for-efficient-ev-hatch -…
S2 · E34 · 23 Aug 2026 · 43 min
63: GAC puts foot in mouth, Genesis takes on Rolls-Royce and is the McLaren F1 back?
In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss a critical safety omission from new Chinese brand GAC. We also cover the new Genesis GV90, the Korean luxury brand's attempt to compete with Bentley and Rolls-Royce. Finally, we wonder whether the Gordon Murray Automotive S1 is a real spiritual successor to the legendary McLaren F1. Show notes - Genesis GV90: https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/genesis-gv90-revealed-as-electric-flagship-with-rolls-royce-style-doors - GMA S1: https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/gordon-murray-s1-revealed-as-the-ultimate-mclaren-f1-homage - GAC…
S2 · E33 · 13 Aug 2026 · 45 min
62: Peugeot on deathwatch, Ford bucks up and does Jaguar break the Internet... again?
In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss Ford finally brining its iconic Bronco SUV to Australia... but perhaps not the version we want. We also discuss whether Peugeot is about to suffer the same fate as sibling brand Citroën as distributor Inchcape gives up on its French portfolio. Finally has Jaguar broken the Internet again with the interior reveal of its upcoming Type 01? Show notes: - Ford Bronco New Energy: https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/ford-bronco-new-energy-confirmed-for-australia - Peugeot slashes prices:…
S2 · E32 · 7 Aug 2026 · 45 min
61: New car sales - how's 2026 going so far? Plus, the BYD juggernaut continues and we go Double Dutch
In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss how the Australian new car market is doing so far in 2026. We also cover off on BYD's ongoing expansion, and touch on a very, very distinctive Dutch car brand. Show notes: - Australian new car sales: https://www.drive.com.au/news/australian-new-car-sales-in-july-2026-toyota-rav4-back-on-top-as-evs-surge/ - BYD Atto 3 Evo: https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/byd-atto-3-evo-confirmed-for-australia - Donkervoort P24 RS:…
S2 · E31 · 31 Jul 2026 · 35 min
60: Audi goes huge, Mercedes goes small and an expensive Carsales challenge
In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss the latest SUVs from Audi and Mercedes - competing at opposite ends of the spectrum. We also go in a new direction with the Carsales challenge - tune in to find out more! Show notes: - Audi Q9: https://www.drive.com.au/news/2027-audi-q9-sq9-revealed-as-new-flagship-suv-australia-likely/ - Mercedes-Benz GLA: https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/2027-mercedes-benz-gla-new-small-suv-revealed-with-electric-and-mild-hybrid-power
S2 · E30 · 26 Jul 2026 · 36 min
59: Range Rover sticks to the road, Chery takes stock, VW renaissance continues
In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss Range Rover coming up with a model that is... not really suitable for going off-road. We also discuss Chery's attempt to take on the Ford Ranger, Toyota HiLux and BYD Shark 6 at their own game, with the all-new Stockman diesel plug-in hybrid ute. Finally, we cover VW's ongoing renaissance with the new ID. Cross - the revival of physical buttons continues! Show notes: - Range Rover GT: https://www.goauto.com.au/future-models/range-rover/gt/all-electric-gt-a-new-direction-for-range-rover/2026-07-23/99913.html - Chery Stockman:…
S2 · E29 · 16 Jul 2026 · 47 min
58: $30k EV showdown, the French strike back and Merc goes big on performance
In this week's episode of The Hook Turn Podcast, we discuss Geely's new EX2 SUV. Does Volvo's corporate owner have the chops to take on rivals from BYD and MG? We also discuss another performance EV from Mercedes... that's still ugly in our eyes. Finally, we comment on whether a new Subaru Outback rival from Dacia/Renault could find some success in the Australian market. Show notes: - Geely EX2: https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/2026-geely-ex2-chinas-best-selling-ev-priced-for-australia - Dacia Striker:…
S2 · E28 · 9 Jul 2026 · 42 min
57: Can the B05 leap past its rivals? Plus, a new era for Silver Taxis and Xpeng reborn?
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 distributor issues, Xpeng has been beset with ongoing problems since its Australian launch in 2024. Is the refreshed G6 enough to overlook concerns with the brand itself? Show notes: - Leapmotor B05:…
S2 · E27 · 3 Jul 2026 · 50 min
56: A blank Slate, Hyundai gets inspired by Blade Runner, and does X mark the spot?
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-news/2027-hyundai-i30-sedan-new-generation-small-sedan-gets-fresh-tech-muscular-styling -BMW X5:…
S2 · E26 · 24 Jun 2026 · 53 min
55: Skoda Peaqs our interest, Toyota quality concerns confirmed and a $10k Carsales challenge
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 another iteration of the Carsales challenge. This time, family SUVs under $10k. Enjoy listening to us? Please like and subscribe! Show notes: -Skoda Peaq:…
S2 · E25 · 18 Jun 2026 · 32 min
54: M3 goes electric, Audi Q7 and a sexy Genesis
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-cover-as-near-production-concept/ - Audi Q7: https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/all-new-2027-audi-q7-targets-class-leading-premium-practicality - Genesis Magma GT:…
S2 · E24 · 11 Jun 2026 · 39 min
53: Audi's authentic supercar, MG takes on Tesla and Apple CarPlay updates
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 annual WWDC, we cover the latest updates to Apple CarPlay in iOS 27. Show notes: - Audi Nuvolari: https://www.audiusa.com/en/models/nuvolari/intro/ - MG S6 EV:…
S2 · E23 · 2 Jun 2026 · 1 hr 13 min
52: Love and Luce
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.carexpert.com.au/car-news/ferrari-luce-revealed-first-electric-ferrari-takes-bold-design-approach - BYD Sealion 7: https://www.chasingcars.com.au/reviews/midsize-suvs/byd-sealion-7-premium-rwd-2026-review/
S2 · E22 · 25 May 2026 · 39 min
51: Alpina becomes peak BMW, Australian EX60 pricing and Citroën goes back to basics
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-revealed-with-v8-engine-four-seats -Volvo EX60: https://www.drive.com.au/news/2027-volvo-ex60-price-and-specs-swedish-built-electric-suv-arrives-with-google-gemini-ai-tech/ -Citroën 2CV:…
S2 · E21 · 19 May 2026 · 30 min
50: Subaru charts a new course, VW brings GTI to an EV, and does the Prelude hit the sweet spot?
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 the sporty new Honda Prelude. Does it hit the sweet spot between its cheaper Japanese rivals and more powerful offerings from Nissan and BMW? Show notes - VW ID. Polo GTI:…
S2 · E20 · 13 May 2026 · 25 min
49: Firefly flutters to Oz, a new big Lexus and a good value Merc?
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://www.drive.com.au/news/2026-mercedes-benz-cla-price-and-specs-hybrid-and-electric-sedan-cheaper-than-before/ - Lexus TZ:…
S2 · E19 · 6 May 2026 · 53 min
48: Special guest Mike Costello joins the show! We discuss where the Australian new car market is headed
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 thrive, in the Hunger Games of the Australian new car market. We also discuss whether you'll still be buying your car from a dealership in the future, and the cars that we're most excited to see on the road…
S2 · E18 · 3 May 2026 · 33 min
47: VW returns to form, Suzuki loses its mind and our picks for a sub-$30k EV
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-newsroom.com/en/press-releases/much-more-than-a-city-car-world-premiere-of-the-all-new-electric-id-polo-20356 - Suzuki e-Vitara: https://zecar.com/reviews/suzuki-e-vitara-australia-price-specs-2026
S2 · E17 · 26 Apr 2026 · 29 min
46: Mercedes and BMW keep up the fight, and BYD launches a convertible
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: https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/mercedes/c-class/364229/new-mercedes-c-class-electric-revealed-exec-ev-gets-472-mile-range-and - BMW 7 Series:…
S2 · E16 · 21 Apr 2026 · 42 min
45: Melbourne Motor Show, VW enters the Matrix and Nissan goes crazy
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 Show: https://melbournemotorshow.au - VW ID. 3 Neo: https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/2027-volkswagen-id-3-neo-updated-ev-is-a-true-vw-with-actual-buttons-and-switches - Nissan Juke:…
S2 · E15 · 12 Apr 2026 · 38 min
44: Mazda fights back, Subaru seeks new trails and BYD continues its price war
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 cars sales chart in March 2026. We speculate on whether the highly aggressive pricing of the new Seal 6 plug-in hybrid is enough to keep the momentum. Show notes: - Mazda CX-6e:…
S2 · E14 · 5 Apr 2026 · 30 min
43: Land Rover's Chinese comeback, Lucid's UK dreams and Hyundai takes on Jeep
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 Bronco and Toyota LandCruiser Prado, amongst others. Show notes: -Freelander SUV concept: https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/freelander-concept-97-previews-first-model-from-land-rover-chery-joint-venture…
S2 · E13 · 1 Apr 2026 · 31 min
42: Will Xpeng bite the dust? Plus, Toyota brings back an icon and our fave forbidden fruit
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 Celica: https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/toyota-celica-revival-to-be-powered-by-2-0-litre-turbo-hybrid-report - DS No8: https://www.topgear.com/car-reviews/ds/no-8 - Cadillac CT4-V:…
S2 · E12 · 25 Mar 2026 · 33 min
41: It's happening! BMW iX3 pricing and i3 revealed, an iconic Audi returns and eyes on Renault
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. Finally, Renault has had a lot of success in Europe over the last 24 months with the R5 and the R4 - but can it replicate this here? We discuss as part of our 'brand focus' series. Show notes: -BMW iX3 pricing and…
S2 · E11 · 15 Mar 2026 · 28 min
40: VW chooses Neo, Honda goes to zero and a fresh pair of cheap EVs
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 of new budget EV hatchbacks and provide our view on which one you should pick. Show notes: - VW ID. 3 Neo: https://www.electrifying.com/blog/article/vw-id-3-neo-is-the-chosen-one - Honda scraps 0…
S2 · E10 · 8 Mar 2026 · 34 min
39: F1 recap (in brief), Cadillac expands, a new VW Golf and World Car of the Year
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 hugely significant car for VW, the next-generation Golf, and speculate on who will win the latest World Car of the Year award. Show notes: -Cadillac Optiq and Vistiq:…
S2 · E9 · 1 Mar 2026 · 44 min
38: Mercedes and Lamborghini backtrack from BEVs, MG gets squeezed in the 'middle ground' of the market
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: - Lamborghini Lanzador: https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/lamborghini-ditches-its-first-ev-for-new-plug-in-hybrid-gt - Mercedes-Benz 'Little G':…

About The Hook Turn Podcast

The Hook Turn Podcast is a English leisure & travel podcast from Vivek Shah and Sanbib Ahmed. Melo plays each episode straight from the publisher's own feed — no ads added, no account needed — and remembers where you stopped, in this browser only.

Publisher: Vivek Shah and Sanbib Ahmed
Language: English
Category: Leisure & Travel
New episodes: Weekly
Typical length: 42 min
Latest episode: 8 Oct 2026
Feed: RSS — paste into any podcast app
Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1823238429
Rights: Vivek Shah and Sanbib Ahmed

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