Sometimes the fact that an engine is powerful isn’t enough. You want to feel its strength and hear its roar! That’s why Alan loves a great V8 block. As the 2018 SEMA Show draws nearer, Owner of Collins Bros Jeep, Dennis Collins, shares how he’s upping the ante on 6.4L Hemi Jeep Wrangler JL builds with a 707 hp V8 Hellcat engine. We also hear about some amazing new finds that Dennis has uncovered with his ‘Classics Wanted Dead or Alive’ initiative. Next, Autotrader Executive Editor, Brian Moody, discusses some amazing V8 powered cars for under $30,000, and explains why buying certified pre-owned is usually a much better deal than buying new, thanks to value depreciation. Then, automotive journalist BJ Killeen plays devils advocate for V6 engines like the 3.5L Ford EcoBoost, and gives her review of the 2019 Kia Forte. Switching gears, we take time to remember the amazing life, work, and legacy of Burt Reynolds and the cars he owned, with Restore A Muscle Car Owner/Operator, Dave Hall. Lastly, we close out the show with an interview from two years ago with Burt Reynolds. Rest in peace, Burt, you are missed.
They really don’t make any bad vehicles these days and luckily our favorite automotive experts help us narrow down the right car for us. We begin the show with automotive journalist, BJ Killeen, who discusses why premium SUVs are taking a top spot in the market. BJ and Alan also talk about the 2018 Ford F-150 diesel that Alan drove down to Newport Beach and they excitedly chat about the greatly improved fuel consumption of most new trucks. Then, Karl Brauer, Executive Publisher of Kelley Blue Book, sounds off about the latest rad events he was able to attend. San Francisco played host to a reenactment of the classic Mustang Bullitt car chase as Ford showed off the 2019-2020 redesign of the Mustang Bullitt and Karl said how cool it was to witness. After that, he tells us about his exciting drive down Pikes Peak in the all-new pure EV Audi e-tron and raves about its amazing regenerative brakes. Karl ends the first hour with an update on his greatly anticipated Ford GT, which he has made all of his final designs decisions on and is patiently waiting for its finalization. Next, Executive Editor of Autotrader, Brian Moody, pits the 2018 Toyota Tacoma against the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado. While the Tacoma still has one of the best resale values in the truck market, the Colorado stole Autotrader’s vote. Brian explains that he believes the Tacoma played it a little too safe with their redesign, while the Colorado stepped it with their interior, diesel engine option and aggressive ZR2 off-road package. Continuing with the compact truck theme, Brian also addresses the rumors surrounding the U.S. version of the all-new Ford Ranger after a write up from their sister company in Australia, Car Guides. Brian explains that he doesn’t believe we will see a diesel engine but to keep an eye out for the 2.3L EcoBoost, 10-speed automatic transmission, and a plethora of safety features. Then, before Brian goes he explains Autotrader’s Accelerate, which is an online vehicle buying program that can make it possible for you to shop from the comfort of your own home. Switching gears, automotive journalist, George Kennedy, reviews the impressive handling of the 2018 Dodge Challenger Hellcat Widebody and explains that he really loved that one could tune the individual performance options on the infotainment system. After that, he sounds off about the 2018 Lexus NX vs the 2018 Acura RDX and shares that he was excited to drive these two major competitors back-to-back. The NX was a little too small for 6’3” George and the RDX had a frustrating infotainment system but overall, the two were really great cars for under $50k. Changing lanes, Ed Justice, Jr. updates us on the recent DUI of NASCAR’s CEO, Brian France’s, and what that could mean for the position he has been in for over a decade. Ed ends the hour by sharing about his favorite new documentary, Ferrari: Race to Immortality, which showcased the most dangerous and glamorous time in racing that took place from 1955-1958. Tune in now to fill your cranium with the latest and greatest from the automotive world.
[00:00:00] Take an Uber or a Cab
[00:05:49] Premium SUVs Are Booming
[00:12:30] Trucks Are Just Getting Better
[00:19:51] Mustang Bullitt Event in San Francisco
[00:28:35] Audi e-tron: Tesla Model X’s Competitor
Being an automotive enthusiast is about two things: the cars and the people. OEMs are constantly improving vehicles, and using their resources to help build strong communities. We’re broadcasting from the Shell Pioneering Performance Stage at the Barrett-Jackson collector car auction in Scottsdale, Arizona. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at this bucket-list event.
