CarTalk October 30th

Here we go with another informative and maybe even a little entertaining conversation about what is hot and what is not on the roads of the UAE.

I am not sure there is any group of writers and researchers better equipped to talk about the newest offering by Nissan or the oldest thing on the road by Chevy than Motoring Middle East.

This week we learned that a Cherokee is not the best ride in London, and the fuel will bankrupt you.

We learned that hydrogen power is still a while away but why?

And we learned that price, speed and BHP do not always mean a car is cool especially if it is a Targa.

Click for the podcast!


The Notes.

Sman’s Jeep in London, do tell.

-911 targa 4 gts

-hydrogen car

-prado

Can’t get my mind off of the Mustang Convertible.

Chevy at the Motor Show, looking good

Toyota!

Toyota will be bringing the essence of Waku Doki, Japanese for adrenaline rush, to the outdoor activity, where many of its SUVs will be put in action, featuring the expanded Xtreme lineup, now consisting of Toyota Fortuner Xtreme, Land Cruiser and FJ Cruiser, alongside the recently launched 2018 Prado and one of the best LCVs on the market, Toyota Hilux. But this is not all, as Toyota will premier two cars in the region, one of which will add a bold new element to Toyota’s on-going goals to provide sustainable mobility on a larger scale, while the other will continue the legacy of agile, enjoyable and stable performance.

Nissan 370Z Dead, love the look!

The Genisis, saw one today great body molding looked flashy

New Cadillac Navigator!

https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/2018-lincoln-navigator-first-drive-review

Do we need a Ferrari SUV?

Really loving the Maxima, want one in the driveway!

https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/2018-nissan-maxima-in-depth-model-review

Benz pickup? OK

https://www.caranddriver.com/photo-gallery/2018-mercedes-benz-x-class-pickup-first-drive-review-gallery#1

CarTalk with Motoring ME October 2, 2017

There is no doubt about it the best way to start or end your week is to have a listen to the CarTalk show on dubaieye's Nightline show with none other than the team from Motoring Middle East.

That is a picture of the team but there were only 2 of us in the studio this week.

What a great week of conversation and I am always impressed with the number of people who dial or SMS into the show.

And I think we helped a few people pick a car.

It is always interesting to hear what Shazhad is driving.

Click to grab the podcast.

The Show Notes.

-Let’s talk Audi and the press trip, do we want to own a new audi?

Q5 2l 183900,new quatro, this means that it has part time all wheel drive

SQ5 3l v6 turbo 354 bhp, 5.4 0-100 249000 regular all wheel drive

-stiff suspension

-handling awesome

-

Honda Oddessy 139-172000

-Chevy Equinox coming my way, should I be excited about this mid sized SUV?

-Corolla, Yaris or Swift?

-the Skoda Fabia is looking a little harsh on the design side thoughts?

-Your talk with Thomas of Roadsafety UAE

Based on motorists perceptions after more than 1000 were surveyed in August:

Dangerous driving overall is down by -8%

Tailgating -12%

Distracted driving -10%

Lane Swerving -9%

Speeding -7%

Involved in a collision -5%

Longer commute times -10%

Driving enjoyment -5%

Traffic infrastructure -5%

Agree? Disagree?

-2018 accord and honda going to an all Turbo line? https://www.autoblog.com/2017/10/02/2018-honda-accord-first-drive-review/

http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/2018-honda-accord-first-drive-review

-BMW and MINI offering amazon alexa in all models next year!

https://www.autoblog.com/2017/09/29/bmw-mini-amazon-alexa-voice-control-2018/

-The Kia Soul!

http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/2018-kia-soul-in-depth-model-review

What’s New for 2018?

Only a few changes were made to the Soul for 2018. The base Soul’s Convenience package now gets an upgraded UVO3 infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus automatic climate control. Midrange Soul Plus models now get the UVO3 system as standard. Kia will offer a limited run of Soul Plus models equipped with last year’s Plus Primo package, which adds adaptive cruise control, automated emergency braking, a panoramic sunroof, and leather seats with heat and ventilation. That package will then be replaced with the Primo Lit package, which includes the contents of the Plus Primo package with more active safety features. Additional features include LED exterior lighting with high-intensity-discharge headlamps, heated rear seats and steering wheel, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and more. Finally, a new, highly apropos color joins the palette: Wild Orange.

Cartalk with MotoringME.Com September 25, 2017

Two men on deck this week but there is no shortage of conversation. Well we did make a call to Oman so I guess it is safe to say that we are all on air and in the picture.

What did we take from this weeks show?

That there are some cool cars coming from Audi, that you should let the gas station attendant deal with filling your car and that you can find a few deals these days for sub 20,000 DHS.

As usual some fantastic text messages.

Have a car question why not send an email, nightline@dubaieye1038.ae and get on the top of the list!

Click for the podcast.

Shazhad joinig us from Oman.




And of course we did get a few items into the plan to speak about before we were derailed by the SMS questions, which we love!

1. What are you guys driving?

What an electric range rover the Road Rover? https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/industry/new-road-rover-model-launch-2019

2. What did you learn from Ian Batey at AudoData about buying used cars?

3. Saw 2 Tesla’s today both very clean, Nice looking, big

4. Can we talk about the Our review of the Indian-made Suzuki Baleno starting from just AED43,000! Looks so cool!

5. No GAC’s at Gargash this weekend but a 150000 dhs old ragtop Lincoln!

6 .ohhh no

https://www.autoblog.com/2017/09/22/chevrolet-corvette-zr1-will-get-an-automatic-transmission-option/

7. The new Genisis!

https://www.autoblog.com/2017/09/21/genesis-g70-first-drive-review/

But they'll notice the Genesis G70. They will notice because the G70 is so comprehensively good that anybody who skipped beyond the badge could easily think it came from within the German clique. Specifically, it feels like a combination of the best parts of the one from Munich and the one from Stuttgart.

8 Subaru they try!

http://www.autonews.com/article/20170925/OEM04/170929877/subaru-viziv-performance-concept-to-be-shown-at-tokyo-motor-show

Subaru goes emotional and dynamic with a new semiautonomous performance concept sedan to be unveiled at next month's Tokyo Motor Show.

The Viziv Performance Concept previews a curvy next-generation look that may feed into a redesigned Legacy sedan, due for an overhaul as early as 2019.

The car is the latest in a series of Subaru Viziv concepts that take their name from "vision for innovation." The Tokyo offering will combine Subaru's latest safety technology with the fun-to-drive characteristics of a true sport sedan, the Japanese carmaker said.

The Viziv Performance Concept also will embody Subaru's vision for next-generation autonomous driving systems built upon the brand's trademark Eyesight safety technology.

Subaru has said it targets Level 2 autonomy by around 2020.

A teaser image of the Viziv Performance Concept shows a rear-slung sedan with a short rear deck, muscular fenders and wavy side creasing. The wheel well arches get protruding lips and what appear to be brake vents, both in the front and rear. A sliver-thin sideview mirror completes the look. Subaru did not offer details about the Viziv's powertrain.

Also on the Subaru stand at Tokyo will be a Japan-market limited edition the WRX STI sports sedan and a BRZ STI Sport version of the rear-wheel-drive coupe, which will get a 100-unit run.

9. Race ready camero

Chevrolet has confirmed that it will cost $259,000 to pick up the keys to a race-prepped Camaro GT4.R.

Revealed earlier this year, the GT4.R has been built to meet GT4 regulations around the world and already, has claimed victories in the 2017 Pirelli World Challenge and 2017 IMSA Continental Tire SportsCar Challenge Series.

Handling the construction and sales of the Camaro GT4.R is Chevrolettechnical partner Pratt & Miller Engineering. They take the naturally-aspirated 6.2-liter LT1 V8 of the Camaro SS and upgrade it to meet the demands of track driving. Additionally, a six-speed sequential paddle-shift transmission has been fitted to a limited-slip differential to drive the rear wheels.

Beyond the mechanical modifications, the racer also receives bespoke bodywork to maximize downforce, including enlarged front canards, revised side skirts and a large rear wing.

CarTalk with MotoringME.com June 19, 2017

We love cars and once again the team was pulled together and we got down to the bottom of all issues automotive.

This is a real rag tag team of automotive pros.

Click for the CarTalk podcast.

The Show Notes.

I wasn’t driving anything.

https://readwrite.com/2017/06/15/nissan-renault-mitsubishi-self-driving-dominance-five-years-tl4/?utm_source=Boomtrain&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=20170619&bt_ee=eJ/smaII1TxJf7UwX9P6gWxhJ1Y7DUZd9VM4u3HUeL08ooEOtJ/RH66c9inapijU&bt_ts=1497878405689?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&bt_ee=H2WiagK7k7T0YSu5Kvhevnr/uLTEr0HewHZXKwLcamjkQMtcyMRTzIkShAiGg2po&utm_source=Boomtrain&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=20170619&bt_ee=H2WiagK7k7T0YSu5Kvhevnr/uLTEr0HewHZXKwLcamjkQMtcyMRTzIkShAiGg2po&bt_ts=1497884200625

hh

-F Pace, hmmmm nice drive but looks stale already

-New Polo, looks like a gem!

http://www.autoblog.com/2017/06/16/new-volkswagen-polo-revealed/

-Subaru updating self drive features! Who would have thought!

http://www.autonews.com/article/20170619/MOBILITY/170619762/subaru-eyesight

-New ford expedition!

The 2018 Ford Expedition FX4 is not an SUV analogue to the mad-dog Ford F-150 Raptor, but it is the most off-road-ready variant of Ford’s all-new, aluminum-bodied full-size SUV. Available on both the standard Expedition and longer Expedition Max, the four-wheel-drive-only model is enhanced for pavementless environs.

Starting with the XLT trim level, the FX4 is powered by Ford’s twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6 engine with 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Giving the FX4 extra off-road credibility are more stiffly tuned shocks, trim-specific 18-inch wheels wrapped in chunky rubber, and more than half a dozen skid plates to protect vital areas such as the engine, transmission, transfer case, and fuel tank. The FX4 also comes equipped with the tow package’s more capable electronic limited-slip rear differential. That should help the full-size SUV,  with 9.1 inches of ground clearance, better tackle dirt, mud, and sand.

Q. Looking for a sub 50000$ city car what is your suggestion?

Q Geely seeing more and more , any good?

Q. MG not sure what to make of them.

CarTalk with MotoringME.com May 1, 2017

Questions about what car is best for you but can't get through all the noise of the dealers?

CarTalk has straight and honest talk about what these guys think is hot and not.

Photo by James Piecowye

Click for the podcast.

A look at some of the messages to the show!

What would you choose between mazda 6 and volkswagen passat? Do u suggest any  better/good 2.5L car?

Does it matter which petrol i put in my vehicle and whats the difference between special and super

Hi. A new pajero or fortuner vs 2012/13 land cruiser? Have had a pajero for ages but fancy a change.

Hi james and team.. Yes i passed a blue m2 today in my red fabia.. I thought not bad at last a decent bmw nice wheel arches and wide tyres....  The lastwas the bmw m3 evo e30 ? . . Ian (the skoda guy)

I have wrangler which is out of warranty, costs 5k to renew warranty should I sell it? It also has done 56k needs new tires - thanks Z

So guys just to but in about the passat.  I am a Vw fan and driveing the passat at the moment but it is extremly boaring! Id oes feel safe but plastic. The fusion, acord, and the mazda 6 are much nicer to drive. Camry is nice but also boaring. Marc

Is it wise to lease a convertible for  UAE winters. If so what's the best way to go about it? --Muzammil

Saudi only has 91 and 95 petrol. Since the cars are the same for the region, it makes me wonder, does anyone ever need 98?

1st off, respect, hats off, & a bow to you guys. You have never disappointed, you have given us an awesome show every week. A huge 'Thank You' from a fan.

Now my request, I saw the new F-150 raptor & fell in love with it. I am thinking of buying 1, I would appreciate hearing your take on it.

i have great respect for the audis but however i feel they age very quickly in uae climate comparing to mercedes and bmw.  have u guys any thoughts on this? 

shoaib.

Anyone driven the new land rover i guess LR5. Any good office road like the LR4? Looks a bit more urban. Marc

Anyone driven the new land rover i guess LR5. Any good off road like the LR4? Looks a bit more urban. Marc

hi I saw that the new Honda civic r type is the fastest front wheel drive production car in the world . will they be bringing it to the uae

Hello team, wht shud i buy with 100k budget. Need a car with good leg space. Was thinking pajero rgds Sairam

I have an Audi q5 2014. Just crossed 3years and I have to say the driving is not the same. There's always little bits and bobs breaking but thankful for the warranty. Even changed the turbo when it was 18months old.

Hi Guys ! Great show again tonite.. wohoo ! How different would a 4.8 ltr v6 patrol feel from the jeep grand cherokee 5.7 ltr v8 that i drive now - ashwin

Hi, josh here; love ur show, really informative... ive got a mini s 2008.although a joy to drive, its trouble to maintain. Wots ur take on minis in general

Are 10+ year old supercars a good buy or will they be for ever breaking down? Thinking of Ferrari 348.

Hey guys. I have a 2014 Jeep Wrangler manual with Ripp Supercharger/KN intake. Car is a beast & awesome but I'm facing performance issues with the engine when AC is running only. No one can diagnose. Please help. Ryan

What are the cons of the top end new land cruiser and is it worth it's price? Do you know if a car is bought before Dec 31st 2017 and installments spill over the next few years would i have vat included in my purchase? You know where this question is coming from? Perhaps for the legal team..?

CarTalk with Motoring Middle East April 10, 2017

Imthishan and Noel are in the house from MotoringME.com and we are talking about the cars that matter to you.

If you are interested in the new Aston Martin or what the Lambroghini Huracan with rear wheel drive is like you will enjoy this conversation.

And we have a healthy mix of interaction from the audience.

In short a great show!

The Show notes.

-what are you driving?

Checking out the new #Lamborghini #huracan 580-2 today!

-Convertibles do we really want them, YES and NO

-The Mazda MX5 Miata RF

-Lincoln Continental

-the innova

-Loving Peugot 308

limited edition Vanquish S inspired by British Royal Air Force's Red Arrows. Only 10 cars are being commissioned by Aston Martin Cambridge - the tenth car will go to the RAF Benevolent Fund. The cars are finished in Eclat Red with white and blue carbon livery detailing with a white 'smoke trail' feature from the side strake. On the exposed carbon fibre roof panel there's an inlaid 'charge' pattern mimicking the canopy design of a jet. Plus tehre are Union Jack enamel wing badges and a titanium exhaust package. Inside there are Pinewood green inserts evoking the design of the classic flight suit and Martin Baker Ejection Seat fabric with green webbing seatbelts.

Coffee orderd from your entertainment system!

http://www.nbcnews.com/tech/tech-news/order-ford-amazon-starbuck-team-give-hint-connected-car-s-n737536?cid=public-rss_20170410

Cadillac sets standard for hands free highway driving!

http://www.automotiveworld.com/news-releases/cadillac-super-cruise-sets-standard-hands-free-highway-driving/

http://newatlas.com/jeep-grand-cherokee-srt-trackhawk-nyias/48908/

http://greenpowertrain.automotive-business-review.com/news/honda-unveils-nuev-pure-electric-concept-car-at-geneva-motor-show-in-europe-100417-5782994

Click here for the podcast. 

CarTalk February 6, 2017

Every week we sit down with Motoring Middle East, MotorimgME.com, and talk cars.

There is never a shortage of vehicles to talk about and this week Noel joined the show to bring us up to date on the many car events he has visited.

Click here for the podcast.

Here is what we set out to speak about!

Noel's notes:
Lambo Aventador!
Porsche panamera!
Ferrari Lusso!
Chevrolet Cruze!
Detroit auto show!

imthishan's notes
Renault...Zoe?

Tesla coming to the UAE!

Grey Market and Bill Carter this morning a big deal!

Honda GM and hydrogen powered cars!

http://www.nbcnews.com/business/autos/gm-honda-team-create-hydrogen-powered-cars-n714556?cid=public-rss_20170206

Mustang a pretty big mid update

http://www.nbcnews.com/business/autos/new-ford-mustang-just-got-some-pretty-spanky-updates-n708336?cid=public-rss_20170206

What is up with the new camary wow

http://www.nbcnews.com/business/autos/jaws-drop-toyota-reveals-completely-redesigned-camry-n706041?cid=public-rss_20170206