Automotive Journalists vs Social Media: Pick a side!

00:00 Hey everybody it's Robert!
00:51 We have one big problem.
01:48 KZbinr's know nothing about cars?!
02:43 The launch of the 720S!
03:50 Journalists know their stuff!
04:29 Knowing your car.
05:22 The New GT3 dual wishbone suspension!
06:50 Not explaining things to their true potential...
07:42 KZbinrs VS Journalists
08:44 I do understand the VP's annoyance!
11:09 Breaking down characteristics of a car.
12:05 A message to automotive KZbinrs...
13:28 Blowing up the 720S motor!!!
14:00 Being authentic with your experiences.
15:00 Finding a good balance!
15:22 Thanks for the comments, what are your thoughts?
15:46 Thank you and goodbye!
For all your Nürburgring needs:
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www.apex-nuerburg.com
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Misha - / mgcharoudin
Tom - / tomstamp
Apex Nürburg - / apexnuerburg
#TierOne

[@mgcharoudin]

Tier MK4 represent.

[@RobertMitchell]

🏆

[@DriveSMR]

Oh now it’s individual car factions battling it out lol

[@tooclaws]

lol

[@superdrummer3578]

How is your comment from 2 hours ago when the video was published 50 minutes ago? 😂

[@tooclaws]

@@superdrummer3578 Tricks of the game bro, We all need that person we trust. To say yes that's ok, nothing more. :) I think as not 100%

[@GorZhe]

If Robert was a college professor I would never skip any of his classes 😊

[@tooclaws]

Good one. :)

[@Mike.W.Dasher]

His class would probably have an open bar. I'd pay tuition for that. ^^

[@tooclaws]

@@Mike.W.Dasher Lol Living the dream. :)

[@RobertMitchell]

@@Mike.W.Dasher 100% would have an open bar

[@tutelarius]

@@RobertMitchell With cocktail lessons.

[@edcunhaph]

You couldn't have said it better! But the biggest fight and problem is from the traditional media that didn't addapt well in this new era of information available anywhere. Look at Chris Harris... Harry's Garage, Matt Watson... Tradicional journalists that are mandatory content on KZbin today for Car Enthusiasts, all because they bring they excellent judment and point of view (on this that normal peaple/normal youtubers can't see) to the KZbin public. We have space for everyone here, but not everyone wants to work for it or adapt.

[@happybeerlove]

I couldn't agree more, but with one caveat. I completely went off carwow for the same reasons I went off top gear. The vast majority of the banter and "impromptu" happenings on carwow are clearly written into the script. Plus, mat has no idea how to drive in any direction other than straight. He did a 765 review 5 months ago and all of the out of car shots are of someone that actually can drive a track. It's so obvious it's embarrassing, and in one cut a person magically appears in the passenger seat 🤣🤣🤦‍♂️

[@adamgreen7291]

Matt Watson the Launch King 👎

[@machtschnell7452]

Yeah but no technical analysis nor information. Chris Harris basically drifts around a track. Jimmy Clark never did.

[@richuroythomas470]

Hagerty seems to be on the right track. Real car people, those guys.

[@allensaunders449]

Old line car journalist? Feel the pressure of the new wave. You are right they didn't adapt. They feel threatened to bad on them so they lash out

[@TheCronan]

Best of both worlds: Harry Metcalfe. Tons of experience and insight, but indepent youtuber.

[@TheCronan]

Love Harris, Catchpole and Camisa aswell btw.

[@RobertMitchell]

Spot on

[@adamgreen7291]

Harry's Garage is the best youtube channel

[@thebuddhasector9493]

@@adamgreen7291 hands down along with carfection

[@stewlee2019]

He literally owned a hugely influential motoring magazine lol, he just happens to have a youtube channel.

[@d2ygn]

When i plan to buy a car, I value the feedback and opinion of an owner, 100 times more than a journalist. Always have been this way. With KZbin, this owner feedback gained so much more relevance, and brands need to understand this: if you sell a good product, it will not be a McLaren ad that will make you choose it over a Porsche or a Ferrari. It's the personal feedbacks. Journalists won't talk about car reliability, and costumer care experience with the brand. Auto manufacturers need to understand this.

[@RobertMitchell]

Yep, that’s why we need a good mix of both

[@duileyah]

Couldn’t agree more! An owner’s opinion is the only relevant opinion for someone who is actually planning to buy. I learned that the hard way with the 570S. The Chris Harris test drive vid made me finally pull the trigger on that car. So only after becoming an owner myself did I realize that McLaren are fantastic cars when you don’t own them.

[@HAHA.GoodMeme]

@@coryebeling535 so real world reliability doesn't matter to you. People testing in harsh conditions on video is why I chose my Tacoma over other options.

[@coryebeling535]

@@HAHA.GoodMeme I'll do background reading from the manufacturer on the product yes. Then go in and test drive the product myself and make my own opinion of it. Please note that this is exactly what KZbinrs or Automotive Journalists do before a review.

[@doug3011]

@@RobertMitchell I agree with this, if I was buying a car, a car journo's opinion help me identify what car I would like, but then I would search for an owners opinion to actually see what its like to live with.

[@Wooooosaaaaaa]

I think everyone has a place. Some guys wanna know what it’s like to just drive around central London. And some guys want to know what Chris Harris thinks of the car on the edge. Different audiences and sometimes they overlap.

[@machtschnell7452]

But some commentator's place remains firmly in their mom's basement.

[@Atombender]

That's mostly the difference between trust fund kids and self made millionaires.

[@evolicious]

@@Atombender "self made millionaires", you mean early crypto investors that lucked out with daddy's financial backing.

[@08_swetsubhrasarkar86]

There are two faces to this coin. One of them is pure automotive content. As an example if we want to truly feel what a new car feels on the road, on the track, learn it's chassis dynamics etc etc we always turn up to channels like carfection, topgear's Chris Harris drives. Because we know for sure that this is the place to be. On the flip side there are entertainment channels where we gain no knowledge about the car but there the connection is more with the creator. So we start to feel for them. We get excited about what new car that particular channel is bringing. What new collabs they are doing. It's pure entertainment. So I say, we need both.

[@RobertMitchell]

You’re absolutely right, and that was my point on this video as well

[@josephmckenzie7235]

Very well put!! I ain’t looking for technical info or what a 720 is like on a racetrack from DDE. The same as I’m not looking for Chris Harris to “build” a 720 gtr.

[@md8703-t5d]

Ive experienced a GT2RS MR because of an owner with a KZbin channel. Thanks Robert👍

[@motojojo_]

Experience matters. Integrity matters. In both traditional press and on KZbin it's not easy to find those who have both.

[@RobertMitchell]

Yes, this can be a challenge

[@Mr.Reality3000]

Old motor journalists are dead, but most of them doesn't know it... very good video Robert, thank you. Dougdemuro talked about this specific topic months ago with the same idea you have. Here in Spain we have PowerArt with Guillermo García Alfonsin, a technical journalist that surely know what is the drivers feeling you mention, and the possible upgrades a car will need for more performance.

[@raulouros7545]

I remember some Shmee early video where he went through all the buttons and functions of the cars and really liked that, at the time I didn't knew how to drive know that I do I appreciate a lot more when people talk about how the car drives performs and everything and love your tech talk videos too, we definitely need more content like this

[@savmanousos5411]

Thanks for more mature dialogue. In a world becoming more polarized of for or against on every topic with nuisance and a place for a seen as a fudge it is refreshing that you bring the discussion. Agree or disagree doesn’t matter as much as the dialogue does : being curious and open to seeing different perspectives. You deserve way more subscribers given the quality of your sharing.

[@davidsmall7676]

Hmmmm. Stickier situation than anticipated. Thanks the clarification and concise round up. The part I enjoy with your talks are the understandable application of driving feel, technique, and experience to the enthusiast. I won’t speak for others but that is appreciated greatly by me.

[@gerasimoskardaras1319]

KZbin is the future maybe the journalists should start a channel in order to present the cars the way they like.

[@RobertMitchell]

Exactly what I think

[@MichaelSmith-kr9qw]

@@RobertMitchell Well we saw what MotorBlahBlah Trend tried it few years ago and they decided to go pay per view.. I remember as a kid reading the articles on cars in their publications because they were informative and great reading but that was 30 years ago

to count cup holders?

[@berzerkrobot]

Robert, great video - you hit the nail on the head. This whole video can be applied to all types of journalism, not just the automotive industry now. You Tube (and even media websites now) overall do not have the same caliber of staff or content of the old print days, and ironically the bulk of R&T, Car and Driver, Jalopniks "articles" are synoptic blogs with links about you tubers videos. We need both worlds.

[@CarCoachReports]

You are correct. As a KZbinr, racer, engineer and auto journalist you call in out accurately. Drive the car the way the owner would use it. Thank you! This is the new way to educate, inform and entertain. Keep up the good work! Lauren Fix- Ford GT owner and car junkie

[@RobertMitchell]

Hey thanks for the kind comments :-) that's the aim!

[@forzer456]

Good to hear the other side which is a valid point. In my opinion I am also weary a bit on old school media when it comes to bring up true flaws in a cars with their inherent relationship with manufacturers but that can be said about some youtube videos as well. The best way to hear about cars is from the owners that are honest and objective.

[@user-od9iz9cv1w]

We need the car enthusiast KZbin community to up their game. I think Tim has done an amazing job at pioneering this segment. He has evolved with the help of the Apex team to learn to drive at the limit so his shared experience counts for something above the average. Most however are falling into a formula. Spec it, take delivery, wrap it, put on an obnoxious exhaust pipe and then sell it.

[@RobertMitchell]

You hit the nail on the head!

[@superdrummer3578]

100% agree with you on all points, we need both and nobody should be hiding the faults of a product out of fear of the manufacturer's reaction.

[@zoransudar2821]

My english is bad but i will try, make a comparison of your three mclaren, choose two or three or more turns in the ring and show us in your own way how different they are, braking point, speed of entering the turn, how the car behaves at that moment, exit speed etc. it’s amazing that you only mentioned two car journalists that I both watch and trust. You are practically the third and so continue with what you are doing and be even more so. Thank you❤

[@matthiasstuder3916]

Nailed it. True and complete verdict on a car: Harris, Catchpole or Hohmeyer. Emotions: Davide Cironi. Nordschleife, a car on it’s edge, you, and Misha. But I guess there is space for everyone, depending if you’re into factual journalism or simple amusement. Keep it up Robert, humble content as always!

[@scottt.4596]

Another great, incredibly informative and entertaining video, Robert. Dear automobile manufacturer, Robert is right on the money in his feedback. I’ve been both a car superfreak and magazine superfreak over the past 40+ years. I’ve owned a dozen or so new cars, typically hot hatches. Up until a decade ago I purchased five to ten car magazines a month, both European and U.S. magazines. Times have changed dramatically. I haven’t purchased a car magazines in years. I get all of my automotive content on KZbin. KZbinrs sold me my current car, a Civic Type R, and will most definitely sell me my next car, quite possibly the new Golf 8 R. I can only wish that the Robert/Misha/Team Apex would start to do reviews of less expensive enthusiasts cars in addition to the exotics because I value and trust their opinions. Please keep the videos coming Team Apex! Thanks!

[@mefisto7654321]

Hey man! I really like your honesty about this phenomenon. I’m recently looking for a Cupra, that I will use for road and track, because at the moment is the best cat I can afford that will do well both jobs. I used to ran my cars in timeattack and do some coaching also. I looked for some review videos on youtube and mostly they are made by guys that are not really using the car nor understand it as it should be, I think only 2 reviews I really liked and felt that the guy knows what he is talking about. One of them was when the guy stated that his heel and toe skill is not great and a DSG is preferable. (I remember the guy that crushed the GR Yaris). Anyway, I came across this video and I just wanted to say, great job! 👍

[@guywheeler4225]

I think this was your best video to date. You sit in a rare space of being so passionate for the driving experience, capable of attaining this halo vehicles, knowing how to drive them to their limit, and then understanding all the major stakeholders involved in this massive industry. I'm grateful that a voice like this exists in this space. I really can't see how anybody on either side of the argument could invalidate what you've just said.

[@Tarv1]

There's plenty room for both, for journalists you can learn more nuances of car as far as performance, but for the youtubers you get to learn what is live with certain cars day to day over a time , the care and maintenance of owning these various vehicles whether interested or not in future purchases

[@KarlBrauerCars]

Great perspective. As a 27-year automotive journalist, that's also owned two Ford GTs (2005 and 2019), plus a 911 Carrera S and a Dodge Demon (and about 30 older performance cars), I've experienced both sides of this equation,. Your description of the benefits, and liabilities, coming from both sides is dead on.

[@BobbyChariot]

Valid point about some KZbin people for sure, but in recent years there's been a number of "car journos" who don't know how to pedal either, but are appointed due to celebrity status or recruitment for x demographic... Loving the work - keep on keeping it honest! PS nice spray tan package you got the other day there.! ;) Keep up the Tier One work!

[@taforth]

I agree with your perspective! This has been an ongoing struggle for some time now, with other than Chris Harris Ferrari run-in, the issue really hasn’t come up in an official manner until now. BTW, thanks for mentioning your thoughts on the new wishbone suspension on the 992 GT3 that I had asked you in your last video 👍

[@randomtoyotadude8952]

All this info.. really sais: you know what your talking about.. in a humble way. Would love to have you, drive my car on the ring, then tell me what i should do to my car to improve the driving experience, like u said, sway bar, toe, spring rate ect... Love ur content and your humble personality

[@rjnation5042]

4am in Australia, okay Robert I'm going to start with you've got big brass one's for the last two videos, I am a car junkie 3rd generation pure bred, I watch U tube for the entertainment value of some of the things going on, I also watch guys like you & Micha for the technical information that you & others give, thanks, Rj in Oz

[@aussieausdeutschland4245]

I watched this vid after I got home from work

[@aussieausdeutschland4245]

When Mischa took your MaClaren to Italy a couple of years ago and his opinion on it with how he felt about it with his back ect was probably one of the best Non Journalist reviews I've watched.

[@guypascua8848]

I've tried to write a comment 3 times but scraped it each time because the feelings you get from reading or watching are different. I can read about what the writer thinks, but I can physically watch the vloggers reaction. I'm an avid reader, but as I've watched more vlogs, in found its like holding a conversation instead of reading a monolog. Unfortunately, there are some vloggers that after a time, they are like actors who's lines are scripted and their expressions look fake. It becomes hard to determine if they're genuine. I can live vicariously through both, but sometimes seeing and hearing is better than just imagining. To much to write. I enjoy your vlogs for holding a conversation aspect while keeping the relationship honest and genuine. Thank You!

[@EnFonde_6]

I fully agree with you. We need to have those journalist (Chris Harris, Henry Catchpole, Jason Camisa...) to have an analysis of the car, they have much more detailled analysis as most of the Youtbers that own hypercars that only use 20% of the car. But I also like content from owners that are sharing their experience as customer, owner, sharing experience with car and the cost of ownership, the reliability... The only problem I have is from KZbinrs that try to be journalist on supercars/hypercars without any particular skills, that is often ridiculous.

[@DougalR]

I think you pretty much hit the nail on the head Robert. All people have their place on You tube and and as valid as each other. The problems start I feel is when the You tubers just start doing silly things for just for likes on Insta and using the cars as tools and not because they actually like them etc.

[@AlpinaBG]

Yesterday you said it clearly well. We are in 2021 and the world is quite different than the one just 5 years ago, what about to say 10-15 years ago. Also with the youtubers it's much more clear who have some knowledge, experience, if the guy sweet talking, neglect or overstate brands and topics. The SSC Tuatara case is a great example - because of your experience, you guys managed to spot that issue, especially because we are in the video era. If it was like 15 years ago - all we gonna see will be 2-3 images in a magazine and we had to accept it as true story.

[@HAHA.GoodMeme]

My friend works in influencer marketing, you are like the ideal type of influencer lol. Not sold out so when we have you review a product, we know the feedback is genuine and so do your fans, so your positive feedback sticks with your fans. The McLaren marketing division seems to not fully grasp influencer marketing which is really surprising given how many cars they produce - they want to be the everyman supercar but they have not nailed the everyman marketing.

[@markkram1]

Great video! This made me remember the time in 2012 when I was watching Chris Harris and getting excited about the cars even though I could barely understand english

[@swanblake]

Fully agree. I think many influencers get long term loaners which then become them bragging about the brand because they got a free car. Many aren't honest in fear of not getting free cars, ect. Robert you are honestly the only influencer that I dont find annoying and actually buys all the cars. Your input on how McLarens vs Ferrari vs Porsche hold up to track abuse is something no journalist could ever provide. Plus you are funny

[@TucotheBrute]

Think you should do car reviews as you have a good way of explaining things.I will only ever buy a car not because of the reviews or depreciation but for the connection I have when I see the car, but that doesn’t stop me from looking for reviews while I wait for it to be delivered. P.s. Love the speakers behind you could you tell me what make and model they are so I can look at reviews of them as they look out of my price range!

[@Dan_AYP]

100% agree with the 3:50 on wards, and if your accepting a test drive with a manufactorer. You need to be able to articulate the experiance, the emotion and the feeling the car gives and portray it accuratly. Thats what makes a good, detailed and engaging review. The experiance of driving should be one thats center to all sports car reviews. being able to compare its feedback, grip and all the forces it gives you, is a key skill for any journalist. That comes with experiance both in articulating the experiance and being able to take full advantage of the experiance as a driver.

[@711liljay]

It’s nice to have a journalists thoughts but for me it comes down to the get up and go, rolling starts to 130+ and stopping distances. I’m cars biggest fan and for that reason I’ll watch anything car related. Keep up the awesome work and I’ll take this opportunity to say thanks for keeping me entertained

[@theroadblog2858]

Hi Robert I love the way you are being honest, as well as I enjoy Journalist like the mentioned, as well as "Harry's Garage" and "tyrrell's classic workshop" Harris' feud with the Horse brand was an enjoyful trip to follow as well. Stick to quality and honesty. Thats is always worth a good conversation and look, rather than. "This car is awesome, look at me in this video"

[@Luke_Argento]

Hey Robert your videos keep getting better and better!! Two years ago I almost go to the Nurburgring... but I had to cancel my trip to Germany.. I wanted to go there ride with you guys so bad !!! So if gonna pick more people to go there I wish you can pick me 🤪👍👍 But now being real ,we learn so much from tour videos

[@benzinapaul7416]

Well said. Journalists are great at describing a car and giving an objective view, especially Harris, Catchpole, Meaden, Kacher, Bovingdon etc. What they don't cover is the ownership experience but then that isn't their remit.

[@FalconXE302]

Robert... just one little note... one does not always have to understand that it might be the front wishbone... or the stiff chassis, or the Michelin Pilot sports... or whatever it is that makes the car good. We don't all want to own cars to hack around the Ring. I sometimes get a little tired over the over analysing that goes on... and juts sometime simply want to know that... "it's a good cars that delivers a great driving experience". Having said that... for the technical handling side of vehicles, I certainly come here because you do portray that really good over the videos.

[@AleksandarGospic]

Another great video Robert and topic that was necessary to address after that 'incident' with Brooks. When it comes to that 720S review I think you are talking about Sam or Paul cause that was their reaction and even if it's not them or someone else you are right about the topic. McLaren VP is right in a way but problem is he did that to Brooks who really proved himself as professional in what he does and is fantastic ambassador for McLaren. If he said that to some mediocre KZbinr he would be absolutely right but because he said that to Brooks shows he doesn't know the space of what his job is supposed to be.

[@AwkwardYet]

You talked about the GT3 suspension. But most of that requires driving the car in an unsafe manner, which is not going to happen on the road. Most owners arent tracking these cars so it makes sense to not be able to talk about the geometry of how the chassis handles

[@crabapple1974]

Very relevant talk. The most important thing is transparency and honesty. That makes me trust what the content-provider says. Companies need to also understand that we customers don’t want to be lied to contantly That we are able to form balanced opinions and are not a mindless herd of sheep that can be ruthlessly exploited and tricked into buying stuff. I get so annoyed with that marketing mentality. A company should respect me as a customer if I am to respect them or their product. There is a dangerous trend of companies going after content providers that are trying to be open. It is ok for them to respond to criticism which they deem unfair ofc. But with an open transparent dialogue and not legal accusations and exclusion.

[@The_Drive_Inside]

This is why you multiple opinions of various backgrounds... people aren’t dumb they can get a feel of the ones depth of knowledge. Relatable information is king to get through to people. Imo

[@thonoe1]

For me it’s the more traditional journo’s that now do KZbin like Catchpole, Harris and Sutcliffe that really do it for me. Their experience and capabilities makes me appreciate their opinion more. When they say something is good to drive I trust that it is. I suspect that it is also that they have driven so many cars up to their limit when the press people weren’t looking and got away with it because they feel more independent. Hard to know if they are but they manage bring across the context and skill which is love

[@RobertMitchell]

I don’t have many examples where I’ve gotten in cars that they praised and found them to be terrible. The same goes in the other direction

[@thonoe1]

@@RobertMitchell in terms of skill and context the same goes for you I feel. So I understand that happening especially when it comes to handling and driving dynamic

[@fredrikharaldsson2489]

On point, as usual, and I agree that there is definitely room for Mr Harris and the like. But the days off being sent off to some exclusive resort with all inclusive to give a positive article I think is gone. Possible customers want to know what the car is like, and if they have any brains they listen to knowledgeable people with experience.

[@bartekb5074]

Thank for expanding your thoughts about 720S premiere. I believe there is a place for both KZbinrs and professionals. Not everybody will understand what double wishbone independent front suspensions is doing in their cars 😉

[@santiagovillar7935]

This has been the most well spoken/eloquent video I’ve seen in months here on youtube. Very valid points and a really interesting perspective on the topic.

[@richardallsop5039]

Hello 'Robert' I think your spot-on, there needs to be a true mix of Auto Jounalists AND KZbinr's AND Owners plus a combination of the three, no one group gives a true REVEIW. Regards, RichardA.

[@stephenberrisford4064]

Nicely put. Also congratulations on 60k 🍾🍾👏👏👏

[@MadhavMaru]

Honestly Robert, your videos make my day, espcially in these times being stuck at home (WFH life). Eagerly wait for your almost daily uploads. Best wishes to you

[@RobertMitchell]

Thank you for the kind words, glad to hear you’re getting something out of the videos, it’s a strange time right now.

[@MadhavMaru]

Thank you for the reply@@RobertMitchell, I've dropped you a line on Instagram DM

[@richardsharman5483]

I think we have the best of all worlds here on KZbin. We obviously all take each channel over a range of it's output and then assign a level of trust in what we are seeing. I think the owner channels bring something to the table that we didn't use to get in the past. We now have drivers who have put real money down to own a particular car and the whole experience of owning a car is then potentially available for us to see depending on how much the channel decides to share.

[@Goxilla]

As a viewer and petrol head the best combination is a race driver who creates content. Chris Harris and Nico Rosberg coming to my mind. Being able to drive any machine to it´s limit and knowing what he or she is doing while describing it at the same time is the ultimate car review in my opinion. But I´m also good with someone who knows what he´s talking about and gets deep into details

[@Tracertme]

So well said the challenges and opportunities are what most people from any side of the car industry are still struggling with, be it traditional journalist, to You Tuber influencer which car manufacturers are trying to influence their output, so they get subsequent press release invites and those who are what I call real car enthusiasts who just talk cars at any level and its open and it's honest, which incidentally doesn't need to mean its right, its just a point of view based on a level of personal experience. From my point of view I gave up watching most You Tubers when the novelty wore off, now I am back to the evaluations I like to hear about and the only players who will survive are those who understand the digitised economies. It's just another business for journalists or You Tubers or You Tube themselves... where money is involved their is seldom honesty or transparency. A blend of listening and participation is what is most likely to give any individual a reasonable perspective of any given topic, that hasn't changed. Social media has just magnified the transparency for all aspects be they good or bad outcomes.

[@assassinspokemon]

The best way to have a productive discussion that challenges the status quo is not to divide in 2 separate siloes (youtubers vs journalists), but to present all the grey area, nuances and caveats. That's the best way to make people re-evaluate their viewpoint and find common ground. And despite the title of the video, Robert did exactly that, and that's why the community that he build on this channel holds him in high regard. ps: Matt Farah is one of those independent journalists that I like. Even though he doesn't do much track driving (mostly canyons) he seems to convey in a funny and informative way, the nuances of the cars he drives. Would love to see you appear on his TST podcast one day!

[@steveparker4754]

Excellent video Robert and food for thought as they say.... We are in an evolving world, I remember the days when top gear was the only thing on telly and that was every Sunday.... Horses for courses.... Long live the Silverado, modded or not....

[@briandeaton3550]

Last year when buying a new car, I used reviews on KZbin almost exclusively. I can't remember the last time that I used an online or print publication. I'm also old.

[@RobertMitchell]

Wonderful feedback

[@paulmartin3372]

KZbin sold me my GR4

[@michaelluttmer2486]

KZbin sold me on getting a Supra along with owners. Love the car but what's interesting was that it didn't go as in depth into things that I now care about with the car, like storage space (there is very little and what is there is useless).

[@supercarsofnzltd2264]

Good on you Robert a very touchy topic but spot on! I stopped doing vlogs (which were Mclaren focused) due to the dealer & some owner Group-pressure of the brand a@$-lickers to hide issues or suffer the big hand of the local dealer which I have in the end. I think honesty is the right choice and have huge respect for what you’re doing. After 5 mclarens i also requested a refund of my 765LT order deposit & bought a GT2RS instead. Ive since purchased a 2nd hand 675LT privately as I still love the rawness & feel of the model but no way was I going through the dealer. Carry on your great work mate. Thinking I might need to restart YouTubing and be as honest and open as you. I organise private track days and use my cars but unfortunately not quite at your skill level yet

[@MarkBeezBlogs]

The great thing is that there’s a lot of interesting content from amateur to living legend. Too bad my old heroes never made it to KZbin. 1970’s German TV introduced me to Belgian F1 pilot Paul Frère. R&T introduced me to articles by US F1 World Champion Phil Hill and made me a Tifosi, Innes Ireland opened my eyes to so many facets of driving and Motorsport and Peter Egan showed me humor and funny if not sometimes frustrating side of car ownership. Henry Catchpole and Chris “drift monkey” Harris excited me with thrilling driving tales in the pages of EVO that they successfully translated to KZbin unfortunately my old heroes didn’t get that chance. MCM, late brake show, hoovies, Tavarish, Sarah n tuned, Tim Schrick, Broken Quattros, your Channel and Misha’s etc, etc there’s not enough hours! Great vid as always!

[@ariesstage2188]

What needs to happen is a professional driver and a youtuber combined to see both perspectives on the road sharing bits for each output. Motortrend uses Randy. Collaboration is the future........ thats why your channel is expanding! Integrity is key 🔑. I appreciate this level of content.... outside the box with grace and professionalism. Great-er things ahead for you and your colleagues. Lets stop the pandering lol 😆 Great stuff!

[@carculturesweden2668]

Very good vid with good points like always Robert! It feels genuine when you are telling your own experiences/thoughts with different things, that is what we need these days!

[@iamstoffe]

So true ;)

[@dave_R_GR]

I fully agree with the statement "lack of expertise". There are many car KZbinrs, which only can read the brochure and give all the marketing BS which they've given by the manufacturer before. Can't take them seriously, that's why I do like videos from you, dragtimes etc. more.

[@briansteele2723]

Most of us are pretty good at applying a filter when looking at videos. For example we can watch a Carfection or Savage Geese video for long form reviews of a golfr then flick ovver to a kid in the uk who had the same car but points out something different, such as the lack of exhaust note and cheap upgrade options. Your own use case does help us to find out about the limits of cars but we would also probably look at more traditional or boring consumer review style reviews too if considering a purchase.

[@ioannisioannou7518]

What an excellent topic Robert! So in tune with our petrolhead times. I would piggy back and add just because one has ability to get into an exclusive platform doesn’t necessarily convey objectivity on their part. Quite the opposite. You’d think there’s overlap, because said ability would convey a desire to sample all the goods available but not necessarily. The old guard has the fundamentals down whereas some KZbinrs do not. The trick is to drive as MANY cars as possible, so you may form objective opinions and judge by comparison. Not just for cars of our era but going as far back in time as you can to think in the sense of vehicle evolution. I’d like you to talk about this stuff more in future posts. For example, what’s it like to compare the E30 vs E46, E90, F80 chassis, etc. The dynamics of a 997 rs or fully analog ride vs the 991.2 and 992. What about 70s car with no assists whatsoever? This is where real expertise comes in and that’s not always synonymous to access. Thanks!

[@RobertMitchell]

Hey man! That is really good input and you’re absolutely right anyone is going to be giving input needs to be as versatile as possible and as well rounded as possible. With that said I would love to do some comparisons with different models of different generations and things like that and it’s actually something that we have on the radar

[@ioannisioannou7518]

@@RobertMitchell The nice thing is if one knows what they are looking for, they can be a good judge of where they source their information from. Not here randomly, as your critical thinking and approach is frankly refreshing. That's my kind of echo chamber... And very much look forward to the comparisons :)

[@picrureperfect8476]

I think more owners can relate to a review stating how a mclaren feels when driving it around town than how it feels when pushed to its limits. The fact is that most super cars are either never driven or occasionally driven around town or on a backroad on a Sunday, it’s the smallest percentage of owners who actually push those cars, so a KZbinr reviewing the car on those details speaks to a far larger customer base than a “professional” talking about how “the chassis reacts” or whatever that gibberish means.

[@thomasxbl]

I agree, the Nurburgring bubble on this channel is a good place to be, but it's also mighty irrelevant to most buyers. Since that is rather sad, there is always the chance that someone who appreciates cars will start to appreciate proper driving because of channels like this one.

[@josephmckenzie7235]

Great point. But having both available for a potential buyer to see gives that buyer a more complete picture of the car overall. So I think their both important and relevant.

[@DrivingMatterMedia]

Very good point you're bringing up Robert! Though in my experience you're talking about the absolute top 2% of journalists. I think there's a very small group that is professional and car fanatic, a slightly larger group of car fanatics and a vast majority of journalists that don't understand either. At least not to a level that exceeds any 'youtuber's' level of professionalism and enthusiasm. One of the results of this I think is how normal cars became these ridiculously stiffly sprung lunchboxe. To the 'mainstream' journalist every car needs to be a racecar because the racecar is the one they enjoyed most on the racetrack.

[@juancho939]

It think this is a call to a mix out of both worlds. A KZbinr with racing experience and a way with words like a journalist to convey the feel of a car whilst still giving us the inside track on the ownership and client-brand relations.

[@adamciampa8697]

Glad someone said it! There is a place for KZbinrs or owners with cameras, however you are exactly right. A motoring journalist will provide objective insights to how a car feels rather than yell and scream when they get close to redline. I also feel that some KZbinrs will point out a negative of a car for the sake of appearing objective without truly understand what the car is doing. Great that you’re talking about it! Love Catchpole and Harris, they’ll always have a place in the world of cars.

[@adamciampa8697]

Really, to summarise... if I want to be entertained, I’ll watch a KZbinrs channel. If I want to consider buying a car, I’ll listen to the opinion of motoring journalists whom I respect. Sums it up really.

[@vipecrx]

I agree with the idea/concept you are conveying. I think you could have expanded a bit further on the pressure that journalists are under (like Chris Harris tale tells) at all levels. And also that a lot of journalists will drive a 720 and compare it to a clio... Like you said, very few journalists have both capacities and they're getting old. Some racers do it right too (tiff and plato).

[@gunnarmikalpettersen4575]

This Channel with Robert is pure class. As someone else said, if Robert was a Teacher at school, i would love school :)

[@RobertMitchell]

Thanks for the kind words Gunnar, and I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying the channel :-)

[@joshgraham934]

Very interesting video and content Robert. I'm a subscriber to one of the most established UK car magazines for over a decade and while a lot of their content is excellent I have always felt that they have inflated the reviews of certain manufactures because of wanting to preserve their relationship and access with manufacturers. I've been a youtube content follower for a some years also and sadly I agree there are some youtubers who also shy away from honest reviews for the same reason. I value the track reviews of your excellent channel and really love the ring content but I'm ok with regular youtubers who aren't track guys because if I was ever lucky enough to afford a super car 95% of my driving would be on road. I (and just my opinion) think some of the big magazines probably resent having had to create youtube content, that they are playing catch up or second fiddle in subs/views to regular car youtubers and that their opinions aren't the only ones out there anymore. keep up the great content. thanks.

[@lambrosstamos4494]

The A90 Supra case is spot on. You can easily be very enthusiastic about it. She is beautiful. But does it perform? No. You have to be knowledgeable to understand its flaws. That was a compliment, Robert. Personally, I respect drivers who one way or another are involved in racing. Mechanics, likewise. Rallying is my thing. That is why I love the little GR Yaris. And Jeremy Clarkson.

[@tradosh]

Thanks for the great video again! You hit the nail on the head. There’s a different source for different information and people need to learn to separate that

[@RobertMitchell]

Hey Thomas thanks for the comment I'm glad you liked it :-)

[@andyjones5192]

There’s a lot of KZbinrs doing „reviews“ of cars . The reviews of the old „EVO Magazine Crew“ are the ones you’re waiting for...😎

[@nurburgringdreaming2221]

Jeremy Clarkson , maybe alil over the top but,,, in a good way. I like him TopGear was my all time favorite Chris on the other hand , really serious, a lot of car owners purchased certain autos merely because Chris’s review on that vehicle. You the most honest man on KZbin when it comes to pointing out issues 👌🏻

[@jafu745]

Very current topic. Honesty and integrity should be the cornerstone of youtube journalism as is with normal journalism. Also any youtuber wishing to become serious should at the minimum invest in sport or competiotion driving course and attend some track time so indeed they know how to evaluate a car on a more personal level not AC blow levels.

[@TrakCar]

You would not believe how many setups and sets of tires it cost me to stop my .1 GT3RS from mid corner understeer. Mostly solved in the .2 GT3RS but man, now it’s going to be perfect.

[@RobertMitchell]

It's so satisfying when you get a car fully dialled in! Hopefully it works out very well for you :-)

[@josephmckenzie7235]

Great video and very good points. For me, who the auto journalist is makes a huge difference. I have very high respect for Chris Harris because he is an experienced and highly skilled driver as well as a excellent journalist. But that’s not the case for all journalists. With KZbin creators there aren’t very many, that I know of, that have much track experience, and a lot of them have little to no knowledge or experience with the technical, mechanical and engineering of their cars. KZbin creators show the day to day experience of owning and driving these and the lifestyle. Car meets, rally’s, mods, rev battles, doughnuts...which is all part of the ownership experience that an auto journalist won’t be able to tell you much about. The same as most youtubers won’t be able to tell you how the technical differences of a 675 and 720 effect how the car behaves through a corner on a racetrack. I believe that both sides are equally important to a prospective buyer and car enthusiasts. For me I think it’s pretty awesome that we have our traditional auto journalist giving us technical information and reviews of a vehicle and then we have KZbin, owners with cameras, showing us what the true ownership experience is like. Between the two, consumers can really and truly get an accurate view of a vehicle and be a more satisfied customer. I think McLaren was wrong to dismiss Brooks as just “an owner with a KZbin channel”. They may have just lost him as loyal, and repeat customer. That’s not smart business.

[@blraider9724]

With a few exceptions, I view KZbin content primarily as entertainment. The journalists give me the technical data while the influencer market generally shows how people actually use these cars while also giving some (although limited) perspective on usability, reliability and fun factor. I think its a great compliment to each other and a synergy that the auto industry should be thanking its lucky stars for, not looking down upon it. But that’s what you get when you take an antiquated business model run by the same group of industry retreads - the definition of insanity my friend. Keep up the great work!

[@turboterry1776]

thank you for being honest we need way more of this in the car community 👌🏽👌🏽💯

[@RobertMitchell]

More to come!

[@setshabamashigo3629]

Fantastic and insightful video. One curveball I'd like to throw in favour of 'lifestyle' KZbinrs. As much as gearheads proper would like to enjoy a car as it was intended by the engineers etc, there's a reasonably large market of supercar buyers who are much more interested in the supercar aesthetic than the cars and their dynamics themselves. Are manufacturers perhaps not tapping into that demographic when they invite influencers who lean towards the lifestyle and aesthetic based content?

[@RobertMitchell]

I know a lot of different types of supercar owners and something that’s very interesting is that a lot of them may not ever extract the performance out of their car they like knowing the fact that their car can do what I can do it almost becomes bragging rights or just her sense of pride in ownership

[@setshabamashigo3629]

@@RobertMitchell that makes sense, thank you. Love your content!

[@Mandurath]

Well said. I've always felt that way about when car reviewer's talk about trucks. Without testing it under load or pulling a load. Talking about off road ability, when never seeing anything beyond a gravel road. And luxury cars... If they talk about how it does on the track I stop reading/watching/listening.

[@pedrosousa7877]

I completely agree with you. There's a place for each 'group' to occupy, be it hardcore journalists or youtubers. Plus, we don't have to eat all that's out there. For me, personally, the moment a car is described in a generic way, like assessing a 720s as if it was a used mk4 gti... I'm out. Where there's no juice, there's no interest. And ultimately, it was your and Misha's honesty and authenticity that hook me up to your videos. Keep it up!!

[@pedrosousa7877]

And btw, now that you have no glasses, put more Garnier around the eyes to compensate the lack of colour 😎

[@PropDeskJunkie]

+1 for Henry Catchpole! And of course you and Misha. Love your transparency.

[@RobertMitchell]

Thanks man :-)

[@jayfxdx]

I'm just a casual fan of the automotive world, I drive a pick-up truck, but I love the entertainment factor of well made content. For this I look to the Harrys, Chris, Matt and a couple other niche channels like Ratarossa and Tavarish. Car owners with a camera I find boring in general, as I find a board spectrum of automobiles interesting and not just the latest and greatest. I became of a fan of this channel because I want to learn more about car set up, suspension and the Ring itself, I'll never have a practical use for this knowledge, I just find it way more interesting than conventional TV/movies.

[@paulkrapp]

I believe that it comes down to the individual viewers like myself to choose what content fits our needs. There is a lot of information available today. Intelligent people can differentiate between "entertainment" content and "legitimate" car reviews. I believe that there is a place for all forms of automobile content, KZbin and traditional print. Automobile manufacturers need to understand this and please refrain from insulting an entity that is actually helping to sell cars!

[@Clarkyclarke1]

Always on the money and topics covered are quality Robert love you’re channel I’ve probably said that before but it’s so cool. Misha’s and yours a my two favourites as I’m sure are many others! Obsessed with the Nurburgring but just as much Apex as a whole. Look forward to many more great vids. 👌🏻🤟🏻

[@RobertMitchell]

Clarke as always a pleasure to have you on the channel :-)

[@Clarkyclarke1]

@@RobertMitchell 👍🏻

[@Pyotr_Velikiy]

No need to pick a side. Just cherry pick. Some journalists are bland, some KZbinrs are very knowledgeable, some journalists are great and some KZbinrs only care about their ego. That's life. I just keep returning to Misha and Robert for fun, truth and excitement. Tier1!

[@eightfivezerobraxton5509]

hi Rob I've only done a few laps on the ring, how do they remove oil spills off the track after they happen? does remnants of the oil still remain long after the spill ? does the affected area have less traction?

[@ismazonda2619]

Staying away from Seen through glass and supercar blondie is always a good decision...

[@29_anindrarafifd.90]

STG is good tho, but blondie kinda meh

[@RoadOdyssey]

If youtubers and others had a disclaimer as to their level or scope of knowledge that might help. As a novice, I love this car because... As a race car driver I would love this car because.... I have had 3 corvettes, 1 camaro, and 1 jaguar f-type. My experience is on streets, not tracks. I keep my opinions relative to my channel's theme, which is regular peoole on regular streets. You have a very valid point. We all need to express ourselves in honesty with respect to our level of experiences, etc. Very good point. It might reduce the "haters" if we say up front more about our target audience and our knowledge base. Cool? Additionally, I think ppl watching me would quickly see my theme and experience, but they dont. I see a lot of confusion. Ppl tend to be lazy when they watch KZbin and assume far too much. Lazy lazy lazy... = confusion, anger, etc...

[@glnknl2232]

Racing background with good accomplishments is a must for a automotive journalist. If you don't know how to drive fast and properly your opinion about dynamics isn't worth much. Nurburgring hotlaps by pro drivers are always good. Let the cars do the talking, Kevin Estre is my favourite ;)

[@RobertMitchell]

I agree, one should have a lot of experience before reviewing a car.

[@badroo]

I’m a journalist and I love this channel. Great well-reasoned take.

[@RobertMitchell]

thank you Andy

[@ErikB750]

I gave your question a serious thought: we need more Roberts on YT 😄😉 No seriously, journalists are my favorit but I don’t expect them all to be racing drivers. That’s a pitty for someone interested in motorsport, but perfectly acceptable for the largest part of the audience and buyers. YT-ers all have their own style and way of doing things, so add a few of them and you have a great mix of info, facts, in-depth reviews and even some Oohhh and Aaahhh’s this is my dreamcar-and-I-just-sold-it.

[@almillin3207]

It's the same old story Robert which is that there are different levels of presentation and car experience regardless as whether they're journos or KZbinrs. So both can co-exist in todays market and peeps will decide who they prefer to follow. BTW great insights into the differences between the 720S and Ferrari Speciale which would not be possible if it wasn't for your vast experience on the Nurb...Oh i would also add that the Nurb is without a doubt the ultimate proving ground because it's the closest thing to real life mountain roads where supercars are mostly driven...