Are BMW Secretly In Big Trouble? [S7, E13]

[@badmontad]

Bmw isn't in trouble, they've just sold out. Merc and BMW are purely focused on profits and squeezing as much money out of their customers as possible. There's less of an emphasis on engineering because they realise the average person doesn't care. Average people just want the badge

[@fraserwright9482]

BMW are doing fine financially and selling cars.

[@Memovox]

@@fraserwright9482 German car companies are among the most indebted companies in the world. The deindustrialization of Germany is not helping them either.

[@SpontaneousEvolution]

Porsche next, churning out any kind of varient to make money.

[@kennythomson4934]

I’ve gone back to a 7.5 3 door Golf.

[@HiddenWen]

@@SpontaneousEvolution This is the biggest disappointment for me. Porsche felt like the last great German car manufacturer who made great cars for enthusiasts, but now that VW influence is really showing.

[@devd6373]

12:20 to say 'im not rich' when spending 1200 on a causal weekend away is mad

[@hugomota3696]

That is "high" middle class but not rich.

[@devd6373]

@@hugomota3696 thats what an autistic person would say

[@TrustMeIKnowEverything]

​@hugomota3696 middle class hahahahaha. You think he sounds middle class hahaha. He's working class with money bro.

[@os3990]

Driving in the UK is abysmal and getting even worse I totally agree!

[@Neil2022]

Depends what you bribe. 😂

[@hamzanocap]

Happens when you import millions of third worlders

[@TrustMeIKnowEverything]

​@@Neil2022🤡

[@Petrol_and_Cabernet]

Tony gets it right at 6:50. Seen Through Glass has become too many whingey, boring stories and uninformed takes on the auto industry.

[@Edddy1337]

Drove down the M1 the other day and it was pretty much 50mph average speed limit the entire way, took forever

[@boogie8008]

“I don’t want you to feel how I feel about you listening to you all the time” was the best Tony line of all time 😅😅😅😅

[@prolapsed5104]

The roads are 100% getting worse, councils got no money to repair them, our b-road has pot holes that'd tear your wheel off, we report them, they won't fix it, so we filled the holes with gravel, which they use as an excuse to never fix them.

[@geebergoober929]

I don't think Harry is anti EV, he seems to give them a really honest go, I think he's just anti stupidity and is great at calling out government policy when it's at odds with what they're actually trying to do

[@x8dudtrackdaytoy]

Fair play to Tony spending the wonga on ring trips. I’m sure we would be doing the same if funds & time allowed

[@SWR112]

I have friends who spend probably 1k on drinking in a pub and these silly Vape things a month. I’d rather have memories and enjoyments of road trips.

[@louisalexallen]

Wonga

[@x8dudtrackdaytoy]

@@SWR112 Each to their own end of the day

[@Taylor40667]

Lotus is the one in big trouble

[@diogomarques6289]

And Jaguar

[@hunterhunted2171]

And Volkswagen

[@stuartleonard1060]

I had a E220 Mercedes, 2020 model. Brakes failed before the recall. The issue was the seal on the vacuum line. Basically, it leaks fluid in the vacuum line, and the brake servo doesn't have enough power. Stopping at junctions was a pain, had to shift into "P" park. Engine out job to fix.

[@michaelchurito]

Question for Tony on the BMW question. Tony buys a X1, sees it has a recall, they cant repair the recall, they cant really give him a courtesy car? No use, he cant sell the car that is subject to a dangerous recall...so now he cant sell the car..for 9 months? will BMW compensate him for that drop in price?

[@Swifty270]

Here in NZ, EV & Hybrid get charged a RUC (Road User Charge) which is a prepaid km charge for them to cover road tax costs. This is then check by police or warrant of fitness checks, we have had this system for diesel vehicles for some time and it works well

[@lewisvanbiervliet5069]

Sam, Tony, to talk a bit about the braking problems with BMW. We just bought a new MINI Countryman (Belgium) and when it got deliverd to the dealer (end of July) they called us that they could not deliver the car to us because of braking problems. 3 weeks later they called us that the problem was fixed and we take delivery of it. So i guess the X1 problems should be fixed soon because it’s the same car right?

[@helmetculture]

Props major to Tony for doing all them track days and track day driving

[@aaronmastrogiacomo6078]

As an X1 owner, can say they are very similar size to the X3. The delivery did get affected by the stop sale. It was only software update supposedly

[@CincySupercar]

Bmw is ahead of Mercedes currently. I’ve had both and always loved AMG but if I won the lottery today I would only have 1-2 Mercedes out of the entire 50 different classes they now make. I would probably have a half dozen newer bmw.

[@boyserful]

Ahead in what? Being more hidious? Being more unreliable? Getting less range? Being less innovative? New mercs are pretty ugly and overpriced but at least they distinguish their models and innovate unlike bmw

[@Miguelito0oO]

Nowadays I confuse BMW’s with Chinese cars. Mercedes still look German.

[@grigorioschristodoulou5229]

@boyserful there is no innovation needed in cars, everything has almost peaked some years ago. We are already going downwards in functionality. What Mercedes has is gimmicks. You know a real innovation? A precise indication of your engine speed. Not some abstract expanding lines with warp effects. Maybe a controller for the infotainment so you don’t have to lean forward and look down to try and touch a minuscule button on a smudgy display, while DRIVING

[@gambanteinodal1246]

I don't agree. BMW designs cars for the Chinese market and they are mostly ugly. I have had a BMW and was about to buy a new M2Comp when they were about but bought an AMG with a V8 instead.

[@CincySupercar]

@@Miguelito0oO The EQS doesn’t look Chinese? The new Electric maybach SUV looks like it’s straight from Beijing.

[@C10KJG]

Question for next show, have £150k budget, current car is a 2018 991.2 GT3, looking for something newer that’s as fun to drive but also more comfortable on UK roads. What 3 options would you recommend?

[@mrstudio5389]

I would disagree with Nurburging being easy on the car , it's a very long track with a lot of up and down which a lot of the smaller engines struggle with

[@crb003]

i think i heard Misha say that one session (or lap?) is equal to 7k road miles.

[@adogmcdizzle]

@@crb003 If that were true, 40laps would kill the car dead. I would contest it being more like 100 road miles. Its the cold starts and infrequent oil changes that really damage engines...

[@BingChillin-nd9ws]

@@adogmcdizzle I think Misha is probably referring to suspension components when he said that although I don’t know

[@adogmcdizzle]

@@BingChillin-nd9ws not compared to normal varied road driving… McLaren do thousands of miles on the ring as part of their vehicle validation for their road cars, I can’t recall the exact number but its somewhere between 2-10k - The idea is that the vehicle lasts that long without a major repair PLUS all the normal road suite including hammering it up and down Autobahn. Apex’ hire cars were even going a fair distance between major rebuilds - so Misha should know, but maybe he misspoke because I’m struggling to reconcile that 7k with my own knowledge and experience. Remember endurance racers do thousands of miles at the ring and are highly stressed racing cars with everything being near the limit of performance. A road car, where the operating limit is way lower is going to last many times longer; performance road cars (designed for track days), or basic shopping cars (designed to be treated badly)

[@kleppe100]

I live in Norway and drive an I5 M60. No recall here. None of my friends who drive newer BMWs have received a notification from BMW about any recall.

[@prowler13prowler]

A friend bought a brand new x5 this spring. Had a brake issue. They "fixed it" at the dealer...had another issue. All within the first few days of ownership. They took it it again...never mentioned the recall...said they cannot fix it now. Offered him a new 7 series for a big discount and for them to take the x5 back. Hed added a few € and had no fault since on the 7.

[@lolmeercatz10]

Ok I have an interesting conundrum I'm currently going through for you guys. I'm about to turn 25 so my insurance for the most part is cheap now so I'm looking to get into my first supercar/exotic. I currently have a c6 corvette that I will use in PX and so with that included my budget is ideally in the £40-£50k range but could stretch up to £75k but I'm trying to avoid financing so am hesitant to go higher that that. The key is with my budget it's obviously going to be a bit older so needs to have the option of a good extended warranty I can get from the manufacturer. For example currently looking at a later gen 1 R8 V10 as Audi will comprehensively warrant that for £2k a year. I live near gravelwood car sales to give you an idea of proximity to dealership also (McLaren's closest service center for a warranty with them is ascot as far as I can see which would be annoying). Cheers in advance.

[@FeelsDonkMan]

My question for next week: A mate of mine is looking for his first car, 33 year old petrolhead, late to the party. They want something fun but also one that they won't cry over if they scrape a wheel or dent a door, so budget is about 5k max. Insurance is not a problem (He got quoted 1.2k on a GR Yaris, for a first time driver which I thought that was pretty bloody good) but obviously doesn't want the GR atm incase he damages it. That'll be a future car. Can be any car type, old or new, but has to be manual and ULEZ. My suggestion to him was a Peugeot 208 GTi, 200bhp, can be had for under 4k. Any others?

[@underwrapped45]

Hi Gents. Some context, 27 living in north west London and a young professional. Looking for something to drive around town but also road trip to Europe, and enjoy on the twisty stuff. Budget between 18-22k, preferably manual, and ulez compliant. As always, thanks and loving the podcast.

[@aufnullgaming7531]

I hope it is not to late, but what would be really intresting to get your feedback on: I am on a 150k Budget and looking for a sportscar which I can drive occasionally and keeps his value if not increases by value in the long term future (not adding to much milage to it, maybe 2-3k kilometers a year)

[@jtf_3379]

Car question for next week: 10-15k Family SUV, Auto, ideally relatively modern tech so Apple CarPlay etc. Currently looking at: - 2016-2018 VW Tiguan - 2016-2019 Seat Ateca - BMW X3 but would have to be an older model. Any other suggestions would be great 😊 Thank you!!

[@faisalleeds]

Get a Tiguan SEL model if you can, comes with everything you need. Was looking at them before. Petrol and diesel options. Not much else in that range, Merc/BMW will be much more expensive to buy and run. Ateca is also a good option.

[@uberseehandel]

The cut-off rear end is a Kamm tail and is aerodynamically efficient.

[@blueninjasix]

You'd think two highly informed so called experts would lnow that alredy

[@uberseehandel]

@@blueninjasix To be fair, I only know that because I am old, I know something about CFD, and I'm a tech person. 🤫🤫🤫

[@waynerogers9277]

Hi Sam and Tony Great video guys, and I totally agree with the EV chat, been saying the same for years! On your question of solving our buying problems, you could really help me on this one, as there's a little history here. Nearly 3 years ago I wanted to upgrade my Lotus Exige S to a Porsche 911. I didn't realise at the time that buying the car would be the easy part. My wife agreed that if I wanted to do it, i would need to sell my BMW X3 as well, and have the 911 as my daily!! This I did, and now have a 991.2 c4s as my everyday, which is amazing, and I feel so lucky to own my absolute dream car. BUT, my wife does not like my Porsche, as it's too low and her back cannot cope with it over any long journey, so we use her Fiat 500X as our family car ... Now, I'm not a fan of the Fiat, so we are looking for a new car for my wife everyday, and one that I will also like? It must be SUV style, high seating position, for her back, bigger than the 500x, but not as big as the X3, automatic and not EV (obviously!). We have 3 grown up daughters, who live away, but sometimes come home, so needs space for 5 adults (the 500x struggles here too). We have a budget of £25k - obviously happy with secondhand. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated... Many thanks Wayne

[@damngoodenzo]

Sam, my man, I'm with you on Italian GP. I wasn't properly breathing for the last 13 laps, almost eaten my fingers off. And after the finish... Oh! I was just sitting on the couch barely believing what just happened, wrapped in tears of joy and a Ferrari flag, literally. And during THE anthem - round two of just tears running down my face. Things to live for.

[@james.h-j]

Nearly 18, currently in a 2010 1.2 polo - looking to upgrade in the next year but want a fun, fairly nippy but also somewhat practical step up which I can use pretty much every day and enjoy driving it at weekends (despite the state of the roads!) say a budget of £5k.

[@Nickubus99]

6 Speed manual 2014 Honda Fit RS? JDM one. Awesome cars.

[@m0d.]

I'd say keep half of that amount for investing and just get nicer suspension n tyres.

[@olliehughes3655]

Around £5k budget. Currently in a 2010 Saab 9-3 diesel which is lovely but if I were to get another similar sized saloon or estate, what would you pick. Can be diesel or petrol but needs to be similar or better power to the Saab (150bhp or up) and general runnig costs that are not too extreme and can work well on long A-road & B-road stints with some motorway in between. Things like E39s and F10 BMWs are tempting or another Saab like the 9-5 2.3t Aero (dame edna one) or a Subaru Outback/Legacy. I previously had a MK6 Golf with the DSG but the DSG went wrong so ever since I've been cautious of German cars and of autos.

[@RobinProducts]

Hey Sam, I’m thinking of a €20k budget, 4 seats and a lot of doubts between a defender or something sporty. Speed is not the main focus, fun is! Oh and I live in Belgium so an EU car 😊

[@chriscleary3850]

Car buying advice idea. Based on your observations of British roads I've also been struggling with the shocking state of the roads. Currently in a Golf R and even that feels too harsh for the roads, I want something that is quick enough but more comfortable for £15-17k if possible.

[@pauln0371]

They wont do pay through either the meter or charging unit because if youve got PV panels and no incoming electric how would that work?. The only 2 ways would be either pay by mile or yearly road tax...

[@joshuawoods6377]

So imagine money isn’t a problem you can afford anything. But you’ve never had a fast car. You could just buy an Chiron but once you get used to it, it will be hard to get excited for other cars right. How would you work your way up enjoying a new level every 6months starting with a civic type R level car?

[@Rampage1Rules]

A decent powered manual car with give you more enjoyment if I'm honest

[@WilliamStevens007]

I did see my first M3 touring this week in a glorious dark blue. Beautiful machine.

[@petercurtis5570]

POOR LANE DISCIPLINE TOO!

[@shizzyp5770]

For next week: looking at replacing our 2022 Macan S with about 10k of extras and 15k miles. Not sure how much we would get for trade in, but would love to see what good options there are for part-ex. Must have 4 doors, not an SUV, but still have a sporty aspect to it. Thanks!

[@r217evl]

All new properties, for sometime now, have a separate electric supply solely for EV charging. This enables suppliers to charge separately to the house / business supply.

[@natbarron]

What about the millions living in apartments?

[@mathieuxpanacho6898]

Car Conundrum I'm looking for my first car, the criteria are: Hatchback, Petrol, Manual, Fun to drive (not incredibly fast, but rather prefer good steering and handling) and max 160hp ish. Budget: £5000 My own options I found were - Ford Fiesta ST - Fiat Panda 100HP - Renault Twingo RS

[@steve51800]

You need to try some of the roads in Northumberland

[@AxxelJ]

Car advice: I currently own a Volvo V70 2.5 petrol from 2002. Use it as a daily driver, moving around lots of stuff and use the back seats from time to time. I am looking to upgrade in the near future (don't know how much life there is left in my lovely V70). Budget is up to 10 grand. In my country (Sweden) Citroen C5 (2012-2015) and Peugeot 508 (2012-2015) are in the budget and interesting since I think they would provide a similar ride, but slightly more modern and better on fuel. What would your recommendations for a 10 grand, family estate car be?

[@cnormanton]

For next week - I’m looking into the Super SUV market and I’m tossing up the idea of a BMW X3M, Stelvio Quadrafoglio, Jag F Pace SVR or GLC63 all of them around the 40 to 50k mark, would be great to hear your opinions on these cars

[@cbolt8089]

Genuine car purchase scenario: We are buying a 'new to us' family car this year and your suggestions would be valuable. It will be our only car that needs to fit our 18 month daughter in, but still be relatively small as the wife will use it regularly (no estates). It also needs to be fun to drive as I obviously love driving and do the occasional spirited drive. This will be bought outright and be kept for some time, probably until we get forced into some thing zero emissions. £20k budget. Top of the list so far is a mk7.5 golf GTi performance. Thanks

[@stanleyprice2987]

Car advice - Previously had an Abarth that I stupidly sold for a BMW 420d and have been bored ever since. Wanting something a bit more fun but still new enough to pcp and fairly cheap to insure as I am 22, budget £15,000 may push to £18,000. Only stipulation is there’s got to be room for my frenchie on the seat

[@gothychris]

43:08 there is technology in the charging points at home already, Pod point did an update, so they can monitor/reports the output for future taxing and load spreading.

[@lukashotovy3556]

Great talk as always! For the car...fun daily driver, for the not so great B roads out there, that is fun "driving the speed limit briskly"...considering one would have a sports car for the alps and track....Cheers guys!!

[@trentulmer6160]

G’day men, another great episode. For next week, Right! Currently have a C63 507 coupe, BMW M240i (6 months old) and a new Hilux. Thoughts on replacing the C63 and let’s say a budget of $150-200 k AUD. Thoughts? FYI, preference is to go Porsche! 😁

[@easykarter18]

“Car Conundrums”: Most Dynamic/Hardcore Estate Car/Load Lugger. I work as a Mobile Car Valeter/Detailer so need something big enough to carry all my kit in but will also be as fun to drive as possible as most of my driving is on fun twisty country lanes. Previous cars include: W204 Mercedes C63 Estate W205 Mercedes C63 Estate Jaguar I-Pace BMW 440i Gran coupe Currently in a MK8.5 Ford Fiesta ST which has been converted into a makeshift Van. Extra points: I do 15-20k p/a so fuel economy and running costs do need to be factored in. For Reference the C63’s were around £1000pm to run excluding depreciation/monthly payment. And yes i understand this is not a wise business decision.

[@m0d.]

Toyota Corolla wagon.

[@Mattmatt-k8t]

Car advice - budget of around £13,000, looking at a 2017 A3S with the 2.0L petrol engine, 60 in under 7, car play, thoughts ?

[@beemerdek]

Golf R

[@rezamotin7305]

🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@ric355]

Vehicle Excise Duty is collected on EVs from April 1st 2025 in the UK. It will be charged at the lowest rate (currently about £165). For some this means they won't start paying until 2026; it just depends on the renewal date. What Sam hasn't realized is that all current EV chargers contain software that tracks the amount of energy the charger has delivered to the car. This is how most 'smart' EV tariffs work. It would be a simple matter to mandate smart chargers across the board. Personally I don't think they will tax the energy or charge per mile; they will just increase VED.

[@SWR112]

They will Tax older Cars off the road, it’s always been a War on older Cars. It’s not EV V Fossil that the media setting that up. It’s a War in Road users period. If you play a bit smarter and get it lower in a EV fair play. Not paying petrol prices and giving the government silly Tax on every tank I’ll gladly clap. Charging off solar absolutely sticking the middle finger up to the money grabbing tax on the motorist.

[@JackHarvey_04]

I'm in dyer straights: I'm a 20yo Uni student looking to buy a second car but I just don't know what to get. Criteria: Price - £7500 (+/-£2500 for a proper nice option) Something fun to drive but wont break the bank with regards to running costs and insurance (Mind you the fathers got that covered). I'm currently looking for my second car, at the moment I drive a 59 place Renault Clio GT 1.6. Feel free to accommodate an honourable mention option at a budget of 15-20 grand, because we could facilitate for that. Cheers

[@robertjgibson]

Car conundrum: best do it all car for a young lad. £20k budget and must have 5 doors. Sensible on insurance but still an interesting drive. Love the podcasts btw!

[@fraserpitkethly2265]

you should try and get Freddie TFJJ on the podcast

[@BenB91]

100%

[@markfarrell8167]

I'm 22 have a 987 boxster for last 2 years, love it but is abit of a pain going to the office in a manual, looking for a daily to go beside it, no interest in a hot hatch, would vibe with a 2013ish fast suv or saloon

[@9and3]

We already pay road tax per mile (or km) in New Zealand for EV's. You have two pre pay your KM in advance and put a sticker on your car to show how much you've pre paid. When your car gets a warrant of fitness (which is yearly in NZ for modern cars) your pre paid tax is compared with actual KM on the car.. All pretty easy but it would be better IMO if at time of getting a WOF (Warrant of Fitness) they just took a reading of the speedo and sent you an invoice for what KM you've used in the past year.

[@chrisdeburger1860]

If you do t get the money up front - chances are in the UK, people won’t pay it

[@9and3]

⁠yeah although if your WOF (MOT) depended on it being paid at the time of the WOF … of course there are plenty of cars in NZ with no WOF

[@gahollers]

This is the first time I’ve ever asked a question of a podcast but in response to your question at the end of this show I thought that I’d ask this one hopefully it’ll get some time on the air. My question is what would you both suggest would be a good sporty estate car around the £15-18k mark. I’ve been looking at a couple of options namely the Skoda Octavia VRS, Golf R estate, seat Leon Cupra estate and a couple more but I’d love to get your thoughts.

[@alexandertheivendra3426]

Wife car conundrum: 2 children under 5yo, short 3-5mile town journeys with motorway to grandparents. Currently drives a 2009 Astra 1.8L petrol so she prefers similar sized Hatchback. Current watchlist is Audi A3 1.4 TFSIe, Merc A250e, VW ID3 pro performance and Hyundai Ioniq 5. Worried about getting an electric or petrol hybrid after watching this week’s episode. Budget £25k.

[@Z411G]

Car advice (slightly off requested topic). I own a 2015 m235i manual rear wheel drive. Love it. Should I spend money on upgrading coil overs, tuning it, few bits and pieces to help with the tune and get an LSD. Or sell it an get a manual F87 M2 Comp?

[@thxrnberry]

Car Decisions: I’m moving on from my E82 1 series coupe. Fantastic little go kart that thing, but I’m looking for something that is more modern and commute-friendly. My budget is £15-17k. For context, I’m looking around the BMW 4 series, 2017 with the m performance pack and automatic. Not interested in it being too sporty, just interested in it looking sporty!

[@tomjackson3360]

Car decisions: I’m 26 and wanting something sporty but a bit luxurious…around 15/16k seen lovely BMW 535, Jag XFS, Audi A6 3.0 (all around 300bhp diesels) but I loved my Golf GTI and want a golf R or Seat Leon cupra around the 2016 mark, please help! Love the videos too! I make sure to watch every week! Cheers lads!

[@grizzlyspeed2396]

300k for a supercar that shouldn't loose lots of money preferably manual but not essential and relatively new. The car should also not have a huge wing.

[@cjt150]

As always great episode chaps. For next weeks questions. I’ve got around £15k and need a car for 2 adults and a dog, something fun to drive that has character, and can do the occasional long road trip. Mini JCW F56 (2018) is currently the option I’m considering. Anything else worth considering?

[@HIYAharry]

On the cost of charging EVs. Electricity supply and demand needs to be balanced by the second across the national grid. We use more during the workday and less at night. The supply matches the demand, but it means the cheap stuff (renewables and nuclear) just stay on all the time and gas power stations only turn on when they need to. All of this means EV drivers who are savvy can get a tariff that allows them to charge super cheaply overnight. E.g like 5p per kWh vs 25p during the day

[@ScottZ370]

I upgraded my cars suspension not to corner flatter, not to go faster round the track but for it to ride better!

[@jonnynz]

We have it in NZ already - Road Miles charges, user pays. If use diesel or petrol in tractors or machines don’t pay the tax not in the fuel is rated in the miles. Pay per 1000 miles, buy 5,000miles put ticket in window screen. Works off odometer easy to put across all forms of fuel or electricity vehicles. Will be even easier if technology automatically knows your miles and direct debits account. Need to Stop people not paying

[@craystonj]

I’m looking to buy a lightweight sports car for the odd weekend in the Lake District for sub £50k. It doesn’t need to be practical, just fun and quick around bends to go out on a nice sunny day.

[@KDHF115]

Hello lads, I was going to buy a 2020 7.5 Golf GTE, on HP should I avoid hybrid now??

[@hamzasheraze]

My friend lives in the UK and he is in a bit of a pickle at the minute. He currently has the latest Hyundai Tucson but he wants to replace it. The options he has in mind are as follows. If he finances the car he has the following three cars in mind. A 2016 Jaguar XJ 3.0L diesel V6. A 2020 BMW 3 series petrol plug-in hybrid, a 2019 5 series petrol plug-in hybrid. Now he can pay off the Jaguar after three years meanwhile the two BMW's will have to be returned back after three years. Leasing is also an option, there the three options are, Lexus NXH plug-in hybrid, Toyota CHR plug-in hybrid and the Renault Austral. Would love to hear from you guys what would be the better route, leasing or financing ? If you have a better suggestion feel free to shout them out. Really hope Sam sees this.

[@MegaHussain17]

From April 2025, electric cars registered from April 2017 will move to the VED band same as petrol & diesel cars. It's currently around £190 per year. Also I think the £40,000 luxury threshold will also be applicable to electric cars registered from April 2025 onwards

[@paultuckey-ij5fp]

Hi Sam and Tony…love the podcast. I live in NZ, so think Wales with great roads but can rain and be cool. Looking for a sports car/GT that you can use every day. Have a penchant for V8s or maybe a V12 and also Aston’s. Flexi 150k budget. What do you think…

[@bencedolin]

Question for the pod. Got £17k in my car (cash owner), do I swap for a pre face lift i30n around same price (or + £1k ish) or put more into a newer cupra formentor. I do c18k miles a year so fuel will also be a factor to consider. Very different cars I know but the 2 I have my eye on

[@crb003]

I have a conundrum for you; I currently have a mk7.5 Golf GT (not GTI), that is worth about 13K on the used market as a 2019 model. It is my only car and I've had it around 3 years now and I am willing to put in 5k extra into the pot to buy another hatchback. It must be of a similar size, a reputable marque and as my current car petrol, 5 door, with less than 30k miles and 2020+. Any suggestions? Edit: I will not consider a hybrid, must be pure petrol.

[@SpontaneousEvolution]

Lamborghini Aventador, SV model.

[@jacobowen9260]

I’ve been looking for something between 5-15k that’s 2 door and sporty, but is not a golf. Doesn’t matter if it’s old or new, just something a bit outside the box

[@mattywisey]

Just going to say, i love my 2018 Mazda 3 with a 5 inch screen, carplay and android auto... Hate large screens and night driving...

[@josephhill2855]

Car decision: I have 20k to spend on my next car. Needs to be a family car and I’m likely the idea of a plug in hybrid. Top contenders are Porsche Panamera/Cayenne S hybrid from around 2014. Another one is the Volvo v60 T6 recharge. But the real curve ball is I’m a business owner so have also been looking at EVs on business lease deals. Top contenders for this are VW ID7 touring and Polestar 2 long range.

[@Walts_]

My dilemma - coming out of a Golf GTI TCR (base spec) due to age and mileage and looking for its replacement. With a budget of around 30k, still wanting a family hot hatch and trying to avoid the £600 a year tax, what would you be looking at? I have a short list of 2022 shape base spec S3, BMW 128TI, 2022 Golf GTI, i30n (not sure on interior quality),

[@RobertFarrell-h1w]

Fuel duty on electric cars was thought about way, way before Tony mentioned it 18 months ago, remember when everyone snapped up the freely installed smart metres and thought it was amazing to see how much your washing machine cost in comparison to a lamp..... Nothing is free 😭😭

[@ric355]

A smart meter cannot differentiate between the different types of usage. Any breakdown is done with guesswork by the energy providers.

[@neilturner6749]

Yep I’ve always suspected that the introduction of Home Smart Meters was in anticipation of mass EV recharging. The Meter informs your energy supplier which devices you’ve been using your electricity for, and will enable different £tariffs to be charged for different devices. Extra tax can then be levied on the electricity specifically used to recharge your car, in lieu of the traditional Fuel Duty you’re “avoiding” by running an EV.

[@ethanlau2]

@@neilturner6749 does it now - the smart meter can differentiate between me running an oven or an air conditioner can it?

[@ric355]

@@neilturner6749 Smart meters do not work like that. They use a current clamp around the supply line next to your electricity meter. They can only measure the total consumption of your home, not the consumption of individual devices. Anything that shows on your bill is just guestimates by the energy supplier. Only the EV charger can measure the energy put into an EV (and they do). Mine can show you how much energy the EV has used for charging and the data is passed to my energy company for my EV tariff. But it has nothing to do with smart meters. The possible variable pricing route is via the EV charger, not the smart meter.

[@mikewallace1723]

Some form of taxation has to be applied. ICE drivers are paying VAT and fuel duty on every litre of fuel. Electricity not. ( low VAT rate?). This loss of income needs to be recouped somehow.

[@santiagobrandaorodrigues1172]

Hi Sam and Tony! Been a fan since the 4C times! I’m currently looking to buy a car, without the need to use it everyday, with a budget of up to 8000€. Priorities are the aesthetics and driving engagement, without the need to have big or relevant performance… I’ve looked at older 3 series BMWs and some Mercedes classics. Any ideas to find anything within these parameters? Cheers!!

[@dylanwakley2553]

I’ll be looking to replace my 2014 giulietta 1750 manual in the next year or so. Probably have a budget of 15-20k, it’s got to have either RWD, more than 4 cylinders, or be mid engined, and preferably be a 2 door coupe. Currently looking at M240i, 987 caymans, and early V6 F-types. Any other cars you can suggest that fit the bill? Planning on keeping whatever I get for another couple of years and then buying a giulia quadrifoglio. Cheers

[@fleixfire6641]

Sam’s mum should try the Lexus Lbx I have one and it’s a reeealy nice posh little crossover/suv with basically the best hybrid system on the market

[@StealthGaming]

Hi Sam/Tony, one for next weeks video I currently have an I30N but looking to upgrade in the near future. I really fancy a F80 M2 but torn weather its worth the extra for the competition, bare in mind that insurance for me on the competition is almost double the standard M2. Is it worth the extra for the comp? Also can't decide between an automatic or manual. I do roughly 40 miles 5 days a week so a fare bit per year. ------------------------- On the other topic I charge my EV through a normal 3 pin house port so have no idea how'd they track that.

[@automotiveaffairsshorts]

Perhaps someone should educate Tony about a kamm tail design. It looks great, and has aerodynamic advantages!

[@Phoon996]

£350-£450 per month. 2 or 4 doors, any wheel drive, preferably some sort of hybrid tech, latest infotainment system. Best I could come up with is a BMW 2 series diesel hybrid. But would be interested to hear your thoughts.

[@akadanielmaia]

The new Vanquish is the worse looking between all Vanquish so it’s definitely not a good job, plain simple for a brand known for being all about satisfying everybody in looks.

[@HiddenWen]

If you compare it to the old one with that insane NA V12....yeah it's just not the same. The grille is just cartoonish looking. The best looking Aston right now is the Vantage.

[@owen2599]

Car Advice: around £20k, rwd, preferably coupe at least 2L - I'm leaning towards a 2 or 4 series as I really like BMW's, but can't afford the insurance of an M car as I'm 21 (so like a 230i, e.g.)

[@peterallen6700]

Guys. My BMW principle advised me that he felt sorry for Mini because they have a total block on any sales of anything due to this debacle.

[@TheSemiJ]

For next weeks podcast "dilemma": I have un VW UP. I've been using it 95% for city driving. Now I'm in situation where I need to drive 250 miles twice every two weeks. 1000 highway miles per month in an UP doesn't sound appealing! I want something comfy with decent economy. 25k budget💰 Sidenote: I've been looking at Tesla Model3 for this. Am I an idiot?

[@grahamtricker4103]

Concours at Hampton Court was excellent this year.

[@Chrissy-H]

I’m probably in the minority, I’m not actually against pay per mile taxation to help pay for road infrastructure. Forget taxing the fuel, tax the vehicles usage based on its yearly mileage, which is recorded every service or MOT or declared online. Each vehicle has a ‘price per mile’ band which is a combination of its weight and emissions, nothing is zero. Get a tax bill in the post every year. Requires no extra cameras, monitoring of electrons, or private company support. Easy, simple, fair.

[@mikewallace1723]

Surely it can’t be a flat rate? Time of day and where you drive should be factors? Doesn’t this penalise those in the country, whilst those in London etc travel fewer miles?

[@Chrissy-H]

@@mikewallace1723 Hmm, fair point, but that would require full-time monitoring of where and when you're driving to implement (super expensive and complex). Also, the current way of taxing, which are fuel duty and yearly vehicle tax, already can't take into account those factors you mentioned.

[@chrish1734]

Hi guys! Right here's one for you towards the "cheaper" end. I currently have a 2017 Audi S3, tuned to 360hp automatic. I am after a replacement for around 15-20k. I am not a fan of the BMW 140I. So, lets hear it! Similar "style" car. Sports Hatch. Similar HP or performance. Ideas?

[@mr1983]

**Car Conundrum** I’m taking part in a rally across the UK, however the criteria to enter in a classic car 10 years old+ and I have a budget of around £2k. What would you buy, that’s reliable, fun on country roads (a and b roads mostly), easy to repair.

[@nicograf5350]

Car Conundrum: I’m currently looking to buy my first car at 22, but i don’t really need a car every day. Would like something fun and slightly sporty but also something I could take on roadtrips around Europe, can be an old car. Max budget 15k €. What would you choose? (Currently looking at Porsche 944s😂)

[@ih7177]

The Vanquish is too conservatively designed, almost exactly the same as the DB12. They tried a bit of differentiation with a rear end design flair but nowhere near the Ferrari design, whether you like their design or not. Missed their chance big time.

[@bennetulbricht9922]

Currently looking at an enthusiastic, modern (2019+) daily driver for around 30.000€, which isn’t too expensive to maintain. I’m looking at a Giulia Veloce or maybe even an Golf 8R… really unsure tho. Anything else you’d suggest?

[@babdb]

Budget of £80-100k, looking to buy in next few months so should I wait until winter, will prices tail off ? Torn btw a 992 4s, 570s spider or could even maybe stretch to a 458. Probably know your thoughts on the Mclaren...but having never owned a car like this before feel it might give me more of the 'supercar' feel than the 992. Anything else you think I should be considering at this price point? Also I live in Jersey so would be exported so wondering if Tony has ever sold to export/or knew anything about if the dealers will sell to me at a non VAT price or if i would need to claim that back myself? Thx in advance keep up the good work!

[@bob808]

A proposed road tax for BEV owners in NSW Australia is set to begin on July 1st 2027. BEV owners will pay (approx) 2.906c per km (AU$29.06/1000km). How will they implement it? Vehicles need to have a yearly road worthy inspection (aka Pink Slip) during which vehicle mileage is recorded. It used to be that new vehicles were exempt from Pink Slips for the first 5 years, but I guess they'll change that too. F this greedy Gov't.

[@jackwalker580]

Two Car Conundrum. Looking to upgrade our current two car garage of a VW Up GTI and BMW 7 series (E65). First car criteria is sub £20k and family friendly. Likely to be used for school run and shorter journeys etc Second car sub £35k still needs to carry the family but something more wafty and luxurious. My current thoughts are Tesla Model 3 and Range Rover p400e or 3l TDV6. Open to any suggestions, love the podcast!

[@Alexrob90]

Question for next show: I have a 2022 Macan T that me and my wife share but I need a car now too. Have a 7.5/8.5k budget but want something fun for weekends that I can also commute in when she’s using the Macan. Your latest videos has made me think boxter could be the way. Could you do a bit of commuting in it? And what else can you think of as I’m sure Tony wouldn’t agree…. Thanks!

[@wrightwoodwork]

Years ago when i had a golf mk2 it was terrible for bursting water pipes. Avengly the heater matrix went as it was built for Germany it was designed so if it burst it would go on the passenger side in Germany. Yet it would scold your feet if a UK car. I had it fixed the issue was expansion bottle didn't release pressure so some part would burst. A little bit later on I actually got a letter from vw to go and get it fixed. I never used the main dealer. Vw did end up compensating me for the injury. This was over 25 years ago so bmw will get on touch with everyone even if they have never used a main dealer everyone is registered with the dvla do they get a list sent to them who to contact. I don't know the full ins and outs