Podcast #22: Power and Economy Drive, Ford Taurus 8.19.2009

In episode #22, John Davis and the MotorWeek gang are joined by Cars.com Editor-in-Chief Patrick Olsen for a no holds barred discussion of the 2009 Power and Economy Drive which features the Toyota Prius, Honda Insight, Ford Fusion Hybrid, Volkswagen Jetta TDI, Audi A3 TDI and Smart Fortwo. Find out what happened when MotorWeek and Cars.com put them to the test under extremely challenging driving conditions. Plus, the Ford Taurus is back, but will it help Ford get back on its feet? And the gang debates the merits of Cash for Clunkers as well as how frequently a vehicle's oil should be changed. Featured guests include Cars.com Editor-in-Chief Patrick Olsen, Road Test Producer Brian Robinson and writer Shamit Choksey.

Podcast #21: Camaro vs. Genesis Coupe, Kia Forte, Honda DN-01 8.03.2009

In episode #21, American muscle takes on Korea's newest power player. John Davis and the MotorWeek crew compare the Chevy Camaro to the Hyundai Genesis sedan. Plus, Kia excels with the Forte, while Honda delivers a new crossover - this time on two wheels. The Lightning Round features a lively debate about which new vehicles could be game-changers as the auto industry tries to turn its fortunes around. Featured panelists include Road Test producer Brian Robinson, writer Shamit Choksey and associate producer Ben Davis.

Podcast #20: Nissan Cube, Mercedes-Benz E-Class 7.16.2009

In episode #20, John Davis and the MotorWeek gang discuss whether it's hip to be square as they reveal their experiences driving the Nissan Cube, the latest cute and boxy car to hit showrooms. Plus, how the Mercedes-Benz E-Class is taking technology, safety and comfort to whole new level, and why routine maintenance is so important. Featured panelists include Road Test producer Brian Robinson, writer Shamit Choksey and associate producer Ben Davis.

Podcast #19: Top Down Fun: Mini Cooper Convertible, Mazda MX-5 6.24.2009

In episode #19, John Davis and the MotorWeek crew go cruisin' with the top down and give their impressions of the popular Mini Cooper Convertible and the peppy Mazda MX-5. During the Lightning Round, they'll debate the future of alternative fuels and which one will prevail. Featured guests include Road Test Producer Brian Robinson, writer Shamit Choksey and associate producer Ben Davis.

Podcast #18: Insight, Prius, Fusion, Equinox 6.11.2009

In episode 18, John Davis and the MotorWeek gang talk green machines as import brands and domestics deliver hybrids appealing to a broad range of consumers. They'll do a point-by-point comparison of the Honda Insight and the Toyota Prius, and give their impressions of the Ford Fusion as the hybrid version lands in showrooms. Plus, how Chevy is breaking new ground with the Equinox. They'll also debate whether GM can maintain its status as the sales leader now that it's declared bankruptcy. Panelists include Road Test Producer Brian Robinson, writer Shamit Choksey and associate producer Ben Davis.

Podcast #17: Lexus HS 250h and Mercedes-Benz S400 Hybrid 6.03.2009

In episode #17, John Davis and the MotorWeek crew talk luxury hybrids as Lexus launches its first dedicated hybrid sedan with the HS 250h, while Mercedes-Benz makes a breakthrough in battery technology with the S400 Hybrid. And, once considered a leading alternative fuel, federal funding for hydrogen fuel cell research is cut. Davis and crew debate whether this sends the wrong signal, or is a step in the right direction. Plus, find out where all the great deals on new wheels can be found! Featured guests include Road Test Producer Brian Robinson, writer Shamit Choksey and publicist Michelle Parker.

Podcast #16: VW Jetta TDI SportWagen, BMW 7-Series and Triumph Street Triple R 5.21.2009

In episode #16, John Davis and the MotorWeek gang give their impressions of Volkwagen's latest entry into the U.S. diesel market. Plus why BMW's latest take on its flagship luxury sedan 7-Series is a revelation, and how Triumph has unleashed a triple threat with its Street Triple R. They'll also tackle the question many are asking, "Is high performance really dead?" Featured guests include Road Test Producer Brian Robinson, writer Shamit Choksey and publicist Michelle Parker.

Podcast #15: Kia Soul, Mazda5, Infiniti G Convertible and Electric Cars 4.29.2009

In episode #15, John Davis and the MotorWeek crew give their impressions of a trio of new, and newly refreshed cars: the spunky new Kia Soul, the sporty Mazda5 and the spectacular-looking Infiniti G convertible. During the Lightning Round, panelists debate whether electric cars are just a fad, or the future of the auto industry. Plus, another lucky listener's burning question is answered! Featured guests include reporter Yolanda Vazquez, Road Test Producer Brian Robinson and assistant producer Ben Davis.

Podcast #14: NY Auto Show, Genesis Coupe, Camaro and Fisker Automotive 4.15.2009

In episode #14, John Davis and the MotorWeek crew have the latest from the Big Apple, where two wheels stole the spotlight during the 2009 New York Auto Show. Plus, Hyundai makes performance more affordable with the Genesis Coupe, why the new Chevy Camaro was worth the wait, and how Fisker Automotive hopes to reshape the auto industry. Also, Davis and guests candidly debate the future of GM. Featured panelists include reporter Yolanda Vazquez, Road Test Producer Brian Robinson and assistant producer Ben Davis.

Podcast #13: Mazda RX-8, Porsche 911S, Volkswagen Routan 4.01.2009

In episode #13, John Davis and the MotorWeek crew discuss what's new with the Mazda RX-8 R3 and Porsche 911S, as well as their impressions of Volkswagen's Routan minivan. Plus, an unconventional car convention. Featured panelists include Road Test producer Brian Robinson, writer Shamit Choksey and reporter Steven Chupnick.