Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

THE DRIVE with Alan Taylor | Episode #329

Every gearhead has their favorite ride, be it American, Italian, or otherwise. Host of JDM Legends, Eric Bizek, gives us the rundown on his new show that will be featured on the Velocity Network and Motor Trend App. This show appeals to the fans of the Japanese domestic market and features rare imports such as the Nissan Skyline and the Mazda Sport.  Shifting focus, we cover the death of cars. The Ford Motor Company has announced their plan to ax five of seven sedans from their line-up; Karl Brauer, Brian Moody, and BJ Killeen give us their thoughts on what this means for the automotive industry. Next up, Karl reviews the 2018 Jaguar XF Sportbrake, and BJ explains her drive experience in the 2019 Volkswagen Jetta. We end the show with Brian sounding off about why he thinks luxury sedans will remain around. The car industry is changing lanes – which one will you end up in?

 

• [00:00:00] JDM Legends on Velocity
• [00:06:24] Imports Are Coming Back Around
• [00:12:31] Cross-Referencing Parts
• [00:19:52] Death of the Car
• [00:28:37] Ford Invests in Best Sellers
• [00:35:53] 2018 Jaguar XF Sportbrake
• [00:42:14] Spring has Sprung
• [00:48:27] 2019 Volkswagen Jetta
• [00:54:45] Jetta’s Updated Interior is Impressive
• [01:02:06] Who’s Sticking with Sedans?
• [01:12:17] Japanese Design Shows Off
• [01:18:07] Luxury from Non-Luxury Brands

 

Discover more about segments and guests below…

[00:00:00] JDM Legends on Velocity

A new show premiered April 17th, 2018 and it appeals to a different generation of car lovers. JDM Legends’ host, Eric Bizek, explains that his show features rare Japanese domestics, never exported to our side of the pond. Rides such as the Nissan Skyline exemplify fantastic Japanese engineering and should be doted on. While Eric is a purist at heart, he can’t help but enjoy modifying these amazing machines – if there’s more power to be had, then why not. Eric feels the sweet spot for Japanese imports was from 1969-1973, but some other model years have gone criminally overlooked. The U.S. did receive some of these rare rides but they were extremely watered-down versions, so Eric really wanted to show us the special flair that the Japanese have put into their cars. Is there an import that you are dying to learn about?

[00:06:24] Imports Are Coming Back Around

Produced only in Japan, the Nissan Skyline used to be incredibly difficult to get your hands on; American enthusiasts would have to pay $100,000 for a right hand drive model. The good news is, last year at Barrett-Jackson a Skyline with 50,000 ‘drifting miles’ sold for only $20,000. , Eric Bizek, Host of JDM Legends, has been modifying these cars since his teen years, and now that the popularity of modifying these rides has escalated, brings his passion for these cars to the show. JDM Legends demonstrates how to up-fit the rarest of Japanese machines on their show. Tune-up your skills with JDM Legends.

[00:12:31] Cross-Referencing Parts

Cross-referencing car parts can save you a lot of hassle and thanks to his time as a wrecking yard owner, Alan knows all about it. This process is incredibly useful for host of JDM Legends, Eric Bizek, as he rebuilds and up-fits rare Japanese domestics. Finding parts for imported cars is no simple task. While a lot of time can be saved with the use of interchangeable parts, it’s still a scavenger hunt to find specific elements. If you’re searching for that special import part, JDM Legends could lead you to the answer.

[00:19:52] Death of the Car

The death of the car has caused a big shift in the automotive industry, and Karl Brauer, Executive Publisher of Kelley Blue Book, chats about the trends that lead to the sedans demise. Years ago no one thought it was possible, but the numbers don’t lie, trucks and SUVs are outselling cars 65% to 35%. This drastic tip of the scales led Ford Motor Company to discontinue the Fusion, C-Max, C-Max hybrid, Taurus, and Fiesta, leaving only the Focus Active and Mustang in production. Fuel economy and technology have improved leaving little distinction between SUVs and sedans. On top of that, the cost of living is one of the key drivers in this decision because consumers need utility and space at an affordable price. Do you prefer a sedan a sedan or SUV?

[00:28:37] Ford Invests in Best Sellers

Now that Ford has decided to kill off most of their sedans, what is on the horizon? Karl Brauer of Kelley Blue Book explains that it boils down to what pays the bills – Ford will focus most of their energy into their profitable categories, trucks and SUVs. If you’re a Mustang fan, don’t fret, this iconic car will not get the boot.  Karl tells us that other OEMs will be following sedan slashing trend; Chrysler has already discontinued the Dart and the 200. We are on the precipice of the best of times for utility, performance, and eco-friendly chariots – get up to speed with us now.

[00:35:53] 2018 Jaguar XF Sportbrake

The wagon has always held a place in many people’s hearts and even though the sales numbers have not been skewing in their favor, some companies haven’t lost hope. Jaguar just recently introduced the 2018 XF Sportbrake wagon in all-wheel drive. Karl Brauer of Kelley Blue Book recently drove one and tips his hat to this gorgeous machine. This beauty is powered by a V6 supercharged engine and starts at a base price of $70,000. Karl tells us that for a station wagon, they did everything right. All versions come standard with all-wheel drive, which lends to Karl’s raving review of its handling. Discover more about this revamped wagon.

[00:42:14] Spring has Sprung

Gardening, Home Depot runs, and becoming a grandpa have kept Alan extremely busy this spring. His Dodge Viper, Demon, and Ram sit in his garage just begging to be driven but the rain has kept them locked up. We catch up with automotive journalist, BJ Killeen, as she raves about the beautiful Nevada spring weather. She congratulates grandpa Alan and is excited that he will continue to spread the love for the automotive industry to future generations of his family. The love for cars is in our heritage.

[00:48:27] 2019 Volkswagen Jetta

Yes, it’s true – some sedans are falling off the market but Volkswagen has chosen to revamp an icon in hopes of saving it. Automotive journalist, BJ Killeen, reviews the completely re-engineered 2019 Jetta. Built on the underpinnings of the Atlas chassis, this 7th generation Jetta is based on VW’s MQB architecture. BJ applauds them for creating a much more aerodynamic version which has a 0.27 coefficient drag creating greater fuel economy; the car achieves 30-MPG city and 40-MPG highway. The all-new Jetta is powered by a 1.4L 4-cy turbocharged engine, accomplishing 147-hp and 184-lb ft of torque. Volkswagen took this loved ride up a few notches and you won’t be disappointed.

[00:54:45] Jetta’s Updated Interior is Impressive

Volkswagen interiors have always been kind lackluster and stiff, but the 2019 Jetta is proof that they are adapting to consumer expectations. Automotive journalist, BJ Killeen, compliments the comfortable interior, ergonomic seat design, optional digital cockpit and Beats audio system which has created an appeal to younger generations. Ranging from $20-$26,000 fully loaded, the 2019 Jetta comes in five trim packages – S, SE, SEL, SEL Premium, and R-line. BJ notes that the Jetta’s engine doesn’t feel underpowered and exclaims excitement about the 6-speed manual which is rare in modern vehicles. Are you ready for the best Jetta ever?

[01:02:06] Who’s Sticking with Sedans?

Now that the Ford Motor Company has decided to discontinue most of their sedans, we can’t help but wonder how this will affect other OEMs. Executive Editor of Autotrader, Brian Moody, explains that while mid-range sedans may be losing ground, luxury sedans could make a comeback – let’s face it, nothing really says luxury like a plush sedan. Most moms can’t wait to trade in their minivans or SUVs as soon as their kids are out of the house. Make no mistake, big rides are necessary at times but when it’s time to kick back and cruise, nothing quite cuts it like a fancy sedan. Will that empty-nest syndrome land you in a Lincoln Continental?

[01:12:17] Japanese Design Shows Off

For the first time, the Japanese automakers are touting the uniqueness of their vehicles. Conventional wisdom says, Japanese vehicle dependability should be a key selling point, but that has not been the case. Brian Moody of Autotrader tells us that Lexus has decided to really dive into their heritage and shine through their design. We’ve all heard of American muscle, German technology, and Scandinavian design, but soon we will hear all about that one-of-a-kind Japanese craftsmanship. Tune in for more.

[01:18:07] Luxury from Non-Luxury Brands

While some OEMs were not known as luxury brands, many companies continue to surprise us with their offerings. Autotrader’s Brian Moody got the chance to check out the Chevrolet Impala Premier and was impressed with its classy design. The Mazda CX-9, 2019 Toyota Avalon, and Tahoe Premier were some other efforts from non-luxury brands that caught his eye. He was particularly astounded by the Nissan Maxima Platinum, which came with diamond quilted seating and a powerful engine. OEMs such as Jeep and Kia are following suit by engineering rides that are fit for a movie star. It’s time to expect the unexpected from your favorite automotive manufacturers.

 

Explore More with Helpful Links:

• Contributor: Karl Brauer | Executive Publisher, Kelley Blue Book
• Contributor: BJ Killeen | Automotive Journalist
• Guest: Eric Bizek | Master Restorer, ‘JDM Legends’
• Guest: Brian Moody | Executive Publisher, Autotrader
• Article: Ford Press Release
• Article: 2019 Volkswagen Jetta: An Icon that Keeps Getting Better
• Vehicle : 2019 Volkswagen Jetta

Episode Credits:

• Program Host: Alan Taylor
• Producer: Dave Milligan
• Production Assistant: Joanne Bolden
• Audio Engineer: Dave Milligan
• Copy Editor: Jess Baumgardner

Our Sponsors & Supported Charities:

• Austin Hatcher Foundation
• Barrett-Jackson
• Brembo
• Bridgestone
• Craftsman
• Dodge
• Foundation of Human Understanding
• Go RVing
• Haynes Automotive Manuals
• Katzkin
• Patriot Outreach
• Pennzoil
• Shell
• Subaru

***

This episode was produced by Entertainment Right Now (ERN). If you found value in this episode, and you’d like to hear more, leave us a review on iTunes and be sure to subscribe to our podcast so you don’t miss a beat. Your feedback helps us to reach more enthusiasts around the world! If you have a question you’d like us to answer, please leave a comment below or e-mail us at info@ernlive.com.