The Late Brake Show is a dynamic YouTube platform and website dedicated to a comprehensive appreciation of all things automotive. From cutting-edge electric vehicles (EVs) to the enduring power of V8 engines, and from uncovering classic barn finds to exploring project cars and future technologies, this distributor offers considered, experienced, and entertaining automotive content. Motoring journalist Jonny Smith, with over 25 years of experience in print and television, leads the charge, embracing an era where efficient, clean electric vehicles can coexist with a passion for piston-powered machinery, past, present, and future.
Specializing in a wide spectrum of automotive interests, The Late Brake Show delves into topics such as the future of vehicle recycling, reviews of innovative EVs like the Honda E and Hyundai Ioniq 5, and exclusive drives of new commercial vehicles. It provides insightful perspectives on city-focused electric mobility, such as the unique Citroen Ami, demonstrating a broad and forward-thinking approach to car content.
Specializing in a wide spectrum of automotive interests, The Late Brake Show delves into topics such as the future of vehicle recycling, reviews of innovative EVs like the Honda E and Hyundai Ioniq 5, and exclusive drives of new commercial vehicles. It provides insightful perspectives on city-focused electric mobility, such as the unique Citroen Ami, demonstrating a broad and forward-thinking approach to car content.
The Future of Vehicle Recycling - Cars Stripped, Boxed and on eBay Within Hours!
This episode of The Late Brake Show offers an in-depth look at Charles Trent's advanced vehicle recycling facility, in partnership with eBay. Host Jonny Smith is impressed by the modern, efficient process, a stark contrast to the scrap yards of his youth. The facility utilizes technology to rapid...
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New Rimac Nevera EV Hypercar Detailed Review - On Road and Track
The Late Brake Show delivers an in-depth review of the Rimac Nevera, a hypercar described as a technological marvel and the most powerful production c... morear globally. Host Jonny Smith is thoroughly impressed by the Nevera's sheer capability, highlighting its astonishing acceleration, track prowess, and surprising comfort and usability for a vehicle of its caliber. The review emphasizes that the Nevera is not a one-trick pony, excelling as a GT car with a claimed 340-mile WLTP range, a comfortable ride, and even autonomous driving features, alongside its hypercar performance. Smith praises the meticulous engineering, the bespoke nature of every component, and the innovative design elements, such as the Croatian 'kravata' inspired styling. The verdict is overwhelmingly positive, positioning the Nevera as a groundbreaking achievement in automotive engineering, a testament to Mate Rimac's vision, and a car that masterfully balances extreme performance with everyday practicality. less
New Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo EV Review - The World's Quickest Estate Car
The Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo, specifically the range-topping Turbo S variant, is presented as the "world's quickest estate car." Th... moree reviewer highlights its impressive performance, noting the blistering acceleration and the unique, albeit synthesized, driving sound. A key focus is its enhanced practicality over the standard Taycan, particularly for dog owners, with a more accommodating rear and boot space, though it's not a traditional estate. The Cross Turismo's raised ground clearance and standard AWD are also noted as key differentiators. While the reviewer praises the driving dynamics and premium feel, he finds the touchscreen-heavy interface for climate and seat controls somewhat clumsy. He also expresses a preference for a non-"Cross" Turismo variant. The verdict leans towards appreciating its blend of extreme performance and increased utility, but the reviewer suggests the 4S trim might offer a better balance of performance and price for most buyers. less
New Hyundai Ioniq 5 Full Review - The 300-Mile Tesla EV Rival Styled by Minecraft
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is presented as a compelling EV rival, drawing comparisons to Tesla and styled with a distinctive retro-futuristic, 8-bit aestheti... morec reminiscent of the Lancia Delta Integrale. The reviewer highlights its spacious interior, enabled by the dedicated E-GMP platform and a long wheelbase, offering a lounge-like experience with reclining rear seats and a movable center console. Practicality is a strong suit, with generous boot space (531L + 57L froot for RWD, 531L + 24L froot for AWD) outperforming key rivals like the VW ID.4 and Ford Mustang Mach-E. A standout feature is the world-first 400V/800V charging capability, allowing for rapid charging from 10-80% in just 18 minutes. The reviewer praises the sustainable interior materials, the unique styling, and the impressive performance of the AWD launch edition, achieving 0-62 mph in 5.2 seconds. The Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function, enabling external power output, is also noted as a significant advantage. While minor criticisms include the car's width on narrow roads and chunky indicator stalks, the overall verdict is overwhelmingly positive, with the reviewer suggesting it might be their preferred EV currently available, especially given its practicality, style, and efficiency. less
New 2021 Skoda Enyaq iV Electric SUV Review
The Skoda Enyaq iV is presented as a practical and comfortable electric SUV, often compared to its VW ID.4 sibling. The reviewer highlights its spacio... moreus interior and generous boot capacity, which surpasses key rivals like the ID.4, Ford Mach-E, and Nissan Ariya. While the base models offer good value and qualify for government grants, the reviewer strongly advises caution with the extensive and costly option packs, noting that the price can quickly escalate beyond £50,000, eroding Skoda's traditional value proposition. Performance is described as adequate for family duties rather than sporty, with the fastest version still lagging behind competitors like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Ford Mustang Mach-E. The interior is found to be conventional but practical, with a preference expressed for certain interior trim options over the tested 'Suite' edition. The reviewer concludes that while the Enyaq iV is a competent and relaxing car, potential buyers should be mindful of the configurator to avoid overspending. less
Peugeot Sport 508 PSE Full Review. Is Their Most Powerful Car Also The Best Performance Family PHEV?
The Peugeot 508 PSE SW Hybrid4 360 e-EAT8 4WD is lauded as Peugeot's most powerful production car to date, blending performance with practicality... more. The reviewer praises its striking design, calling it handsome and classy, with tasteful sport-engineered styling cues that avoid being over the top. Performance is highlighted, with the 360PS plug-in hybrid system delivering brisk acceleration (0-62mph in 5.2 seconds) and a rewarding driving experience, especially in Sport mode. The car's practicality is also a strong point, offering a generous 530-liter boot, comparable to performance estates like the Audi RS4, and a comfortable, well-appointed interior with high-quality materials. The reviewer notes the car's excellent ride and handling balance, even with firmer suspension, and its quiet operation. Key criticisms include a driving position that doesn't go low enough for the reviewer's preference and a steering wheel that isn't perfectly circular. Despite the substantial £54,000 price tag, the reviewer suggests the 508 PSE offers a compelling alternative to German rivals, emphasizing its lower running costs and exclusivity, and concludes that Peugeot has regained its 'mojo' with this impressive, stylish, and capable PHEV estate. less
Live Q&A and Car Pub Quiz 2
This episode of The Late Brake Show features a live Q&A and car pub quiz, hosted by Jonny Smith. Despite initial technical difficulties and a self... more-admitted "shambolic" start, the show progresses through several rounds of car-related trivia. The host engages with viewers, answering questions about future EV reviews, his personal car preferences (including a fondness for the Lotus Carlton and a potential interest in the VW ID. Buzz), and the ongoing garage build project. The quiz covers a range of topics, from car companies' non-automotive ventures to rebadged models and film car trivia. While the primary focus is on the quiz and viewer interaction, the underlying theme is the host's passion for cars and his relatable, down-to-earth approach to content creation, even amidst personal life disruptions like house renovations. less
Secret Car Cave Collection of Restomod 911s, Defenders and Strange Supercars
The Late Brake Show's inaugural 'Car Caves' episode offers a fascinating glimpse into Richard Gill's eclectic automotive sanctuary... more. Host Jonny Smith explores a collection that defies easy categorization, featuring everything from a restomod 911 and a classic Mini Cooper to a Lamborghini Murcielago and a unique Spyker C8 Laviolette. Gill's passion lies in diverse driving experiences, evident in his carefully curated selection, which includes a restomod 964 Carrera C2 with Singer-inspired wheels and a meticulously customized 2000 Mini Cooper. The collection also boasts a striking, left-hand drive Ferrari 355 and a Land Rover Defender ambulance conversion destined for motorhome duty. While the video highlights the individuality of each vehicle and its backstory, it lacks a deep dive into the technical aspects or performance metrics. The overall impression is one of personal passion and unique taste rather than a critical automotive review. less
Part 6 Projects of the People - Your Project Cars and Garage Builds
This episode of 'Projects of the People' showcases a diverse collection of viewer-submitted automotive projects, ranging from subtle OEM+ mo... moredifications on a Nissan Micra and a Jaguar XKR to a full nut-and-bolt restoration of a Ford Capri and a classic VW Golf GTI. The video highlights the passion and dedication of car enthusiasts, featuring a variety of builds including a unique Alfa Romeo 164 Cloverleaf, a 1978 Honda CX500 motorcycle, an electric tuk-tuk, and even a Fiat Panda 4x4 kit car. While the focus is on the personal journeys and detailed work involved in each project, the reviewer expresses particular admiration for the attention to detail on the Micra and the comprehensive restorations of the Capri and Golf. The episode also touches upon non-car projects like an e-bike and a Dutch car collection tour, demonstrating the broad spectrum of automotive appreciation on The Late Brake Show. less
Part 5 Projects of the People - Your Project Cars and Shed Builds
This episode of 'Projects of the People' showcases a diverse collection of viewer-submitted project cars and shed builds, highlighting the p... moreassion and dedication of automotive enthusiasts. The segment features a range of vehicles, from sentimental first cars repurchased by their owners (a VW Beetle, Mini Mayfair, and BMW E30) to everyday vehicles cherished for the memories they hold (Renault Megane, Mitsubishi Mirage, Skoda Citigo). The latter half delves into more heavily modified builds, including a V8-swapped Datsun 240Z, a unique Citroen Ami and 2CV van hybrid, a Ford hot rod replica on a Kia Sorrento chassis, a Mercury Comet station wagon, a rare VW Beetle 1302S, and an extreme Mk2 Ford Escort Mexico Cosworth resto-mod. The overarching theme is the shared love for unique, fast, or historically significant machinery, with the presenter expressing admiration for the viewers' commitment and creativity. less
Part 4 Projects of the People - Your Project Cars and Shed Builds
This episode of 'Projects of the People' showcases an eclectic mix of viewer-submitted project cars and shed builds, highlighting the passio... moren and DIY spirit of the automotive community. The segment features a diverse range of vehicles, from a flood-damaged Lotus Esprit and a Vauxhall Monaro to classic Chevrolet Bel Airs, Land Rovers, Austin 7 specials, and even a Citroen Traction Avant rally car. A significant theme emerging is the ambition behind radical engine swaps, with notable examples including a Land Rover County fitted with a Cummins diesel, a Reliant Scimitar boasting a Vauxhall Omega V6, and a Dodge Commer van with a Ford V8. The episode celebrates the creativity and dedication involved in these personal automotive journeys, emphasizing that the platform embraces all types of vehicles and builds without prejudice. It serves as an inspiring look at what enthusiasts can achieve with their projects. less
Volkswagen ID.4 EV SUV Detailed Review
The Volkswagen ID.4 is presented as a crucial model for VW's EV strategy, aiming for mass-market appeal. The reviewer highlights its practical cr... moreossover/SUV dimensions, offering interior space comparable to larger vehicles like the Touareg, while being more compact externally. Key strengths include a comfortable ride, good body control despite its weight, and a spacious, practical interior with ample rear legroom. The reviewer praises the driving position and the quiet cabin at speed. However, criticisms are leveled at the interior material quality in some areas, the dated-looking infotainment screen, and the disappointing inclusion of rear drum brakes. The reviewer also notes the '1ST Edition' is well-equipped but suggests waiting for standard models due to cost and perceived tackiness. While the ID.4 performs competently, particularly in its 201hp RWD configuration, it's overshadowed by the anticipation of rivals like the Hyundai Ioniq 5, which is expected to offer superior performance and aesthetics. less
New E-Tron GT Quattro EV Review; Audi's Answer to the Taycan and Tesla S Plaid
The Audi e-Tron GT Quattro is presented as a visually stunning and dynamically capable electric sedan, aiming to rival the Porsche Taycan and Tesla Mo... moredel S Plaid. The reviewer praises its aggressive styling, particularly the pronounced haunches and concave bonnet, likening its side profile to the Fisker Karma and calling it one of Audi's best-looking cars. While the driving dynamics are commended, with excellent grip and stability even on wet roundabouts, the reviewer notes the optional adaptive air suspension and the shared J1 platform with the Taycan. The interior is described as conventional Audi quality, with a notable leather-free option using sustainable materials. However, the car is criticized for its limited practicality, being more of a four-seater with a shallow boot, and its real-world range is significantly lower than its predicted WLTP figure, especially when driven enthusiastically. The reviewer highlights Tesla's continued advantage in range and charging infrastructure as a major hurdle for non-Tesla EVs like the e-Tron GT, despite the Audi's impressive performance and design. less
Your Project Cars and Shed Builds! Projects of the People Part 3
This episode of The Late Brake Show's 'Projects of the People' series showcases an impressive array of viewer-submitted custom vehicles... more. Host Jonny Smith expresses delight at the sheer variety and enthusiasm on display, ranging from iconic 80s estates like the BMW E30 Touring and Volvo 240 GLT, to a potent TVR Griffith 500 V8, and classic Fords like the Mk1 Escort. The collection also features a 15-year-old's ambitious Fiat Siecento project aiming for a Subaru WRX conversion, a heavily modified BMW M3 E36 convertible, and unique truck builds including a Honda Acty and a Chevrolet El Camino race truck. The episode concludes with a Vauxhall Nova Sting and a classic VW Beetle Karmann Cabriolet. The overarching theme is the deep personal connection owners have with their project cars, highlighting their dedication, creativity, and passion for automotive modification and preservation. less
Your Project Cars and Shed Builds! Projects of the People Part 2
This episode of 'Projects of the People' showcases a diverse collection of enthusiast-owned vehicles, highlighting the passion and dedicatio... moren of car builders. The featured builds range from classic air-cooled Volkswagens and a unique Trabant to a 1974 Tatra 603 with an air-cooled V8, and a 1984 VW Scirocco that was converted to electric power in 2002. The video also includes a rare Gilera CX125 motorcycle, a 1977 Moto Morini 3 1/2 Sport, a Leyland Princess, a US-spec Range Rover TWR Edition, a 1992 Mini, a Honda Acty pickup, a 1970 VW Beetle, a 1996 Honda Civic VTi track car, and a Lancia Beta Montecarlo. The collection emphasizes the personal stories behind each project, from barn finds and long-term ownerships to ambitious conversions and restorations. The host expresses admiration for the variety and enthusiasm, finding inspiration in the viewers' projects. less
Live Q&A and Car Pub Quiz 1
This video features the first 'Late Brake Show Live Q&A and Car Quiz,' hosted by Jonny Smith. The event combines a pub-style car quiz wi... moreth audience Q&A sessions. The quiz covers various rounds, including old car trivia, new car trivia, badges, and cars in film and TV, with bonus questions provided by Richard Porter. The Q&A segment addresses audience questions on topics ranging from car ownership models and EV conversion to future classic EVs and personal car ownership regrets. While the content is engaging and informative for car enthusiasts, the primary focus is on the quiz and interactive elements rather than a deep dive into a specific vehicle. The host's personality and interaction with the audience are central to the video's appeal. less
Your Project Cars and Shed Builds! Projects of the People Part 1
This episode of The Late Brake Show, 'Projects of the People Part 1,' showcases a diverse collection of viewer-submitted car and moped build... mores. Host Jonny Smith expresses delight at the variety and enthusiasm presented. The segment features a Vauxhall-engined Mk2 Escort restomod with custom suspension and a Mazda RX-8 gearbox, a BMW 1602 imported from Greece now featuring an E30 M3 engine, and a modified 1978 Honda Express moped, with plans for an electric conversion. Other highlights include a custom Austin Mini with a tuned engine and bespoke interior, a 1972 Alfa Romeo Giulia Super focused on driving dynamics, a 1966 VW Beetle undergoing continuous mechanical work, a sentimental BMW E30 Touring with significant rust issues being tackled by its owner, a Honda NS400R superbike undergoing a lengthy restoration, and a 2013 Seat Mii cherished as a first new car and business tool. The episode concludes with a special mention of a pre-war Austin special build by individuals with cerebral palsy, emphasizing the creativity and determination in automotive projects. The overall tone is celebratory of the passion and dedication viewers have for their vehicles, regardless of their type or condition. less
The Most JDM Project Car In The World
The Late Brake Show introduces a unique JDM project car: a 2002 Nissan Cedric Y31, formerly a Tokyo taxi. The presenter, Jonny Smith, expresses a fasc... moreination with purpose-built vehicles and acquired this ex-taxi after helping Nissan UK import it years prior. The car, a "Brougham" trim, is noted for its robust "work spec" build, featuring quirky elements like automatic air-powered doors, a taxi meter, and LPG-only operation with a 2.0-litre RB20 straight-six engine producing a modest 82 PS. Smith praises its exceptionally smooth, quiet, and comfortable ride, comparing it to a "flowing kimono." However, he finds the seating position cramped for his height and plans to adjust the seat runners. While the car is in remarkably clean condition for its age and 284,000 km mileage, Smith is contemplating modifications, including suspension, wheels, and potentially an EV conversion, though he is also open to keeping it stock. He highlights the need for chassis rust-proofing due to UK road conditions and intends to replace an aftermarket fog light. The presenter emphasizes his commitment to preserving the authentic taxi features, including the "anti-macassars" (doilies), and seeks viewer input on potential modifications. less
Why Nissan's Ariya EV is a New Tesla Y, VW ID.4 & Ford Mach-E Electric SUV Rival. Detailed Look
The Nissan Ariya emerges as a significant contender in the electric SUV market, aiming to rival established players like the Tesla Model Y, VW ID.4, a... morend Ford Mustang Mach-E. The reviewer highlights its premium interior design, drawing comparisons to the Honda e with its minimalist dashboard featuring haptic controls and dual 12.3-inch screens. The innovative motorized center console and the "lounge-like" cabin ambiance are noted as strong points. Externally, the Ariya adopts a sleek, aerodynamic design, closely mirroring its 2019 concept. Nissan offers a variety of powertrains, including FWD and AWD (e-4orce) options with different battery sizes (63kWh and 87kWh usable). While the FWD 90kWh variant boasts a WLTP range of 310 miles, the "Performance" AWD model, despite its 389 bhp, is rated for 248 miles. A key departure from previous Nissan EVs is the adoption of CCS charging over CHAdeMO, with claims of adding 230 miles of range in 30 minutes at up to 130kW. The absence of a frunk is explained by the relocation of the HVAC system to maximize cabin space. Overall, the Ariya presents a compelling package with a focus on design, interior comfort, and modern EV technology, though specific driving dynamics and real-world range beyond the stated figures remain to be tested. less
Ford Mach-E Real World Detailed Review Of The New Electric EV Mustang SUV
The Ford Mustang Mach-E is presented as Ford's first mass-produced EV, aiming to blend SUV practicality with Mustang's sporty image. The rev... moreiewer finds the car to be a "grower," appreciating its design elements like the rear lights and side profile, though questioning the "mustache" grille surround and the controversial Mustang badge on a crossover. He praises the driving dynamics, noting excellent grip, communicative steering, and a firm but good ride, suggesting it's superior to the Mercedes EQC and Audi e-tron. However, he finds it slightly less compelling than the Jaguar I-Pace, particularly given the price point of the higher trims. Practicality is highlighted with a flat floor and spacious rear seats, but the boot space is noted as smaller than a Tesla Model Y. The interior features a large, Tesla-style tablet, which the reviewer finds a bit too dominant, though he appreciates the physical volume control and permanent climate controls. The reviewer's verdict leans towards recommending the rear-wheel-drive, extended-range battery model, ideally around the £45,000 mark, as higher prices bring it too close to more premium offerings. Overall, he concludes it's a convincing package and a welcome entry for Ford into the EV market. less
Not Driving Home for Christmas in the New Rolls Royce Ghost
Jonny Smith reviews the 2021 Rolls Royce Ghost, a vehicle he dubs the "first driver's car Rolls Royce has ever made." While acknowledgi... moreng its traditional "magic carpet" ride quality, Smith highlights the new Ghost's significant improvement in handling, attributed to its AWD, all-wheel steering, and advanced suspension systems like the Planar system. He praises the "library levels of silence" achieved through extensive soundproofing and the luxurious, bespoke interior, particularly the "starlight headliner" and analog controls. However, he notes the V12 engine's 18mpg economy as a drawback and questions if the car should be an EV. Despite the initial disappointment of not being able to drive it home for Christmas, Smith is deeply impressed by the Ghost's blend of refinement, comfort, and newfound dynamic capability, concluding it's a "hell of a piece of work" and eagerly anticipates a future electric Rolls Royce. less
Jonny's Best of 2020 EVs, Classics, Restomods and Interviews
This video serves as a comprehensive year-end review for The Late Brake Show, highlighting Jonny Smith's favorite moments and vehicles from 2020.... more The content is broadly categorized into EVs, project cars (both personal and others'), special car culture features, and 'Idol Chat' interviews. The EV segment showcases a variety of electric vehicles, from the popular Honda e and Polestar 2 to the more niche Citroen Ami and classic Mini conversions. Project cars range from a Honda S600 coupe and a classic Mini EV to a Dodge Charger and an Aston Martin drag car, demonstrating a passion for restoration and modification. Special features include a unique jeweled Ford Escort and an electric Land Rover Defender. The 'Idol Chat' series features in-depth interviews with notable figures like Ian Callum, Chris Harris, Jason Plato, and Matt Neal, offering insights into their lives and careers. The video concludes with a look back at the year's content and a promise of continued variety in 2021. less
Jonny's Live Late Brake Show Christmas Q&A
This is a live Q&A session with Jonny Smith, founder of The Late Brake Show, which, despite a chaotic technical start, turned into an engaging and... more unexpectedly successful event. Smith addresses a wide range of viewer questions, covering topics from the viability of hydrogen cars (concluding they're better suited for commercial vehicles) to personal anecdotes about selling his Hondas due to mortgage issues. He expresses a desire for more cool electric estate cars and a modern take on the BMW Isetta. Smith also shares his dream garage, featuring a Panther Six and a TVR Speed 12, and discusses his favorite car and interview experiences of 2020, highlighting the Aston Martin dragster and a Honda Civic. The review touches upon the practicality of estates over SUVs and offers opinions on various car brands and restoration projects. The session underscores the growing importance of YouTube as a platform for automotive content and Smith's appreciation for his audience's engagement. less
Why the New Citroen Ami is the EV City Bubble Car 14 Year Olds Can Drive
The Citroen Ami is presented not as a traditional car, but as a "sans permis" quadricycle, legally drivable in France from age 14. The revie... morewer, Jonny Smith, highlights its utilitarian chic, drawing parallels to Citroen's historical ethos. While acknowledging its limitations – a 45 kph (26 mph) top speed and a modest 43-mile range – he praises its practicality for city use and short shuttle runs. The interior is noted for its simple, easy-to-clean materials and surprising cabin space, though it lacks integrated tech, relying on the user's phone. Compared to rivals like the Renault Twizy, the Ami is deemed more desirable in adverse weather and significantly cheaper. Despite its basic nature and lack of performance, the reviewer finds it fun and innovative, particularly appreciating its symmetrical design for cost-efficiency and ease of repair. The Ami's potential to offer accessible mobility, especially for younger generations or those seeking alternatives to traditional car ownership, is a key takeaway. less
New 2021 Fiat 500e EV Drive Review
Jonny Smith of The Late Brake Show delivers a comprehensive review of the 2021 Fiat 500e, highlighting its stylish retro design and significant improv... moreements over its predecessor. He notes the car is larger, made in Italy, and exclusively electric, setting it apart from the older combustion engine models. The review details two battery options: the 23.7kWh 'City' with 115 miles WLTP range and the 42kWh 'Long Range' with 199 miles WLTP range. Smith praises the 'La Prima' trim's features, including Level 2 autonomy and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen. He finds the driving experience enjoyable, particularly the one-pedal driving in 'Range' mode, though he notes the steering is light and geared towards city use. While acknowledging its charm and improved practicality, Smith points out that the Mini Electric offers a more luxurious interior and sharper drive, and the Honda e captivates with its design. He also mentions the Renault Zoe as a strong, value-oriented alternative. The pricing of the 500e, especially the Long Range version, is noted as being in a 'danger zone' close to rivals, making the decision difficult. Ultimately, Smith believes the 500e successfully broadens the appeal of EVs to a wider audience, making it a strong contender despite tough competition. less