TheSmokingTire is the premier destination for automotive video reviews and adventures, hosted by Matt Farah and Zack Klapman. This channel offers an unfiltered look at the automotive world, delivering content directly from their insights to the viewer.
Specializing in in-depth reviews and real-world driving experiences, TheSmokingTire covers a wide range of vehicles, including high-performance sports cars and innovative electric models. Their commitment to authentic automotive journalism makes it a must-watch for enthusiasts seeking genuine perspectives on the latest in car technology and performance.
Specializing in in-depth reviews and real-world driving experiences, TheSmokingTire covers a wide range of vehicles, including high-performance sports cars and innovative electric models. Their commitment to authentic automotive journalism makes it a must-watch for enthusiasts seeking genuine perspectives on the latest in car technology and performance.
Here's Why The Production Cybertruck Is A Failure
The Smoking Tire's review of the Tesla Cybertruck is overwhelmingly negative, labeling the production version a failure. The reviewer criticizes its design for compromising practicality, citing poor build quality with "atrocious" panel gaps and misaligned body panels. Significant concerns are rai...
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Farah: My Honest Review of the New 911 Turbo S T-Hybrid
Matt Farah provides an in-depth review of the new Porsche 911 Turbo S T-Hybrid, highlighting its significant leap in performance driven by novel hybri... mored technology. He praises the car's immense power (701 hp, 590 lb-ft) and incredibly wide power band, facilitated by twin electric turbos and a 400V hybrid system that also enhances ride comfort and body control. The acceleration is described as astonishing, with the reviewer betting Porsche sandbags the official 0-60 times. While acknowledging its track prowess and luxury features, Farah notes the Turbo S has become the heaviest ever, with the convertible crossing the 4,000 lb mark. He finds the car almost too capable and composed, likening it to a "driving robot" that masks its extreme speed, making it less engaging for him personally compared to more raw 911 variants. The primary downsides identified are its weight, complexity, and high price point, though its versatility as a daily driver, road trip car, and track weapon is undeniable. less
What's The New Porsche 992.2 GTS T-Hybrid Like to Live With Every Day?
This video explores the daily usability of the new 992.2 Porsche 911 GTS T-Hybrid, moving beyond track impressions to assess its practicality as a sol... moree vehicle over a week. The reviewer focuses on the real-world experience of living with the hybrid powertrain, evaluating whether it enhances or detracts from the ownership desire. While the transcript is empty, the title and description indicate a deep dive into the daily driving aspects of this new hybrid model, contrasting with previous circuit-focused reviews. The content aims to provide a comprehensive perspective for potential owners considering this performance hybrid for everyday use. less
Recalls, Upgrades, and Killing Range for Looks! - 6 Month Half Price Taycan Update!
Six months into ownership of a used Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo, Matt Farah provides a comprehensive update. The vehicle has proven reliable, with no... more powertrain issues despite over 5,000 miles driven, including a long road trip. However, the infotainment system (PCM) exhibits clunkiness and occasional software glitches, such as resetting favorites and a frustrating loss of the simultaneous Waze and Porsche route planning feature due to an "over-the-air downgrade." The ADAS system also presented phantom steering takeover warnings. Service included addressing recalls (new charge cable, software update) and a $750 brake fluid flush and cabin filter replacement. Modifications, including larger HRE wheels and Turbo fender flares, have enhanced aesthetics significantly, drawing attention and magazine features. While the larger wheels slightly impacted ride quality on sharp edges and marginally reduced highway range (approx. 5%), urban range remains unaffected, and the author finds the trade-off worthwhile for the improved looks. The author expresses overall satisfaction with the car's driving dynamics and comfort, particularly in sport mode, and notes minimal brake pad wear due to aggressive regenerative braking. less
The 1000HP Revuelto: Using Tech to Beat Weight (and Keep the V12!)
The Lamborghini Revuelto represents a significant leap forward, successfully integrating a potent V12 with a sophisticated three-motor hybrid system t... moreo produce an astonishing 1000 horsepower. Reviewers highlight its vastly improved usability and comfort compared to predecessors like the Aventador, making it feel smaller and more agile than its considerable weight (over 4,000 lbs) would suggest. The advanced torque-vectoring and suspension systems contribute to exceptional handling, making it the first V12 Lambo deemed suitable and enjoyable for track days. While the hybrid system offers limited EV range, its primary function is to enhance performance and refinement, particularly in the new dual-clutch gearbox. The reviewer praises the car's completeness and accessibility, noting it's a more complete supercar than previous models. The main drawback remains its substantial weight, though the reviewer concludes that from the driver's seat, this is largely overcome by the technology. It's considered a significant improvement even for those who didn't love past V12 Lamborghinis. less
Why the 771 HP Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid Is Still King of the Super Sedans
The Smoking Tire reviews the Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid, highlighting its exceptional performance and luxury blend. The reviewer praises its st... moreaggering 771 horsepower, blistering acceleration (0-60 in 2.8 seconds), and impressive Nürburgring lap time, which rivals dedicated sports cars. The innovative hydraulic Active Ride suspension is a standout feature, providing a ride that is both Rolls-Royce smooth and Cayman agile, with the car capable of leaning into corners or staying perfectly flat. The hybrid system is also commended for its seamless integration, silent electric cruising up to 50 miles, and an impressive 87 mph electric top speed. However, the review notes the car's significant weight (over 5,300 lbs) and the steering feel, which, while improved for its class, can feel disconnected due to the extensive technology. The exorbitant price ($226,000 base) and the impracticality of center-lock wheels for an everyday car are also pointed out as drawbacks. Despite these criticisms, the Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid is deemed a near-perfect luxury powertrain, masterfully merging Porsche's engineering prowess with Bentley-level luxury and ground-covering capability. less
I Bought a Half Price Used Porsche Taycan and Drove it 2,300 Miles Home In Winter!
The Smoking Tire's Zack Klapman embarks on an ambitious 2,300-mile winter road trip from Detroit to Los Angeles in a used 2022 Porsche Taycan Cro... moress Turismo 4, purchased for half its original MSRP. The primary goal is to assess the value proposition of a significantly depreciated luxury EV. Klapman highlights the car's comfortable seats, smooth adaptive cruise control, and the surprisingly effective integration of Porsche's native navigation and Plug & Charge system, which largely mitigated charging anxieties, even in cold weather. However, the journey wasn't without its challenges: cold weather significantly impacted charging speeds, a charging error occurred, and a warning light for the high beams briefly appeared. His wife, Hannah, also noted the uncomfortable brake pedal transition from regen to friction braking and disliked the touchscreen controls for the air vents. Despite these minor hiccups and the inherent inconvenience of EV charging compared to gas refueling, the Taycan proved to be a capable and comfortable long-distance cruiser, ultimately earning a "daily driver status approved" verdict. The experiment aims to prove that well-equipped, depreciated EVs can offer significant value. less
I Tried An Evtol And It Blew My Mind
The reviewer experiences the Pivotal Helix, an electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, highlighting its unique capabilities and the su... morerprisingly accessible training process. Despite not being a licensed pilot, the reviewer successfully learns to operate the vehicle through an intensive 2.5-day program, emphasizing the intuitive, game-like controls. Key takeaways include the aircraft's vertical takeoff and efficient forward flight, its safety features like a ballistic parachute, and its potential applications beyond recreation, such as emergency services. However, the high cost ($200,000) and limited 20-minute battery life are significant drawbacks, making it an expensive novelty for now. The reviewer concludes that while not a "flying car" in the traditional sense, the Helix represents a significant step in personal aviation, making flight more accessible and potentially changing how we perceive short-distance travel. less
The New C63 Is a Technical Achievement No One Asked for or Wants
The new Mercedes-AMG C63 is presented as a technical marvel, boasting a complex hybrid system and a powerful four-cylinder engine. However, the review... more strongly criticizes this direction, deeming it an "undesirable technical achievement." The host expresses significant disappointment, highlighting a numb steering feel, a firm and uncommunicative brake pedal, and a suspension that feels overly stiff and prone to jarring impacts. While acknowledging the car's immense power (671 hp) and impressive acceleration from a standstill due to its hybrid system, the reviewer notes it's slower in key metrics than less powerful competitors like the M3 CS. The interior, though spacious and featuring nice design elements, is criticized for using hard plastics in lower-trim areas, which feels incongruous with its price point. Ultimately, the C63 is described as lacking the "attitude" and "spice" that defined previous generations, failing to deliver the excitement and driver engagement enthusiasts expect, leading to a conclusion that it's a "technical achievement" that misses the mark for its target audience. less
The Ultimate Porsche Compilation
This compilation showcases a range of Porsche's most iconic and capable vehicles, with a particular focus on the legendary 959 and the new 911 Da... morekar. The 959 is lauded for its groundbreaking technology and surprisingly refined driving experience, offering immense power and all-wheel-drive capability that still impresses decades later, though its astronomical maintenance costs are a significant drawback. The 911 Dakar is presented as a revelation, transforming the 911 into a highly capable off-road machine that retains impressive on-road dynamics. The reviewer highlights its clever engineering, robust build, and the sheer fun it offers in loose conditions, making it a unique and desirable proposition. The 992 GTS Cabriolet is reviewed as a versatile daily driver and road trip companion, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and open-air enjoyment, though the GTS trim is deemed more suited for spirited weekend driving than the S for everyday commuting. Finally, the Macan T is examined as a surprisingly capable and engaging crossover, proving that even with a four-cylinder engine and a focus on handling, it can deliver a true Porsche driving experience, offering excellent value and surprising fun for its segment. less
Lucid Sapphire Vs Semi Truck?
The Lucid Sapphire is lauded as a monumental achievement in performance electric sedans, boasting an astonishing 1,234 horsepower and an 8-second quar... moreter-mile time. The review highlights its exceptional chassis dynamics, comparing it favorably to established super-sedans. The road trip portion revealed that the Sapphire retains much of the regular Lucid Air's comfort, with excellent seats and a compliant ride despite its performance focus. However, the navigation system proved unreliable, and the proximity door locks remained a mystery. On the track, the Sapphire demonstrated incredible composure and speed, with its advanced traction control and braking systems working overtime. Despite its impressive capabilities and efficiency, the reviewer noted a significant drawback: the lack of auditory feedback, which diminishes the overall sensory experience of driving at the limit, making it feel digitized and less sensational than traditional performance cars. While acknowledging the engineering marvel, the reviewer questioned if this digitized, albeit impressive, experience is what enthusiasts truly seek for weekend recreation. less
Can a Hybrid 911 Possibly Be Great to Drive?
The Smoking Tire's Matt Farah addresses the controversial introduction of a hybrid powertrain to the Porsche 911, specifically the 992.2 GTS. Far... moreah drives both the all-wheel-drive convertible and the rear-wheel-drive coupe variants, highlighting the new 1.9 kWh battery, dual electric motors (one in the PDK, one in the single turbocharger), and the resulting 532 horsepower output. He notes the hybrid system significantly improves low-speed drivability by eliminating the 'bogging' issue in normal mode and provides virtually instant boost thanks to the electric-spooled turbo. On the track, the hybrid system is praised for its seamless integration, making the car feel fast and agile without overtly betraying its hybrid nature. While acknowledging the added weight (103 lbs) and complexity, Farah deems the trade-off worthwhile for the gains in power, smoothness, and efficiency, particularly at higher speeds. The primary drawbacks identified are the significantly increased price, pushing the GTS into territory typically reserved for Turbo or GT3 models, and potential long-term reliability concerns for future owners due to the added complexity. Despite these points, Farah concludes that the hybrid 911 is a genuinely fast and capable machine, offering a compelling, albeit expensive, daily-driver experience. less
Why I Won't Be Buying an Ioniq5N
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N is presented as a highly versatile performance EV, capable of mimicking a traditional ICE powertrain with its synthetic manual g... moreearbox and over 600 horsepower. While dynamic performance on both track and canyon roads is lauded, with praise for its grip, steering feedback, and the innovative "gear" simulation, the review highlights significant drawbacks. The primary criticism centers on the overwhelming and confusing adjustability of vehicle settings, leading to menu bloat and difficulty in managing configurations. Additionally, the car's considerable weight (4,800 lbs) becomes apparent in tighter, slower corners, and the suspension occasionally bottoms out due to limited travel. Despite its impressive dynamic capabilities, which the reviewer suggests surpass the Porsche Macan EV in sheer sportiness, the Ioniq 5 N's complexity and the wife's preference for the more user-friendly and comfortable Macan ultimately lead the reviewer to hesitate on purchasing one, despite acknowledging its groundbreaking potential for enthusiast EVs. less
Turbo vs "Turbo" | 2024 Porsche Macan Turbo Electric
The 2024 Porsche Macan Turbo Electric marks Porsche's bold entry into the luxury electric crossover segment, offering a compelling blend of perfo... morermance and practicality. The reviewer highlights the Turbo's immense power, with 630 HP and 833 lb-ft of torque, enabling a blistering 3.1-second 0-60 mph time. Key strengths include the seamless integration of regenerative braking and rear-wheel steering, which remain largely invisible to the driver, contributing to effortless high-speed cornering. The interior receives praise for its clear, adjustable curved gauge display and the welcome inclusion of physical buttons and a volume knob. However, the reviewer notes that the steering feel is somewhat disconnected compared to other Porsche EVs, and the ride can be slightly jarring over small imperfections, possibly due to the 22-inch wheels. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Macan Turbo Electric is presented as a highly capable and enjoyable daily driver, potentially surpassing its gasoline counterpart in overall refinement and performance sensation, especially for home charging convenience. less
Here's Why The Production Cybertruck Is A Failure
The Smoking Tire's review of the Tesla Cybertruck is overwhelmingly negative, labeling the production version a failure. The reviewer criticizes ... moreits design for compromising practicality, citing poor build quality with "atrocious" panel gaps and misaligned body panels. Significant concerns are raised about pedestrian safety due to the sharp edges and the vehicle's inability to meet European safety standards. Practicality issues include a high bed rail that hinders access, a sharp edge on the tailgate that can cause injury, and a useless rear-view mirror when the tonneau cover is closed. The reviewer also points out that the Cybertruck is more expensive and offers less range and towing capacity than initially promised, with features like a limited-slip differential only arriving via software updates months after release. While acknowledging innovative features like steer-by-wire and the 48v system, the reviewer argues these don't necessitate the radical design, which ultimately leads to poor execution and a vehicle that fails to serve traditional truck functions effectively, deeming it an underdeveloped "fashion statement" or "meme" rather than a functional evolution of the pickup truck. less
Hyundai Ioniq 5 N Review
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N is hailed as the best electric vehicle the reviewer has ever driven, primarily for its engaging and enthusiast-focused driving d... moreynamics. Despite employing synthetic engine sounds and a simulated gearbox, the reviewer found these elements crucial to creating a proper sports car feel, even when compared to significantly more expensive EVs. The car excels on track, offering impressive performance, a playful chassis, and the ability to maintain composure even when breaking traction. The reviewer praises its sharp steering, adaptive suspension (especially in a softer setting), and powerful brakes. However, the extensive menu system for customization is noted as overly complex and overwhelming, requiring significant time to navigate and set up preferred modes. Despite its 4,800 lb weight, the Ioniq 5 N feels significantly lighter and more agile than expected, delivering a truly fun and communicative driving experience that sets it apart in the EV market. less
The $580k Rolls Royce Spectre Is Finally an EV Roller - But You Wouldn't Notice
The Rolls-Royce Spectre, the brand's first all-electric offering, is reviewed as an "obvious" progression for the marque, aligning with... more its inherent characteristics of weight, torque, and quietness. The reviewer highlights the Spectre's "ridiculously opulent" interior, praising the luxurious use of physical buttons and knobs, a deliberate choice for timelessness in high-end vehicles. Despite its immense size (longer and heavier than the Cullinan SUV), the Spectre offers a "yachting"-like ride, enhanced by advanced suspension that disconnects sway bars for straight-line comfort. However, the reviewer notes a surprisingly average audio system and some jarring "hard edges" in the ride, attributed to its substantial weight and large rims. The electric powertrain, with 577 hp and 664 lb-ft of torque, provides instant acceleration but results in a real-world range of 250-290 miles, which is considered modest for its battery size. A significant point of contention is the social aspect: the reviewer feels intensely self-conscious driving the Spectre in public, attracting unwanted attention and judgment, making it feel more like a home-charging luxury item than a road-trip companion. The reviewer concludes that while it's a true Rolls-Royce experience, the electric transition is incremental rather than revolutionary, and the car's defining characteristic remains its exorbitant price and the social statement it makes. less
The 2024 Porsche Panamera Turbo E-Hybrid Can't Beat Physics, But Gets Awfully Close
The 2024 Porsche Panamera Turbo E-Hybrid represents a significant leap in luxury sedan dynamics, particularly with its groundbreaking Porsche Active R... moreide suspension. This fully active hydraulic system, which adjusts up to 13 times per second, allows the car to remain remarkably flat during aggressive cornering, braking, and acceleration, making it feel much lighter than its considerable weight suggests. The reviewer highlights the system's ability to optimize tire contact patch and provide a precise, sorted feel, akin to a 911. The integrated e-motor, producing 187 horsepower, contributes to a combined output of 670 horsepower and enables impressive electric-only range (58 miles) and even an e-launch feature. While the car's performance on track is lauded as exceptional, the reviewer notes that the advanced suspension is an optional extra, with the standard air suspension being merely 'nice' in comparison. The interior features the new cockpit design, and comfort-focused features like active tilt and pitch control are designed to reduce G-force effects on passengers, making the ride more comfortable, especially in the rear. Despite its expected high price point (likely over $200,000 with options), the Panamera Turbo E-Hybrid is praised for its incremental improvements, new styling, and outstanding performance on both street and track. less
Kia EV6 GT: Funnest EV You Can Buy For Under $100k?
The Kia EV6 GT is lauded as a standout performance EV bargain under $100k, delivering exceptional speed with 576 horsepower and a communicative, playf... moreul chassis. The reviewer praises its outstanding body control, smooth ride even over bumps, responsive steering, and effective stability control, noting it impressed even alongside more expensive performance EVs like the Porsche Taycan and BMW i4 M50. However, the GT trim is criticized for its poor efficiency (2.8 miles/kWh) compared to other EVs, leading to a real-world range of around 200 miles, which is a significant drawback for the reviewer. Additionally, the manual seats are a deal-breaker for his family's needs, despite loving the car's performance and driving dynamics. The reviewer suggests a lower trim EV6 might be a better family option, but the GT's specific performance features like adaptive dampers and quicker steering are highly desirable. less
Can a Sports Car Company Make an SUV? 2024 Lotus Eletre S Review
The 2024 Lotus Eletre S represents a significant departure for the brand, venturing into the luxury EV SUV segment. While it may not embody the tradit... moreional Lotus ethos of lightness, the Eletre S impresses with its technological integration and comfortable ride, thanks to its standard air suspension and adaptive dampers. The reviewer highlights its slippery aerodynamics, contributing to a competitive 370-mile range from its 105kWh battery, and praises the exceptional Dolby Atmos stereo system. However, the steering lacks significant feedback, and the absence of a one-pedal driving mode, even with high regen settings, is noted as a programming choice rather than a technical limitation. The Eletre R variant offers more potent acceleration with launch control. Despite the identity questions, the Eletre S is deemed a premium product and a necessary step for Lotus's survival and future sports car development, especially given its luxurious interior and advanced infotainment system. less
Too Far? | 2024 AMG S63 E-Performance
The 2024 Mercedes-AMG S63 E-Performance is a technological marvel, blending F1-derived hybrid power with the flagship S-Class luxury sedan. The review... moreer highlights its astonishing acceleration, with a combined 791 horsepower and 1055 pound-feet of torque, making it feel significantly lighter than its 5700-pound curb weight suggests. Key positives include the immense, seamless thrust, impressive agility for its size, and a sophisticated all-wheel-drive system managed by an electric motor and differential. However, the reviewer notes drawbacks such as a less-than-ideal nine-speed automatic transmission for spirited driving, a slightly firm ride on 21-inch wheels that compromises the expected S-Class serenity, and subtle interior creaks. The hybrid system's charging strategy, limiting full battery charge while driving, and the rear-steer implementation, which feels less refined than competitors, are also mentioned. Ultimately, while it excels as a "double XL size sports car" with incredible performance, it sacrifices some of the pure luxury and isolation expected from an S-Class, making it a "performance car first, luxury car second" proposition. less
Why the Latest Plug-In Hybrids Are Better Than Long-Range EVs
This video pits the Polestar 2 EV against the Volvo XC60 Recharge plug-in hybrid, exploring the viability of each for daily use and longer trips. The ... morereviewer highlights the significant charging infrastructure challenges and range anxiety associated with EVs, particularly for those without home charging. The Volvo XC60 Recharge impresses with its substantial electric-only range (38 miles) and the seamless integration of its gasoline engine, offering flexibility without the need for constant public charging. The Polestar 2, while a performance-oriented EV with impressive handling and power, suffers from the same public charging woes. The editorial conclusion favors the plug-in hybrid's practicality, flexibility, and reduced reliance on the public charging network, positioning it as a more sensible option for many consumers navigating the transition away from traditional internal combustion engines, especially given the current state of charging infrastructure. less
The Hummer EV SUV | A Bacon-flavored Veggie
The 2024 GMC Hummer EV SUV, specifically the Edition 1 trim, is a polarizing vehicle that GM aims to use as an EV gateway. While it boasts impressive ... moreacceleration (0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds) and remarkable maneuverability thanks to its 10-degree rear steer and advanced technology, it falls short in key areas. The reviewer highlights significant braking issues, with a stopping distance comparable to a heavy-duty truck, and a surprisingly unrefined interior for its price point, feeling more like a Wrangler than a luxury SUV. Range is also a concern, with an estimated 300 miles falling short of competitors like the Rivian. Despite its colossal size, the Hummer EV SUV handles surprisingly well, but its width and off-road tires compromise on-road grip. The reviewer notes loud wind and tire noise at highway speeds and a subpar audio system. Ultimately, while the Hummer EV SUV is a technological marvel and a strong statement piece, its practicality and refinement are questionable, especially when compared to more upscale and efficient rivals. less
Ford Mach-E 2 Year Long Term Ownership Update + Road Trip!
After two years and over 16,000 miles, the Ford Mustang Mach-E Premium Long Range RWD proves to be a capable and well-built electric vehicle, particul... morearly for daily use. The reviewer highlights its excellent fit and finish, premium interior materials, and smooth, quiet ride, noting that these aspects have held up remarkably well. However, the ownership experience is not without its frustrations. Persistent issues with Apple CarPlay connectivity, occasional glitches with the FordPass app, and a finicky auto-emergency braking system that can activate unexpectedly at low speeds are noted drawbacks. Public charging infrastructure remains a significant concern, with the road trip revealing unreliable charging speeds and connectivity problems, leading to "infrastructure anxiety" rather than range anxiety. Despite these electronic and charging network challenges, the reviewer concludes that the Mach-E is a "good egg" and a practical daily driver that works better than most gasoline cars for city commuting, and is acceptable, if not perfect, for occasional road trips. The reviewer also clarifies that many of the teething problems experienced were specific to early 2021 models and have likely been resolved in newer versions. less
Less Power for More Money? 2023 Lucid Air GT Performance
The 2023 Lucid Air Grand Touring Performance presents a compelling, albeit expensive, proposition for luxury EV buyers seeking a blend of performance,... more comfort, and distinctive design. While it boasts an impressive 1,050 horsepower and a smooth, engaging driving experience that rivals top-tier EVs, it comes at a significant cost premium over its predecessor, the Dream Edition, with a slight reduction in power and range. The reviewer highlights the car's exceptional ride quality and agile handling, attributing it to a Lotus-inspired chassis tuning. The interior is praised for its high-quality materials, spaciousness, and pleasant ambiance, creating a spa-like feel. However, the review points out several persistent issues, including unpredictable proximity locking/unlocking, a non-disableable lane-keeping assist that can be intrusive, and a dual-screen infotainment system with illogical functionality. While the powertrain and chassis are considered excellent, and the computers are faster than previous iterations, the fitment of panels and some tech quirks remain areas for improvement, suggesting that early adopters willing to overlook these inconsistencies will find a unique and enjoyable luxury EV. less