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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The 2020 Polestar One Is The Most Exotic Car I've Driven This Year - One Take
The 2020 Polestar 1 is presented as a highly exotic and visually striking hybrid performance car, distinct from its Volvo origins despite sharing some... more interior elements. The reviewer highlights its stunning design and the significant attention it garners, likening its street presence to that of a supercar. Key strengths include its powerful 619 horsepower hybrid powertrain, extensive 75-mile EV range, and sophisticated chassis control, particularly the Olin's adjustable dampers which provide excellent body control over bumps. The car's carbon fiber construction contributes to a low center of gravity despite its considerable weight. However, criticisms include an "echoey" interior, a lack of passion from the twin-charged gasoline engine, and steering that feels "digital" and uncommunicative. The reviewer also found the lane-keeping assist to be overly invasive and the tires to be a potential weak point, leading to squealing under spirited driving. Ultimately, the Polestar 1 is lauded as a "fabulous automobile" offering exotic car appeal and performance for its price, though the reviewer expresses a strong dislike for the brand name "Polestar" itself. less
The Porsche Taycan 4S Is a 560HP, Long Range, Electric Super Sedan - One Take
The 2021 Porsche Taycan 4S is presented as the more "reasonable" yet still exceptionally capable electric sedan from Porsche. The reviewer h... moreighlights its "bonkers performance stats" with a claimed 562 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque when equipped with the optional 93 kWh "performance battery plus." The vehicle's handling is lauded, particularly its ability to maintain composure through corners even with eco-focused tires, and the low center of gravity contributes to its dynamic prowess. A significant positive is the accessible performance, which remains consistent regardless of battery charge level, unlike some competitors. The reviewer also notes the unique "space Jetsons noises" as a distinctive and appealing characteristic. On the downside, the Taycan 4S lacks one-pedal driving capability, a feature found in Teslas, and the reviewer found it challenging to maintain reasonable highway speeds due to the car's refinement and quietness, with a comfortable cruising speed often exceeding posted limits. The base price of $110,000 is considered a strong value proposition compared to higher trims. less
The 2020 Volvo XC90 T8 Is a Range Rover Without the Road Rage - One Take
The 2020 Volvo XC90 T8 Inscription is presented as a highly competent and luxurious SUV that successfully blends multiple capabilities. The reviewer p... moreraises its elegant design, exceptionally detailed and high-quality interior, and advanced plug-in hybrid powertrain. The T8's combined 400 horsepower and 472 lb-ft of torque, along with approximately 20 miles of EV-only range, are highlighted as significant strengths. The reviewer particularly commends the comfortable seats, smooth ride enhanced by optional air suspension, and the pragmatic approach to performance, focusing on real-world usability (0-70 mph) rather than extreme top-end speed. While acknowledging the touchscreen responsiveness could be slightly improved compared to some competitors, the reviewer finds the overall user interface intuitive, especially for accessing driver aids. The vehicle is positioned as a sensible, high-value alternative to more ostentatious luxury SUVs, offering a serene and refined experience for everyday driving and family transport. less
The Volvo V60 Polestar Engineered Is Fast, Good-Looking, and Economical All At Once - One Take
The 2020 Volvo V60 Polestar Engineered is presented as a versatile performance wagon, aiming to be practical, luxurious, economical, and sporty. The r... moreeviewer highlights its complex hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.0L turbo and supercharged engine with electric motors, producing 415 hp and 494 lb-ft of torque. While capable of 22-23 miles of EV-only range and offering a 0-60 mph time of 4.4 seconds, the reviewer notes its significant weight (4,522 lbs) makes it slightly slower than its predecessor and comparable to a C5 Corvette. Key positives include the standard Öhlins adjustable dampers, excellent ride quality, confidence-inspiring handling on wet roads, and exceptionally comfortable seats, rivaling luxury SUVs. The reviewer praises its usability as an everyday car, especially in the city with its EV mode, and the intelligent hybrid system that mitigates range anxiety. However, criticisms include a distant steering feel, unresponsive paddle shifters, and a powertrain that sounds like mere "air movement." The reviewer also points out the high price ($68,000) and a non-intuitive shifter. Despite not being faster than the previous generation, the reviewer concludes it's a "much better car" overall, excelling in efficiency, ride, interior quality, and daily usability. less
What It's Like to Drive a 350 HP 911 With a 150 HP Aftermarket Hybrid System! - One Take
This video review explores the VONNEN Shadow Drive, an aftermarket hybrid system for Porsche 911, Boxster, and Cayman models from 2009 onwards. The sy... morestem adds approximately 150 horsepower and torque by integrating an electric motor where the flywheel was, along with a front-mounted battery and control unit. The reviewer highlights the system's seamless integration, noting that the car's original ECU is unaware of the modification. While impressed by the added power, especially in the mid-range, and the regenerative braking capabilities, the reviewer points out the significant $75,000 price tag as a major drawback, making it potentially less valuable than upgrading to a factory Turbo model. The system's reversibility and modularity are noted as positives. Ultimately, the reviewer expresses admiration for the technological achievement and its potential, despite the current cost-prohibitive nature for most buyers. less
The 2020 Porsche Taycan Turbo S Is Probably Too Fast - One Take
The 2020 Porsche Taycan Turbo S is hailed as a driver's EV, designed by motorsport enthusiasts for an enhanced driving experience rather than mer... moree transportation. Its revolutionary 800V architecture enables faster charging and efficient thermal management, integrating heating and cooling systems for optimal performance. The reviewer highlights the Taycan's "bonkers pace" and "seriousness of build quality," making it a strong contender for the best production EV. While acceleration is described as "bonsai fast" with impressive handling and grip, the reviewer notes the need for more driver focus due to the immense speed and the necessity of using the brakes like a traditional gasoline car, unlike the one-pedal driving of a Tesla. The interior is praised for its Porsche-like feel, excellent steering, and adjustable suspension, though a minor bug with Siri integration and a slight concern about brake fade on aggressive downhill driving are mentioned. Despite its high price point, the Taycan Turbo S is considered a "real Porsche" that successfully blends performance, comfort, and a connection to the driving experience. less
Tesla Model 3 Performance: Quickest EV Under $99k? - One Take
The Tesla Model 3 Performance is lauded for its exhilarating acceleration and dynamic handling, making it a thrilling option for spirited driving. The... more reviewer highlights its impressive 0-60 time of just over three seconds and its planted feel, attributing this to the dual-motor AWD system and upgraded components like the suspension, brakes, and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires. The interior fit and finish are noted as the best seen from Tesla, with excellent UI responsiveness and practical storage solutions. However, the reviewer criticizes the artificial steering feel and the brakes, while effective, are not deemed amazing. A significant point of contention is the car's perceived disposability; the reviewer argues that Teslas, particularly this performance variant, are designed for leasing and short-term use rather than long-term ownership, likening them to advanced appliances that will eventually be replaced. The reviewer also expresses skepticism about Tesla's full self-driving capabilities, finding them more distracting than helpful and advocating for a more safety-focused 'parallel autonomy' approach. Despite these reservations, the car's performance and daily usability, especially within an urban environment, are appreciated, leading to a surprising temptation to lease one. less
2020 BMW i8 Roadster - One Take
The 2020 BMW i8 Roadster is presented as a revolutionary plug-in hybrid sports car, but the review highlights significant shortcomings that render it ... moresomewhat obsolete. While the carbon tub construction and advanced technology were groundbreaking in 2014, they feel dated in 2020. The reviewer criticizes the unrefined hybrid powertrain, where the three-cylinder engine frequently kicks in, disrupting the electric driving experience and producing artificial sound. The butterfly doors are deemed impractical, making ingress and egress difficult, especially given the car's width. Despite impressive chassis rigidity and grip, the car's performance is considered underwhelming for its price point and sporty appearance, especially when compared to more focused sports cars or even other hybrids like the Chevy Volt in terms of efficiency. The reviewer suggests a future iteration should be a pure EV, addressing the current model's identity crisis as neither a truly refined EV nor a powerful gasoline sports car. The inability to lower the window fully is cited as a particularly egregious oversight. less
I Don't Understand the 2019 Lexus UX250h F - One Take
The 2019 Lexus UX250h F-Sport is positioned as an entry-level luxury hybrid crossover, aiming to attract buyers seeking a step up from mainstream bran... moreds like Toyota. The reviewer highlights its comfortable ride, refined interior materials, and excellent fuel economy (41 MPG combined) as key strengths, particularly for city driving. However, the F-Sport trim, while starting at $36,000, can escalate to $43,500 with options, a price point the reviewer questions given the car's performance limitations (0-60 in 8.6 seconds with 181 combined horsepower) and the questionable value of certain packages like the Luxury package. The infotainment touchpad is criticized for being overly sensitive and prone to skipping, though hard buttons and steering wheel controls offer a workaround. While the interior feels premium, the exterior design is deemed polarizing with excessive angles and the controversial addition of unpainted plastic fender flares. Ultimately, the reviewer suggests that while the UX250h offers a more luxurious and relaxed experience than a Prius, its high price for the performance and practicality offered makes the value proposition debatable when compared to competitors like the Audi Q3 or BMW X1, especially considering the minimal long-term fuel savings over non-hybrid rivals. less
2019 Jaguar iPace - One Take
The 2019 Jaguar iPace EV400 is presented as a compelling luxury EV alternative to Tesla, praised for its beautiful design (save for the rear hatch), r... moreefined ride quality, and engaging driving dynamics that feel distinctly Jaguar. The reviewer highlights its smooth, powerful acceleration, especially from 20-80 mph, and excellent steering feedback compared to Teslas. Interior materials and build quality are deemed exceptional, rivaling traditional Jaguar standards. However, the review is significantly marred by severe criticism of the public charging infrastructure, which is described as a "complete disaster" leading to "massive range anxiety" and inconvenient, expensive charging experiences. The infotainment system's touchscreen responsiveness and integration with CarPlay are also noted as slow and problematic, though a home charging solution is acknowledged as mitigating many of the vehicle's drawbacks for daily use. Despite these issues, the iPace is considered a "very exciting option" for those seeking a well-built luxury EV outside the Tesla ecosystem, provided they have reliable home charging. less
2019 Acura NSX - One Take
The 2019 Acura NSX is revisited as a compelling, albeit underappreciated, supercar that balances staggering performance with daily usability. The revi... moreewer highlights significant updates for 2019, including standard premium audio, revised suspension tuning, recalibrated hybrid systems, and new Continental tires, all aimed at enhancing response and track performance, reportedly shaving two seconds off the Suzuka lap time. Despite these improvements, the reviewer notes that the changes are subtle and difficult to discern from the driver's seat. Positives include its incredible speed, forgiving nature, direct steering, seamless power delivery, and unique styling. However, criticisms are leveled at the uncomfortable seating position for longer drives, the wide and dirt-attracting door sills, a small and oddly shaped rear trunk (lacking a frunk), and disappointing real-world fuel efficiency (15.8 MPG city), indicating its hybrid system prioritizes performance over economy. Overall, the NSX is praised for retaining its magical driving dynamics and offering exceptional value, delivering 80-90% of a million-dollar supercar for a fraction of the price. less
Tesla Model 3 - One Take
The reviewer finds the 2018 Tesla Model 3 Long Range to be a compelling vehicle, particularly for daily commuting and city use, despite its earlier bu... moreild date. Key strengths highlighted include its refined driving experience, excellent ride quality that balances sportiness with comfort, nimble handling due to a low center of gravity, and a spacious, airy cabin with good visibility. The minimalist interior, centered around a large touchscreen, is praised for its intuitive interface after a short learning curve, with particular commendation for the navigation and climate control systems. The reviewer also appreciates the efficiency and the smooth, stress-free operation of the electric powertrain, noting its surprising quickness for non-performance driving. However, significant drawbacks are identified in the fit and finish, with inconsistent panel gaps being a major concern, and interior material quality being deemed comparable to lower-priced vehicles. The reviewer also notes issues with the key card system when renting through Turo and expresses disappointment with the audio system's performance. Despite these criticisms, the overall verdict is positive, suggesting the Model 3 is an engaging and enjoyable car that offers a unique experience compared to traditional vehicles, making it a worthwhile consideration for car enthusiasts. less
2018 Acura NSX - One Take
The 2018 Acura NSX is presented as a "new new experience" compared to its predecessor, a complex hybrid supercar boasting 570 HP from a twin... more-turbo V6 and three electric motors. The reviewer highlights its advanced all-wheel-drive system, enabled by independent front electric motors, which allows for remarkable torque vectoring and precise handling, minimizing understeer. Despite its 3,800-pound weight, the NSX offers a low center of gravity, tight steering, and a compliant suspension that excels on uneven roads. Positives include its staggering performance, slick gear changes, comfortable interior with ample space, and a unique, engaging driving experience that feels "digital" yet connected. Criticisms are minor, focusing on the low side window line impacting visibility and a peculiar rubber cement smell from the trunk area. The reviewer concludes that while it may not match the practicality of a 911 Turbo S, the NSX offers a spectacular, life-changing driving experience, especially on track, and represents excellent value for its performance level, particularly when compared to more expensive rivals. less
2018 Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid - One Take
The 2018 Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid is presented as a technological marvel, blending supercar performance with impressive efficiency. The revie... morewer highlights its potent 680 horsepower hybrid powertrain, derived from the 918 Spyder, and its ability to deliver astonishing acceleration and handling, even on a racetrack. Key positives include the standard carbon-ceramic brakes with 10-piston front calipers, the effective rear-steer system enhancing agility, and the regenerative braking's surprising ability to replenish battery charge during spirited driving. The reviewer also praises the comfortable ride in comfort mode and the seamless integration of the hybrid system. However, the primary drawbacks identified are the car's significant price tag, complexity, and the unavailability of the Sport Turismo (wagon) body style for the E-Hybrid model. While initially skeptical, the reviewer ultimately comes to appreciate the Panamera's versatility and capability, acknowledging its appeal for those seeking a single, high-performance, technologically advanced vehicle. less
Tesla Model S P90D - One Take
The Tesla Model S P90D with Ludicrous mode delivers an "unbelievably impressive" performance, as noted by the reviewer. Its acceleration is ... moredescribed as "stupid, stupid, stupid fast," capable of sub-11-second quarter miles and making the driver feel nauseous due to its sheer speed. The all-wheel-drive system, powered by front and rear motors, provides immense torque out of corners, and the air suspension offers a comfortable ride while maintaining composure during spirited driving, keeping the car remarkably flat. However, the reviewer points out several drawbacks. The "version 2.0" Model S features a "much uglier nose" and the interior, while functional and spacious, lacks a sense of solidity and luxury expected at its price point, with some materials feeling hollow. The seats are also criticized for being small and springy. Real-world range is a concern, with the indicated range dropping significantly from the advertised 270 miles after even moderate use. Autopilot functionality is deemed inconsistent, struggling with hairpin turns and requiring constant driver attention, sometimes more than manual driving. Brakes are considered good but potentially insufficient for repeated hard use given the car's speed. Despite these criticisms, the reviewer acknowledges the Model S P90D as an "amazing achievement" and a glimpse into the future of automotive technology, provided Tesla addresses interior solidity and expands charging infrastructure. less
Social Media Club LA - Panel on Automotive Media
This panel discussion from the Social Media Club of LA delves into the evolving relationship between the automotive industry and social media. The pan... moreelists, comprising marketing professionals from Edmunds, Mazda, and automotive media personalities like Matt Farah, highlight social media's crucial role as a modern word-of-mouth tool, particularly for younger generations. Key themes explored include using social platforms to share brand stories, engage consumers through entertainment, and the challenges of maintaining relevance and authenticity amidst rapid digital shifts. The discussion also touches upon the financial realities of car ownership for millennials, the decline of traditional brand loyalty, and the critical importance of listening to consumer conversations online. A significant portion addresses crisis management and the necessity of transparency, using GM's recall issues as a case study. Ultimately, the consensus emphasizes authenticity, storytelling, and understanding the audience's needs, whether through expert reviews or relatable lifestyle content, to build meaningful brand connections. less