Kickin' Tyres

About Kickin' Tyres

Welcome to Kickin’ Tyres — the fortnightly motoring podcast that blends expert insight with proper, down-to-earth car chat. Hosted by motoring journalists Adam Gray and Tim Barnes-Clay, this is what happens when two mates who just happen to work in the same world — albeit in slightly different ways — get together to talk cars and have a laugh. Between us, we’ve spent years attending launches and road-testing the latest models. Tim brings decades of experience as a motoring journalist, while Adam combines journalism with hands-on car-buying coaching — offering a practical, consumer-first perspective shaped by real-world experience. Together, we cut through the marketing noise to focus on what actually matters. Each episode is a relaxed, conversational deep-dive into the world of four wheels. Recorded remotely and intentionally informal, we cover the launches we’ve just returned from, the cars we’ve been driving, the standout stories shaping the industry, and interviews with independent experts. There’s a strong consumer focus, but Kickin’ Tyres isn’t just about what car to buy. It’s about the reality of modern motoring — from industry trends to everyday ownership — with a broader lens and a bit more personality. Built on the same consumer-first DNA as The Car Buying Coach UK, the show operates with zero brand bias and no dealer affiliations — just honest, informed opinions for people who are car-hunting, car-curious, or simply enjoy a good bit of motoring chat. Listen in, and find out more at www.kickintyrespod.co.uk (https://kickintyrespod.co.uk/)

Publisher

Adam Gray & Tim Barnes-Clay

Category

leisure

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

29 Mar 2026

Latest episode

13 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

11 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   13 Sept 2026

   AION UT Launch, Series One Wrap & What's Next for Kickin' Tyres

   What does AION's new UT super mini bring to an increasingly crowded EV market? And what have Adam and Tim learned from ten episodes of Kickin' Tyres? In the series one finale of Kickin' Tyres, Adam Gray and Tim Barnes-Clay do something they haven't done before — record together in person, live from the AION UT media launch in High Wycombe. The AION UT is the brand's second model in the UK, a B-segment electric super mini that punches above its weight. With 268 miles of range, a 204PS motor, 0–62 in 7.3 seconds, a five-star Euro NCAP rating, and a price starting at £28,950, it takes aim squarely at the Renault 5 and BYD Dolphin. The pair walk around the car, discuss the cabin, the specs, the pricing, and the Great 8 promise — eight years of warranty, servicing, roadside assistance and MOT included as standard. They also reflect honestly on series one — what's worked, what they'd do differently, and what's coming in series two, including guest interviews, more on-location recording, and potentially a sponsor. Topics include: AION UT launch — specs, pricing and first impressions AION UT vs Renault 5 and BYD Dolphin Great 8 promise — eight years of warranty and support £28,950 starting price and PCP deal breakdown Influencers vs journalists — the debate continues Series one reflections — ten episodes in What's coming in series two — guests, locations and more The Car Buying Coach UK — Adam's world has changed Follow Kickin' Tyres for honest motoring insight, powered by The Car Buying Coach UK (https://www.thecarbuyingcoach.co.uk/). Instagram: @kickintyrespod (https://www.instagram.com/kickintyrespod/) TikTok: @kickintyrespod (https://www.tiktok.com/@kickintyrespod) YouTube: @kickintyrespod (https://www.youtube.com/@kickintyrespod) Facebook: @kickintyrespod (https://www.facebook.com/kickintyrespod) X: @kickintyrespod (https://x.com/kickintyrespod) LinkedIn: @kickintyrespod (https://www.linkedin.com/company/kickintyrespod/) Website: kickintyrespod.co.uk (http://kickintyrespod.co.uk)

2. 

   28 Aug 2026

   China Trip Debrief, Geely EX2, Suzuki Swift & What's Next

   What's it really like to travel halfway around the world for a car launch? And how do Chinese brands stack up against Japanese stalwarts when you put them side by side? In Episode 9 of Kickin' Tyres, Adam Gray and Tim Barnes-Clay are back from China — tired, busy, and with plenty to say about the XPeng G9L preview, the Geely EX2, and what the trip revealed about where the automotive industry is heading. Tim shares his impressions of the Geely EX2 — an affordable entry-level EV that surprised him — and the Geely EX5, while Adam reflects on his second trip to Guangzhou and what makes XPeng so much more than just a car company. The pair also dig into the Lexus ES UK launch, the Lexus UX300H, the Honda Prelude, the Nissan Juke, and the Suzuki Swift — and debate which makes more sense: a Chinese EV supermini or a tried-and-tested Japanese hybrid? There's also talk of a potential Ford Fiesta ST comeback, the Peugeot E208 GTI launch in Scotland, and what to expect from series two of Kickin' Tyres. Topics include: XPeng G9L preview — China debrief Geely EX2 — affordable entry-level EV impressions Geely EX5 — real-world test verdict Geely EX2 vs Suzuki Swift — which would you choose? Lexus ES UK launch — EV only in the UK Lexus UX300H — underrated compact luxury crossover Honda Prelude — a stylish alternative to the SUV crowd Nissan Juke — still making a strong case Ford Fiesta ST — is it making a comeback? Series two plans — guest interviews and what's changing Follow Kickin' Tyres for honest motoring insight every fortnight, powered by The Car Buying Coach UK (https://www.thecarbuyingcoach.co.uk/). Instagram: @kickintyrespod (https://www.instagram.com/kickintyrespod/) TikTok: @kickintyrespod (https://www.tiktok.com/@kickintyrespod) YouTube: @kickintyrespod (https://www.youtube.com/@kickintyrespod) Facebook: @kickintyrespod (https://www.facebook.com/kickintyrespod) X: @kickintyrespod (https://x.com/kickintyrespod) LinkedIn: @kickintyrespod (https://www.linkedin.com/company/kickintyrespod/) Website: kickintyrespod.co.uk (http://kickintyrespod.co.uk)

3. 

   27 Jul 2026

   XPENG L03 Unveiled in Munich — We Were There

   Is the XPENG L03 the car that takes Chinese EVs mainstream in the UK? And what was it really like to be at a global world premiere with a thousand guests in Munich? In Episode 8 of Kickin' Tyres, Adam Gray and Tim Barnes-Clay are fresh from the XPENG L03 global launch in Munich — and they've got plenty to say about the car, the event, and what it means for the EV market. The L03 is XPENG's most important car yet. Designed under former Ferrari Exterior Design Chief JuanMa Lopez, it combines SUV practicality with a coupe silhouette, a drag coefficient of just 0.228, and a cabin packed with AI technology — including an upgraded voice assistant and Google Maps integration built directly into the XPENG interface. Available as a pure EV and a range extender capable of up to 1,000km, it starts from 35,000 euros in Europe. The pair also reflect on the realities of a thousand-person global launch and what series one of Kickin' Tyres has taught them — with two episodes to go before they plan series two. Topics include: XPeng L03 world premiere — design, tech and first impressions Former Ferrari design chief behind the L03's styling AI cockpit, Google Maps integration and voice assistant tech Range extender variant — up to 1,000km of range Munich launch — a thousand guests and a few glitches Chinese car brands — how quickly is the landscape changing? Series one reflections — what's worked and what's next Coming up — AION, Kia, LEPAS L8, Polestar 5, and Lexus ES Follow Kickin' Tyres for honest motoring insight every fortnight, powered by The Car Buying Coach UK (https://www.thecarbuyingcoach.co.uk/). Instagram: @kickintyrespod (https://www.instagram.com/kickintyrespod/) TikTok: @kickintyrespod (https://www.tiktok.com/@kickintyrespod) YouTube: @kickintyrespod (https://www.youtube.com/@kickintyrespod) Facebook: @kickintyrespod (https://www.facebook.com/kickintyrespod) X: @kickintyrespod (https://x.com/kickintyrespod) LinkedIn: @kickintyrespod (https://www.linkedin.com/company/kickintyrespod/) Website: kickintyrespod.co.uk (http://kickintyrespod.co.uk)

4. 

   13 Jul 2026

   XPeng G6 Review, Jeep in Germany & Festival of Speed

   Is the XPeng G6 a genuine Tesla Model Y rival? And what's it really like to live with for a week? In Episode 7 of Kickin' Tyres, Adam Gray and Tim Barnes-Clay catch up ahead of a busy few weeks — Tim's just back from a Jeep launch in Germany covering the Avenger and Compass, while Adam shares his real-world verdict on the XPeng G6 long range after a week on test. Adam gives an honest assessment of the G6's strengths and weaknesses — a great looking EV with a well-built interior, but with a fiddly infotainment system, vague steering, and a ride quality that lets it down slightly. The pair also discuss the quirky oval steering wheel, boot space, real-world range, and how it stacks up against rivals including the Tesla Model Y, BYD Seal, Kia EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 5. There's also talk of the upcoming XPeng L03 world premiere in Munich, the rise of Chinese car brands in Europe, Jeep's 85th anniversary, and whether either of them is bothered about missing the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Topics include: XPeng G6 long range — honest real-world review XPeng G6 vs Tesla Model Y and key rivals Jeep Avenger and Compass — Germany launch impressions Jeep's 85th anniversary and the new Avenger range XPeng L03 world premiere — Munich preview Chinese car brands vs legacy manufacturers BYD overtaking Tesla in global sales Goodwood Festival of Speed — are they missing out? What's coming — XPeng Munich, LEPAS L8, Kia launch Follow Kickin' Tyres for honest motoring insight every fortnight, powered by The Car Buying Coach UK (https://www.thecarbuyingcoach.co.uk/). Instagram: @kickintyrespod (https://www.instagram.com/kickintyrespod/) TikTok: @kickintyrespod (https://www.tiktok.com/@kickintyrespod) YouTube: @kickintyrespod (https://www.youtube.com/@kickintyrespod) Facebook: @kickintyrespod (https://www.facebook.com/kickintyrespod) X: @kickintyrespod (https://x.com/kickintyrespod) LinkedIn: @kickintyrespod (https://www.linkedin.com/company/kickintyrespod/) Website: kickintyrespod.co.uk (http://kickintyrespod.co.uk)

5. 

   29 Jun 2026

   Polestar 3 vs 4, Freelance Life & The Worst Cars We've Ever Owned

   What's it really like to make a living as a freelance motoring journalist in 2026? And is the Polestar 3 still worth buying after its shock US ban? In Episode 6 of Kickin' Tyres, Adam Gray and Tim Barnes-Clay catch up after a longer gap than usual — Adam's back from a much-needed holiday and reflecting honestly on burnout, freelance life, and the dangers of never stepping off the treadmill. Adam shares his verdict on the Polestar 3 rear motor after driving all three versions, plus early impressions of the Polestar 4 long range dual motor on test. The pair dig into Polestar's US ban due to connected vehicle rules and what it means for the wider Geely stable, EV charging frustrations, the Mercedes CLA Electric, and the US market's complicated history with foreign car brands. Plus — the worst cars they've ever owned and a Reliant Robin cameo nobody saw coming. Topics include: Polestar 3 rear motor review — do you really need more than 333hp? Polestar 4 long range dual motor — early test impressions Polestar US ban — connected vehicle rules and what it means for Geely brands Mercedes CLA Electric — EV logistics in the real world Freelance motoring journalism — burnout, holidays, and the FOMO trap The US market and its complicated history with foreign car brands VW Group hierarchy — where does Skoda sit? The worst cars Adam and Tim have ever owned What's coming up — Xpeng Germany launch and MG Tech Day Follow Kickin' Tyres for honest motoring insight every fortnight, powered by The Car Buying Coach UK (https://www.thecarbuyingcoach.co.uk/). Instagram: @kickintyrespod (https://www.instagram.com/kickintyrespod/) TikTok: @kickintyrespod (https://www.tiktok.com/@kickintyrespod) YouTube: @kickintyrespod (https://www.youtube.com/@kickintyrespod) Facebook: @kickintyrespod (https://www.facebook.com/kickintyrespod) X: @kickintyrespod (https://x.com/kickintyrespod) LinkedIn: @kickintyrespod (https://www.linkedin.com/company/kickintyrespod/) Website: kickintyrespod.co.uk (http://kickintyrespod.co.uk)

6. 

   1 Jun 2026

   SMMT 2026, Influencer Debate & Ford Ranger MSRT

   Are car brands making a mistake by chasing influencer reach over earned media? And what does it take to build lasting relationships in this industry? In Episode 5 of Kickin' Tyres, Adam Gray and Tim Barnes-Clay get honest about the state of motoring journalism — the good, the frustrating, and the truths nobody else wants to say out loud. Adam and Tim both attend SMMT Test Day 2026 at Millbrook Proving Ground, where the absence of several legacy brands sparks a wider conversation about how manufacturers are rethinking their PR strategies. Tim also arrives fresh from the Alpine A390 GTS global media drive in Italy and reflects on what makes — and breaks — a journalist-PR relationship. The pair dig into the rise of paid content creators and why honest car reviews still matter when consumers are making one of the biggest financial decisions of their lives. Adam also shares his verdict on the Ford Ranger MSRT — a street racer pickup that turns heads but comes with ride quality caveats paid influencers won't mention. Topics include: SMMT Test Day 2025 — which legacy brands were absent and why Influencers vs motoring journalists — the credibility debate PR relationships — ghosting and what both sides get wrong Ford Ranger MSRT — ride quality, looks, and real-world driving Alpine A390 GTS — Italy global media launch The reality of freelance motoring journalism in 2026 Follow Kickin' Tyres for honest motoring insight every fortnight, powered by The Car Buying Coach UK (https://www.thecarbuyingcoach.co.uk/). Instagram: @kickintyrespod (https://www.instagram.com/kickintyrespod/) TikTok: @kickintyrespod (https://www.tiktok.com/@kickintyrespod) YouTube: @kickintyrespod (https://www.youtube.com/@kickintyrespod) Facebook: @kickintyrespod (https://www.facebook.com/kickintyrespod) X: @kickintyrespod (https://x.com/kickintyrespod) LinkedIn: @kickintyrespod (https://www.linkedin.com/company/kickintyrespod/) Website: kickintyrespod.co.uk (http://kickintyrespod.co.uk)

7. 

   19 May 2026

   Mazda CX-5, VW Transporter Sportline & the Real Cost of EV Ownership

   Are EVs really cheaper to run? And what's it actually like living with one day to day? In this episode of Kickin' Tyres, Adam and Tim swap press launch stories and get refreshingly honest about the realities of motoring — both as journalists and as everyday drivers. Tim heads to Scotland for the third-generation Mazda CX-5 launch, reporting back on why Mazda's global bestseller still deserves its reputation — and where it falls slightly short. Meanwhile, Adam reflects on two years of Tesla Model 3 Performance ownership, sharing the real-world numbers on range, charging costs, and battery degradation. The conversation takes a candid turn as Adam reveals his time as an Amazon delivery driver — and what a brand new VW Transporter Sportline meant when you're grafting on less than minimum wage. Tim also previews his upcoming drive of the new VW Transporter Sportline, plus the all-electric Mercedes GLC ahead of its UK launch. The pair also discuss car finance, the 100,000-mile EV stigma, public charging frustrations, and why planning ahead is non-negotiable if you're going electric. Topics include: Mazda CX-5 third generation — Scottish road test impressions Two years with the Tesla Model 3 Performance — honest ownership verdict Real-world EV running costs and home charging tips Why public charging alone isn't enough VW Transporter Sportline — 75 years of the VW bus All-electric Mercedes GLC — UK launch preview SMMT Test Day 2026 preview Car finance, cost of living, and the 100k-mile EV debate Follow Kickin' Tyres for no-nonsense motoring insight every fortnight, powered by The Car Buying Coach UK (https://www.thecarbuyingcoach.co.uk/). Instagram: @kickintyrespod (https://www.instagram.com/kickintyrespod/) TikTok: @kickintyrespod (https://www.tiktok.com/@kickintyrespod) YouTube: @kickintyrespod (https://www.youtube.com/@kickintyrespod) Facebook: @kickintyrespod (https://www.facebook.com/kickintyrespod) X: @kickintyrespod (https://x.com/kickintyrespod) LinkedIn: @kickintyrespod (https://www.linkedin.com/company/kickintyrespod/) Website: kickintyrespod.co.uk (http://kickintyrespod.co.uk)

8. 

   4 May 2026

   Flying Cars, XPENG Autonomy, & Peugeot E-408 First Drive

   Are flying cars and fully self-driving tech closer than we think? In this episode of Kickin’ Tyres, Adam and Tim compare two very different trips—one to XPENG’s cutting-edge facilities in China, and the other to Marseille for a first drive of the new Peugeot E-408. Adam shares his experience witnessing a real flying “land aircraft carrier” in action, alongside a deep dive into XPENG’s VLA 2.0 full self-driving system—put to the test on the chaotic streets of Beijing. Meanwhile, Tim reports back from France with driving impressions of Peugeot’s latest electrified fastback, and a look at how European brands are responding to increasing competition. The discussion turns to the rapid rise of Chinese manufacturers like Chery, BYD, and AION—and whether legacy carmakers should be worried. Also in this episode, Milan Design Week brings another new brand into focus, while conversations around tech, pricing, and quality challenge long-held perceptions of Chinese-built cars. Topics include: XPENG flying car (land aircraft carrier) demo VLA 2.0 full self-driving experience in Beijing Peugeot E-408 first drive in Marseille Inside Auto Show China 2026 The rise of Chinese car brands in the UK Chery’s expanding brand lineup (Omoda, Jaecoo, Lepas) Milan Design Week and the launch of Lepas Are Chinese EVs outperforming European rivals? Follow Kickin' Tyres for no-nonsense motoring insight every fortnight, powered by The Car Buying Coach UK (https://www.thecarbuyingcoach.co.uk/). Instagram: @kickintyrespod (https://www.instagram.com/kickintyrespod/) TikTok: @kickintyrespod (https://www.tiktok.com/@kickintyrespod) YouTube: @kickintyrespod (https://www.youtube.com/@kickintyrespod) Facebook: @kickintyrespod (https://www.facebook.com/kickintyrespod) X: @kickintyrespod (https://x.com/kickintyrespod) LinkedIn: @kickintyrespod (https://www.linkedin.com/company/kickintyrespod/) Website: kickintyrespod.co.uk (http://kickintyrespod.co.uk)

9. 

   20 Apr 2026

   Bentley Bentayga vs Polestar 3, Honda Prelude Returns, & The Rise of Chinese EVs

   Can electric SUVs now rival the very best petrol-powered luxury cars? In this episode of Kickin’ Tyres, Adam and Tim recap a hectic run of three car launches in three days, including first drives of the MY26 Polestar 3, and a comparison with the Bentley Bentayga Speed. They explore whether high-performance EVs are finally delivering on their promise, or if traditional luxury SUVs still hold the edge. Also in this episode, the long-awaited return of the Honda Prelude raises questions about the future of sporty coupes, while Chinese brands like AION and Chery continue their rapid push into the UK market. Looking ahead to upcoming trips to China and Milan Design Week, the discussion turns to new technology, emerging brands, and where the global car industry is heading next. Topics include: Polestar 3 Dual Motor vs Dual Motor Performance Bentley Bentayga Speed driving impressions Honda Prelude revival AION V and Chery TIGGO 4 CSH overview The rise of Chinese EV brands in the UK Why SUVs continue to dominate the market Follow Kickin' Tyres for no-nonsense motoring insight every fortnight, powered by The Car Buying Coach UK (https://www.thecarbuyingcoach.co.uk/). Instagram: @kickintyrespod (https://www.instagram.com/kickintyrespod/) TikTok: @kickintyrespod (https://www.tiktok.com/@kickintyrespod) YouTube: @kickintyrespod (https://www.youtube.com/@kickintyrespod) Facebook: @kickintyrespod (https://www.facebook.com/kickintyrespod) X: @kickintyrespod (https://x.com/kickintyrespod) LinkedIn: @kickintyrespod (https://www.linkedin.com/company/kickintyrespod/) Website: kickintyrespod.co.uk (http://kickintyrespod.co.uk)

10. 

    6 Apr 2026

    MG’s Solid State Battery & The Changan Deepal S05: The Truth About Chinese EVs

    Are Chinese electric cars taking over? In the debut episode of Kickin' Tyres, motoring journalists Adam Gray and Tim Barnes-Clay cut through the marketing spin to bring you the truth about the latest automotive launches. From the tech-heavy MG Tech Day in Frankfurt to "hooning" the new Changan Deepal S05 on a UK airfield, we break down what these new brands mean for British drivers. We aren't tied to any brands or dealerships, so everything we discuss is straight from the horse's mouth with zero brand bias. In this episode, we cover: MG’s Solid State Breakthrough: Is the 95% solid-state battery a game-changer for range anxiety or just clever PR? The 100-Year Hybrid: Why experts believe hybrids—especially plug-ins—will be around for a century to come. Changan Deepal S05 Review: How a brand established in 1862 is using a Birmingham R&D team to tailor Chinese SUVs for pothole-ridden UK roads. The "Excuse Bin": Who won (and who failed) the high-stakes emergency braking challenge at the Changan launch? Exclusive Interview: Featuring clips from MG’s Global Design Chief, Jozef Kaban, on the future of automotive design. Timestamps: (00:00) Welcome to Kickin' Tyres (05:20) MG’s Solid State Battery Tech (15:45) Interview: MG Design Chief Jozef Kaban (28:10) Driving the Changan Deepal S05 (35:30) Why Hybrids aren't dying (48:15) The Emergency Braking Challenge (55:00) Coming up: Bentley Bentayga & Ranger MSRT Follow us for no-nonsense motoring updates every fortnight, powered by The Car Buying Coach UK (https://www.thecarbuyingcoach.co.uk/). Instagram: @kickintyrespod (https://www.instagram.com/kickintyrespod/) TikTok: @kickintyrespod (https://www.tiktok.com/@kickintyrespod) YouTube: @kickintyrespod (https://www.youtube.com/@kickintyrespod) Facebook: @kickintyrespod (https://www.facebook.com/kickintyrespod) X: @kickintyrespod (https://x.com/kickintyrespod) LinkedIn: @kickintyrespod (https://www.linkedin.com/company/kickintyrespod/) Website: kickintyrespod.co.uk (http://kickintyrespod.co.uk)

11. 

    29 Mar 2026

    Kickin’ Tyres Teaser: Potholes, Diesel Spills, and Why We Love Cars

    "It’s a sore subject—I don’t want to talk about it." Welcome to the official teaser for Kickin’ Tyres, the brand-new motoring podcast hosted by veteran journalists Adam Gray and Tim Barnes-Clay. In this teaser, we dive into the irony of our name—starting with Adam’s encounter with a pothole the size of a "trench" and Tim’s harrowing story of hitting a diesel spill on a 995cc motorbike. We discuss why the sun-drenched roads of the Algarve are surprisingly similar to the pothole-ridden lanes of Britain, and why, despite the bent alloys, we wouldn’t change this job for the world. WHAT’S IN THIS TEASER: The Algarve vs. The UK: Comparing road quality (and the lack thereof). The Irony of "Kickin' Tyres": Adam’s recent battle with a "trench-sized" pothole. A Close Call: Tim shares a frightening experience on a roundabout. The Hosts: Meet the duo bringing decades of automotive journalism to your ears. WHERE TO FIND US: The full podcast launches in the next couple of weeks! Make sure to subscribe and follow us so you don't miss the first official episode. We’ll be available on Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube. JOIN THE SHOW: Have a motoring story that beats ours? Or want to join us as a guest? Drop us an email—we’d love to have you on! #KickinTyres #MotoringPodcast #CarJournalism #RoadStories #NewPodcast #TimBarnesClay #AdamGray #PotholeBritain

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Spotify

5.0 / 5

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Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.