Motoringnz

View Original

Podholic: Hagerty is high octane all the way

This show should be on every enthusiast’s watch list

HAGERTY Media is steered by motoring scribes, notably Henry Catchpole and Jason Cammisa (above), plus racing driver Randy Pobst. 

Weekly episodes of this American vodcast delivers exciting exploration of the hottest new makes and models; it’s very much a US equivalent of a certain world-beating and now defunct BBC car programme.

Content includes first drives and track comparison tests, featuring all-out lap times and thrilling drag race segments that are incredibly well done, even when electric fare makes light work of the world’s quickest supercars.

Speed demons will love the high-octane stuff. Those seeking a more relaxed pace can indulge in “barn find hunter”, “will it run” and “redline rebuild”, all usually about how the team chases down old classics and uncovers the fascinating stories behind them. The historic contexts are enriching.

One episode I believe is worth viewing covers Ferdinand Piech, a big gun of Volkswagen Group and one of the most influential people in the industry being a driving force behind so many important events - including the Porsche 911 and 917 race programmes - and cars, such as the Bugatti Veyron (above), Audi Quattro and VW Phaeton (the successful VW luxury pinnacle designed to outshine Mercedes’ then dominant S-Class). He also featured in the infamous Dieselgate saga.

Known for an uncompromising standard and willingness to remove anyone who hindered his progress, Piech was determined to create world-best cars. His story is fascinating and intimidating. The Phaeton story is a good example. While the car itself may be considered dull, the story behind it is anything but.

Every video is a masterclass in audio visual fidelity. The show boasts impressive slow-motion shots, graphical overlays, and cinematic vistas that enhance the viewing experience. The soundtrack-to-theme matching is top-rate and a perfect complement.

More than three million subscribers suggests Hagerty Media hits a car enthusiast sweet spot. Whether you're a fan of high-speed thrills, classic car stories, or in-depth automotive insights, it has something for everyone. So go on, subscribe away, and you won’t be disappointed.

The Hagerty Media Homepage: https://www.youtube.com/@Hagerty