Whether you're into the latest and greatest in the automotive world or you prefer the classics, tuning in to the best car podcasts for 2021 will make for a great way to relax and unwind after a busy day!

Why Bother Listening to Car Podcasts?

If you're not into the automotive industry, you're probably scratching your head, wondering why you should even bother listening to a car podcast. Here's the thing with car podcasts – they cover several automotive-related topics. Sure, while you may not be into the heated debate between the classics versus new models to hit the road, you might learn more about the inner workings of a specific type of car or even the basics of car maintenance. 

So, what are some of the benefits of listening to a car podcast?

• Learn about the latest industry news
• Stay abreast of upcoming release dates 
• Learn the basics of car maintenance
• Something fun to kick back and listen to

If you've already got a favorite auto podcast that you listen to regularly, then see if it's made the list of best car podcasts for 2021! If you're currently looking for a new podcast to add to your list, then you're in the right place!

8 Best Car Podcasts You'll Want to Tune into This Year

Whether you're hitting the road or simply relaxing in your garage with your friends, here are eight of the best car podcasts you'll want to tune into this year: 

1. NPR's CarTalk

Believe it or not, NPR's CarTalk podcast actually started as a radio talk show back in 1977 and was hosted by Tom and Ray Magliozzi. It has since transformed into a popular podcast that focuses on consumer's car troubles and finding a solution to them. What makes this particular podcast so popular is the fact that you don't have to know a thing about cars to genuinely enjoy it.

2. Past Gas

The Past Gas podcast by donut media is helmed by James Pumphrey Ann Nolan Skyes and is a popular YouTube channel. In each episode, the hosts talk about all sorts of car-related topics, and some of the stories can get a little wild. If you're looking for an automotive podcast that covers topics from Japanese racing clubs to bitter racing rivalries, then this could be the perfect podcast to add to your list. 

3. Everyday Driver Car Debate

The Every Driver Car Debate podcast by Everyday Driver is hosted by two enthusiastic car lovers, Paul and Todd. This podcast not only takes listeners behind the scenes on hot topics in the auto industry, both Paul and Todd take calls from those in search of their ideal car. They share their opinions on what they think would best suit each caller, and of course, plenty of debates ensue, making this podcast a fun one for listeners of all types. 

4. CarCast

CarCast is both an automotive podcast and an internet video series that Matt D'Andria and Adam Carolla host. This podcast series talks about the latest and greatest in the automotive space. The hosts offer advice and feature the best custom built and newly built rides in the industry. What sets this podcast apart from the rest is that they also feature a variety of guests from throughout the automotive industry, including celebrity car enthusiasts, which makes for a genuinely entertaining experience.  

5. The Collecting Cars Podcast

The Collecting Cars podcast is hosted by the renowned British automotive journalist and racecar driver  Chris Harris and cohosted with podcast founder and motoring enthusiast Edward Lovett. Throughout the series, Chris Harris talks about all things automotive while also featuring a variety of guests such as Rob Dickinson, the founder of Singer Vehicle Design, Richard Tuthill of Tuthill Porsche, and even popular motorsport competitors, Dario and Marino Franchitti. 

6. The Auto Detailing Podcast

Now, the Auto Detailing Podcast takes things in a slightly different direction. Instead of focusing on a wide range of topics in the automotive industry, this podcast focuses on one – auto detailing. This podcast is hosted by Jimbo Balaam and discusses topics such as detailing tips and tricks. He also conducts interviews with some of the top automotive detailers from across the world. So, if detailing your car or a friend's is a hobby of yours, or if you're a professional with your own shop, then you'll want to tune into this particular podcast. 

7. Cars That Matter

Cars that Matter is a podcast that is hosted by Robert Ross and is a podcast that doesn't necessarily talk about the automotive industry. Instead, the focus of this show is all about cars that matter – literally. The discussion revolves around vehicles that have some sort of significance to the industry and/or those who have owned the vehicles. Guests include a variety of market experts, vehicle designers, engineers, historians, and collectors. So, if you're looking to tune into some unique stories, then this may be the perfect addition to your podcast list. 

8. Driven Car Reviews

Finally, if you're simply looking for a podcast, that talks about all things automotive and one that has even won an Emmy award, then Driven Car Reviews is the perfect podcast for you. In this podcast, The New Your Times automotive contributor, Tom Voelk, talks about literally all things automotive. From reviews on the best releases from your favorite manufacturers to the latest car technology – Tom covers it all! 

Plenty of Car Podcasts Available for Listeners

One important benefit of assembling this list of best car podcasts is to show that there's something out there for everybody. 

The podcasts listed above are simply some of the most frequently discussed and that are currently trending amongst enthusiasts. However, that doesn't mean that there isn't more variety available for those who want to listen to something a little bit more niche. 

Whether your interest is in selling junk cars or restoring them or even just learning about the latest and greatest in car buying trends, there is a podcast out there for you!