The Hot Rod Tour of Texas: Victoria's Downtown Magic

The rumble of engines and scent of coffee fills the air as we broadcast live from Spindletap Brewery for the fourth annual Hot Rod Tour of Texas. This event has grown from humble beginnings to become a must-attend gathering for automotive enthusiasts across the Lone Star State.

Our special feature takes you behind the scenes in Victoria, Texas, where we chat with Street Manager Kate Garcia about the town's remarkable transformation. Once merely a pass-through on the way to Corpus Christi, Victoria has reinvented itself as a destination worth exploring. The historic De Leon Plaza now hosts over 800 events annually, including the unique pairing of hot rods and symphony music that kicks off this tour. "Two demographics you would never think would go together go together like peanut butter and jelly," Garcia explains as classic cars and classical music create an unexpectedly perfect harmony.

We dive deep into the 2025 Genesis GV80 Coupe, a luxury vehicle that challenges traditional definitions. Despite having four doors, this fastback SUV carries the "coupe" designation, sparking debate among automotive purists. With 375 horsepower from its twin-turbo 3.5-liter engine and a price tag of $87,780, we explore whether this Korean luxury offering can compete with established European rivals like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Porsche.

Our "Motor Minute" reveals fascinating statistics about Texas' booming auto restoration industry – 1,207 shops statewide with Houston alone hosting 247 restoration specialists. We discuss how many of these businesses began as passion projects by individual enthusiasts before growing into established operations, reflecting the enduring love affair between Texans and their vehicles.

Whether you're a hot rod enthusiast, luxury car shopper, or simply appreciate the coming together of diverse communities through shared passions, this episode captures the spirit of Texas car culture. Join us for this journey through small towns, classic restorations, and modern luxury as we celebrate the machines that move us and the people who love them.

The Lupe' Tortilla Restaurants
Lupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas

Gulf Coast Auto Shield
Paint protection, tint, and more!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

---- -----
Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time?

In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy!

Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.
----- -----
Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12noonCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.

In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:

Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.

Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!

Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTime

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/

https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltime

https://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTime

For more information about In Wheel Time Car Talk, email us at

info@inwheeltime.com

Tags: In Wheel Time, automotive car talk show, car talk, Live car talk show, In Wheel Time Car Talk

Chapters

• 0:00 Hot Rod Tour of Texas Introduction
• 2:26 Victoria Street Manager Interview
• 10:39 Downtown Victoria Exploration
• 16:18 Genesis GV80 Coupe Review
• 24:51 Motor Minute: Texas Auto Restoration
• 28:20 Closing Segment