MotorWeek

Why Watch
"Get no-nonsense car reviews, consumer maintenance tips, and transparent road tests from television's most enduring automotive newsmagazine."
Tone: Informative, Pragmatic, Classic Automotive
AI Critic Analysis
Series Deep Dive:

As television's longest-running automotive series, MotorWeek provides pragmatic, real-world evaluations stripped of manufactured drama. Host John Davis steers comprehensive road tests, vital maintenance advice, and electric vehicle transitions with dependable authority. Season 46 wraps another crucial chapter of consumer guidance, continuing to anchor the automotive journalism landscape. Track upcoming air dates and broadcast renewal updates on PBS through our comprehensive schedule tracker.

Analysis Refined:March 2026
Scheduled next refinement: in 194 days
Season: 46
Watched? # Air Date Episode Name
E1 Sep 12, 2026 2026 Porsche 911 Turbo S & 2026 Toyota RAV4 GR Sport
E2 Sep 19, 2026 2027 Ram 1500 TRX SRT & 2027 Audi A6
E3 Sep 26, 2026 2026 Mercedes-AMG E 53 Wagon & 2026 Subaru Uncharted
E4 Oct 03, 2026 2026 Land Rover Defender OCTA & Subcompact SUVs
E5 Oct 10, 2026 2026 Toyota bZ Woodland & Kia Telluride hybrid
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Watched / Unwatched
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Scheduling Insights - Seasonal Series

Release Window: September

MotorWeek has maintained a steady Annual rhythm for 43 years, typically returning in September. Premiering in 1981 on PBS, this series stands as television's longest-running automotive magazine program. It serves as a cornerstone of public broadcasting, offering consistent consumer-oriented car reviews and industry news. The show has never missed a season, transitioning smoothly through decades of automotive evolution while keeping its original host, John Davis. Its production schedule mirrors the traditional broadcast calendar, aligning new episodes with the release of next-year vehicle models.

Throughout its history, the program has maintained a reliable distribution model through Maryland Public Television. While it now airs on MAVTV and various digital platforms, the primary season launch remains anchored to the fall. This predictability has made it a foundational element for automotive enthusiasts who rely on its rigorous testing standards. The show remains a rare example of longevity and scheduling discipline in a shifting media landscape.

Oracle Insights Refined:March 2026
Scheduled next refinement: in 6 days

If you liked MotorWeek:

Technical Details
Network: PBS
Seasons: 21
Years: 1981 - 2026
Genre: Documentary, News
Rating: TV-G
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Frequently Asked Questions

MotorWeek traditionally premieres its new seasons in the fall, most often launching in early to mid-September. This broadcast schedule coincides with the automotive industry's traditional rollout of new vehicle model years.

Yes, MotorWeek is an ongoing, syndicated public television staple and continues in active annual production. It routinely renews each broadcast year to cover the newest automotive releases without multi-year renewal announcements.

A typical full season of MotorWeek consists of roughly 48 to 52 episodes, allowing for nearly year-round weekly programming. The remaining weeks of the calendar year are usually filled with repeat broadcasts or special retrospective segments.

New episodes premiere on PBS member stations across the United States and stream on PBS digital platforms including PBS.org and the PBS app. In addition, episodes often air in syndication on MAVTV and stream on the official MotorWeek YouTube channel.

Each episode runs for a standard half-hour broadcast window, totaling approximately 26 to 28 minutes without commercial interruptions on public television. The format features automotive road tests, maintenance advice in Goss' Garage, consumer trends, and classic car features.

MotorWeek is produced by Maryland Public Television and is created and hosted by automotive journalist John Davis. Davis has served as the series host and executive producer since the show's national debut in 1981.
FAQ Refined:March 2026
Scheduled next refinement: in 302 days