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 whyInfluencers vs motoring journalists — the credibility debatePR relationships — ghosting and what both sides get wrongFord Ranger MSRT — ride quality, looks, and real-world drivingAlpine A390 GTS — Italy global media launchThe reality of freelance motoring journalism in 2026Follow Kickin' Tyres for honest motoring insight every fortnight, powered by The Car Buying Coach UK.Instagram: @kickintyrespodTikTok: @kickintyrespodYouTube: @kickintyrespodFacebook: @kickintyrespodX: @kickintyrespodLinkedIn: @kickintyrespodWebsite: kickintyrespod.co.uk