Épisodes

  • 2026 Land Rover Defender Octa: Ultimate Defender Takes on Maine Winter

    2026 Land Rover Defender Octa: Ultimate Defender Takes on Maine Winter
    Feb 14 2026
    This week on America on the Road, Jack Nerad and co-host Chris Teague deliver two very different road tests: a long look at the ultimate Land Rover Defender and an in-depth examination of the Honda CR-V TrailSport. In addition, they conduct a timely interview on Kia’s newest compact car and take a clear-eyed look at where the auto market is heading in 2026. 🚙 Chris Teague Drives the Land Rover Defender Octa Chris tests the most extreme Defender ever built. The 2026 Defender Octa combines a 626-horsepower twin-turbo V8 with advanced 6D Dynamics suspension and real off-road hardware. It delivers supercar-level acceleration, serious trail capability, and a six-figure price that reflects its flagship status. 🚗 Jack Nerad Drives the Honda CR-V TrailSport Jack reviews Honda’s most adventure-focused CR-V yet. Offered exclusively as a hybrid with standard all-wheel drive, the 2026 CR-V TrailSport adds traction, torque, and rugged style without sacrificing efficiency or everyday comfort. Jack explains what Honda changed and who this TrailSport is really for. 🎙️ Special Guest: Inside the New Kia K4 Hatchback Jack talks with Yung Kim, Senior Product Manager at Kia America, about the all-new Kia K4 Hatchback. They discuss why compact cars still matter, how the K4 fits today’s market, and what buyers can expect in design, technology, and value. 📰 This Week’s Automotive News • Americans Shift Toward Used and CPO Vehicles With new-car prices still high, more buyers are choosing used and certified pre-owned vehicles for lower payments and reduced risk. • EV Market Recalibrates for 2026 Several electric vehicles are being discontinued as automakers refocus on hybrids and models with stronger mainstream demand. • Canada Drops National EV Sales Mandate Canada replaces its EV quota with stricter emissions standards, signaling a move away from forced timelines. Kind of. • Analysts More Optimistic About Auto Sales Easing rates, better inventories, and tax-refund season are improving expectations for a steadier 2026. 📩 Listener Question of the Week Leonardo from Davis, California, asks:
“With cars as expensive as they are now, what maintenance items do people forget until it’s too late?” Jack and Chris share practical advice that can save drivers money over the long haul. 🎧 America on the Road is named Best Radio Show by the International Automotive Media Conference and is now in its 33rd year on the air. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and wherever you listen. 📚 Jack Nerad’s New Book Jack’s crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same, is available now in paperback and eBook on Amazon — currently at a post-Christmas sale price. 🎧 Where to Listen Catch America on the Road on this station each week, or subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and more. Follow for newcar reviews, guest interviews, auto news, and road tests. Sponsored by Mercury Insurance and DrivingToday.com 📺 Watch & Subscribe Find America on the Road on YouTube and Rumble. Subscribe for road test videos, shorts, and extended reviews. 📨 Email: editor@drivingtoday.com Check Out Matt DeLorenzo’s Book: Pick up a copy of co-host Matt DeLorenzo’s terrific new book Mercedes-AMG: Race-Bred Performance Special Price for Jack’s Newest Crime Novel Jack is now offering his newest crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same, at a 67%-off price of just $4.99. Click here to buy from Amazon at this special limited-time price.
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    44 min
  • Maserati Grecale Trofeo: More Fun than Any SUV Should Ever Be

    Maserati Grecale Trofeo: More Fun than Any SUV Should Ever Be
    Feb 7 2026
    This week on America on the Road, co-host Chris Teague joins host Jack Nerad as they dive into the latest automotive news, two compelling road tests, and an insightful engineering-focused interview. Jack reviews the high-performance Maserati Grecale Trofeo, a compact luxury SUV that makes the most of its supercar roots, while Chris drives the all-new 2026 Toyota Crown Signia hybrid, a premium crossover blending efficiency and sophistication. Jack also sits down with Zach Walker, chief engineer of the 2026 Lucid Gravity SUV, to discuss its innovative design, advanced technology, and how it pushes the boundaries of electric mobility. 🚙 Jack Nerad Test-Drives the 2026 Maserati Grecale Trofeo Jack reviews the top-tier Grecale Trofeo, Maserati’s performance-first compact luxury SUV boasting a 530-horsepower twin-turbo V6 derived from the MC20 supercar, all-wheel drive, and adaptive air suspension for a blend of speed and refinement. With a 0-60 mph time of about 3.8 seconds, premium materials like perforated leather and carbon fiber, a tech-rich cabin featuring dual touchscreens and a Sonus faber audio system, plus comprehensive safety aids, the Trofeo emphasizes emotional driving appeal. Jack breaks down its real-world performance, comfort, and value at a starting price of over $117,000 in a rarified segment. 🚗 Chris Teague Test-Drives the 2026 Toyota Crown Signia Hybrid Chris gets behind the wheel of Toyota’s elegant new crossover SUV. The 2026 Crown Signia hybrid features a standard 2.5-liter Toyota Hybrid System with 240 horsepower, electronic on-demand all-wheel drive, and an EPA-estimated 38 mpg combined, offering a quiet, car-like ride. With a premium interior including leather-trimmed heated and ventilated front seats, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, available panoramic glass roof, and up to 6.5 feet of cargo space with folded seats, it provides versatility for families. Chris explores its handling, tech features like Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, and how it stacks up in the competitive hybrid SUV market. 🎙️ Special Guest Interview Jack talks with Zach Walker, Senior Director of Advanced Product Creation at Lucid Motors and previously the Chief Engineer for the Lucid Gravity. The interview offers an in-depth discussion on the SUV’s groundbreaking electric architecture, spacious three-row design, impressive range, and how Lucid’s engineering innovations are shaping the future of sustainable family vehicles. 📰 This Week’s Headlines California Studies Per-Mile Driving Tax Despite assurances it’s just research, California lawmakers have approved a study on replacing the gas tax with a mileage-based fee, potentially adding hundreds or thousands in annual costs for drivers. Critics highlight privacy concerns, fairness issues for rural commuters, and the trend in other states like Oregon as EVs reduce fuel-tax revenue. Waymo Faces NHTSA Probe After Striking Child Federal regulators are investigating Waymo after one of its autonomous vehicles hit a child near a Santa Monica school at low speed. The company claims its tech outperformed a human driver in simulations, but the incident amplifies safety questions around robotaxis in school zones amid ongoing scrutiny. Peninsula Hotels Launches Luxury Motoring Series The Peninsula Hotels unveils high-end driving experiences, including a $37,000 six-day Scottish Highlands adventure with classic cars, scenic routes, and exclusive activities like whisky tastings. Upcoming trips include Monterey Car Week in California and a return to Japan in 2027 for affluent enthusiasts. TrueCar Founder Returns After $227M Buyout Scott Painter reacquires TrueCar in a $227 million deal to take it private, aiming to enhance pricing transparency and reduce buying friction for consumers without disrupting dealerships. The move focuses on rebuilding trust in an era of digital-first car shopping. 📩 Listener Question of the Week Terrence from Orem, Utah asks: “I’m looking at buying a new car and I think I want a hybrid. What’s the real difference between a hybrid and a plug-in hybrid in daily driving?” Jack and Chris break down how hybrids rely on regenerative braking and gas engines for seamless efficiency, while plug-in hybrids add home charging for short electric-only ranges, impacting fuel savings, costs, and convenience. 📚 Jack Nerad’s New Book Jack’s crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same, is available now in paperback and eBook on Amazon — currently at a post-Christmas sale price. 🎧 Where to Listen Catch America on the Road on this station each week, or subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and more. Follow for newcar reviews, guest interviews, auto news, and road tests. Sponsored by Mercury Insurance and DrivingToday.com 📺 Watch & Subscribe Find America on the Road on YouTube and Rumble. Subscribe for road test videos, shorts, and extended reviews. 📨 Email: editor@drivingtoday.com Check Out Matt DeLorenzo’s ...
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    44 min
  • 2026 Mazda CX-70 Turbo S Premium: Are 2 Rows Better than 3?

    2026 Mazda CX-70 Turbo S Premium: Are 2 Rows Better than 3?
    Jan 31 2026
    This week on America on the Road, Jack Nerad puts Mazda’s new 2026 CX-70 Turbo S Premium to the test, while Chris Teague drives Volvo’s smallest and quickest electric SUV, the 2026 Volvo EX30. Jack and Chris also break down the top stories shaping today’s car market, from Tesla’s big shift in the way it charges for driver-assistance features to Volvo’s bold claim that its new EX60 electric SUV can finally put range anxiety to rest. In addition, the show digs into the growing strain of auto loan debt across generations and a controversial federal court ruling that requires that taxpayer funds be spent on electric-vehicle infrastructure. 🚗 Road Test Segment Chris Teague Test-Drives the 2026 Volvo EX30 Chris reviews Volvo’s compact electric SUV with dual motors, 422 horsepower, rapid acceleration, and a minimalist Scandinavian interior, examining performance, range, charging capability, and where the EX30 fits in the small-EV market. Jack Nerad Test-Drives the 2026 Mazda CX-70 Turbo S Premium Jack evaluates the latest iteration of Mazda’s two-row midsize SUV powered by a turbocharged inline-six with mild-hybrid assist, covering pricing, performance, ride quality, interior refinement, and how the CX-70 stacks up against the closely related CX-90 and logical competitors like the Lexus RX. 📰 This Week’s Headlines Tesla Restructures Driver Assistance Features Tesla removes Autosteer from standard equipment, placing self-steering behind its Full Self-Driving subscription as it pushes recurring software revenue. Volvo Officially Unveils the All-New EX60 Electric SUV Volvo reveals a midsize electric crossover promising up to 400 miles of range, ultra-fast charging, and direct access to Tesla’s Supercharger network. Auto Loan Debt Is Squeezing Every Generation A new LendingTree study shows millennials and Gen X carry the largest balances, while Gen Z borrowers face the highest interest rates and the greatest strain on income. Federal Judge Forces EV Charging Funds to Move Forward A court blocks the administration from halting billions in EV infrastructure spending, even as future EV demand projections are revised downward. 🎙️ Special Guest Interview – Mike Musheinesh – CEO, Detroit Axle Mike Musheinesh, CEO of internet auto parts retailer Detroit Axle, joins the show to discuss how recent tariff policy changes have affected the automotive aftermarket, supply chains, and global parts manufacturers. 📩 Listener Question of the Week Lula from Spokane, Washington asks:
“I only drive about 8,000 miles a year. Am I better off buying or leasing my next car?”
Jack and Chris break down the real-world math and practical considerations for low-mileage drivers. 📚 Jack Nerad’s New Book Jack’s crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same, is available now in paperback and eBook on Amazon — currently at a post-Christmas sale price. 🎧 Where to Listen Catch America on the Road on this station each week, or subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and more. Follow for newcar reviews, guest interviews, auto news, and road tests. Sponsored by Mercury Insurance and DrivingToday.com 📺 Watch & Subscribe Find America on the Road on YouTube and Rumble. Subscribe for road test videos, shorts, and extended reviews. 📨 Email: editor@drivingtoday.com Check Out Matt DeLorenzo’s Book: Pick up a copy of co-host Matt DeLorenzo’s terrific new book Mercedes-AMG: Race-Bred Performance Special Price for Jack’s Newest Crime Novel Jack is now offering his newest crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same, at a 67%-off price of just $4.99. Click here to buy from Amazon at this special limited-time price.
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    44 min
  • Just Tested: 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD, 2026 Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally

    Just Tested: 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD, 2026 Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally
    Jan 24 2026

    This week on America on the Road, Jack Nerad and Chris Teague break down a busy week in the auto industry, including a reopened federal investigation into GM V8 engine failures, mixed signals for the EV market heading into 2026, and Acura’s confirmation that the next-generation RDX will add a hybrid powertrain for the first time. We also look at Ford’s newly revealed Bronco RTR performance off-roader and Honda’s unexpected debut of a lightweight, tech-forward travel trailer.

    🚗 Jack Nerad Road Tests the 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD

    Jack drives the turbocharged, all-wheel-drive Kona Limited, evaluating its performance, ride quality, technology, safety features, and overall value in the crowded subcompact SUV segment.

    🚙 Chris Teague Road-Tests the 2026 Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally

    Chris takes Ford’s rally-inspired Mach-E for an on-road and off-pavement drive, evaluating its dual-motor performance, torque-vectoring all-wheel drive, raised suspension, and unique chassis tuning.

    🎙️ Special Guest: Russell Wager, Kia Marketing Vice President

    Jack speaks with Kia’s Russell Wager at the Kia K4 Hatchback driving event about the new model, changing consumer priorities, and how automakers are navigating affordability, electrification, and product planning in 2026.

    📰 This Week’s Headlines

    • NHTSA reopens its probe into nearly 600,000 GM trucks and SUVs with 6.2-liter V8 engines
    • EV sales rebound in December, but high prices and policy shifts cloud the outlook for 2026
    • Acura teases its first-ever hybrid RDX
    • Ford unveils the 2027 Bronco RTR performance off-roader
    • Honda debuts the Base Station Prototype modular travel trailer

    📩 Listener Question

    A listener asks for practical advice on driving safely in snow after relocating to a colder climate.

    📚 Jack Nerad’s New Book

    Jack’s crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same, is available now in paperback and eBook on Amazon — currently at a post-Christmas sale price.

    🎧 Where to Listen

    Catch America on the Road on this station each week, or subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and more. Follow for newcar reviews, guest interviews, auto news, and road tests.

    Sponsored by Mercury Insurance and DrivingToday.com

    📺 Watch & Subscribe

    Find America on the Road on YouTube and Rumble. Subscribe for road test videos, shorts, and extended reviews.

    📨 Email: editor@drivingtoday.com

    Check Out Matt DeLorenzo’s Book:

    Pick up a copy of co-host Matt DeLorenzo’s terrific new book Mercedes-AMG: Race-Bred Performance

    Special Price for Jack’s Newest Crime Novel

    Jack is now offering his newest crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same, at a 67%-off price of just $4.99. Click here to buy from Amazon at this special limited-time price.
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    44 min
  • 2026 Ford Maverick Lobo: North American Truck of the Year Hits the Street

    2026 Ford Maverick Lobo: North American Truck of the Year Hits the Street
    Jan 17 2026
    This week on America on the Road, host Jack Nerad flies solo as co-host Chris Teague tends to a sick dog. Jack brings you road tests of two standout vehicles–North American Truck of the Year Ford Maverick Lobo and Mazda CX-30–and the latest automotive news. Among the stories we cover California Governor Gavin Newsom is making a new EV push; Volvo is targeting range anxiety, and Lucid is unveiling a new robotaxi. Our special guest interview looks behind the scenes at the all-new 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan. 🚗 Test Drive: 2026 North American Truck of the Year Ford Maverick Lobo Jack reviews Ford’s compact street-performance pickup, powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder delivering 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, paired with a seven-speed automatic and all-wheel drive with torque vectoring. It features a lowered suspension, upgraded brakes with dual-piston front calipers, a dedicated Lobo drive mode for closed-course thrills, 19-inch black wheels, and a graffiti-inspired interior with Grabber Blue accents. Starting at $35,930, the Lobo balances everyday utility with on-road dynamics, a high-value performance variant in the Maverick lineup. 🚙 Test Drive: 2026 Mazda CX-30 Turbo Aire Edition In the second review on this week’s show, Jack takes on Mazda’s subcompact CX-30 SUV, equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine producing 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque, a six-speed automatic, and standard i-Activ all-wheel drive. It offers agile handling with G-Vectoring Control Plus, a premium interior with white leatherette seats and gray suede-like inserts, a 10.25-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Bose audio, and advanced safety like Mazda Radar Cruise Control. At $34,410 as tested, the CX-30 delivers enthusiast appeal with balanced ride quality and some degree of SUV versatility. 📰 This Week’s Headlines California EV Incentives Return Governor Gavin Newsom proposes $200 million in new rebates as EV sales drop 41% year-over-year and automakers scale back electrification plans. Volvo EX60 Targets Range Anxiety The midsize electric SUV promises over 500 miles of range and 211 miles added in 10 minutes of fast charging, built on the new SPA3 platform with megacasting. Ram Enters NASCAR with Reality TV “Race for the Seat” pits 15 aspiring drivers in challenges for a 2026 Truck Series ride with Kaulig Racing, premiering January 25 on FOX. GM Opens New Detroit Headquarters The automaker returns to Woodward Avenue with a modern design at Hudson’s Detroit, highlighting its $123 billion U.S. economic impact and $60 billion in recent investments. Lucid, Uber, Nuro Reveal Robotaxi Based on the Lucid Gravity, the Level 4 autonomous vehicle features 360-degree sensors, NVIDIA AI, and seating for six, with production starting later this year. 🎤 Special Guest: Volkswagen’s Shylar Abshire Jack interviews Shylar Abshire, 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan Product Expert, discussing the latest features and updates in the newest generation of Volkswagen’s popular compact SUV. 📩 Listener Question of the Week: Sid from Joliet, IL asks: “I’ve been car shopping recently, and I’m having a hard time with the amount cars cost right now. Are car prices ever going to come back down?” Jack shares insights based on his expertise in the auto industry and consumer trends. 📚 Jack Nerad’s New Book Jack’s crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same, is available now in paperback and eBook on Amazon — currently at a post-Christmas sale price. 🎧 Where to Listen Catch America on the Road on this station each week, or subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and more. Follow for newcar reviews, guest interviews, auto news, and road tests. Sponsored by Mercury Insurance and DrivingToday.com 📺 Watch & Subscribe Find America on the Road on YouTube and Rumble. Subscribe for road test videos, shorts, and extended reviews. 📨 Email: editor@drivingtoday.com Check Out Matt DeLorenzo’s Book: Pick up a copy of co-host Matt DeLorenzo’s terrific new book Mercedes-AMG: Race-Bred Performance Special Price for Jack’s Newest Crime Novel Jack is now offering his newest crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same, at a 67%-off price of just $4.99. Click here to buy from Amazon at this special limited-time price.
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    44 min
  • 2026 Genesis G80 3.5T Sport Prestige AWD Guns for BMW, Mercedes-Benz

    2026 Genesis G80 3.5T Sport Prestige AWD Guns for BMW, Mercedes-Benz
    Jan 10 2026
    This week on America on the Road (episode 301), host Jack Nerad and cohost Chris Teague kick off the new year with road tests of two very different vehicles, breaking news from Ford, and a special discussion on the highs, lows, and lessons from the 2025 auto industry. This week’s road tests are especially compelling. Chris evaluates the rugged 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness, built for off-road adventures. while Jack reviews the refined 2026 Genesis G80 3.5T Sport Prestige AWD. 🚗 Jack Nerad Test Drives the 2026 Genesis G80 3.5T Sport Prestige AWD Jack explores Genesis’ top-trim, high-value luxury sedan, powered by a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 delivering 375 horsepower and paired with an eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive for smooth, confident acceleration in the low five-second 0-60 mph range. It features an electronically controlled suspension for composed handling, a premium interior with soft leather, open-pore wood trim, heated/ventilated/massaging seats, a wide OLED display with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and advanced safety. Priced at $79,845 as tested, the G80 emphasizes serenity and craftsmanship over aggressive sportiness, and it’s backed by a strong warranty package including 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain coverage. 🚙 Chris Teague Test Drives the 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness Chris takes on Subaru’s off-road-focused crossover, equipped with a 2.5-liter boxer engine producing 180 horsepower and 178 lbft of torque, a revised Lineartronic CVT with XMODE Dual settings for Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud, and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. It boasts 9.3 inches of ground clearance, all-terrain tires on 17inch matte black wheels, Bilstein shocks, a 3,500-pound towing capacity, water-resistant StarTex upholstery with copper accents, and the latest EyeSight safety suite, including BlindSpot Detection and Emergency Lane Keep Assist. Starting at $38,385, the Forester Wilderness combines rugged capability with everyday practicality. 🎙️ Looking Back at 2025, Forward to 2026 and Beyond Hosts Jack Nerad and Chris Teague reflect on 2025’s startling impact on car buyers and the auto industry, from market trends to upcoming challenges. They share insights on why 2025 was such a consequential year and predict what to expect in 2026 for vehicles, technology, and consumer choices. 📰 This Week’s Headlines Vehicle Affordability Crisis Deepens Over 20% of new-car buyers faced $1,000+ monthly payments in Q4 2025, but dealers express optimism for 2026 profits and AI integration. Ford’s Record Recalls in 2025 The automaker issued 152 safety recalls, a new high, but emphasizes improved quality processes and falling warranty costs. Ram Revives the TRX for 2027 The supercharged 6.2L HEMI V8 now delivers 777 horsepower in this off-road beast, with Bilstein adaptive shocks, 14inch suspension travel, and a starting MSRP of $99,995. LG Expands In-Car Entertainment Prime Video joins LG’s Automotive Content Platform for streaming on vehicle screens starting Q2 2026. Will.i.am Unveils TRINITY at CES A self-balancing electric three-wheeler with AI brains, 0-60 mph in under two seconds, and 150-mile range. 📩 Listener Question of the Week Lenore from Calabasas, California, asks: “I drive about an hour each way back and forth to work. I’m thinking of buying a new car this year. What do you think is the best car for long highway commutes?” Jack and Chris share recommendations based on their expertise in comfort, efficiency, and reliability for extended drives. 📚 Jack Nerad’s New Book Jack’s crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same, is available now in paperback and eBook on Amazon — currently at a post-Christmas sale price. 🎧 Where to Listen Catch America on the Road on this station each week, or subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and more. Follow for newcar reviews, guest interviews, auto news, and road tests. Sponsored by Mercury Insurance and DrivingToday.com 📺 Watch & Subscribe Find America on the Road on YouTube and Rumble. Subscribe for road test videos, shorts, and extended reviews. 📨 Email: editor@drivingtoday.com Check Out Matt DeLorenzo’s Book: Pick up a copy of co-host Matt DeLorenzo’s terrific new book Mercedes-AMG: Race-Bred Performance Special Price for Jack’s Newest Crime Novel Jack is now offering his newest crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same, at a 67%-off price of just $4.99. Click here to buy from Amazon at this special limited-time price.
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    44 min
  • Is the 2027 Dodge Charger Scat Pack the Most Sophisticated Musclecar Ever?

    Is the 2027 Dodge Charger Scat Pack the Most Sophisticated Musclecar Ever?
    Jan 3 2026
    This week’s America on the Road is a special episode for several reasons. Not only is it the 300th episode since AOTR was rejuvenated as a radio series and podcast, but it also features one of the most innovative musclecars Detroit has ever developed — the 2027 Dodge Charger Scat Pack equipped with the 550-hp SixPack turbocharged in-line six. For this special episode, host Jack Nerad welcomes guest co-host Matt DeLorenzo for a milestone edition packed with road tests, breaking news, and a deep-dive review of the biggest automotive stories of 2025. 🚙 Matt DeLorenzo Test-Drives the 2027 Dodge Charger Scat Pack In our weekly road test segment, Matt explores the 550-hp 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six (SIXPACK H.O.) Charger Scat Pack, which leverages its 531 lb-ft of torque and unique electronics to accelerate from 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds with a quarter-mile in 12.2 seconds and top speed of 177 mph. It features standard all-wheel drive with switchable rear-drive mode, Launch Control, Line Lock, dual-mode active exhaust, and Brembo brakes for burnouts and drifting. The interior boasts premium leather-and-suede seats, a 12.3-inch Uconnect touchscreen, and race-inspired accents. Starting around $57,000, it offers thrilling performance in a versatile sedan body as an integral part of Dodge’s multi-energy lineup. 🚗 Jack Nerad Test-Drives the 2025 Lexus LX 600 While Matt was contemplating smoky burnouts, Jack had a more sedate assignment. Fresh from driving the Dodge Charger himself, he put the flagship Lexus SUV through its paces during his middle daughter’s wedding week. The happy occasion highlighted the SUV’s refined 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 producing 409 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, paired with a smooth 10-speed automatic and standard full-time four-wheel drive. TVery capable off-road as well, the LX 600 features advanced tools like Crawl Control, Multi-Terrain Select, and Adaptive Variable Suspension, while delivering a serene cabin with premium semi-aniline leather, dual-screen infotainment, and optional 25-speaker Mark Levinson audio. Priced from over $100,000 (starting around $106,850 for the Premium trim), the LX 600 blends luxury, legendary Toyota-based reliability, and genuine adventure readiness like few rivals. 🎙️ Special Guest Interview Host Jack Nerad sits down with veteran automotive journalist and author Matt DeLorenzo, a frequent AOTR co-host with decades of experience from Road & Track to Kelley Blue Book. They discuss Matt’s brand-new book Mercedes-AMG: Race-Bred Performance and his insights on the ever-changing auto industry. 📰 This Week’s Headlines Autonomous Driving Challenges Mount California issues Tesla a 90-day ultimatum to correct misleading Autopilot and Full Self-Driving marketing, while Waymo robotaxis stall during a San Francisco power outage, prompting software updates and regulatory review. Ford F-Series Claims 49th Straight Year as Top Truck Surpassing 800,000 sales in 2025, Ford celebrates relentless innovation in its iconic pickup lineup. Chevy Unveils Patriotic Stars & Steel Collection Limited-edition 2026 models across Corvette, Silverado, and Colorado honor America’s 250th anniversary with flag-inspired graphics, premium upgrades, and donations to veteran causes. Chevy Unveils Patriotic Stars & Steel Collection Limited-edition 2026 models across Corvette, Silverado, and Colorado honor America’s 250th anniversary with flag-inspired graphics, premium upgrades, and donations to veteran causes. Tesla Door Handles Under Fire Flush electric handles face backlash and federal probes after reports link power failures in crashes to trapped occupants and fatalities. 📩 Listener Question of the Week Samuel from Omaha, NE asks: “I’m amazed at the size of the screens in some of the new cars I’ve been looking at. Are touchscreens like that making cars less safe?” Jack and Matt discuss the safety implications of massive infotainment screens based on their extensive experience. 🎧 Where to Listen Catch America on the Road on this station every week, and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and Rumble. You’ll also find road test videos, interviews, and shorts on our YouTube channel. Special thanks to Mercury Insurance for sponsoring the show and to our Sports Byline Network affiliates nationwide. 🎙️ Hosts Jack Nerad — Award-winning auto journalist and author of Only One Thing Stays the Same Chris Teague — Longtime auto critic and journalist 📢 Presented by • DrivingToday.com • EMLandsea.com • Mercury Insurance – Switch today and save. Californians save an average of $670. 📺 Watch & Subscribe Find America on the Road on YouTube and Rumble. Subscribe for road test videos, shorts, and extended reviews. 📨 Email: editor@drivingtoday.com Check Out Matt DeLorenzo’s Book: Pick up a copy of co-host Matt DeLorenzo’s terrific new book Mercedes-AMG: Race-Bred Performance Special Price for Jack’s Newest Crime ...
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    44 min
  • 2025 Subaru Impreza RS: Who Says Affordable Can’t be Fun?

    2025 Subaru Impreza RS: Who Says Affordable Can’t be Fun?
    Dec 27 2025
    This week on America on the Road, co-host Chris Teague joins host Jack Nerad for a deep dive into the latest automotive news, two insightful road tests, and a special interview with veteran journalist Gary Witzenburg. Chris reviews the premium 2026 Toyota 4Runner Limited, highlighting its refined on-road manners and off-road prowess, while Jack takes the wheel of the sporty 2025 Subaru Impreza RS hatchback, praising its engaging drive and all-weather capability. Jack also chats with Gary Witzenburg, former North American Car of the Year Jury president and Motor Trend alum, about his upcoming book of automotive reminiscences. 🚙 Jack Nerad Test-Drives the 2025 Subaru Impreza RS Jack drives the top-trim Impreza RS hatchback, equipped with a 2.5-liter Boxer engine, standard Symmetrical AWD, sport-tuned handling, and modern tech. The appealing compact hatchback offers surprisingly fun-to-drive dynamics, practicality, and value in its hotly competitive. Its features include 18-inch alloy wheels, RS-specific sport seats with red stitching, a Harman Kardon premium audio option, and advanced EyeSight safety systems with automatic emergency steering. 🚗 Chris Teague Test-Drives the 2026 Toyota 4Runner Limited Chris explores the upscale Limited trim of Toyota’s redesigned midsize SUV, featuring available hybrid power, adaptive suspension, luxury appointments like leather seats and a massive touchscreen, and Toyota’s comprehensive safety tech. The new-gen 4Runner delivers a winning balance of comfort and ruggedness for everyday and adventurous use. It also includes premium touches such as available power-extending running boards, a power moonroof, and a digital rearview mirror for enhanced convenience and visibility. 🎙️ Special Guest Interview Jack speaks with acclaimed automotive journalist Gary Witzenburg about his career highlights, time at Motor Trend, leadership in the North American Car of the Year awards, and his forthcoming book sharing behind-the-scenes stories from decades in the industry. 📰 This Week’s Headlines • Toyota to Export U.S.-Built Camry, Highlander, Tundra to Japan Toyota plans to sell American-made models in its home market starting 2026, including the Kentucky-built Camry, Indiana Highlander, and Texas Tundra—a strategic move to address trade tensions and offer Japanese buyers larger, capable vehicles. • Volkswagen Halts ID.Buzz U.S. Sales; Ford Ends F-150 Lightning Production VW pauses U.S. deliveries of the retro electric minivan amid high inventory and lost tax credits, shifting to fleets and autonomy, while Ford ceases Lightning production, favoring hybrid-like extended-range EVs in a cooling market. • Delaware Court Reinstates Elon Musk’s $139 Billion Tesla Pay Package The state supreme court overturns a prior ruling, restoring Musk’s massive 2018 compensation and boosting his wealth dramatically after shareholder approvals. • Waymo Resumes Driverless Service After San Francisco Power Outage Waymo robotaxis briefly paused operations during a widespread blackout that caused traffic disruptions, highlighting infrastructure challenges in autonomous deployment. • Hyundai Elantra N TCR Joins Gran Turismo 7 Hyundai’s championship-winning race car debuts virtually in the game next month, celebrating the N brand’s 10th anniversary with enhanced in-game content. 📩 Listener Question of the Week Randall from Fresno, California, asks: “Are modern cars more expensive to maintain than older ones?” Jack and Chris discuss evolving maintenance costs, reliability trends, and factors influencing ownership expenses today. 📚 Books Jack’s crime novel Only One Thing Stays the Same is out now in ebook and paperback—perfect for post-holiday reading at a special low price. 🎧 Where to Listen Catch America on the Road on this station every week, and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and Rumble. You’ll also find road test videos, interviews, and shorts on our YouTube channel. Special thanks to Mercury Insurance for sponsoring the show and to our Sports Byline Network affiliates nationwide. 🎙️ Hosts Jack Nerad — Award-winning auto journalist and author of Only One Thing Stays the Same Chris Teague — Longtime auto critic and journalist 📢 Presented by • DrivingToday.com • EMLandsea.com • Mercury Insurance – Switch today and save. Californians save an average of $670. 📺 Watch & Subscribe Find America on the Road on YouTube and Rumble. Subscribe for road test videos, shorts, and extended reviews. 📨 Email: editor@drivingtoday.com Check Out Matt DeLorenzo’s Book: Pick up a copy of co-host Matt DeLorenzo’s terrific new book Mercedes-AMG: Race-Bred Performance Special Price for Jack’s Newest Crime Novel: Jack is now offering his newest crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same, at a 67%-off price of just $4.99. Click here to buy from Amazon at this special limited-time price.
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    44 min