In this week’s episode of America on the Road, Jack Nerad and Chris Teague each test drive fascinating small cars — the 2025 Volvo EX30 and the 2025 Hyundai Kona. Depending upon how you look at it, each one could be considered a big bargain … or a disappointment. We’ll tell you our opinions and break down the biggest auto industry news of the week. Let’s dive into what’s on tap:

Host Jack Nerad puts the 2025 Volvo EX30 Twin Motor Performance Ultra to the test, a compact electric SUV that delivers sports-car acceleration—0 to 60 in just 3.3 seconds—while wrapped in sleek, minimalist design. Its dual-motor AWD setup generates 422 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque, with up to 253 miles of range. Tech takes center stage inside with a single 12.3-inch touchscreen that controls everything—no gauge cluster or physical buttons in sight. While fast and feature-rich, Jack notes the interface can feel unintuitive, and the lack of tactile controls may frustrate some drivers. Sustainable materials, 5G connectivity, Google Built-in, and standard driver-assist features give it a modern edge. However, with final assembly and sourcing in China, the EX30 won’t qualify for U.S. EV tax credits. It’s a compelling, tech-forward EV for early adopters, but traditionalists may find it too digitally driven for daily use.

Chris Teague reviews the redesigned 2025 Hyundai Kona, now larger, smarter, and more refined than ever. The new model rides on an updated platform that improves ride quality, interior space, and driving dynamics. Its bold exterior features futuristic light bars and sharper lines, while the interior offers dual 12.3-inch displays, upgraded materials, and improved tech across trims. Powertrain options include a 2.0L base engine and a punchier 1.6-liter turbo, both delivering solid fuel economy. Chris highlights the Kona’s strong value, easy drivability, and appeal to urban drivers and small families. Wireless smartphone connectivity and over-the-air update capability enhance its appeal. Downsides include some budget interior materials and AWD availability limited to certain trims. Overall, the 2025 Kona blends style, practicality, and features in a way that makes it one of the top choices in the subcompact SUV segment.

This week’s guest is Jonny Grunwald, a Pennzoil ambassador and respected automotive builder with a deep love for performance tuning and wrenching on machines. Jack and Chris talk with him about his path in the industry, his latest projects, and what he sees ahead for car enthusiasts and garage tinkerers alike.

Tesla is in disarray as a string of high-profile executives has exited, including North American sales chief Troy Jones and key figures close to Elon Musk. With deliveries dropping and Musk’s political foray stirring backlash, the company’s direction—and stability—are being questioned.

Stellantis is walking away from Symbio, its hydrogen fuel cell venture, just two years after buying in. Despite hydrogen’s long-haul benefits, Stellantis is redirecting funds toward battery-electric vehicles, leaving Symbio’s future in limbo.

In a surprising pivot, GM will convert its Orion Assembly plant from EV production to building gas-powered pickups like the Escalade, Silverado, and Sierra by 2027. Citing sluggish EV demand, the automaker is leaning back into its internal-combustion cash cows while maintaining battery module production on-site.

Jack shares the latest from the “Made in America” tour, highlighting domestic manufacturing, American-made vehicles, and other American-made items, including rock’n’roll, baseball, and football. They explore the stories behind the assembly lines and shine a light on how U.S. workers continue to adapt to a fast-changing landscape that isn’t leaving them behind.

Willard from Interlochen, Michigan, writes,
“I was talking to a salesman the other day, and he told me that some of the features I want aren’t available now but probably will be available as over-the-air updates? I’m not really sure of that. How do over-the-air updates actually work in newer cars?” In response, Jack and Chris explain how OTA updates work, what they can—and can’t—do, and why you should always ask exactly which features are “future-capable” vs. actually present on delivery.

Pick up a copy of co-host Matt DeLorenzo’s terrific new book How to Buy an Affordable Electric Car: A Tightwad’s Guide to EV Ownership.

Jack is now offering his newest crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same, at a pre-publication price of just $4.99. Click here to buy from Amazon at this special limited-time price.

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America on the Road is brought to you by Driving Today.com, Mercury Insurance, and EMLandsea.com , the publisher of Nerad’s latest book, Only One Thing Stays the Same, which is available HERE on Amazon.com