In this episode of the award-winning America on the Road radio show/podcast, hosts Jack Nerad and Chris Teague unravel the just-released J.D. Power APEAL Study that views how American drivers feel about their cars, trucks, and SUVs. Spoiler alert: Porsche was the top luxury brand while Dodge topped the mainstream brands.  Performance means emotion!

The Mazda Mazda6 and the Ford F-250 Super Duty Tremor are the subjects of this week's road tests. Long a car-tester favorite, the Mazda6 turns the trick again this model year. Its combination of handling, turbocharged power, and luxury-like interior accommodations makes it a winner in the midsize sedan segment. The F-250 heavy-duty pickup isn't just big; it is also tall, and it is a vehicle of choice for those who tow big trailers, boats, or toy haulers. Our test vehicle was fitted with the Tremor off-road package that includes 35-inch Goodyear Wrangler Duratrac maximum-traction tires, two-inch front-end lift, shorter air dam,and 10.8 inches of ground clearance.

In the interview segment Jack sits down for a lengthy interview with Ford SUV Marketing Manager Dave Rivers, who rhapsodizes about the virtues of the just introduced Ford Bronco sub-brand. With a three-vehicle lineup, Bronco is expected to give Jeep some major new competition in the off-road arena when its models begin hitting showrooms this fall and early next year.