America on the Road

This week on America on the Road, host Jack Nerad welcomes back co-host Chris Teague, and they have some intriguing road tests. Chris puts the gas-powered 2027 Dodge Charger R/T through its paces while Jack evaluates the 2026 Nissan Murano during a road trip to Chicago. In the news, they cover American automakers’ push to permanently shut Chinese vehicles out of the U.S. market, Dodge’s return to the NASCAR Cup Series, and a proposed exterior lighting system for automated vehicles. In addition, they reveal Toyota’s plan to sell engines and hybrid technology to rivals and discuss the mixed results among luxury brands. Special guest Chau Nguyen, founder of Vintage Modern, talk about his dream of building modern vehicles with classic Ford Bronco-inspired design. Jack also reviews the Vueroid S1 QHD Infinite dashcam.

Chris spent the week in the gas-powered 2027 Dodge Charger R/T Plus trim). It uses a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six producing 420 horsepower and 468 lb-ft of torque, paired with all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic. The tested car does 0-60 in 4.6 seconds and runs the quarter-mile in 12.9 seconds. As-tested price was just over $67,000. The four-door model is large and heavy but handles well with solid ride quality. The interior features distinctive three-dimensional textured surfaces, black leather and suede, heated/ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a 16-inch digital gauge cluster, 12.3-inch Uconnect 5 touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a full suite of driver-assistance systems. Exhaust note is distinctive—honkish at low speeds, screaming under load. Chris notes it delivers much of the performance of prior V8 Chargers at a lower price, though dealer incentives suggest sales challenges as buyers await a potential Hemi return.

Jack drove the 2026 Nissan Murano Platinum in Chicago and came away impressed. The thoroughly revised model (updated for 2025) positions itself as a personal-luxury, on-road-oriented two-row SUV with no off-road pretensions. Power comes from a 2.0-liter variable-compression turbo four-cylinder making 241 hp and 260 lb-ft, mated to a nine-speed automatic and intelligent all-wheel drive. Combined fuel economy is 23 mpg. Styling is upscale inside and out; the Platinum trim includes 21-inch alloys, leather seating, dual 12.3-inch displays, Google built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and strong driver-assistance features. Zero Gravity seats are particularly comfortable. The window sticker was $57,000. Jack describes it as luxury-adjacent—comfortable, quiet, and refined—with predictable (if not sporting) handling. The nine-speed transmission is a major improvement over prior CVTs.

American automakers and unions are urging Congress to permanently block Chinese vehicles from the U.S. market, citing national security and economic risks. The Alliance for Automotive Innovation and others fear Chinese brands could quickly capture significant market share through low pricing. The issue has bipartisan elements; a lame-duck Congress will determine next steps.

After more than 14 years away, Dodge is rejoining the NASCAR Cup Series, with plans to race in 2027. The announcement came at the SEMA show under Tim Kuniskis’s leadership. The brand previously re-entered the truck series and sees racing as a way to revitalize the brand and “win on Sunday, sell on Monday,” especially with a future Hemi-powered Charger expected.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is proposing optional (initially) greenish-blue exterior lighting to identify vehicles operating with automated driving systems. The goal is to help other motorists, pedestrians, and law enforcement recognize driverless vehicles. Jack and Chris both support the idea and would like it to become mandatory over time.

Toyota sees a potential $1.7 billion annual opportunity in selling its gasoline engines and hybrid systems to competing automakers. Both hosts praise Toyota’s refined hybrid technology (nearly three decades of development) and note that other brands already benefit from it (Mazda, Subaru). They speculate GM could be a logical future customer as it expands its hybrid lineup.

BMW has lowered its 2026 profitability forecast amid restructuring costs, weaker Chinese demand, and rising Chinese competition in Europe. Volvo’s global sales fell 16 percent in the recent period on soft demand in China and the U.S.; its EX electric models have underwhelmed. Ferrari, by contrast, continues to thrive by selling fewer but far more expensive, high-margin vehicles and carefully managing customer relationships.

Guest Chau Nguyen explains how his company creates modern vehicles with classic Ford Bronco-inspired design. Starting from a personal frustration with unreliable classic cars, Vintage Modern builds on a contemporary chassis and drivetrain (Ford 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with Roush performance package, approximately 330 hp and 400 lb-ft) while delivering classic looks, modern safety, technology, and daily drivability. Each vehicle requires about 900 hours of handcrafting in Atlanta. Nearly 500 have been delivered. Customers can configure vehicles at vintagemodern.com; the brand has built a large following on social media by documenting the build process daily. A new model is planned for public unveiling in the coming months.

Jack reviews the Vueroid S1 QHD Infinite three-camera dashcam system (front, rear, and interior). It uses Sony StarVIS 2 sensors, records at high resolution with 160-degree fields of view, offers AI-assisted license-plate enhancement, excellent parking surveillance with motion/impact detection and low-power standby, GPS, Wi-Fi, and a polarizing filter. Priced around $310, it delivers strong daytime performance and comprehensive coverage without the cost of a full 4K system. Jack calls it a solid value and potential Christmas gift.

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

Catch America on the Road on your local Sports Byline Radio Network station each week and subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and more. Follow for new car reviews, guest interviews, auto news, and road tests.

Sponsored by Mercury Insurance and DrivingToday.com

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

📨 Email: [email protected]

Look for guest co-host Matt DeLorenzo’s terrific new book Mercedes-AMG: Race-Bred Performance

Pick up a copy of auto journalist Gary Witzenburg’s engaging new book Legends in Motion.

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.

This week on America on the Road, host Jack Nerad is joined by guest co-host Matt DeLorenzo for a packed episode of industry news and road tests. They discuss Stellantis’s improving North American results, strong projected October sales, General Motors’ long-overdue move into hybrids, and Honda’s warning about potential 50% tariffs on Canadian-built vehicles. Matt delivers a first drive of the all-new 2027 Nissan Rogue Hybrid, while Jack tests the 2026 Mazda CX-90 PHEV Premium Plus. Special guest Derek Joyce, product expert, joins to discuss the 2027 Hyundai Tucson. Listener question of the week comes from Steve in Tacoma, Washington.

Nissan brings back a hybrid Rogue for 2027, this time as a series hybrid (e-Power). Twin electric motors (one per axle) provide all-wheel drive and 225 total horsepower, while a 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine acts purely as a generator with no mechanical connection to the wheels and no CVT. The result is EV-like smoothness and quietness, with the engine only becoming noticeable under hard acceleration. EPA estimates are 40 mpg city / 36 highway / 38 combined. The SR trim tested features Zero Gravity seats, a 14.3-inch screen, contemporary styling, and more than 30 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row. Pricing starts around $36,000 for the SR; SV and Platinum trims follow. Both hosts found it a strong, practical compact SUV that should help revive Nissan’s fortunes against rivals such as the RAV4, CR-V, and Santa Fe.

Mazda’s three-row plug-in hybrid sits at the top of the lineup and blends luxury, performance, and electrification. The system pairs an inline-six with electric assistance for 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, sent through an eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive with a rear-biased feel. Electric-only range is rated at 26 miles; combined MPGe is 56. 0-60 comes in about six seconds despite a roughly 5,200-pound curb weight. The Premium Plus trim offers Nappa leather, heated/ventilated seats (including heated second-row captain’s chairs), adaptive LED lighting, and a firm, engaging chassis that prioritizes Zoom-Zoom dynamics. Cargo space and third-row room are a bit tighter than some rivals, and the modest EV range requires consistent plugging in to maximize benefits. At around $60,000 fully loaded, it delivers understated premium character without a traditional luxury badge.

Stellantis (Jeep, Ram, Dodge, Chrysler) posted a still-substantial $505 million quarterly loss but showed clear improvement. Ram sales rose 30 percent (Ram 1500 up 73 percent, helped by V8 availability), Dodge Durango climbed 14 percent, and Chrysler Pacifica gained 6 percent. The company is gaining North American market share as truck demand rebounds and regulatory pressure on fuel economy and pure EVs eases, allowing it to better amortize earlier EV investments.

Cox Automotive forecasts U.S. new-vehicle sales of 1.38 million units in October—up 7.2 percent year-over-year and 3.6 percent from September—pushing the full-year seasonally adjusted annual rate toward 16.1 million. Strength is concentrated in more affordable subcompact and compact SUVs/crossovers plus compact cars, with midsize SUVs also up about 9 percent. Consumers appear willing to replace aging vehicles despite broader economic concerns that are largely unfounded.

After years of prioritizing pure EVs (and canceling the Chevy Volt), General Motors announced gasoline-electric hybrids for many crossovers and SUVs, starting with the Chevrolet Traverse, Buick Enclave, and GMC Acadia. The move fills a competitive gap. Rivals already offer hybrids that add roughly $1,500 to the sticker while delivering meaningfully better fuel economy. GM’s U.S. market share has slipped from 17.4 percent to 16.6 percent in recent months; hybrids should help stop further erosion even if they never dominate volume.

Honda Senior Vice President Jennifer Thomas called a potential jump to 50 percent U.S. tariffs on Canadian-built vehicles and steel “catastrophic.” Honda has significant Canadian production feeding the U.S. market. The company is already shifting some Mexican output northward in response to other tariff pressures and faces a delicate political balancing act with the Canadian government.

Derek Joyce, product expert on the 2027 Hyundai Tucson, discusses the recently introduced model that was unveiled in New York.

Steve from Tacoma, Washington asks: With new-vehicle prices remaining high, would you rather buy a brand-new economy car or a three-year-old luxury vehicle for the same money? Matt leans toward the new compact for warranty, latest safety tech, and features (especially if the used example is not CPO). Jack is tempted by the used luxury car for the driving experience and image, noting that the choice is ultimately personal and emotional.

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

Catch America on the Road on your local Sports Byline Radio Network station each week and subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and more. Follow for new car reviews, guest interviews, auto news, and road tests.

Sponsored by Mercury Insurance and DrivingToday.com

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

📨 Email: [email protected]

Look for guest co-host Matt DeLorenzo’s terrific new book Mercedes-AMG: Race-Bred Performance

Pick up a copy of auto journalist Gary Witzenburg’s engaging new book Legends in Motion.

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.

This week on America on the Road, host Jack Nerad and frequent guest co-host Matt DeLorenzo record a special on-location episode from North American Car of the Year testing in Ann Arbor, Michigan. They explain the awards process, discuss the state of the auto industry heading into the 2027 model year, and share first impressions of the strong Car, Truck, and Utility of the Year fields after driving candidates back-to-back.

Matt, a founding juror, outlines the annual program that brings eligible new vehicles together for efficient comparison drives. Awards cover Car of the Year, Truck of the Year, and Utility of the Year (added 15 years ago as SUVs dominated). The jury of roughly 50 diverse journalists from print, broadcast, web, and influencer backgrounds pays annual dues and judges independently on merit. This year’s field is heavily weighted toward utilities (a full dozen), with far fewer cars and trucks.

As backdrop to the awards, Jack and Matt note major flux as EVs developed under earlier mandates and subsidies arrive amid changed policy and economics. Batteries remain costly; pure-EV range and price still limit broader adoption. They see growing strength in hybrids (including series-hybrids like the Nissan Rogue) and continued ICE relevance, especially for trucks and road-trip needs. Matt’s 10-year outlook: roughly 25% pure EV (a win if achieved), 60%+ hybrid, and the balance mostly ICE for heavy-duty use. Electrification of drivetrains is the clearer trend than an all-EV future.

Highly anticipated smaller EV SUV with hot-hatch-inspired design (VW investment influence). Quick and quiet, but both found the ride harsh (“buckboard”) and the switchless interior frustrating (difficult mirror and steering adjustments via screen/thumbwheels). Still not fully polished.

Standout EV. Quiet, quick, comfortable, and compliant. Improved screen layout and strong overall execution; priced more attractively than the struggling EX30.

Polished three-row luxury SUV. Excellent suspension tuning, strong V8 character, thoughtful mix of screens and conventional controls, advanced lighting features, and available second-row captain’s chairs. Expensive but highly refined.

Refined large three-row competitor; successive generations keep improving.

Electric trail-rated Wrangler-style SUV with removable doors/roof and familiar physical controls. Cool, distinctive styling and capable off-road character, though range is limited (around 200+ miles).

Terrific, comfortable three-row with hybrid option (~30 mpg). Strong value.

Affordable (roughly $25k–$35k), feature-packed, sharper and slightly larger than before; strong road presence.

Electric counterpart with range/price trade-offs (shorter range on base battery).

Other candidates mentioned include BMW iX3, Chevrolet Bolt (ending after 2027), Nissan Rogue hybrid, Jeep Cherokee, and Mazda CX-5.

Nominees include Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, Ram 1500 TRX (Hemi performance version), and the highly anticipated Slate entry-level electric truck. The Slate was not present, disappointing given strong jury interest in its affordability and concept.

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

Catch America on the Road on your local Sports Byline Radio Network station each week and subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and more. Follow for new car reviews, guest interviews, auto news, and road tests.

Sponsored by Mercury Insurance and DrivingToday.com

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

📨 Email: [email protected]

Look for guest co-host Matt DeLorenzo’s terrific new book Mercedes-AMG: Race-Bred Performance

Pick up a copy of auto journalist Gary Witzenburg’s engaging new book Legends in Motion.

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.

This week on America on the Road, Jack Nerad is joined by guest co-host Matt DeLorenzo (Chris Teague is off). They deliver two Toyota road tests, discuss Volkswagen’s upcoming electric ID.Tiguan, the return of the Nissan Rogue hybrid, and several intriguing North American Utility of the Year contenders, including the Rivian R2, Jeep Grand Wagoneer REEV, Toyota Highlander EV, and Jeep Recon.

Matt samples Toyota’s full-size off-road pickup. The TRD Pro rides on 33-inch Falcon Wildpeak tires with a near-two-inch factory lift, Fox shocks, and rugged suspension. Its 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 delivers 438 hp and 583 lb-ft of torque, with towing capacity over 11,000 pounds. A 10-speed automatic, limited-slip differential, high/low ranges, and rock-crawling mode add capability. Matt notes the tall climb into the cabin, strong low-end torque, compliant ride, 14-inch touchscreen, and eye-catching Wave Maker Blue paint with camo-texture black accents. Real-world fuel economy hovered around 16 mpg. As-tested price exceeded $77,000.

Jack evaluates the stylish Prius Nightshade PHEV. It offers roughly 39–40 miles of electric range, strong hybrid efficiency, refined driving manners, and practical features including soft-touch heated seats, heated steering wheel, available 12.3-inch screen, and solid safety tech. Jack and Matt both praise the looks and efficiency but note the steeply raked roofline makes rear (and sometimes front) access challenging. Base Nightshade pricing starts near $37,000–$38,000; the tested example stickered at $41,304. A conventional Corolla Hybrid is flagged as a more practical, less expensive alternative for some buyers.

VW is replacing the underperforming ID.4 with an all-electric Tiguan, first in Europe then North America. The move aims to leverage the popular Tiguan nameplate, share body panels, and boost volume at the Chattanooga plant after ID.4 sales fell far short of projections.

Nissan returns the Rogue hybrid with a series-hybrid system (engine acts as a generator; electric motors drive the wheels). Expected ~38 mpg combined, 225 hp, one-pedal driving capability, and pricing starting around $35,000–$36,000 for the SR. A smaller battery keeps costs closer to conventional hybrids.

Jack and Matt preview several vehicles expected in the NACTOY Utility category:

Gwendolyn from Spokane, Washington asks: “Why do modern vehicles seem more expensive to repair than older ones?”

This week on America on the Road, Jack Nerad is joined by guest co-host Matt DeLorenzo for a road-test-heavy episode. They review the returning Honda Prelude hybrid coupe, the refreshed Toyota bZ electric compact SUV, the luxurious GMC Acadia Denali, and the Lexus RX hybrid. Matt also shares insights on the current state of the EV market, battery costs, and why pure electrics still face major hurdles. Our listener question focuses on EV battery degradation.

The Honda Prelude returns as a stylish personal sporty coupe rather than a hardcore performance car. Hybrid powertrain delivers 200 hp and 232 lb-ft with seamless direct-drive feel (no rubber-band CVT sensation) and simulated shift points. Sleek two-door design, supportive front seats, and engaging manners make it a refined two-plus-two. Attractive alternative to hot hatches for those seeking style and efficiency.

The midsize three-row Acadia in Denali trim offers truckish SUV styling, strong interior space, premium appointments, and excellent wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity. Power comes from a 2.5-liter turbo four producing 328 hp with an 8-speed automatic and available AWD. Pricing starts near $65,000 and can approach $70,000 fully loaded. Comfortable and well-equipped, though questions remain about long-term turbo durability in a vehicle of this size.

Toyota relaunches the former bZ4X simply as the bZ with major improvements. Larger 74-kWh battery delivers over 300 miles of range (up from ~235), more power (221 hp FWD / up to 338 hp AWD), softer interior materials, and a lower entry price around $34,000–$37,000. Native NACS charging, strong real-world charging speeds, and competitive cargo space. Some quirks remain with the high-mounted instrument display, but overall a much more compelling small EV SUV.

Discussion centers on the RX hybrid, including the 450h Plus plug-in, as a benchmark luxury crossover known for refinement, strong resale, and hybrid efficiency. Jack and Matt recommend the hybrid versions for the best ownership experience in the class.

Matt discusses his book on affordable EVs and the current market reality. Battery costs still create a significant price gap versus gas vehicles. Pure EV adoption has slowed; hybrids and range-extenders (like Scout plans) are filling the practicality gap. Compact electric trucks such as Ford’s Fathom and the Slate may find niches, but full-size electric pickups face payload and cost challenges.

William from Seattle, Washington asks: “How much battery degradation should owners expect after five years in EVs?”

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

Catch America on the Road on your local Sports Byline Radio Network station each week and subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and more. Follow for new car reviews, guest interviews, auto news, and road tests.

Sponsored by Mercury Insurance and DrivingToday.com

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

📨 Email: [email protected]

Look for guest co-host Matt DeLorenzo’s terrific new book Mercedes-AMG: Race-Bred Performance

Pick up a copy of auto journalist Gary Witzenburg’s engaging new book Legends in Motion.

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.

This week on America on the Road, Jack Nerad and co-host Chris Teague deliver fresh road tests of the revived 2027 Chevrolet Bolt and the rugged 2026 Lexus LX 700h Overtrail. They also examine the Senate push to ban Chinese-linked vehicles and Lexus’s expansion into luxury yachts. Are improved self-driving systems actually a potential safety menace? The New York Times thinks so, and we’ll offer our opinions. In addition, special guest Hiren Patel, Nissan Design manager, joins the show to discuss the all-new 2027 Rogue Hybrid.

The most off-road capable LX blends Land Cruiser-derived hardware with a twin-turbo 3.4-liter V6 hybrid producing 457 hp and 583 lb-ft. This big bad boy will do 0-60 in 5.6 seconds, deliver 8,000-pound towing, and offer 20 mpg combined. Locking front and rear differentials, 33-inch all-terrain tires, and Crawl Control deliver serious trail ability while the cabin remains fully luxurious with massaging seats and Mark Levinson audio. Base price is a lofty $115,735, while as-tested will set you back $119,311. The is a locked-and-loaded full-size luxury SUV for both pavement and adventure.

Chevrolet has revived the Bolt as an affordable front-wheel-drive EV with a 210-hp single motor and 65-kWh LFP battery. EPA range is 262 miles, and DC fast charging now goes 10-80% in about 25 minutes. A native NACS port, 11.3-inch touchscreen with Google built-in, and available Super Cruise might delight, but no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto is disappointing. The Bolt LT starts at $28,995 including destination, and that will buy you a practical daily-use EV focused on range, fast charging, and accessible pricing.

Research firm Mobility Global forecasts Chinese brands could reach 11 percent of the U.S. market by 2038 (about 1.7 million vehicles annually) if barriers ease—though current tariffs and connectivity rules keep them largely locked out.

A New York Times report warns of potential “automation complacency.” As the self-driving systems improve, drivers may actually rely on them. But most current tech still requires full driver attention, and comprehensive safety data on the potential issue remains limited, so why not predict doom?

Cox Automotive predicts Asian automakers will account for more than half of U.S. sales for a second straight quarter, while the Detroit Three fall to a record-low share near 36 percent. Full-year vehicle forecast rises to 16.1 million units.

Lexus expands the 68-foot LY680 yacht beyond Japan, with overseas deliveries underway and a Fort Lauderdale boat-show debut planned. Twin Volvo Penta engines, three cabins, and Lexus design values extend the brand to the water.

Hiren Patel, Nissan Design manager, joins Jack and Chris to discuss the all-new 2027 Rogue Hybrid.

Ronald from Fresno, California asks: “Do you guys use the navigation systems in each vehicle or do you rely on an app on your phone?”

💻 Investigate Jack’s New Substack

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

Catch America on the Road on your local Sports Byline Radio Network station each week and subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and more. Follow for new car reviews, guest interviews, auto news, and road tests.

Sponsored by Mercury Insurance and DrivingToday.com

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

📨 Email: [email protected]

Look for guest co-host Matt DeLorenzo’s terrific new book Mercedes-AMG: Race-Bred Performance

Pick up a copy of auto journalist Gary Witzenburg’s engaging new book Legends in Motion.

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.

This week on America on the Road, it’s a road test riot. Jack Nerad and co-host Chris Teague deliver fresh tests of the engaging 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus and the powerful 2026 Toyota Sequoia Capstone hybrid. They also review the 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, examine the 2027 Chrysler Pacifica, and discuss North American Car, Truck, and Utility Vehicle of the Year nominees.

The CX-50 Turbo Premium Plus stands out for playful handling and a lively 2.5-liter turbo four-cylinder producing 227 hp and 310 lb-ft. It reaches 60 mph in 6.4 seconds and delivers 25 mpg combined with i-Activ AWD. Its near-luxury cabin boasts supple leather, Bose audio, a 10.25-inch display, and strong standard safety features. Cargo is 31/56 cubic feet. Base price $42,900; as-tested $44,820. A stylish, engaging compact crossover that prioritizes driving enjoyment.

The updated Outlander PHEV gains a larger 22.7-kWh battery and stronger combined output of 297 horsepower from its 2.4-liter four-cylinder and dual electric motors. EPA-estimated all-electric range reaches about 45 miles, with 27 mpg combined once the battery is depleted. Standard twin-motor Super-All Wheel Control, seating for seven (compact third row), and available Yamaha audio highlight the package. Pricing starts near $43,245–$44,990. A capable, well-equipped plug-in hybrid crossover that prioritizes efficiency and everyday versatility.

Toyota’s top full-size three-row hybrid combines a 3.4-liter twin-turbo V6 with an electric motor for 437 hp and 583 lb-ft. 0-60 in 5.6 seconds, 20 mpg combined, and towing up to 8,980 pounds. Premium Capstone cabin with dark American walnut trim, heated/ventilated seats, 14-inch screen, and JBL audio puts you in the lap of luxury. Cargo area is an impressive 11.5–86.9 cubic feet, depending on seating configuration. Pricing starts around $85,235.

The 2027 Pacifica receives a fresh exterior face with new LED lighting and grille while retaining its hallmark Stow ’n Go seating and spacious three-row cabin. Power comes solely from the familiar 3.6-liter V6 (287 hp / 262 lb-ft) paired with a 9-speed automatic; all-wheel drive is available on most trims. Base LX pricing begins around $41,495, with higher Limited and Pinnacle models adding luxury and tech features.

The list of current bestselling vehicles doesn’t offer domestic U.S. Manufacturers much good news. While the Ford F-Series led August sales, otrher Japanese and Korean brands dominated. The Honda CR-V ranked second with strong gains, followed by Toyota RAV4, Toyota Camry, and Toyota Tacoma. The Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Tucson, Ford Explorer, and Subaru Crosstrek rounded out the top 10.

Jack and Chris review eligible vehicles for the 2027 North American Car, Truck, and Utility Vehicle of the Year awards, including standouts such as the Chevrolet Corvette GS, Hyundai Ioniq 6 N, Kia Telluride, Rivian R2, and others across the three categories.

Phyllis from Newport Beach, California asks: “What’s the best strategy for charging an EV at home to save money?”

💻 Investigate Jack’s New Substack

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

Catch America on the Road on your local Sports Byline Radio Network station each week and subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and more. Follow for new car reviews, guest interviews, auto news, and road tests.

Sponsored by Mercury Insurance and DrivingToday.com

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

📨 Email: [email protected]

Look for guest co-host Matt DeLorenzo’s terrific new book Mercedes-AMG: Race-Bred Performance

Pick up a copy of auto journalist Gary Witzenburg’s engaging new book Legends in Motion.

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.

This week on America on the Road, Jack Nerad and co-host Chris Teague deliver fresh road tests of the 2026 Genesis GV80 and the limited-edition 2026 Toyota Corolla FX. They also examine GM’s push into domestic sodium-ion batteries, the latest climb in used-vehicle prices, and President Trump’s comments on possible Chinese auto plants in the United States. The pair detail the hybrid-only 2027 Lexus NX and Bristol Cars’ return with the formerly moribund Fighter supercar. Special guest Alisha Bumgarner, Goodyear tire expert, joins the show.

The limited-edition Corolla FX hatchback mixes retro styling cues with modern efficiency. Based on the SE, it features 18-inch gloss-white wheels, sport mesh grille, and unique badges. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder (169 hp) and CVT deliver 8.2-second 0-60 times and 33 mpg combined. Supportive sport seats, heated fronts, and solid materials define the cabin. Cargo space is modest but practical. With a base price $26,780; as-tested $29,132, it delivers distinctive, efficient manners with head-turning looks at an accessible price. But does it deliver enough fun?

The Genesis GV80 is a stylish luxury midsize SUV that prioritizes design, a lavish interior, and value. Its distinctive exterior, quilted leather, large 27-inch display, and strong standard tech and safety features are all praiseworthy. For 2026 it adds a more affordable rear-drive 2.5T (300 hp) version, expanded third-row availability, and Terrain mode. The 3.5-liter twin-turbo V-6 that Chris tested makes 375 hp and it features a comfortable ride and spacious cabin. Pricing ranges from $59,195 to $91,545.

General Motors is developing sodium-ion cells for commercial production around 2029, initially for stationary energy storage. The effort emphasizes domestic materials such as U.S. soda ash and aims to reduce reliance on Chinese supply chains. Partnership with Peak Energy and new Michigan lab facilities support the plan.

Average used-vehicle listing prices reached $27,239 in August, the highest monthly figure in more than three years according to Cox Automotive. Budget models under $15,000 face the tightest supply, with inventory down nearly 26 percent year over year.

President Trump said he might support Chinese car companies building plants in the United States if they hire American workers. Existing Commerce Department rules still bar most Chinese-connected vehicles from the U.S. market starting with model year 2027, and industry groups continue pushing for permanent bans.

The updated NX becomes a hybrid- and plug-in-hybrid-only lineup with improved efficiency, a more rigid chassis, sharper steering, and a standard 14-inch touchscreen. The plug-in version offers more than 40 miles of electric range on select grades. Lexus Safety System+ 4.0 is standard.

British marque Bristol is back, finishing the long-unfinished gull-wing Fighter supercar on an original chassis. The 8.0-liter V-10 produces 525–600 hp with a claimed top speed up to 210 mph. Four additional chassis will be completed to customer order.

Goodyear tire expert Alisha Bumgarner joins Jack and Chris.

Tadd from Ames, Iowa asks: “Are these new small unibody pickups really as useful as a body-on-frame pickup?”

💻 Investigate Jack’s New Substack

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

Catch America on the Road on your local Sports Byline Radio Network station each week and subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and more. Follow for new car reviews, guest interviews, auto news, and road tests.

Sponsored by Mercury Insurance and DrivingToday.com

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

📨 Email: [email protected]

Look for guest co-host Matt DeLorenzo’s terrific new book Mercedes-AMG: Race-Bred Performance

Pick up a copy of auto journalist Gary Witzenburg’s engaging new book Legends in Motion.

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.

This week on America on the Road, Jack Nerad and co-host Chris Teague deliver fresh road tests of the 2026 Land Rover Defender 130 V8 and the affordable 2026 Chevrolet Trax. They also examine Tesla’s large-scale China door-release campaign and its implications for U.S. owners, Volvo’s expanded connected safety alerts, Kia’s 2027 Niro and Sportage pricing, Mitsubishi’s Momentum 2030 growth plan, and Chevrolet’s refreshed High Country trim on the Traverse.

The Chevy Trax is a sharp-looking, roomy subcompact SUV that punches above its price. The 1.2-liter turbo three-cylinder offers 137 hp and its six-speed automatic helps deliver more than adequate daily performance. A quiet cabin, car-like ride, generous rear legroom, and 25.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats make the little SUV worthy of a look. The LT trim pricing starts around $23,200, and the as-tested price of the vehicle Jack reviews was $27,975. In all, the Trax delivers strong value with modern tech and solid safety features at one of the lowest prices in the segment.

The longest Land Rover Defender seats up to eight across three rows while keeping the iconic boxy look and serious off-road hardware. The P400 mild-hybrid 3.0-liter inline-six delivers 395 hp and 406 lb-ft; the supercharged 5.0-liter V8 P500 test vehicle makes 493 hp and 450 lb-ft. Permanent AWD, two-speed transfer case, and standard air suspension that provides up to 11.5 inches of ground clearance are among the Defender 130’s top features. Pricing starts in the low-to-mid $70,000s, but our test vehicle was well into six figures.

Chinese regulators have ordered Tesla to fix emergency door releases on nearly 3 million vehicles and update driver-attention systems on more than 2.7 million Model 3 and Y cars. The actions put NHTSA on notice. U.S. owners should stay current on software, learn mechanical release locations, and monitor the safety agency for any parallel action.

Volvo is adding large animal, vulnerable road user, roadwork, and accident ahead alerts to its connected safety system, turning more than a million vehicles into a real-time hazard network that can share data across brands. Spatial Audio for Apple CarPlay also arrives via over-the-air update on EX90 models with Bowers & Wilkins audio.

The 2027 Niro starts at $29,890 for the LX and is all-hybrid. The gas Sportage X-Line now includes a panoramic sunroof and smart power liftgate as standard. Both models receive styling, tech, and refinement updates.

🚙 Mitsubishi Details Momentum 2030 Growth Plan

Mitsubishi is expanding its U.S. lineup to six vehicles by 2027, adding a new Eclipse Sportback EV, a rugged Outlander variant, and may have plans to re-enter the pickup segment via collaboration with Nissan. The strategy focuses on electrification, product renewal, and dealer growth.

The top High Country trim gains a bolder exterior with new badging, Tritan Satin accents, and 22-inch wheels, plus richer interior materials and an interior camera for Cabin Glance. The 2.5-liter turbo with 328 hp and up to 98 cubic feet of cargo remain part of the Traverse program.

Veteran auto journalist Chris Wardlaw joins Jack and Chris.

Rick from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina asks: “What maintenance items do most drivers ignore until it’s too late?”

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

Catch America on the Road on your local Sports Byline Radio Network station each week and subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and more. Follow for new car reviews, guest interviews, auto news, and road tests.

Sponsored by Mercury Insurance and DrivingToday.com

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

📨 Email: [email protected]

Look for guest co-host Matt DeLorenzo’s terrific new book Mercedes-AMG: Race-Bred Performance

Pick up a copy of auto journalist Gary Witzenburg’s engaging new book Legends in Motion.

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.

This week on America on the Road, host Jack Nerad delivers a fresh road test of the 2026 Toyota Crown Signia XLE, a vehicle that’s in Chris’s sweetspot, while co-host Chris Teague offers his take on the 2027 Kia Telluride hybrid. In the news segment, Jack and Chris dive into the latest JD Power Tech Experience Index findings, the rise of in-car AI agents, and Jeep’s new Wrangler Smoky Mountain Edition. They also take a long look at Genesis’s first full-size electric flagship GV90 — Will it find a market? Special guest Jenny Walker, Goodyear off-road tires expert, joins the show as well.

The Crown Signia is a stylish hybrid station wagon and spiritual successor to the late, lamented Toyota Venza. The Crown Signia’s XLE trim pairs a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with electric motors for 240 hp, and it boasts electronic AWD and 38 mpg combined (34.5 mpg observed on the highway). Plush, quiet ride, near-Lexus interior with heated/ventilated seats, 12.3-inch screens, and strong cargo space (25 cu ft behind rear seats, 66 cu ft folded) are among its many niceties. With a base price of $44,390 (as-tested $47,199), you can have a Lexus-like level of refinement and efficiency for less than you’d expect. It’s one of the smartest buys in the market right now, Jack opines.

The all-new second-generation Telluride Hybrid pairs a 2.5-liter turbo four with electric motors for 329 hp and 339 lb-ft, delivering an EPA-estimated 35 mpg combined and up to 637 miles of range on the EX FWD. Chris discovered its larger dimensions bring class-leading second-row legroom, easier third-row access, and impressive cargo space. Available dual 12.3-inch screens, generative AI voice, Ergo Motion massage seats, and heated seating for all three rows create a near-luxury cabin. Hybrid pricing starts at $46,490, though Chris’s fully equipped tester priced out near $60K.

Owners prefer technology they barely notice. Automatic ignition, AI climate control, and simple Level 2 driver aids score highest; passenger screens and hands-free Level 2+ systems frustrate more. Cadillac ranked highest overall, followed by Genesis and BMW. Hyundai led mass-market brands for the seventh straight year.

AI agents could turn cars into productive “third spaces” for work and personal tasks, with voice-driven requests and productivity tools on the way. ABI Research forecasts growth from 5 million to 70 million AI-enabled vehicles by 2035. Automakers risk ceding cockpit control to external networks and cloud services, creating dependency on connectivity quality and latency. Consumers might not like the challenges.

Jeep debuted the 2027 Wrangler Smoky Mountain special edition at the Smoky Mountain Invasion. Built on the Willys platform, it features exclusive hood decals, a body-color hardtop and flares, a gloss-black grille, unique 17-inch wheels, and terracotta accent stitching inspired by Great Smoky Mountains sunrises. Trail Rated capability remains intact, and it’s priced just $80 above a comparably equipped Willys.

Genesis unveiled its first full-size electric flagship, the GV90, with the world’s first hidden B-pillar coach doors on the Neolun version. Dual motors deliver 657 hp and 590 lb-ft; 123.5-kWh battery offers about 310 miles of range. Among the features are a lounge-like cabin with swiveling seats, pop-up OLED display, 25-inch HUD, and Bang & Olufsen audio.

Jenny Walker, Goodyear off-road tires expert, joins Jack and Chris.

Samuel from Bend, Oregon asks: “I’m having a little disagreement with my wife. How much does vehicle color really affect resale value?” Jack and Chris try to save his marriage with their answers.

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

Catch America on the Road on your local Sports Byline Radio Network station each week and subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and more. Follow for new car reviews, guest interviews, auto news, and road tests.

Sponsored by Mercury Insurance and DrivingToday.com

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

📨 Email: [email protected]

Look for guest co-host Matt DeLorenzo’s terrific new book Mercedes-AMG: Race-Bred Performance

Pick up a copy of auto journalist Gary Witzenburg’s engaging new book Legends in Motion.

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.