America on the Road

Jack Nerad - Host
  • 4.5 (15)
  • Automotive
  • Updated Biweekly

Hosts Jack Nerad and Chris Teague talk about cars and interview special guests from the automotive industry

  1. 3d ago

    Special episode detailing North American Car, Truck and Utility of the Year testing directly from the test center in Ann Arbor, Michigan

    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. 🏆 North American Car of the Year Explained 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. 📈 State of the Industry 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. 🚙  North American Utility of the Year Standouts Rivian R2 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. Volvo EX60 Standout EV. Quiet, quick, comfortable, and compliant. Improved screen layout and strong overall execution; priced more attractively than the struggling EX30. Audi SQ9 / Q9 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. Volkswagen Atlas Refined large three-row competitor; successive generations keep improving. Jeep Recon 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). Kia Telluride Terrific, comfortable three-row with hybrid option (~30 mpg). Strong value. Kia Seltos Affordable (roughly $25k–$35k), feature-packed, sharper and slightly larger than before; strong road presence. Kia EV3 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. 🛻 Truck of the Year Field 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.  💻 Investigate Jack’s New Substack 📚 Jack Nerad’s Latest Book Jack’s crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same, is available now in paperback and eBook on Amazon — currently at a sale price. 🎧 Where to Listen 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 📺 Watch & Subscribe Find America on the Road on YouTube and Rumble. Subscribe for road test videos, shorts, and extended reviews. 📨 Email: editor@drivingtoday.com 📚 Look for Matt DeLorenzo’s Book on AMG Look for guest co-host Matt DeLorenzo’s terrific new book Mercedes-AMG: Race-Bred Performance 📚 Check Out Gary Witzenburg’s New Book Pick up a copy of auto journalist Gary Witzenburg’s engaging new book Legends in Motion. 📚 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.

  2. Oct 17

    2026 Toyota Prius Nightshade, 2026 Toyota Tundra TRD Pro, plus North American Utility of the Year preview, 2027 Volkswagen ID.Tiguan

    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 DeLorenzo Road Test: Toyota Tundra TRD Pro 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 Nerad Road Test: Toyota Prius Nightshade Plug-in Hybrid 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. 🔋 2027 Volkswagen ID.Tiguan 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. 🔄  2027 Nissan Rogue Hybrid 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. 🏆 North American Utility of the Year Contenders Jack and Matt preview several vehicles expected in the NACTOY Utility category: • Rivian R2 – more accessible midsize two-row EV SUV (~330-mile range, starting ~$57–58k) • Jeep Grand Wagoneer REEV – range-extended EV with ~150 miles pure-electric range and strong power • 2027 Toyota Highlander EV – all-electric three-row model • Jeep Recon – trail-rated electric off-roader (large battery, ~222-mile range) 📩  Listener Question of the Week Gwendolyn from Spokane, Washington asks: “Why do modern vehicles seem more expensive to repair than older ones?” Jack and Matt point to increased electronics, sealed modules, complex safety and emissions systems, and sensor-heavy designs that raise parts and diagnostic costs.

  3. Oct 10

    Testarama: Toyota bZ, Honda Prelude, GMC Acadia Denali & Lexus RX Hybrid, plus where is the EV market going?

    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. ⚡ Matt DeLorenzo Road Test: Honda Prelude 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. 🚙 Jack Nerad Road Test: 2026 GMC Acadia Denali 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. 🚗 Matt DeLorenzo Road Test: Toyota bZ 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. 🔋 Jack Nerad Road Test: 2026 Lexus RX Hybrid 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. 🎙️ Special EV Deep Dive with EV Expert & Author Matt DeLorenzo 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. 📩 Listener Question of the Week William from Seattle, Washington asks: “How much battery degradation should owners expect after five years in EVs?”  💻 Investigate Jack’s New Substack 📚 Jack Nerad’s Latest Book Jack’s crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same, is available now in paperback and eBook on Amazon — currently at a sale price. 🎧 Where to Listen 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 📺 Watch & Subscribe Find America on the Road on YouTube and Rumble. Subscribe for road test videos, shorts, and extended reviews. 📨 Email: editor@drivingtoday.com 📚 Look for Matt DeLorenzo’s Book on AMG Look for guest co-host Matt DeLorenzo’s terrific new book Mercedes-AMG: Race-Bred Performance 📚 Check Out Gary Witzenburg’s New Book Pick up a copy of auto journalist Gary Witzenburg’s engaging new book Legends in Motion. 📚 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.

  4. Oct 3

    2027 Chevrolet Bolt & 2026 Lexus LX 700h Overtrail, plus potential Chinese vehicle ban, self-driving presents new risks & more.

    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. 🚗 Jack Nerad’s Road Test: 2026 Lexus LX 700h Overtrail 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. ⚡ Chris Teague’s Road Test: 2027 Chevrolet Bolt 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. 📈 Chinese Carmakers Could Claim Over 10% of U.S. Market 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. 🤖 Self-Driving Cars: Better Technology, Bigger Risks? 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? 🌏 Asian Brands Set to Top Half of U.S. Sales 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 Launches Luxury Yacht Globally 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. 🎙️ Special Guest Hiren Patel, Nissan Design manager, joins Jack and Chris to discuss the all-new 2027 Rogue Hybrid. 📩 Listener Question of the Week 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 Nerad’s Latest Book Jack’s crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same, is available now in paperback and eBook on Amazon — currently at a sale price. 🎧 Where to Listen 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 📺 Watch & Subscribe Find America on the Road on YouTube and Rumble. Subscribe for road test videos, shorts, and extended reviews. 📨 Email: editor@drivingtoday.com 📚 Look for Matt DeLorenzo’s Book on AMG Look for guest co-host Matt DeLorenzo’s terrific new book Mercedes-AMG: Race-Bred Performance 📚 Check Out Gary Witzenburg’s New Book Pick up a copy of auto journalist Gary Witzenburg’s engaging new book Legends in Motion. 📚 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.

  5. Sep 26

    Road Test Riot: 2026 Mazda CX-50 Turbo, 2026 Toyota Sequoia Capstone, 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, 2027 Chrysler Pacifica, sales leaders.

    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. 🚗 Jack Nerad Road Test: 2026 Mazda CX-50 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus 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. 🚗 Chris Teague Road Test: 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV 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. 🚗 Jack Nerad Road Test: 2026 Toyota Sequoia Capstone 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. 🚗 Chris Teague Road Test: 2027 Chrysler Pacifica 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. 📊 America’s Top Sellers by Model 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. 🏆 NACTOY Nominees Discussion 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. 📩 Listener Question of the Week 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 Nerad’s Latest Book Jack’s crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same, is available now in paperback and eBook on Amazon — currently at a sale price. 🎧 Where to Listen 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 📺 Watch & Subscribe Find America on the Road on YouTube and Rumble. Subscribe for road test videos, shorts, and extended reviews. 📨 Email: editor@drivingtoday.com 📚 Look for Matt DeLorenzo’s Book on AMG Look for guest co-host Matt DeLorenzo’s terrific new book Mercedes-AMG: Race-Bred Performance 📚 Check Out Gary Witzenburg’s New Book Pick up a copy of auto journalist Gary Witzenburg’s engaging new book Legends in Motion. 📚 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.

  6. Sep 19

    2027 Genesis GV80, 2026 Toyota Corolla FX, plus GM sodium-ion batteries, used-car prices increase, new 2027 Lexus NX details & more.

    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. ⚡ Jack Nerad Road Test: 2026 Toyota Corolla FX 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? 🚗 Chris Teague Road Test: 2026 Genesis GV80 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. 🔋 GM Targets 2029 for U.S. Sodium-Ion Battery Production 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. 📈 Used-Vehicle Prices Hit Highest Average Since 2022 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. 🇺🇸 Trump Open to Chinese Auto Plants in U.S.—With Conditions 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. ⚡ 2027 Lexus NX Goes Fully Hybrid 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. 🏎️ Bristol Cars Returns by Completing the Legendary Fighter 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. 🎙️ Special Guest Goodyear tire expert Alisha Bumgarner joins Jack and Chris. 📩 Listener Question of the Week 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 Nerad’s Latest Book Jack’s crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same, is available now in paperback and eBook on Amazon — currently at a sale price. 🎧 Where to Listen 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 📺 Watch & Subscribe Find America on the Road on YouTube and Rumble. Subscribe for road test videos, shorts, and extended reviews. 📨 Email: editor@drivingtoday.com 📚 Look for Matt DeLorenzo’s Book on AMG Look for guest co-host Matt DeLorenzo’s terrific new book Mercedes-AMG: Race-Bred Performance 📚 Check Out Gary Witzenburg’s New Book Pick up a copy of auto journalist Gary Witzenburg’s engaging new book Legends in Motion. 📚 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.

  7. Sep 12

    2026 Land Rover Defender 130 V8, 206 Chevrolet Trax, plus Tesla's China recalls, Volvo safety alerts, 2027 Kia Sportage pricing & more

    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. 🚗 Jack Nerad’s Road Test: 2026 Chevrolet Trax 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. 🚗 Chris Teague’s Road Test: 2026 Land Rover Defender 130 V8 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. 📊 Tesla China Recalls Raise U.S. Safety Questions 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 Expands Connected Safety Network 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. 💰 Kia Sets 2027 Niro and Sportage Pricing 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. ✨ Chevrolet Refreshes High Country for 2027 Traverse 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. 🎙️ Special Guest Veteran auto journalist Chris Wardlaw joins Jack and Chris. 📩 Listener Question of the Week Rick from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina asks: “What maintenance items do most drivers ignore until it’s too late?” 💻 Investigate Jack’s New Substack 📚 Jack Nerad’s Latest Book Jack’s crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same, is available now in paperback and eBook on Amazon — currently at a sale price. 🎧 Where to Listen 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 📺 Watch & Subscribe Find America on the Road on YouTube and Rumble. Subscribe for road test videos, shorts, and extended reviews. 📨 Email: editor@drivingtoday.com 📚 Look for Matt DeLorenzo’s Book on AMG Look for guest co-host Matt DeLorenzo’s terrific new book Mercedes-AMG: Race-Bred Performance 📚 Check Out Gary Witzenburg’s New Book Pick up a copy of auto journalist Gary Witzenburg’s engaging new book Legends in Motion. 📚 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.

  8. Aug 29

    2026 Toyota Crown Signia XLE, 2027 Kia Telluride plus JD Power tech study, AI cabin agents, Jeep Smoky Mountain edition, all-new Genesis GV90

    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. 🚗 Jack Nerad’s Road Test: 2026 Toyota Crown Signia XLE 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. 🚗 Chris Teague’s Road Test: 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid 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. 📊 JD Power Finds Owners Like Invisible Tech 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 in the Cabin 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 Wrangler Smoky Mountain Edition 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 GV90 Flagship SUV 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. 🎙️ Special Guest Jenny Walker, Goodyear off-road tires expert, joins Jack and Chris. 📩 Listener Question of the Week 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. 💻 Investigate Jack’s New Substack 📚 Jack Nerad’s Latest Book Jack’s crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same, is available now in paperback and eBook on Amazon — currently at a sale price. 🎧 Where to Listen 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 📺 Watch & Subscribe Find America on the Road on YouTube and Rumble. Subscribe for road test videos, shorts, and extended reviews. 📨 Email: editor@drivingtoday.com 📚 Look for Matt DeLorenzo’s Book on AMG Look for guest co-host Matt DeLorenzo’s terrific new book Mercedes-AMG: Race-Bred Performance 📚 Check Out Gary Witzenburg’s New Book Pick up a copy of auto journalist Gary Witzenburg’s engaging new book Legends in Motion. 📚 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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4.5
out of 5
15 Ratings

About

Hosts Jack Nerad and Chris Teague talk about cars and interview special guests from the automotive industry

Information

  • Creator
    Jack Nerad - Host
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    101
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    All Rights Reserved © DrivingToday.com
  • Show Website
    America on the Road

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