Эпизоды
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This week's lead news story is the just-announced 2025 Ford Mustang GTD that Ford Motor Company says is the pinnacle of Mustang engineering. As we discuss in this week’s episode, it’s hard to argue that. The Mustang GTD delivers a mind-blowing 815 horsepower, 664 pound-feet of torque, and a riveting top speed of 202 mph. The fastest street-legal Mustang ever boasts advanced features that include active aerodynamics, carbon-ceramic brakes, and a sophisticated suspension system.
One goal of the new Mustang standard-bearer is achieving a sub-seven-minute lap at Nürburgring. Powered by a supercharged 5.2-liter V8, the GTD appears to have the goods to do just that. With the dry-sump oil system, its engine offers enhanced lubrication during high-speed cornering and revs up to 7,650 rpm. If that’s not enough, the Mustang GTD also incorporates a specialized drag reduction system that enables it to adjust its aerodynamics to optimize speed and grip based on driving conditions — a pretty nice trick. Co-Host Chris Teague and Host Jack Nerad will react to the newest Ford sup0ercar in this episode.
In our road tests this week, Chris Teague will evaluate another vehicle from an American brand, the 2025 Dodge Hornet. The Hornet is designed to help Dodge turn the page from its musclecar — and some would say muscle-bound — past. Its goal is to maintain the brand’s performance image but putting it in a new context. Chris and Jack will discuss if it lives up to that billing.
The Ford Ranger Lariat 4x4 with the FX4 package is the subject of our other road test this week. The newest Ranger marks Ford’s renewed interest in the midsize truck segment here in North America, and it comes amidst a flurry of new midsize pickups from both domestic and import automakers. Jack and Chris will describe how they believe it stacks up.
This week, our special guest is Brad Arnold, a top-ranking Hyundai designer in North America. At a recent event in central California, he and Host Jack Nerad sat down for a lengthy discussion of the heavily revised 2025 Hyundai Tucson and 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz. We’re sure you’ll enjoy our discussion.
In the news this week, we’ll be talking about something that seems too good to be true. Would you lease a brand-new EV if the monthly payment was $20? That’s happening right now, and we’ll tell you more about it coming up.
In other news, Volvo is ditching its vehicle subscription plan after several years of lackluster interest from the public. We’ll have more on that, and we’ll talk about a Toyota Prius hypermiler who just set a Guiness World record for fuel economy in a drive from coast to coast.
So we have a lot of show for you this week. Thanks for joining us. And please don't forget to look for our content on YouTube and Rumble. If you subscribe, it will help us bring you even more.
America on the Road is brought to you by Driving Today.com, Mercury Insurance, and EMLandsea.com , the publisher of Nerad’s latest book, Dance in the Dark, which is available HERE on Amazon.com -
The 2025 Ioniq 5 N isn’t simply Hyundai's first electrified N performance brand model, it is also one of the most fascinating cars we at America on the Road have ever driven — and we’ve driven one heckuva lot of cars. The Ioniq 5 N offers a bevy of electronic features almost too numerous to count, plus adjustable torque distribution, upgraded suspension, and 641 horsepower from its twin electric motors. Its 84 kWh battery gives it a range of 221 miles, but, as host Jack Nerad found out in his weeklong vehicle test, that isn’t even close to the point.
The Ioniq 5 N is not so much a car as an incredibly quick, rolling arcade game that offers a wide variety of ways to play. Features like N Pedal and N Drift Optimizer do more than simply enhance handling and dynamic driving. Along with modes like N Grin Boost and N Race, they give the driver new opportunities that are as much like gaming as they are like driving. Throw in aggressive styling, N-exclusive design cues, and sustainable materials, and you have a vehicle that is worthy of discussion. We’ll have that discussion for you right here.
Our other road test vehicle is equally exciting but in a completely different way. You might say the 2025 Toyota GR Supra is an analog sports car while the Ioniq 5 N is digital. The GR Supra is offered in two grades: 3.0 and 3.0 Premium, both with a manual or an automatic transmission. Under the long, sleek hood is an inline six-cylinder turbocharged engine that delivers up to 382 horsepower and 368 pound-feet of torque. Co-host Chris Teague had the opportunity to take the GR Supra through its paces on the backroads of Maine, and he’ll offer us a full report.
This week, our special guest is Thomas Broberg, a longtime Volvo Safety expert who has appeared on AOTR many times before. He and Jack Nerad sat down for a chat during the recent 2025 Volvo EX90 SUV drive event, discussing the special opportunities and challenges battery-electric vehicles present on the safety front. We’re sure you’ll enjoy the exclusive interview.
In the news this week, the 2025 model year is about to start, and we’re about to say goodbye to several well-liked sports and performance vehicles. We’ll have the details. Meanwhile a famous American brand is about to return to the market, and we’ll have the details on that, too.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration seems to be asking the question: Are some vehicles just too big? It's proposing a new rule designed to reduce pedestrian deaths, and we’ll tell you what it will mean to you.
Are vehicle owners becoming overwhelmed with technology features that don’t solve a problem or don’t work? The results of the J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Tech Experience Index suggest that could be the case. And we’ll tell you more and offer our comments.
Plenty of show this week. Thank you for joining us.
America on the Road is brought to you by Driving Today.com, Mercury Insurance, and EMLandsea.com , the publisher of Nerad’s latest book, Dance in the Dark, which is available HERE on Amazon.com -
Пропущенные эпизоды?
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Co-Host Chris Teague was confronted with a very difficult task in our lead road test this week. His job was to pilot the 2024 Nissan Z NISMO around the twists and turns of Maine’s backroads. Sure, it was a tough assignment, but, as has so often been said, someone had to do it. The 2024 Nissan Z NISMO enhances the iconic sports car with track-ready performance, featuring a 420-horsepower twin-turbo engine, upgraded suspension, and revised aerodynamics. How did Teague enjoy the experience? Did he apply for hazardous-duty pay? He’ll have more in his full 6-foot-tall report.
When Ford introduced the Bronco Sport small SUV, its executives weren’t certain that its buyers were ready for heavy-duty off-road ability. But several years into the program, they are more than ready to believe it. Why? Because their customers asked them for it. As a result, the 2025 Bronco Sport can be equipped with its own Sasquatch package, which mimics the full-on off-road gear available on the full-size Bronco.
While that’s good news, the even better news is that Host Jack Nerad got a chance to drive a 2025 Bronco Sport with the Sasquatch package on some very challenging terrain in Eastern Tennessee. That’s the site of Ford’s latest Bronco Off-Roadeo adventure playground. As part of a small group of auto journalists, he got behind the wheel of the 2025 Bronco Sport Sasquatch to see if it could stand up to the rigors of some tough, rock-strewn, water-soaked trails. He’ll share his findings in this episode.
This week our special guest is Andre Ravinowich, Hyundai's Senior Manager of Product Planning. Jack Nerad spoke with him at length about the exciting changes to the 2025 Hyundai Tucson, one of the brand’s most important vehicles, at a recent event in Los Olivos, California. We think you’ll enjoy hearing what he has to say.
In the news this week, J.D. Power has lowered its electric vehicle sales forecast for this year and next. We’ll have the details on what’s going on and why EVs aren’t selling as well as many so-called experts expected.
In a related story, a major global automaker has just abandoned its pledge to be all-electric in 2030. We’ll tell you the brand, what they just announced and offer our comments.
On a happier note, an important Japanese brand is vowing to increase its North American presence with an onslaught of new vehicles. We’ll have the details on that coming up.
And there was sadness in the Nerad household as we said goodbye to a vehicle that served our family well for 25 years. We’ll have a few words about Clifford coming up in this episode of America on the Road.
America on the Road is brought to you by Driving Today.com, Mercury Insurance, and EMLandsea.com , the publisher of Nerad’s latest book, Dance in the Dark, which is available HERE on Amazon.com -
The 2025 Ford Bronco Sport has received a significant upgrade with the introduction of the Sasquatch off-road package. Host Jack Nerad drove it just days ago and then discussed the vehicle’s nuances with Bronco Sport Brand Manager Mike Weller at a special event outside Knoxville, Tennessee. We’ll share that interview with you on America on the Road this week.
As off-road fans know, the serious all-terrain Sasquatch package was previously exclusive to the larger Bronco, but Ford is now making it available for the Bronco Sport Badlands and Outer Banks models. It significantly enhances the vehicle's off-road capabilities with features like a twin-clutch rear-drive unit, locking rear differential, and large 29-inch Goodyear Territory All-Terrain tires, giving the likable crossover much greater off-pavement capabilities.
The Bronco Sport’s Sasquatch package exterior features modular steel bumpers, additional underbody protection, and revised wheel designs. Interior enhancements include an available grab handle and auxiliary switches. As Weller detailed in the exclusive interview, these updates make the Bronco Sport a more versatile small SUV that caters to outdoor enthusiasts seeking both capability and modern technology. And he’ll share much more.
In the news this week, Tesla Motors is returning to an old marketing scheme by offering cash for referrals. It could save you a substantial amount if you plan to buy an EV soon, and we’ll have the details.
There’s crankiness in Detroit, as a union leader suggests that the CEO of a global automaker should resign in a dispute over the reopening of a factory. We’ll tell the who’s and why’s on that one and what the future of the automaker might hold.
The agonizingly slow rollout of the electric vehicle charging network is getting a lot of people hot under the collar. Now the federal government is poised to spend more than $500 million in that effort, and we’ll tell you if it could mean you’ll finally get some DC fast chargers at a convenient location near you.
On a happier note, Hagerty is getting ready to display some full-size versions of classic Hot Wheels vehicles on the National Mall in Washington, DC. We’ll tell you when that will happen and share some Hot Wheels stories, too.
In our road tests this week, Co-Host Chris Teague got a very early chance to drive Infiniti’s all-new full-size 2025 QX80. Does it have the goods to play in the big leagues of full-size luxury SUVs like the Cadillac Escalade, Lincoln Navigator and Grand Wagoneer? Teague will share his opinion.
Across the country, Jack Nerad spent the past week testing the enhanced Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S, a very appealing revamp of the battery-electric-powered U.S.-built compact crossover SUV. Delivering more miles on a charge, the Pro S version of the vehicle might be the best combination of range, performance, charging ability and value VW has ever offered. Nerad will have all the details coming up.
In all, we have a ton of show this week. Thanks for joining us.
America on the Road is brought to you by Driving Today.com, Mercury Insurance, and EMLandsea.com , the publisher of Nerad’s latest book, Dance in the Dark, which is available HERE on Amazon.com -
Hyundai made a radical change with its 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe. Now in its fifth generation, the Santa Fe swerved from the child-transport/grocery-getter lane to take on a new, more purposeful look. At the same time, it reintroduced a third row of seating and added a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system across all trims.
Host Jack Nerad wanted to see how the Santa Fe would fare on a road trip — after all, we are America on the Road — so he and his wife set forth on a trip up the California coast with their destination, the charming college town of San Luis Obispo. His portion of this week’s road test segment will include the details, not just his verdict but also his wife’s.
On the other side of the continent, Co-Host Chris Teague, the proud new owner of a battery-electric SUV, took one of his vehicle’s competitors for a weeklong test spin. The Kia EV9 has been a crowd-pleaser since it was first introduced as a concept vehicle at the Los Angeles Auto Show several years ago and is still a show-stopper. But does it measure up in value to its competitors in the increasingly crowded field? We’ll have Chris Teague’s answer in this episode.
In the news this week, carmakers don’t typically introduce new versions of current model-year vehicles as a new model year is set to begin, but Ram did just that this week. The truck brand announced Ram Power Wagon and Rebel HD Lunar Editions with moon-oriented color schemes and Lunar body-side graphics. We’ll have more details for you. Ram also announced the end of production of one of its longest-running trucks. And we’ll have the details on that, too.
Electric vehicle maker Rivian has temporarily halted production of one of its most important vehicles, and we’ll sort out what it means to the company’s future as EV makers continue to struggle.
Speaking of that, a report from the Department of Energy says that the cost of electric-car batteries has dropped 90 percent in the past 15 years. So why are EVs much less expensive than they are? We’ll have details that will make sense of all that coming up.
This week, our special guest is Matt Jones, who serves as TrueCar’s source of truth. TrueCar is an online car-buying site, and Matt Jones has a lot of insight on car buying, so if you’re thinking of purchasing a vehicle this year, you’ll want to hear what he has to say.
All that and more are coming up in this America on the Road episode.
America on the Road is brought to you by Driving Today.com, Mercury Insurance, and EMLandsea.com , the publisher of Nerad’s latest book, Dance in the Dark, which is available HERE on Amazon.com -
When the Jeep engineers designed the Grand Wagoneer, they certainly took to heart the well-worn phrase “Go big or go home.” That’s obvious because when you travel in the long wheelbase version of the Stellantis SUV, as Host Jack Nerad did recently, you are definitely going big. And the Grand Wagoneer certainly provides all the comforts of home.
The sizable SUV proved to be the perfect answer for Nerad’s recent problem — how to transport seven adults and their luggage from his home on the coast to the desert of the Coachella Valley and back. Certainly, the U.S. auto market has its share of sizable vehicles, but this conundrum could only be answered by a few. After trekking forth and back, the obvious conclusion is that the Grand Wagoneer scores as the best of them. Luxury. Comfort. Convenience. Entertainment. The Grand Wagoneer offered all of those as it whisked the crew across Southern California in a style to which it is easy to become accustomed. Nerad will share more in this episode’s road test segment.
The other road test took place across the country as Co-Host Chris Teague and his family sampled the new top-of-the-line 2025 Honda Pilot Black Edition. Helping the crossover “man up,” it features a more aggressive design with gloss black 20-inch wheels and blackout accents. Honda's iVTM-4 all-wheel-drive system is standard, and inside, it offers exclusive red-accented leather seating, red stitching, and unique Black Edition branding. Was all this just too much testosterone for the Teague family? Chris will report his findings right here.
This week our special guest is Kevin Butt, regional environmental sustainability director of Toyota’s North American Environmental Sustainability Programs. Jack Nerad had a chance to sit down with him for a wide-ranging discussion of what Toyota is doing about climate change at a recent event in Texas. We think you’ll be fascinated by what he has to say.
In the news segment, we ask a provocative question: Is your car spying on you? A new initiative from the U.S. Commerce Department suggests that fear isn’t science fiction — it’s real. We’ll have the details for you coming up.
This week, there has been more unrest regarding electric vehicles, as several European automakers are re-jigging their EV launch plans. We’ll give you the details and discuss how this could affect us here in America.
If you drive an EV you know that the interaction at public chargers can get — shall we say — dramatic. Now, one public charger company is taking a step to limit that drama. But could it backfire?
And speaking of EV drama, electric vehicle fires in one country have prompted its government to look into the situation as panic grows regarding the technology.
This episode of America on the Road will provide details on all of those stories and more.
America on the Road is brought to you by Driving Today.com, Mercury Insurance, and EMLandsea.com , the publisher of Nerad’s latest book, Dance in the Dark, which is available HERE on Amazon.com -
The all-new 2025 Genesis GV80 just might be the best-looking of the coupe-like SUV that has recently flooded the luxury market. Genesis’s Trevor Lai, the brand’s senior group manager of product planning, certainly thinks so, and he sat down for an in-depth interview with Host Jack Nerad at the vehicle’s recent first-drive event in Minnesota. Essentially starting where the GV80 SUV leaves off in terms of powertrain, the GV80 Coupe offers buyers the choice of 375- and 409-horsepower versions of the vehicle, both twin-turbocharged and the latter fitted with an “e-supercharger.” So there is substance to accompany the good looks.
Nerad had the chance to take a lengthy drive in the more powerful version of the GV80 Coupe in addition to speaking with Lai. Both proved illuminating as the Korean luxury brand continues to gain momentum by introducing one great-looking vehicle after another.
In this week's road test segment, Jack Nerad and co-host Chris Teague get behind the wheels of two fun-to-drive hatchbacks. Teague spent a Maine summer week evaluating the 2024 Mazda CX-50 crossover, while Nerad got the opportunity to pilot the potent 2024 Volkswagen Golf R around his favorite Southern California test-drive loop. Both drivers will tell you how their test subjects fared in this week’s episode.
There is plenty of news to report on as well. Last week, we reported that the prices of new and used cars have rocketed up over the past five years. Now, another study shows that used car prices — and especially used EV prices —- are down significantly. So what gives? We’ll have the details for you coming up.
Tesla just can’t stay out of the news. This week, a fiery crash of a Tesla Cybertruck gained national attention and prompted an inquiry from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. We’ll give you more on this story and share our reactions.
The state of Washington has just announced a new taxpayer-funded subsidy for electric vehicle buyers, and we’ll have the details on that. Is it a sound plan or a foolish waste of effort? We’ll share our opinions, and we’re curious about yours.
Straight from the X-Files, BMW has now started to experiment with humanoid robots in its Spartanburg, North Carolina, factory. Are you willing to take a coffee break with a humanoid who might end up taking your job? We’ll share our opinions.
That and much more coming up in this edition.
America on the Road is brought to you by Driving Today.com, Mercury Insurance, and EMLandsea.com , the publisher of Nerad’s latest book, Dance in the Dark, which is available HERE on Amazon.com -
The King of the Hill Corvette is making a comeback, and we have the specifications, the hype and our comments on what the newest and hottest version of “America’s Sports Car” means to you and to General Motors.
The just-released specs on the new 2025 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 are mind-boggling. Tucked behind the driver and passenger is the most powerful V8 ever produced in America from an auto manufacturer, and it’s housed in an iconic design that has the goods to challenge the world’s best supercars. Former Road & Track Editor Matt DeLorenzo and former Motor Trend Editor Jack Nerad, who is, of course, the host of America on the Road and owner of a classic Corvette, will give their thoughts on what promises to be a landmark vehicle.
While some observers suggest that we have enough crossover SUVs already, Toyota obviously doesn’t think so. To prove the point, the brand recently introduced the first-ever 2025 Toyota Crown Signia, and it’s set to arrive in dealerships virtually as you read this. The brand is taking an upscale approach with its new toy. Available in XLE and Limited trims, the Crown Signia is equipped with the Toyota Hybrid System and all-wheel drive. With a four-cylinder engine doing the heavy lifting, the hybrid system delivers a net output of 240 horsepower and achieves an EPA-estimated 38 mpg combined rating.
The Crown Signia’s handsome exterior boasts a stylish and sleek monochromatic grille and the option for 21-inch wheels. Inside, the premium cabin offers seating for five and a fold-flat second row. Passengers can enjoy a quiet ride with standard leather-trimmed seating, soft-touch materials, and the option of a panoramic glass roof. The likable new model is also equipped with a 12.3-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia touchscreen and comes with standard Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 advanced driver assistance system array.
Of course, all this sounds as appealing as a hot fudge sundae topped with real whipped cream, but how does it drive? Guest co-host Matt DeLorenzo will tell us in his portion of the road test segment.
In the other half, host Jack Nerad will describe his weeklong encounter with Volvo’s newest version of its C40 Recharge battery-electric crossover coupe. The big news is the Single Motor version of the Volvo C40 Recharge that Nerad tested. It’s the first rear-drive Volvo in years, and it makes the handsome C40 Recharge a much more competitive player in the cutthroat BEV crossover market.
This week, our special guest is Frank Hanley, head of automotive benchmarking at J.D. Power. If you want to know which vehicles are most loved by their owners—something that most of us would really like to know—he’s the man to tell you. We’ll have the results of J.D. Power’s annual APEAL study and Hanley’s analysis coming up in our interview segment.
If you haven’t noticed, new and used cars have rocketed up in price over the past five years, and now Cars.com details that trajectory in a new study. We’ll have our take on what the trend means to you.
Tesla is in the news again —isn’t it always? — as it recalls more than 1.8 million vehicles for a safety problem. We’ll tell you what the issue is this time and share our reactions.
And there’s a battle brewing over automatic emergency braking. We’ll tell you who the combatants are and what is likely to happen next.
America on the Road is brought to you by Driving Today.com, Mercury Insurance, and EMLandsea.com , the publisher of Nerad’s latest book, Dance in the Dark, which is available HERE on Amazon.com -
The all-new 2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV and the recently renewed 2024 Genesis Electrified GV70 represent two different approaches to solving the electric vehicle puzzle. The Equinox EV is built on the General Motors Ultium dedicated battery-electric vehicle platform, while the Electrified GV70 leverages the conventionally powered GV70 body, chassis, and interior. Each approach has its pluses and minuses, and executives in those two companies to tell you. What our two test vehicles suggest is that the two paths lead to the same destination.
Though they are similar in size, the Equinox EV and Electrified GV70 are not head-to-head competitors. As one of the battery-electric touchstones of GM’s lowest-priced brand, the Equinox EV has been touted as a vehicle that will bring affordable electric vehicles to the masses. Co-Host Chris Teague, who road-tested the Equinox EV, and Host Jack Nerad will discuss how well the new Chevy accomplishes that task.
The Genesis GV70 has a different mission — to bring electric propulsion to the increasingly popular and increasingly competitive small luxury crossover class. Those woods are currently filling up with EVs, many of them struggling to find willing buyers. Do the GV70’s handsome looks and 3.8-second 0-60 acceleration give it the push it needs to break through in the marketplace. Nerad, who road-tested the GV70, and Teague will bat that issue around in this episode.
While we are on the subject of luxury vehicles, our special guest this week is Lexus’s Cynthia Tenhouse, who serves as vice president of the Lexus Guest Experience. Toyota’s luxury marque has proceeded very slowly in introducing battery-electric vehicles to its lineup even as virtually all of its luxury-brand competitors have charged ahead. We’ll discuss the brand’s wait-and-see strategy and many other topics with her in a wide-ranging discussion about the current state of the luxury vehicle market. You’ll want to hear what she has to say.
In the news, two prominent American electric carmakers are in the midst of a dust-up in court. We’ll tell you who Tesla’s Elon Musk is suing and what’s likely to happen next. Beyond that court battle, Musk also angling to become a strong competitor to Waymo in the robotaxi wars that are set to develop in several cities around the country in the coming months. And Waymo is taking a special jab at Tesla as just one skirmish in what promises to be an epic battle.
A new survey reveals that enthusiasm for driving and collector cars isn’t dying, as some would have you believe. Instead, the Hagerty-sponsored survey reveals that Americans' love for automobiles remains strong across several generations.
There is also tragedy in Chicago, as an iconic vehicle is involved in a major crash. We’ll have the details on that and so much more in this episode of America on the Road.
America on the Road is brought to you by Driving Today.com, Mercury Insurance, and EMLandsea.com , the publisher of Nerad’s latest book, Dance in the Dark, which is available HERE on Amazon.com -
For millions of people across the country, a week on a lake is a dream vacation. This year Host Jack Nerad and his family found that out firsthand as they drove a 2024 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro to Cedar Creek Lake south of Dallas for some serious driving and welcome R and R. As the Nerads discovered, the Sequoia had the goods to offer dual duty as both a serious off-roader and a practical family hauler.
The third-generation Sequoia three-row SUV delivered luxurious comfort, impressive technology and exceptional convenience features. The twin-turbo V6 hybrid powertrain offers plenty of acceleration with 437 horsepower and a whopping 583 pound-feet of torque. Towing a big boat is child’s play with an impressive 9,520-pound maximum towing capacity. For the stock-up stop at the big box store, the Sequoia offers a cavernous cargo area and an innovative multi-level cargo system.
When it comes to all-terrain capability, the TRD Pro’s part-time four-wheel-drive system includes a transfer case, controlled via a button on the center console, to select between 2WD, 4WD high and 4WD low. The multi-link rear and available air suspensions keep the vehicle in firm control. Nerad will recount more of his family's adventures as the road tests unroll.
In our second road test this week, Co-Host Chris Teague will discuss his family’s recent purchase, the 2024 Honda Prologue. Making the big leap into the electric vehicle lifestyle, the Teague family has already experienced the joys and travails of battery power. Teague will share far more in this episode.
Our special guest is George Baker, General Motors’ Vehicle Security Lead. He will discuss ways to avoid becoming a car theft victim. Car theft is on the rise across the country, so you’ll want to hear what he has to say.
In the news, Tesla’s Elon Musk has just hinted that the debut of the carmaker’s robotaxi will be delayed. We’ll tell you why and what all means coming up.
General Motors CEO Mary Barra has just revealed that her company’s goal of producing one million electric vehicles in North America is, in her words, “uncertain.” We’ll have the details and our thoughts. Meanwhile, hundreds of MINIs are scurrying across the western United States this weekend, and we”ll tell you all about that.
Also in the news, Consumer Reports has released its list of the Best Electric Vehicles, and we’ll tell you about the surprising top-rated car and other surprises on the list with, of course, our comments.
So we have a lot of show for you this week.
America on the Road is brought to you by Driving Today.com, Mercury Insurance, and EMLandsea.com , the publisher of Nerad’s latest book, Dance in the Dark, which is available HERE on Amazon.com -
The iconic Toyota Land Cruiser makes a comeback for the 2024 model year, now in a more compact form reminiscent of the original 1958 version. While the ’58 Land Cruiser lacked a hybrid powertrain, advanced driver assistance technologies, and a modern infotainment system, the essence of its rugged all-terrain capabilities remains unchanged in the all-new version. With us to tell all about the new vehicle is Kalifa Sprowl, Senior Series Planner, Large Trucks & SUVs for Toyota, an expert on the new Land Cruiser.
Every 2024 Land Cruiser model comes with Toyota's turbocharged i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain, offering 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque. This hybrid system pairs a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine with an electric motor integrated into the transmission. The Land Cruiser's full-time four-wheel-drive system includes standard center and rear-locking differentials and an optional front stabilizer bar disconnect mechanism to enhance suspension flexibility.
In the exclusive interview, Sprowl will share details about the vehicle, including thoughts on its various trim levels, specialized off-road gear, and even Sprowl’s favorite feature.
In our road test segment Host Jack Nerad and Co-Host Chris Teague will take long looks at two very different SUVs. The popular Subaru Crosstrek gets a number of revisions for the 2024 model year that enhance its already-solid value story. The subcompact crossover offers the same boxer engine as previous Crosstreks, but new camshafts and other revisions kick up peak torque and deliver it at lower engine revolutions. The difference isn’t stunning, but it is an example of the vehicle’s constant improvement.
Another change is the decision to equip all Crosstreks with the Lineartronic CVT (continuously variable transmission). It has been thoroughly revised to offer a wider ratio spread and revised manual-mode ratios in an effort to give the small SUV a more responsive driving feel. Making the CVT standard has another benefit as well. It prompted Subaru to also make EyeSight driver assist technology and Subaru SI-Drive driver-selectable powertrain management standard across the lineup. So how do these and other changes manifest themselves in the driving experience? Chris Teague will tell us all that and more in this episode.
In our other road test this week, Jack Nerad took the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas SEL Premium R-Line on a road trip to the desert to determine the midsize SUV’s ability to transport families safely, quietly, and conveniently. This year, VW changed the Atlas’s powertrain, substituting a turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque for the previous four-cylinder and V6 engines. An eight-speed automatic transmission sends power to the front or all four wheels.
While the first VW SUVs were generally too small for American tastes, the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas doesn’t make that mistake. It is one of the roomiest and most accommodating vehicles in its class. But one thing about the interior was entirely unexpected. Nerad will explain its pluses and minuses in the road test segment.
In the news, a just-released J.D. Power study shows that electric vehicles are more affordable than ever. It also asks the question: where are the buyers? We’ll have more on that.
Nissan has introduced a new off-road version of its popular Rogue compact SUV, and we’ll have all the details.
A battle is looming over future vehicle emissions regulations as the state of Ohio has joined a suit against California’s regulations. And a recent Supreme Court ruling could upend a variety of fuel economy, emissions and even safety regulations.
Finally, we have another warning about a safety threat that could be right in front of you when you drive. Counterfeit airbag replacements are resulting in fatalities. We’ll tell you how to avoid becoming a victim.
So, there’s plenty to talk about this week -
In the same week that Volkswagen announced a giant investment in electric-vehicle maker Rivian, the brand also reinforced its stance in conventional gasoline-powered vehicles with the unveiling of the newest Volkswagen Golf R and Golf R Variant. The fraternal twins redefine their class with 328 horsepower and the handling chops to leverage it. The new models are the most powerful Golf versions to date. They rocket 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 4.6 seconds (Golf R) and 4.8 seconds (Variant). With the Performance package, top speeds increase to a claimed 167 mph, making these the fastest Volkswagens alongside the Arteon R Shooting Brake that will never see the light of day in America.
Both models feature a new front-end design, advanced light systems, 19-inch forged wheels, and an updated infotainment system. In Germany, they come standard with DCC adaptive damping to complement their impressive horsepower. The Golf R Black Edition, with darkened Volkswagen badges and a Performance package, adds more spice to the Golf R lineup. The Golf R Variant combines sports car performance with the practicality of a wagon. Since the debut of the legendary Golf R32 in 2002, the Golf R series has sold over 250,000 units. We’ll have more details in the news this week.
Also in the news, a global carmaker has delayed the launch of a new, affordable EV in the wake of the Biden Administration’s new tariff on Chinese-built electric vehicles. We’ll tell you the carmaker, the model and why the decision was made to scrub the launch in this episode, plus our comments.
Another important news story concerns the potential ticking timebomb you have in your car. We’ll tell you what the danger is and how you can defuse it in this episode.
Our special guest is Lauren Fix. You might have seen her on TV or heard her on the radio as The Car Coach. She’s terrifically knowledgeable about cars and, like host Jack Nerad, a member of the North American Car of the Year jury. The two share stories about Paul Brian, another jury member and a friend of ours who passed away recently. Brian was a larger-than-life guy, and we’re sure you enjoy the tales Lauren has to tell about her longtime on-air partner.
In this week’s road test segment, Co-Host Chris Teague will evaluate the 2024 Mazda CX30. Its maker calls it a crossover SUV, but Teague and Nerad think another name might be just as appropriate. Both will share their views on the vibrant hatch.
Nerad had a far more luxurious assignment this week. He put the 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge through its paces. The plug-in hybrid happens to be the most performance-oriented version of the Swedish automaker’s three-row crossover, bot Nerad and Teague will offer their opinions on it in this episode.
America on the Road is brought to you by Driving Today.com, Mercury Insurance, and EMLandsea.com , the publisher of Nerad’s latest book, Dance in the Dark, which is available HERE on Amazon.com -
When the Lexus LS was introduced as the brand’s seminal offering, full-size sedans were the flagships of every luxury lineup. But that was in 1989 when Taylor Swift was born and when Elon Musk was a teenager leaving South Africa for a new life in Canada. In the ensuing decades, American luxury car buyers have largely turned their backs on big sedans, preferring the upright stance of SUVs.
But before spending a week driving the LS 500h, Host Jack Nerad had to wonder if the addition of an all-wheel-drive hybrid powertrain could breathe new life into the big luxury sedan market. After all, the LS 500h offers a lot to like—superb comfort, impeccable craftsmanship, and a wealth of comfort and convenience features. But is it enough to stem the SUV tide? We’ll have our thoughts coming up.
Our other road test vehicle has a fascinating story of its own. Co-host Chris Teague slipped behind the wheel of the 2024 Toyota bZ4X, the brand’s toe-dip into the battery-electric vehicle market. Despite the fact that the brand seemed lukewarm about the whole battery-electric idea, many expected that the pleasant-looking crossover would deliver a Toyota-level execution. In other words, they expected a segment-leading vehicle. But does the bZ4X live up to those high expectations? Teague and Nerad will offer their opinions.
This week, our special guest is David Sargent, vice president and head of the connected vehicle practice at J.D. Power. Sargent has previously appeared on the show several times, talking about the J.D. Power Initial Quality Study. Now, he has new responsibilities and a new J.D. Power service to introduce. We’re sure you’ll enjoy what he has to say.
In the news this week, car dealers across the county are still reeling from the cyber attack that handicapped their ability to do business. We’ll have the details regarding this frightening occurrence.
Mercury Insurance has released its latest list of the trucks and SUVs that cost the least to insure, and we’ll have more on that.
There is more bad news for Tesla this week as it has recalled all of its Cybertrucks for potential safety issues. We’ll give you all the details and have so much more for you as well.
America on the Road is brought to you by Driving Today.com, Mercury Insurance, and EMLandsea.com , the publisher of Nerad’s latest book, Dance in the Dark, which is available HERE on Amazon.com -
The 2024 Toyota 4Runner is the last of its generation, and all indications are it is going to be missed. This week, Host Jack Nerad got a special chance to say goodbye to the old and respected warrior as he took the wheel for the last time before an all-new 2025 model-year 4Runner arrives.
While many are excited about the new 4Runner and its equally new turbocharged powerplant, a similar number seem wistful about the passing of the current generation SUV, which has proven itself tough as a month-old bag of jerky. Some of its toughness stems from its venerable normally aspirated V6 engine, which just seems to keep ticking and ticking no matter how old or what obstacles are thrown in its way. Nerad will tell us more about his last hurrah with the 4Runner in this episode.
In our other road test this week, Co-Host Chris Teague will put the new 2024 Subaru Crosstrek through its paces. While not as fully off-road capable as the 4Runner, it boasts some impressive off-road chops of its own. And despite its new body, it remains powered by the latest version of Subaru’s famed boxer engines, another powerplant that has more than proven its worth. Teague will tell us more in the road test segment.
This week our special guest is Matt DeLorenzo, author of How To Buy An Affordable Electric Car, a Tightwad’s Guide to EV Ownership. An auto expert par excellence, DeLorenzo has been on the show several times before, and he always has an insightful point of view on individual cars and the car industry as a whole. Now, as electric vehicle sales have hit a lull, we’ll talk with him about what is likely to end up in your driveway going forward. Will we have an all-electric future as so many have predicted? Or is an industry reset occurring before our eyes? DeLorenzo will give us his well-informed opinions.
In the news this week, Jeep has confirmed it will re-launch its Renegade as a battery-electric vehicle for the 2027 model year. And it will have a base price of less than $25,000. We’ll tell you more about Jeep’s aggressive EV plans.
Speaking of EVs, Tesla’s Elon Musk will get his $56 billion pay package after all, at least if Tesla Motors’ shareholders get their way. Musk has big plans for his Texas-based car company going forward, and we’ll have more on that continuing saga.
Another continuing saga isn’t going nearly as well. Fisker Motors, an EV start-up helmed by car designer turned entrepreneur Henrik Fisker, has officially filed for bankruptcy. If everybody had an Ocean across the USA, then things would be different. But it looks like they won’t.
In more positive news, BMW has just pulled the curtain away from its all-new 2025 X3 small SUV. We’ll have the details and our reactions to its new look.
All that and more coming up this week on America on the Road.
America on the Road is brought to you by Driving Today.com, Mercury Insurance, and EMLandsea.com , the publisher of Nerad’s latest book, Dance in the Dark, which is available HERE on Amazon.com -
We admit the Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 isn’t quite as sleek and sexy-looking as its sibling, the GLA, but when you’re at the controls of the compact sports utility, it immediately ceases to matter. The influx of 300+ horsepower is the biggest reason. Suddenly, you’re not operating a mundane grocery-getter, but instead, you find yourself piloting an agile, goes-where-you-point-it sports sedan that just happens to be almost five and a half feet tall.
The Motor Press Guild’s annual Drive Day gave Host Jack Nerad the chance to reacquaint himself with the joys of the AMG GLB 35 4Matic+, which is the hot rod of the GLB lineup. At $59,050, it not only features an AMG-tuned version of a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that delivers 302 horsepower, but also a well-tuned sport suspension that includes a multi-link rear. With giant brakes, 19-inch alloy wheels, and low-profile tires, the mashup proves irresistible. Nerad will tell you more in this episode.
In this week's other road test, Co-host Chris Teague puts an all-new yet startlingly familiar vehicle to the test. The Mazda CX-70 is brand-spanking-new for the 2025 model year, and we’ll bet you haven’t seen one. But then it bears a remarkable resemblance to another vehicle that is significantly better known. Teague will describe the CX-70’s lineage in much more detail and tell us how he enjoyed driving the plug-in hybrid version of Mazda’s newest nameplate.
This week our special guest is Sam Fiorani, Vice President of Global Vehicle Forecasting at AutoForecast Solutions. If you are thinking about buying a car this year, Sam can give you a great idea of what you can expect and how you can save some money. So we’re sure you’ll enjoy our discussion.
In this week’s news, both General Motors and Ford reasserted their faith in electric vehicles this past week. At the same time, both automakers have cut their current EV production plans as sales have slowed. We have to wonder whether they are crossing their fingers when they say that they have a firm belief in an electric-vehicle future.
While EVs aren’t selling as well as many had hoped, they are certainly using a lot of electricity. A new study shows how much and where. Of course, the expanded use of electricity has a lot of implications, and we’ll explore them in this episode.
In other news, Tesla hasn’t been able to persuade California to call off its investigation into the way it has marketed its self-driving technology. And Toyota is doubling down on hydrogen despite the fact its Mirai hydrogen fuel cell vehicle has not garnered many sales. Both of those stories are worth exploring, too.
America on the Road is brought to you by Driving Today.com, Mercury Insurance, and EMLandsea.com , the publisher of Nerad’s latest book, Dance in the Dark, which is available HERE on Amazon.com -
Chevrolet says the 2024 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison AEV Edition is “America’s ultimate off-road beast.” After driving it on and off road for a full week in Maine, America on the Road Co-Host Chris Teague has no reason to question that somewhat boastful assessment. After all, the truck not only uses the still-new Chevy Colorado platform, but it also enhances that platform with a number of American Expedition Vehicles add-ons that give it even greater capabilities.
As just a taste of that, here are some of those added pieces of kit: segment-exclusive Multimatic front and rear Jounce Control Dampers, AEV heavy-duty winch-capable front bumper, AEV rear bumper and AEV fender flares, AEV 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels with segment-exclusive 35-inch OD Mud/Terrain tires, and boron steel skid plates and rocker protectors.
How did the truck’s class-leading approach angle (38.2 degrees), departure angle (26 degrees) and breakover angle (26.9 degrees) work in the rigors of a Maine off-road course? Teague will tell us in this episode.
Across the country, Host Jack Nerad was putting the 2024 Volvo XC40 Recharge Single-Motor Ultimate through its paces. Looking to add range and hit a reasonable price point, Volvo introduced the single-motor version of the XC40 Recharge this year. In doing so, the company created the first rear-drive Volvo in more than two decades.
As Nerad found during his week-long test, there’s a lot to like about the single-motor version of the small battery-electric SUV. It features a torquey 248-horsepower permanent magnet e-motor on the rear axle in tandem with a new 82 kWh battery pack. The combination of a more energy-dense battery and more efficient motor allows the XC40 Recharge to deliver 293 miles of range on the combined EPA test cycle. As a further bonus, the uprated battery pack enables charging at a top rate of 200 kW DC. Charging from 10 to 80 percent state-of-charge takes approximately 28 minutes. But how does it drive? Nerad will reveal that in the road test segment.
Our special guest this week will discuss a subject of vital interest to all of us who drive. Dr. Michael Warholic is Valvoline's senior technology manager for light duty lubricants. If you want to learn more about choosing the right motor oil to keep your car or truck running at its best, there’s no-one better to talk to. So we’re sure you’ll enjoy our discussion with him.
We have two very interesting vehicle introductions to tell you about this week. Jeep has pulled the wraps off its first global battery-electric vehicle — the Jeep Wagoneer S. And Toyota has announced the addition of a new Corolla model that is both sporty and affordable. And it takes Host Jack Nerad back to his Motor Trend days. We’ll tell you more about both of them coming up.
In other news, a U.S. Senator is asking domestic automakers to sue the U.S. Treasury Department over the way it has implemented regulations regarding electric vehicle tax credits. (That’s what we need; more court cases.) We’ll give you the details, and offer our thoughts on that.
There’s more evidence that the internal combustion engine is not on its last legs. Three automakers have announced a plan to develop new internal combustion engine technology, and it has some very interesting wrinkles. We’ll tell you more about that, too.
America on the Road is brought to you by Driving Today.com, Mercury Insurance, and EMLandsea.com , the publisher of Nerad’s latest book, Dance in the Dark, which is available HERE on Amazon.com -
The burgeoning midsize truck segment has a renewed entrant in the 2024 Ford Ranger. The handsome truck offers a pair of powerful turbocharged engines, including the now-available 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6, and it is filled with technologies previously unavailable on a midsize pickup. Of course, the all-new 2024 Ford Ranger Raptor raises the brand's performance flag higher than ever before.
To learn all about the new Ranger, Host Jack Nerad sat down for a lengthy interview with Ranger and Ranger Raptor Chief Engineer Juan de Pena. In the interview, de Pena describes the philosophy behind the truck and details its many features. If you’re thinking of buying a midsize or even a full-size pickup any time soon, you’ll want to hear what he has to say.
On the road test front this week, Co-host Chris Teague will describe his weeklong test of the 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer small SUV. The test vehicle was the top-of-the-line RS version, which squeezes more performance than you might expect out of its three-cylinder turbocharged engine.
In our other road test, Host Jack Nerad put in more than 500 miles behind the wheel of the 2024 Toyota Sienna XSE minivan as he and his wife did some real-world testing, moving their youngest daughter (and her stuff) to Central California for a summer job before she resumes her college career in the fall. Now equipped with a thrifty hybrid powertrain and filled with convenience features, the Sienna proved to be an excellent tool for the job. We’ll tell you more in this episode.
In the news this week, there is trouble in the self-driving car world as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is looking into problems with Waymo’s robotaxis and their autonomous driving technology. With several collisions to their credit, maybe the Waymo cabs need a re-think.
The news for the electric vehicle segment isn’t much better. Stellantis has just announced that it is switching production of its battery-electric Fiat 500e to a hybrid version of the car. In fact, as bad as the news is for EVs, it is that much better for hybrids, something. we precited years ago.
Vehicle introductions making news this week come from Kia — the global unveiling of the Kia EV3 small crossover utility — and Acura — the unmasking of the 2025 Acura MDX three-row luxury SUV. We’ll tell you about both in this episode.
America on the Road is brought to you by Driving Today.com, Mercury Insurance, and EMLandsea.com , the publisher of Nerad’s latest book, Dance in the Dark, which is available HERE on Amazon.com -
To say that the transition to electric vehicles isn’t going as predicted is putting it mildly. This week, two global manufacturers revealed that they are pausing their previously planned introductions of battery-electric sedans in the United States. That’s the reason you won’t see the Volkswagen ID.7, a staple in the European market, here in the U.S. this year.
Volkswagen had previously announced that the sleek sedan would be arriving in American showrooms by the end of 2024, but then it did an about-face and took the unusual step of putting out a media advisory that it was pausing the intro of the sleek sedan here. When -- or if -- we will ever see it remains unclear.
Another global automaker has also paused its introduction of battery-electric sedans in the United States in the wake of underwhelming sales of EVs so far this year. The car manufacturer also said it was pausing the development of future EV sedans. We’ll tell you who that automaker is and have our comments in this episode of AOTR.
Our road tests this week present happier news. Co-Host Chris Teague found himself at the wheel of an auto journalist’s dream — a Eurostyle station wagon. He put the 2024 Volvo V60 Cross Country through its paces in a lengthy road test, and he’ll share the results with us.
On the other coast, Host Jack Nerad got the opportunity to live with the 2024 Genesis GV60 battery-electric SUV. Not only did he drive the GV60 Performance AWD version, but he also sampled the battery-electric lifestyle in one of the nation’s hotbeds of EV ownership. His conclusions are served up in this episode.
The Memorial Day weekend is one of the biggest car-buying weekends of the year, so instead of a guest this week, Jack and Chris will share their recent vehicle purchase experiences and offer dos and don’ts for your potential car-buying effort.
The radically increased tariffs on Chinese-built electric vehicles will kick in on August 1, and the suddenness of their imposition continues to stir up a flurry of reactions. We’ll have more details and our comments coming up.
In non-EV news we have two car introductions to talk about, one from Honda and another from a car company we bet you’ve never heard of. But we can't wait to see the car's official unveiling at Pebble Beach in August. We’ll have details on both.
America on the Road is brought to you by Driving Today.com, Mercury Insurance, and EMLandsea.com , the publisher of Nerad’s latest book, Dance in the Dark, which is available HERE on Amazon.com -
The Genesis GV80 luxury crossover is the vehicle that really put the Genesis brand on the map in the United States. Prior to its introduction, the Korean-based luxury brand only had sedans in its lineup, and in the American market, that wasn’t a competitive offering, like trying to sell hot cocoa in a sauna. Now, the heavily revised 2025 Genesis GV80 further refines an offering that was already making waves.
To tell us all about it, we have as our special guest this week Trevor Lai, who is Genesis product planning senior group manager. In our exclusive interview, he will share with us the importance of the GV80 to the Genesis brand, and he will detail the significant changes Genesis has made to the SUV. One of its wow factors is the 7-inch digital infotainment and driver information screen. Genesis has also improved what was already one of the most sumptuous interiors in the segment. Lai will tell us much more as we go over the key changes for 2025.
In the road test segment, Co-Host Chris Teague and Host Jack Nerad evaluate a pair of vehicles that reside in the same segment but couldn’t be more different in outlook. The 2024 Subaru Outback Wilderness brings an unmistakable off-road ethos to the subcompact crossover market, while the 2024 Mazda CX-30 concentrates its focus on the tarmac. Both vehicles are versatile and fun to drive, but they offer their highest levels of fun in different environments.
There’s fascinating news to report and comment on this week. The Biden Administration has unexpectedly increased the tariff on Chinese-built electric vehicles from 27 percent to more than 100 percent, and it is causing a hornet’s nest of reactions. We’ll have more details and our comments.
We also have the story behind the recent intrigue surrounding Tesla’s Supercharger EV charging network. It seems that Elon Musk might well be one hard boss to work for.
You have certainly heard of the various cars of the year, including the North American Car of the Year, on whose jury sits Host Jack Nerad. Now, to supplement the various Car of the Year programs, there is also a Road of the Year effort that has resulted in the naming of the 2024 Road of the Year. We’ll tell you the winner and give our reactions coming up.
So there’s plenty to chew on this week. Please join us.
America on the Road is brought to you by Driving Today.com, Mercury Insurance, and EMLandsea.com , the publisher of Nerad’s latest book, Dance in the Dark, which is available HERE on Amazon.com -
In Europe, the Fiat 500e is leading the electric city-car market for the second year in a row, ranking at the top of that category in Italy, Germany, Spain, Belgium and Austria. But can it achieve similar success in North America? One person who thinks so is Fiat North American Head Aamir Ahmed, and in his exclusive interview with AOTR Host Jack Nerad he’ll tell us why.
One of the reasons he cites is price. With a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $32,500 (excluding the $1,595 destination fee), the 2024 Fiat 500e appears to be within the reach of young urban dwellers, one market that most EV makers have found difficult to exploit.
Fiat’s opening salvo in its renewed attack on the U.S. market is the redhot (RED) Edition. The Italian brand partnered with (RED) to introduce what it calls "the coolest, most ethical car in urban mobility." As you might guess, not only is red the color that my baby wore, but also the featured hue of the (RED) Edition with its red-painted exterior mirrors, front grille details, and dashboard. In the interview, Ahmed will hint at other 500e special editions to come and offer more details on the launch strategy he has prepared for this latest EV.
In our road test segment this week, Co-Host Chris Teague got a very early drive in the all-new 2025 Subaru Forester. The brand’s popular entry in the popular compact crossover utility segment, the Forester has more exterior appeal than ever while retaining the bedrock Subaru values of all-wheel-drive and all-weather capability.
While many brands have largely turned their backs on low- and middle-income buyers who are seeking affordability, Hyundai has not, as evidenced by the 2024 Hyundai Venue subcompact crossover tested by Host Jack Nerad. The top-of-the-line Limited test model had a base price of less than $25,000. And, surprisingly, it is filled with more standard electronic safety equipment than some luxury brand vehicles.
In the news this week, Tesla is in hot water again with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration over its Autopilot system, and we’ll have the details.
It looks as if the all-electric Volvo EX30 is about to arrive in showrooms in the U.S., and we’ll have more info about the car and its labyrinthine journey to the U.S.
Honda has just announced a plan to invest $11 billion in an EV factory in Canada with the financial help of the Canadian government and the Canadian people. We’ll have more on that, including our comments.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has offered some recommendations that could make the delivery vans we see everywhere now much safer for everyone. We’ll tell you all about that in this episode.
So there’s plenty of food for thought this week. Thanks for joining us.
America on the Road is brought to you by Driving Today.com, Mercury Insurance, and EMLandsea.com , the publisher of Nerad’s latest book, Dance in the Dark, which is available HERE on Amazon.com - Показать больше
