Cheap Thrills: 2026 Hyundai Venue Road Tripping to Vegas (Baby)

Cheap Thrills: 2026 Hyundai Venue Road Tripping to Vegas (Baby)

Would you choose one of the least expensive vehicles in the country for a road trip to Las Vegas? Host Jack Nerad did just that, taking the $25,000 small SUV on a 600-mile out-and-back in weather topping 100 degrees. What — is he nuts? Meanwhile, Co-Host Chris Teague gave himself a more reasonable assignment, reviewing the off-road-ready 2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness. Jack and Chris also discuss Europe’s new mandatory driver-monitoring systems, progress on solid-state batteries, and Tesla’s new (longer) three-row Model Y. Labor strife also hits the news in the form of Hyundai worker strikes and Volkswagen’s restructuring setback. Plus, Britain’s Goodwood car festival announces an American version. 🚙 JACK NERAD’S ROAD TEST: 2026 HYUNDAI VENUE SEL[https://drivingtoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/CROP-2026-Hyundai-Venue-rear-300x169.jpeg] Jack reviews the 2026 Hyundai Venue SEL, one of the most affordable new SUVs available. And, inexplicably, he tests the car on one of his longest road trips of the year — a drive to Las Vegas, where a show at The Sphere was at the end of the rainbow. With a total price around $24,440 as tested, the subcompact crossover delivers nimble city handling, 31 mpg combined efficiency, and a surprisingly comfortable cabin. As he did battle with I-15, Jack discovered the usefulness of the SUV’s modern tech with its 8-inch touchscreen and wireless CarPlay/Android Auto. Luckily, its strong safety features didn’t come into play. 🚗 CHRIS TEAGUE’S ROAD TEST: 2026 SUBARU OUTBACK WILDERNESS[https://drivingtoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/CROP-2026_Subaru_Outback-300x169.jpg] While Jack talks about the Venue, Chris tests the 2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness, the most rugged version of the redesigned midsize SUV. Powered by a 260-hp turbo 2.4-liter boxer engine with CVT and Symmetrical AWD, it features 9.5 inches of ground clearance, all-terrain tires, X-MODE, electronic dampers, and enhanced approach/breakover angles. Not just an off-road face, the Outback Wilderness offers strong utility with increased cargo space, a 12.1-inch touchscreen, and a balance of multi-terrain capability and daily comfort. 🎙️ SPECIAL GUEST INTERVIEW Kendra Sommer, auto journalist and International Harvester Scout expert and enthusiast, joins the show. 📰 THIS WEEK’S HEADLINES EU MANDATES ADVANCED DRIVER DISTRACTION WARNING SYSTEMS All new vehicles in Europe must now use cameras to monitor driver eye and head movements to combat distraction. SWRI & SMU ADVANCE SOLID-STATE BATTERY TECH Researchers work on ultra-thin films to stabilize lithium interfaces, a major step toward safer, higher-density EV batteries. TESLA LAUNCHES BIGGER THREE-ROW MODEL Y L IN U.S. The longer six-seat Model Y offers 325-mile range and starts at $61,990. HYUNDAI WORKERS LAUNCH PARTIAL STRIKE Union demands bigger bonuses and protections from robotics in manufacturing. VW BOARD REJECTS MAJOR RESTRUCTURING Supervisory board votes down CEO’s plan for massive job cuts and factory closures. GOODWOOD LAUNCHES U.S. RACING CLUB The iconic British motoring festival brings track days and events to California starting in 2027. ❓ LISTENER QUESTION Scottie from Sheboygan, Wisconsin, asks: “How secure are connected cars from hacking or data tracking?” #SubaruOutbackWilderness #HyundaiVenue #TeslaModelY #CarReviews #AutoPodcast 📚 JACK NERAD’S NEW BOOK Jack’s crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same [https://www.amazon.com/Only-One-Thing-Stays-Same/dp/B0DXPZTBT8/ref=sr_1_1?crid=21CB5RU9E3JW5&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.CT1mBcyNVTXJknz-TNEaS20u2QBkNtTwBc6j3_q_jgc.ogcpDymt6fPf1AjoqrWKlaEsejr-WsyE9Gl185_Qebs&dib_tag=se&keywords=Only+one+thing+stays+the+same&qid=1764205923&s=books&sprefix=only+one+thing+stays+the+same+%2Cstripbooks%2C143&sr=1-1], 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 [https://www.amazon.com/Mercedes-AMG-Race-Bred-Performance-Matt-DeLorenzo/dp/0760394458] CHECK OUT GARY WITZENBURG’S NEW BOOK Pick up a copy of auto journalist Gary Witzenburg’s engaging new book Legends in Motion [https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/legends-in-motion-gary-l-witzenburg/1149143946?ean=9781291918939]. SPECIAL PRICE FOR JACK’S NEWEST CRIME NOVEL Jack is now offering his newest crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same [https://www.amazon.com/Only-One-Thing-Stays-Same/dp/B0DXPZTBT8/ref=sr_1_1?crid=21CB5RU9E3JW5&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.CT1mBcyNVTXJknz-TNEaS20u2QBkNtTwBc6j3_q_jgc.ogcpDymt6fPf1AjoqrWKlaEsejr-WsyE9Gl185_Qebs&dib_tag=se&keywords=Only+one+thing+stays+the+same&qid=1764205923&s=books&sprefix=only+one+thing+stays+the+same+%2Cstripbooks%2C143&sr=1-1], at a 67%-off price of just $4.99. Click here to buy from Amazon at this special limited-time price. [https://www.amazon.com/Only-One-Thing-Stays-Same-ebook/dp/B0DXJ9JFQV/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1PHIBTQL7KP52&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.gjI-KZteUzXSWzGvyGfMYeDkYyTCSmcxiYrHCjqFUG5cfVN9Y9Qads8tUeQaNdPmOxCFZmQW4cVjJvQDm8_C-8gDFDhmBJhyft-VVjqC7zwGPIA5LneX12UEPOq_vZWHvYIUH_KOygdIY8sizlY-3RVnVW71pUt0fxqIBqBmvJHT8fd0eTfrm4tot6hWcMIf8L9Pxbav6zZao9F7pkG8NhXjQL38HSNRwPIJchAVz64.Dm6eJonF1Zr0zZae7WmrkyPwrWP-HjkVxsg8WFh_vLk&dib_tag=se&keywords=Only+One+Thing+Stays+the+Same&qid=1740181056&sprefix=only+one+thing+stays+the+same%2Caps%2C165&sr=8-1] [https://drivingtoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/CROP-ONLY-ONE-THING-eBook-Cover-200x300.jpg]https://www.amazon.com/Dance-Dark-Jack-R-Nerad/dp/1732687676/ref=sr_1_17?crid=3BL38E18SFH09&keywords=Dance+In+The+Dark&qid=1683259839&s=books&sprefix=dance+in+the+dark%2Cstripbooks%2C114&sr=1-17

2026 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid: Baseball & Fourth of July

While some say go big or go home, others will tell you great things come in small packages. This week on America on the Road,  we test both theories as Jack Nerad and Chris Teague review two family-friendly SUVs. On the Go Big side of the ledger Chris puts the luxurious 2026 Ford Expedition Platinum through its paces. Thinking smaller, Jack pilots the efficient 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid to a Fourth of July celebration — at Dodger Stadium, no less. The pair also discuss Lucid’s leadership shakeup and missed targets, Rivian’s building momentum, Volkswagen’s potential massive job cuts, Subaru’s new Trailseeker EV, Kia’s refreshed Niro Hybrid, and Hennessey’s wild new manual-transmission hypercar. Do you have a spare $2.65 million burning a hole in your designer jeans? 🚙 JACK NERAD’S ROAD TEST: 2026 TOYOTA COROLLA CROSS HYBRID XSE[https://drivingtoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/CROP-2026-Toyota-Corolla-Cross-profile-300x169.jpeg] In a week that included a Fourth of July celebration at the third-oldest major league baseball park in the nation, Jack drove and evaluated the 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid XSE. He discovered a practical and efficient compact crossover with a 196-hp hybrid powertrain delivering an excellent 42 mpg combined. The small SUV delivers a composed ride, offers upscale XSE styling, and a roomy interior. But at around $37,449 as tested, does the package justify the price? Or are other Corolla Cross models better buys? We’ll answer all that and more. 🚗 CHRIS TEAGUE’S ROAD TEST: 2026 FORD EXPEDITION PLATINUM[https://drivingtoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/CROP-2026-Ford-Expedition-Platinum-300x169.jpg] While Jack was celebrating the nation’s 250th birthday in the Toyota, Chris tested the 2026 Ford Expedition Platinum, a premium full-size SUV that seats up to eight. With strong towing capability (up to 9,600 lbs) and refined comfort, it offers large families great stretch-out room. The big SUV is powered by a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 producing 400 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque, and it offers available four-wheel drive, Continuously Controlled Damping for a smoother ride, and impressive cargo space. So is it a better choice than the competitive Chevrolet Tahoe? 🎙️ SPECIAL GUEST INTERVIEW Rhys Martin, President of the Oklahoma Route 66 Association, joins the show to discuss his recent historic caravan along the Mother Road. 📰 THIS WEEK’S HEADLINES LUCID STRUGGLES WITH SALES The luxury EV maker shakes up its executive team after falling short of Q2 sales targets. Does it have a way forward? RIVIAN RAISES 2026 DELIVERY FORECAST Strong second results and growing R2 demand lead Rivian to boost its full-year outlook to 65,000–70,000 vehicles. VOLKSWAGEN CONSIDERS MAJOR RESTRUCTURING VW may cut up to 100,000 jobs and close factories as Chinese competition and profitability pressures provide ongoing headaches for the global carmaking giant. KIA REFRESHES 2027 NIRO HYBRID Updated styling, panoramic displays, advanced tech, and improved safety features arrive this summer. HENNESSEY UNVEILS VENOM F5-M ROADSTER The extreme manual hypercar packs over 2,000 hp and is limited to just 12 units. SUBARU LAUNCHES TRAILSEEKER EV The new electric SUV starts under $40,000 with 375 hp, 281 miles of range, and amusing off-road capability. ❓ LISTENER QUESTION Wilver from Ames, Iowa asks: “Why have Chevrolet, Ford and the other U.S. Manufacturers just stopped making cars?” Jack and Chris explain the shift to SUVs and crossovers. 📚 JACK NERAD’S NEW BOOK Jack’s crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same [https://www.amazon.com/Only-One-Thing-Stays-Same/dp/B0DXPZTBT8/ref=sr_1_1?crid=21CB5RU9E3JW5&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.CT1mBcyNVTXJknz-TNEaS20u2QBkNtTwBc6j3_q_jgc.ogcpDymt6fPf1AjoqrWKlaEsejr-WsyE9Gl185_Qebs&dib_tag=se&keywords=Only+one+thing+stays+the+same&qid=1764205923&s=books&sprefix=only+one+thing+stays+the+same+%2Cstripbooks%2C143&sr=1-1], 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 [https://www.amazon.com/Mercedes-AMG-Race-Bred-Performance-Matt-DeLorenzo/dp/0760394458] CHECK OUT GARY WITZENBURG’S NEW BOOK Pick up a copy of auto journalist Gary Witzenburg’s engaging new book Legends in Motion [https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/legends-in-motion-gary-l-witzenburg/1149143946?ean=9781291918939]. SPECIAL PRICE FOR JACK’S NEWEST CRIME NOVEL Jack is now offering his newest crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same [https://www.amazon.com/Only-One-Thing-Stays-Same/dp/B0DXPZTBT8/ref=sr_1_1?crid=21CB5RU9E3JW5&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.CT1mBcyNVTXJknz-TNEaS20u2QBkNtTwBc6j3_q_jgc.ogcpDymt6fPf1AjoqrWKlaEsejr-WsyE9Gl185_Qebs&dib_tag=se&keywords=Only+one+thing+stays+the+same&qid=1764205923&s=books&sprefix=only+one+thing+stays+the+same+%2Cstripbooks%2C143&sr=1-1], at a 67%-off price of just $4.99. Click here to buy from Amazon at this special limited-time price. [https://www.amazon.com/Only-One-Thing-Stays-Same-ebook/dp/B0DXJ9JFQV/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1PHIBTQL7KP52&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.gjI-KZteUzXSWzGvyGfMYeDkYyTCSmcxiYrHCjqFUG5cfVN9Y9Qads8tUeQaNdPmOxCFZmQW4cVjJvQDm8_C-8gDFDhmBJhyft-VVjqC7zwGPIA5LneX12UEPOq_vZWHvYIUH_KOygdIY8sizlY-3RVnVW71pUt0fxqIBqBmvJHT8fd0eTfrm4tot6hWcMIf8L9Pxbav6zZao9F7pkG8NhXjQL38HSNRwPIJchAVz64.Dm6eJonF1Zr0zZae7WmrkyPwrWP-HjkVxsg8WFh_vLk&dib_tag=se&keywords=Only+One+Thing+Stays+the+Same&qid=1740181056&sprefix=only+one+thing+stays+the+same%2Caps%2C165&sr=8-1] [https://drivingtoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/CROP-ONLY-ONE-THING-eBook-Cover-200x300.jpg]https://www.amazon.com/Dance-Dark-Jack-R-Nerad/dp/1732687676/ref=sr_1_17?crid=3BL38E18SFH09&keywords=Dance+In+The+Dark&qid=1683259839&s=books&sprefix=dance+in+the+dark%2Cstripbooks%2C114&sr=1-17

Wedding Bell Blue: 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer Takes on Central CA

Getting six adults and their luggage to a gala wedding 150 miles away is no small task. So to accomplish it, we called in Big Blue 2, our affectionate nickname for the 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee that was chosen for the special duty. How did the full-size SUV fare? We’ll tell you this week on America on the Road. While Jack Nerad was transporting most of his family to central California, across the country in New England Chris Teague was reviewing the 2026 Subaru Uncharted electric crossover, and we’ll have his report as well. Jack and Chris also discuss improving new-vehicle quality with lingering tech frustrations, as revealed by the 2026 JD Power Initial Quality Study. And they examine the drama surrounding Volkswagen ending its big self-driving partnership and Polestar’s departure from the U.S. market. 🚙 JACK NERAD’S ROAD TEST: 2026 JEEP GRAND WAGONEER LIMITED RESERVE[https://drivingtoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/CROP-2026-Jeep-Grand-Cherokee-Los-Olivos-profile-300x169.jpeg] In a special road trip report, Jack reviews the 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer Limited Reserve 4×4, a full-size luxury SUV that combines premium comfort with genuine off-road ability. Powered by a twin-turbo inline-six, it features opulent Nappa leather, a 12-inch Uconnect touchscreen, and upscale McIntosh audio. But did it have the room, power and gravitas to transport the six-adult entourage to its destination and back? We’ll have a complete report. 🚗 CHRIS TEAGUE’S ROAD TEST: 2026 SUBARU UNCHARTED[https://drivingtoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/CROP-2026_Subaru_Uncharted-300x169.jpg] While Jack was traveling to the wedding, Chris tested the 2026 Subaru Uncharted, Subaru’s newest and most affordable EV. Starting at $34,995, it offers up to 308 miles of range, 338 hp with AWD, a 14-inch touchscreen with wireless CarPlay/Android Auto, 8.2 inches of ground clearance, and up to 25 cubic feet of cargo space. Available in Premium, Sport, and GT trims, it promises practical EV motoring with Subaru’s signature all-weather capability. Did it deliver the goods? We’ll let you know. 🎙️ SPECIAL GUEST INTERVIEW Matt DeLorenzo, noted auto journalist, North American Car of the Year juror, and author of Mercedes-AMG: Race-Bred Performance, joins the show. 📰 THIS WEEK’S HEADLINES J.D. POWER: VEHICLE QUALITY IMPROVES BUT TECH FRUSTRATES Overall initial quality jumped sharply, but infotainment and connectivity issues (especially Apple CarPlay/Android Auto) remain the top owner complaints. VOLKSWAGEN ENDS BOSCH SELF-DRIVING PARTNERSHIP VW is winding down its $1.7 billion autonomous driving collaboration with Bosch as fully self-driving tech proves harder than expected. Is self-driving farther off than many suggest? POLESTAR TO EXIT U.S. MARKET The Swedish-Chinese EV brand will stop new vehicle sales in the U.S. after 2026 due to federal rules on Chinese software. But is there another reason? We’ll offer our theory. HONDA SELLS 15 MILLION ACCORDS IN AMERICA The iconic midsize sedan reaches a major milestone, with strong hybrid sales and decades of U.S. production in Ohio. ❓ LISTENER QUESTION Toby from Yuma, Arizona, asks: “Are today’s cars becoming too complicated for people to do their own repairs?” Jack and Chris share their thoughts. 📚 JACK NERAD’S NEW BOOK Jack’s crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same [https://www.amazon.com/Only-One-Thing-Stays-Same/dp/B0DXPZTBT8/ref=sr_1_1?crid=21CB5RU9E3JW5&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.CT1mBcyNVTXJknz-TNEaS20u2QBkNtTwBc6j3_q_jgc.ogcpDymt6fPf1AjoqrWKlaEsejr-WsyE9Gl185_Qebs&dib_tag=se&keywords=Only+one+thing+stays+the+same&qid=1764205923&s=books&sprefix=only+one+thing+stays+the+same+%2Cstripbooks%2C143&sr=1-1], 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 [https://www.amazon.com/Mercedes-AMG-Race-Bred-Performance-Matt-DeLorenzo/dp/0760394458] CHECK OUT GARY WITZENBURG’S NEW BOOK Pick up a copy of auto journalist Gary Witzenburg’s engaging new book Legends in Motion [https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/legends-in-motion-gary-l-witzenburg/1149143946?ean=9781291918939]. SPECIAL PRICE FOR JACK’S NEWEST CRIME NOVEL Jack is now offering his newest crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same [https://www.amazon.com/Only-One-Thing-Stays-Same/dp/B0DXPZTBT8/ref=sr_1_1?crid=21CB5RU9E3JW5&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.CT1mBcyNVTXJknz-TNEaS20u2QBkNtTwBc6j3_q_jgc.ogcpDymt6fPf1AjoqrWKlaEsejr-WsyE9Gl185_Qebs&dib_tag=se&keywords=Only+one+thing+stays+the+same&qid=1764205923&s=books&sprefix=only+one+thing+stays+the+same+%2Cstripbooks%2C143&sr=1-1], at a 67%-off price of just $4.99. Click here to buy from Amazon at this special limited-time price. [https://www.amazon.com/Only-One-Thing-Stays-Same-ebook/dp/B0DXJ9JFQV/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1PHIBTQL7KP52&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.gjI-KZteUzXSWzGvyGfMYeDkYyTCSmcxiYrHCjqFUG5cfVN9Y9Qads8tUeQaNdPmOxCFZmQW4cVjJvQDm8_C-8gDFDhmBJhyft-VVjqC7zwGPIA5LneX12UEPOq_vZWHvYIUH_KOygdIY8sizlY-3RVnVW71pUt0fxqIBqBmvJHT8fd0eTfrm4tot6hWcMIf8L9Pxbav6zZao9F7pkG8NhXjQL38HSNRwPIJchAVz64.Dm6eJonF1Zr0zZae7WmrkyPwrWP-HjkVxsg8WFh_vLk&dib_tag=se&keywords=Only+One+Thing+Stays+the+Same&qid=1740181056&sprefix=only+one+thing+stays+the+same%2Caps%2C165&sr=8-1] [https://drivingtoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/CROP-ONLY-ONE-THING-eBook-Cover-200x300.jpg]https://www.amazon.com/Dance-Dark-Jack-R-Nerad/dp/1732687676/ref=sr_1_17?crid=3BL38E18SFH09&keywords=Dance+In+The+Dark&qid=1683259839&s=books&sprefix=dance+in+the+dark%2Cstripbooks%2C114&sr=1-17

2026 Volvo XC60 Review: Luxury Meets Practicality

This week on America on the Road, Jack Nerad and Chris Teague review two refined luxury SUVs — the 2026 Volvo XC60 B5 AWD and the athletic 2026 Lexus NX 350h F Sport Hybrid. They also discuss a new survey in which women drivers assure us they’re just fine, examine Mercedes’ opulent electric VLE luxury van, and offer their congratulations on the Lamborghini Miura’s 60th anniversary. We’ll also give details on Lincoln’s wellness “Sanctuary” experience, and Dodge’s Under Armour Hellcat workout gear. Our special guest is Jennifer Smith, CEO of StopDistractions.org. 🚙 JACK NERAD’S ROAD TEST: 2026 VOLVO XC60 B5 AWD[https://drivingtoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/CROP-2026-VolvoXC60-lede-300x169.jpeg] In the first of our luxury SUV reviews, Jack offers his opinions on the 2026 Volvo XC60 B5 AWD Ultra, a refined mild-hybrid luxury compact SUV with a 247-hp turbo 2.0-liter engine, premium Nappa leather interior, and a large 11.2-inch touchscreen. Its composed ride and class-leading safety are among its most positive attributes. At around $68,000 as tested, it excels in comfort, efficiency (26 mpg combined), and understated Scandinavian luxury. But, yes, the price is steep. 🚗 CHRIS TEAGUE’S ROAD TEST: 2026 LEXUS NX 350H F SPORT[https://drivingtoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/CROP-2026_Lexus_NX_350h-300x169.jpg] In comparison, Chris tests the 2026 Lexus NX 350h F Sport Handling, which pairs a 240-hp hybrid powertrain with sport-tuned suspension, Active Variable Suspension, and aggressive styling. Available in FWD (40 mpg combined) or AWD (39 mpg), the likable NX is coming into its own, featuring premium sport seats, an available 14-inch touchscreen, and strong safety tech. In total, it delivers an appealing mix of efficiency, luxury, and athletic handling. 🎙️ SPECIAL GUEST INTERVIEW Jennifer Smith, CEO of StopDistractions.org, joins the show to discuss distracted driving and vehicle safety. 📰 THIS WEEK’S HEADLINES WOMEN RATE THEMSELVES SAFE DRIVERS A global survey finds 97% of women consider themselves safe and confident behind the wheel, with a strong focus on child safety and vehicle ratings. MERCEDES-BENZ UNVEILS VLE ELECTRIC LUXURY VAN The new all-electric VLE offers over 430 miles of range, app-controlled flexible seating for eight, a 31-inch rear screen, and lounge-like comfort. LAMBORGHINI CELEBRATES 60 YEARS OF THE MIURA The iconic supercar’s anniversary highlights its lasting influence in both automotive history and modern video games like Forza and Gran Turismo. LINCOLN CREATES REAL-WORLD “SANCTUARY” WELLNESS SPACE Inspired by its in-vehicle Rejuvenate system, Lincoln’s immersive installation offers massage seats, digital scents, and calming experiences. DODGE & UNDER ARMOUR LAUNCH HELLCAT COLLECTION Dodge launches musclecar-inspired workout gear featuring burnout graphics, aggressive styling, and performance fabrics. ❓ LISTENER QUESTION Cyndi Lou from Kansas City, Missouri, asks: “Are giant touchscreen controls making cars less safe to operate?” Jack and Chris weigh in. 📚 JACK NERAD’S NEW BOOK Jack’s crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same [https://www.amazon.com/Only-One-Thing-Stays-Same/dp/B0DXPZTBT8/ref=sr_1_1?crid=21CB5RU9E3JW5&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.CT1mBcyNVTXJknz-TNEaS20u2QBkNtTwBc6j3_q_jgc.ogcpDymt6fPf1AjoqrWKlaEsejr-WsyE9Gl185_Qebs&dib_tag=se&keywords=Only+one+thing+stays+the+same&qid=1764205923&s=books&sprefix=only+one+thing+stays+the+same+%2Cstripbooks%2C143&sr=1-1], 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 [https://www.amazon.com/Mercedes-AMG-Race-Bred-Performance-Matt-DeLorenzo/dp/0760394458] CHECK OUT GARY WITZENBURG’S NEW BOOK Pick up a copy of auto journalist Gary Witzenburg’s engaging new book Legends in Motion [https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/legends-in-motion-gary-l-witzenburg/1149143946?ean=9781291918939]. SPECIAL PRICE FOR JACK’S NEWEST CRIME NOVEL Jack is now offering his newest crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same [https://www.amazon.com/Only-One-Thing-Stays-Same/dp/B0DXPZTBT8/ref=sr_1_1?crid=21CB5RU9E3JW5&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.CT1mBcyNVTXJknz-TNEaS20u2QBkNtTwBc6j3_q_jgc.ogcpDymt6fPf1AjoqrWKlaEsejr-WsyE9Gl185_Qebs&dib_tag=se&keywords=Only+one+thing+stays+the+same&qid=1764205923&s=books&sprefix=only+one+thing+stays+the+same+%2Cstripbooks%2C143&sr=1-1], at a 67%-off price of just $4.99. Click here to buy from Amazon at this special limited-time price. [https://www.amazon.com/Only-One-Thing-Stays-Same-ebook/dp/B0DXJ9JFQV/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1PHIBTQL7KP52&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.gjI-KZteUzXSWzGvyGfMYeDkYyTCSmcxiYrHCjqFUG5cfVN9Y9Qads8tUeQaNdPmOxCFZmQW4cVjJvQDm8_C-8gDFDhmBJhyft-VVjqC7zwGPIA5LneX12UEPOq_vZWHvYIUH_KOygdIY8sizlY-3RVnVW71pUt0fxqIBqBmvJHT8fd0eTfrm4tot6hWcMIf8L9Pxbav6zZao9F7pkG8NhXjQL38HSNRwPIJchAVz64.Dm6eJonF1Zr0zZae7WmrkyPwrWP-HjkVxsg8WFh_vLk&dib_tag=se&keywords=Only+One+Thing+Stays+the+Same&qid=1740181056&sprefix=only+one+thing+stays+the+same%2Caps%2C165&sr=8-1] [https://drivingtoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/CROP-ONLY-ONE-THING-eBook-Cover-200x300.jpg]https://www.amazon.com/Dance-Dark-Jack-R-Nerad/dp/1732687676/ref=sr_1_17?crid=3BL38E18SFH09&keywords=Dance+In+The+Dark&qid=1683259839&s=books&sprefix=dance+in+the+dark%2Cstripbooks%2C114&sr=1-17

2026 Kia K4 GT-Line Turbo: Who Says Affordable Can’t Be Fun?

Who says there are no affordable cars on the market? This week on America on the Road, Jack Nerad and Chris Teague review two vehicles that put the lie to that notion — the redesigned 2026 Subaru Outback and the fun-to-drive 2026 Kia K4 GT-Line Turbo hatchback. They also discuss lagging consumer trust in self-driving cars, big discounts in the EV market, and tightening synthetic oil supplies. In the Hey What’s Going On Department, they take a look at Jeep’s attempt to leverage the World Cup, the nation’s 250th birthday and the desire to get something for free into a tongue-in-cheek promotion contest. If your name is George Washington, please raise your hand. All others, remain seated. 🚙 JACK NERAD’S ROAD TEST: 2026 KIA K4 HATCHBACK GT-LINE TURBO[https://drivingtoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/CROP-2026-Kia-K4-GT-Line-Turbo-hatchback-profile-300x169.jpeg] Jack reviews the 2026 Kia K4 Hatchback GT-Line Turbo, a practical and engaging compact hatch that proves that fun-affordable cars still exist — they’re just colored in a weird shade of yellow. (Okay, it’s available in other colors, too.) Powered by a 190-hp turbo 1.6-liter engine backed by an eight-speed automatic, it offers sporty handling, a premium-feeling interior, generous cargo space (up to 59.3 cu ft), and advanced safety features. It bears a total price of $32,870 as tested, so it probably won’t force you to clear out your 401k. 🚗 CHRIS TEAGUE’S ROAD TEST: 2026 SUBARU OUTBACK[https://drivingtoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/CROP-2026_Subaru_Outback-300x169.jpg] Chris tests the seventh-generation 2026 Subaru Outback. The “all-new” model looks a lot like the old one, but it brings bolder styling, increased interior space, and enhanced capability. The Outback is available with a 2.5-liter 180-hp boxer or 2.4-liter turbo 260-hp boxer engine, standard Symmetrical AWD, and up to 9.5 inches of ground clearance on Wilderness trim. Inside it features a large 12.1-inch touchscreen, improved EyeSight safety tech, and a more refined cabin while retaining its legendary adventure-ready DNA. If your adventure consists of a four-block trip to the local ice cream shop, all the better. 🎙️ SPECIAL GUEST INTERVIEW[https://drivingtoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/CROP-Ferrari-Luce-front-3-4-300x169.jpg] Auto branding expert Matt Powell, CEO of Moroch [https://moroch.com/], joins the show to discuss the recent controversy surrounding the Ferrari Luce. 📰 THIS WEEK’S HEADLINES CONSUMER CONFIDENCE IN SELF-DRIVING CARS STALLED JD Power research shows awareness of autonomous vehicles is up, but fewer than 1 in 4 Americans feel comfortable riding in one, with safety concerns remaining the top barrier. Hmmmmm…safety concerns? Go figure. JEEP’S PATRIOTIC, SOCCER-RELATED, COMICAL WRANGLER GIVEAWAY Jeep will give new Wranglers to the first 100 eligible Americans named George Washington if the U.S. wins the World Cup as part of its “All In On America” campaign. (Yes, we know it’s a joke, and here at AOTR we’re in favor of jokes. Go USA! Go George Washington! Go Jeep!) EV PRICES DROP AS INVENTORIES GROW Significant discounts, low-interest deals, and a booming used EV market are making electric vehicles more affordable than ever. SYNTHETIC MOTOR OIL SUPPLIES TIGHTEN Global disruptions are causing shortages and potential price increases for popular low-viscosity synthetic oils. Panic is unnecessary, however. ❓ LISTENER QUESTION Raymond from Cody, Wyoming, asks: “What discontinued car would you most like to see return?” Jack and Chris share their picks. #SubaruOutback #KiaK4 #EVNews #CarReviews #AutoPodcast 📚 JACK NERAD’S NEW BOOK Jack’s crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same [https://www.amazon.com/Only-One-Thing-Stays-Same/dp/B0DXPZTBT8/ref=sr_1_1?crid=21CB5RU9E3JW5&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.CT1mBcyNVTXJknz-TNEaS20u2QBkNtTwBc6j3_q_jgc.ogcpDymt6fPf1AjoqrWKlaEsejr-WsyE9Gl185_Qebs&dib_tag=se&keywords=Only+one+thing+stays+the+same&qid=1764205923&s=books&sprefix=only+one+thing+stays+the+same+%2Cstripbooks%2C143&sr=1-1], 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 [https://www.amazon.com/Mercedes-AMG-Race-Bred-Performance-Matt-DeLorenzo/dp/0760394458] CHECK OUT GARY WITZENBURG’S NEW BOOK Pick up a copy of auto journalist Gary Witzenburg’s engaging new book Legends in Motion [https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/legends-in-motion-gary-l-witzenburg/1149143946?ean=9781291918939]. SPECIAL PRICE FOR JACK’S NEWEST CRIME NOVEL Jack is now offering his newest crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same [https://www.amazon.com/Only-One-Thing-Stays-Same/dp/B0DXPZTBT8/ref=sr_1_1?crid=21CB5RU9E3JW5&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.CT1mBcyNVTXJknz-TNEaS20u2QBkNtTwBc6j3_q_jgc.ogcpDymt6fPf1AjoqrWKlaEsejr-WsyE9Gl185_Qebs&dib_tag=se&keywords=Only+one+thing+stays+the+same&qid=1764205923&s=books&sprefix=only+one+thing+stays+the+same+%2Cstripbooks%2C143&sr=1-1], at a 67%-off price of just $4.99. Click here to buy from Amazon at this special limited-time price. [https://www.amazon.com/Only-One-Thing-Stays-Same-ebook/dp/B0DXJ9JFQV/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1PHIBTQL7KP52&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.gjI-KZteUzXSWzGvyGfMYeDkYyTCSmcxiYrHCjqFUG5cfVN9Y9Qads8tUeQaNdPmOxCFZmQW4cVjJvQDm8_C-8gDFDhmBJhyft-VVjqC7zwGPIA5LneX12UEPOq_vZWHvYIUH_KOygdIY8sizlY-3RVnVW71pUt0fxqIBqBmvJHT8fd0eTfrm4tot6hWcMIf8L9Pxbav6zZao9F7pkG8NhXjQL38HSNRwPIJchAVz64.Dm6eJonF1Zr0zZae7WmrkyPwrWP-HjkVxsg8WFh_vLk&dib_tag=se&keywords=Only+One+Thing+Stays+the+Same&qid=1740181056&sprefix=only+one+thing+stays+the+same%2Caps%2C165&sr=8-1] [https://drivingtoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/CROP-ONLY-ONE-THING-eBook-Cover-200x300.jpg]https://www.amazon.com/Dance-Dark-Jack-R-Nerad/dp/1732687676/ref=sr_1_17?crid=3BL38E18SFH09&keywords=Dance+In+The+Dark&qid=1683259839&s=books&sprefix=dance+in+the+dark%2Cstripbooks%2C114&sr=1-17