This week on America on the Road, Jack Nerad and Chris Teague review two standout midsize off-roaders — the versatile 2026 Honda Ridgeline and the luxurious 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit. They also dive into Hyundai’s brand new premium IONIQ 9 Black Ink edition, Ford’s plan for a $30,000 EV pickup, the heated “vehicle kill switch” debate, and Polestar’s new Google Gemini AI. (Do we need AI in our cars?) Our special guest is Hyundai’s Dan Hwang, who will discuss what the U.S. Market will look like in 10 years.

🚙 Jack Nerad’s Road Test: 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit

Jack reviews the flagship 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit 4×4, which reaches deep into luxury territory with premium Nappa leather, open-pore wood, a large 12.3-inch touchscreen, available McIntosh audio, and a smooth ride courtesy of air suspension. With a choice of V6 or new turbo four-cylinder power and impressive off-road capability, it delivers a winning mix of refinement and ruggedness at a tested price just over $66,000.

🚗 Chris Teague’s Road Test: 2026 Honda Ridgeline

Chris tests the 2026 Honda Ridgeline, a refined unibody midsize pickup that blends car-like comfort with genuine utility. Powered by a 3.5-liter V6 producing 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, it pairs with a 9-speed automatic and standard i-VTM4 all-wheel drive. It offers up to 5,000-pound towing capacity and signature features like the dual-action tailgate and In-Bed Trunk. Available in Sport, RTL, TrailSport, and Black Edition trims, the Ridgeline gets noticed for its smooth ride, practical bed, comfortable cabin, and strong value.

🎙️ Special Guest Interview

Dan Hwang, Hyundai Advanced Vehicles Manager, joins the show to discuss the future of vehicles after a recent driving event in Georgia.

📰 This Week’s Headlines

Hyundai IONIQ 9 Black Ink Edition Debuts

Hyundai’s premium three-row EV features bold black styling, 422 hp, ultra-fast charging, and luxurious six-passenger seating.

Vehicle “Kill Switch” Debate Heats Up

Lawmakers push to repeal a federal mandate for driver-monitoring technology that could potentially disable vehicles, citing privacy and freedom concerns.

Ford Targets $30,000 Midsize EV Pickup

Ford is developing an affordable electric truck with ~300 miles of range for a 2027 launch.

USPS Honors Route 66 Centennial

New Forever stamps celebrate the historic “Mother Road.”

Polestar Adds Google Gemini AI

More natural, conversational voice interaction comes to Polestar vehicles with Google built-in.

❓ Listener Question

Billy from Texarkana, Texas asks: “Can I add Apple CarPlay to an older vehicle?”

📚 Jack Nerad’s New 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

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📨 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 terrific 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.