This week on America on the Road, Jack Nerad and co-host Chris Teague deliver two very different road tests: a long look at the ultimate Land Rover Defender and an in-depth examination of the Honda CR-V TrailSport. In addition, they conduct a timely interview on Kia’s newest compact car and take a clear-eyed look at where the auto market is heading in 2026.

🚙 Chris Teague Drives the Land Rover Defender Octa

Chris tests the most extreme Defender ever built. The 2026 Defender Octa combines a 626-horsepower twin-turbo V8 with advanced 6D Dynamics suspension and real off-road hardware. It delivers supercar-level acceleration, serious trail capability, and a six-figure price that reflects its flagship status.

🚗 Jack Nerad Drives the Honda CR-V TrailSport

Jack reviews Honda’s most adventure-focused CR-V yet. Offered exclusively as a hybrid with standard all-wheel drive, the 2026 CR-V TrailSport adds traction, torque, and rugged style without sacrificing efficiency or everyday comfort. Jack explains what Honda changed and who this TrailSport is really for.

🎙️ Special Guest: Inside the New Kia K4 Hatchback

Jack talks with Yung Kim, Senior Product Manager at Kia America, about the all-new Kia K4 Hatchback. They discuss why compact cars still matter, how the K4 fits today’s market, and what buyers can expect in design, technology, and value.

📰 This Week’s Automotive News

• Americans Shift Toward Used and CPO Vehicles

With new-car prices still high, more buyers are choosing used and certified pre-owned vehicles for lower payments and reduced risk.

• EV Market Recalibrates for 2026

Several electric vehicles are being discontinued as automakers refocus on hybrids and models with stronger mainstream demand.

• Canada Drops National EV Sales Mandate

Canada replaces its EV quota with stricter emissions standards, signaling a move away from forced timelines. Kind of.

• Analysts More Optimistic About Auto Sales

Easing rates, better inventories, and tax-refund season are improving expectations for a steadier 2026.

📩 Listener Question of the Week

Leonardo from Davis, California, asks: “With cars as expensive as they are now, what maintenance items do people forget until it’s too late?”
Jack and Chris share practical advice that can save drivers money over the long haul.

🎧 America on the Road is named Best Radio Show by the International Automotive Media Conference and is now in its 33rd year on the air.

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📚 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 post-Christmas sale price.

🎧 Where to Listen

Catch America on the Road on this station each week, or subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and more. Follow for newcar reviews, guest interviews, auto news, and road tests.

Sponsored by Mercury Insurance and DrivingToday.com

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📨 Email: editor@drivingtoday.com

Check Out Matt DeLorenzo’s Book:

Pick up a copy of co-host Matt DeLorenzo’s terrific new book Mercedes-AMG: Race-Bred Performance

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.