This week on America on the Road, Jack Nerad and Chris Teague review two strong performers — the luxurious 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit and the fun 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo. They also cover Kia’s major Sportage Hybrid production launch on scene in Georgia, look at record hybrid sales from Hyundai and Kia, critique Toyota’s updated GR86, and discuss the all-new Bentley Flying Spur. Their special guest is car-buying expert Charlie Daniel.

🚙 Jack Nerad’s Road Test: 2026 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus AWD

Jack reviews the 2026 Mazda CX-30 Turbo Premium Plus, a sporty and premium-feeling subcompact crossover that brings high expectations. Though it doesn’t come from a luxury brand, its 250-hp turbo engine, engaging dynamics, upscale Nappa leather interior, and comprehensive safety gear make it a compelling near-premium choice. Is it worth its $40,730 as-tested price? We’ll offer our opinions.

🚗 Chris Teague’s Road Test: 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit

On the roads and byways of Maine, Chris tests the top-trim 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit 4×4, a premium three-row SUV that blends luxury and off-road capability. With a smooth ride, upscale Nappa leather interior, large 12.3-inch touchscreen, available McIntosh audio, and V6 or turbo four-cylinder power, it competes with luxury SUVs while retaining genuine off-road ability. But the newest version presents us with a quandary — what powertrain is the right one?

🎙️ Special Guest Interview

Charlie Daniel from FPT Americas, a longtime auto retailer, shares expert insights on the current used car market for consumers and dealers.

📰 This Week’s Headlines

Kia Sportage Hybrid Production Begins in Georgia

The first Kia and first hybrid built at the Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant marks a major U.S. manufacturing milestone, and our Jack Nerad was there.

Updated Kia Sportage Hybrid Unveiled

The popular compact SUV gains more power (232 hp), fresh styling, new trims, and advanced tech.

Toyota Refreshes 2027 GR86

The lightweight sports car gets throttle and transmission improvements, new colors, and tech upgrades. What color is Thunder anyway?

Hyundai & Kia Hybrids Set Sales Records

Both brands posted strong gains in May, with hybrid sales surging significantly.

All-New Bentley Flying Spur Debuts

The flagship Bentley luxury sedan features hybrid power, modern styling, and a high-performance S model with 680 hp. Bring money…

❓ Listener Question

Brendan from Fillmore, California, asks: “Are range-extender EVs the next big thing for truck buyers?”

#JeepGrandCherokee #MazdaCX30 #KiaSportageHybrid #BentleyFlyingSpur #CarReviews #AutoPodcast

📚 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

📺 Watch & Subscribe

Find America on the Road on YouTube and Rumble. Subscribe for road test videos, shorts, and extended reviews.

📨 Email: editor@drivingtoday.com

Look for Matt DeLorenzo’s Book on AMG

Look for guest co-host Matt DeLorenzo’s terrific new book Mercedes-AMG: Race-Bred Performance

Check Out Gary Witzenburg’s New Book

Pick up a copy of auto journalist Gary Witzenburg’s engaging new book Legends in Motion.

Special Price for Jack’s Newest Crime Novel

Jack is now offering his newest crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same, at a 67%-off price of just $4.99. Click here to buy from Amazon at this special limited-time price.