This week on America on the Road, Jack Nerad and Chris Teague review two impressive SUVs — the high-performance 2026 Acura MDX Type S and the fun and fuel-efficient 2026 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid. They also dive into rising used car prices, Tesla’s crackdown on Full Self-Driving hacks, GM’s new distracted driving tech, Volkswagen’s U.S. production shift, the new MINI Red Line Edition, and Toyota’s updated 2027 Land Cruiser.

🚙Jack Nerad’s Road Test: 2026 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid

Jack reviews the 2026 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid Premium Plus, which combines 219 total horsepower, standard AWD, excellent 38 mpg combined efficiency, and rugged outdoors styling. He covers its smooth hybrid powertrain, composed ride, upscale interior, 10.25-inch display with wireless CarPlay/Android Auto, strong safety suite, and assesses its value at $43,265 as tested.

🚗Chris Teague’s Road Test: 2026 Acura MDX Type S

Chris tests the 2026 Acura MDX Type S, the most powerful and luxurious three-row SUV in Acura’s lineup. It features a 355-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter V6, 10-speed automatic, Super Handling All-Wheel Drive with torque vectoring, adaptive dampers, Brembo brakes, massaging seats, and an available 25-speaker ELS Studio 3D audio system. Is it still the go-to in the luxury three-row segment?

🎙️Special Guest Interview

Ray Shefska from CarEdge joins the show. With over 40 years in auto retail, he shares expert insights on extended warranties and smart car-buying strategies.

📰This Week’s Headlines

Used Vehicle Prices Surge

Tight inventory and strong tax-refund demand push the Manheim Used Vehicle Value Index up 6.2% year-over-year, with wholesale prices nearing $20,000 and supply at record lows.

Tesla Cracks Down on FSD Hacks

Tesla is remotely disabling Full Self-Driving on vehicles using unauthorized unlock devices, voiding warranties and raising ownership and safety questions.

GM Fights Distracted Driving

General Motors’ new Driver Attention Assist technology and a major awareness campaign aim to reduce the 3,200+ annual deaths caused by distracted driving.

Volkswagen Shifts U.S. Production

VW ends ID.4 production in Chattanooga to focus on the gasoline-powered next-gen Atlas SUV.

MINI Launches Red Line Edition

The spunky brand introduces a bold new special edition of the Cooper S with sporty styling, red accents, and performance upgrades starting around $34,000.

2027 Toyota Land Cruiser Updated

Some new equipment accompanies the hybrid powertrain with 326 hp and 465 lb-ft, enhanced off-road tech, and modern amenities.

❓Listener Question

Theotis from Chicago asks: “What used car brands are most reliable over 100,000 miles?” Jack and Chris share their recommendations.

📚 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

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.

2026 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid Test: Effiency & Fun to Drive Too?