This week on America on the Road, Jack Nerad and Chris Teague break down a busy week in the auto industry, including a reopened federal investigation into GM V8 engine failures, mixed signals for the EV market heading into 2026, and Acura’s confirmation that the next-generation RDX will add a hybrid powertrain for the first time. We also look at Ford’s newly revealed Bronco RTR performance off-roader and Honda’s unexpected debut of a lightweight, tech-forward travel trailer.

🚗 Jack Nerad Road Tests the 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD

Jack drives the turbocharged, all-wheel-drive Kona Limited, evaluating its performance, ride quality, technology, safety features, and overall value in the crowded subcompact SUV segment.

🚙 Chris Teague Road-Tests the 2026 Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally

Chris takes Ford’s rally-inspired Mach-E for an on-road and off-pavement drive, evaluating its dual-motor performance, torque-vectoring all-wheel drive, raised suspension, and unique chassis tuning.

🎙️ Special Guest: Russell Wager, Kia Marketing Vice President

Jack speaks with Kia’s Russell Wager at the Kia K4 Hatchback driving event about the new model, changing consumer priorities, and how automakers are navigating affordability, electrification, and product planning in 2026.

📰 This Week’s Headlines

• NHTSA reopens its probe into nearly 600,000 GM trucks and SUVs with 6.2-liter V8 engines
• EV sales rebound in December, but high prices and policy shifts cloud the outlook for 2026
• Acura teases its first-ever hybrid RDX
• Ford unveils the 2027 Bronco RTR performance off-roader
• Honda debuts the Base Station Prototype modular travel trailer

📩 Listener Question

A listener asks for practical advice on driving safely in snow after relocating to a colder climate.

📚 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

📺 Watch & Subscribe

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

📨 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.