This week on America on the Road, co-host Chris Teague joins host Jack Nerad as they dive into the latest automotive news, two compelling road tests, and an insightful engineering-focused interview. Jack reviews the high-performance Maserati Grecale Trofeo, a compact luxury SUV that makes the most of its supercar roots, while Chris drives the all-new 2026 Toyota Crown Signia hybrid, a premium crossover blending efficiency and sophistication. Jack also sits down with Zach Walker, chief engineer of the 2026 Lucid Gravity SUV, to discuss its innovative design, advanced technology, and how it pushes the boundaries of electric mobility.

🚙 Jack Nerad Test-Drives the 2026 Maserati Grecale Trofeo

Jack reviews the top-tier Grecale Trofeo, Maserati’s performance-first compact luxury SUV boasting a 530-horsepower twin-turbo V6 derived from the MC20 supercar, all-wheel drive, and adaptive air suspension for a blend of speed and refinement. With a 0-60 mph time of about 3.8 seconds, premium materials like perforated leather and carbon fiber, a tech-rich cabin featuring dual touchscreens and a Sonus faber audio system, plus comprehensive safety aids, the Trofeo emphasizes emotional driving appeal. Jack breaks down its real-world performance, comfort, and value at a starting price of over $117,000 in a rarified segment.

🚗 Chris Teague Test-Drives the 2026 Toyota Crown Signia Hybrid

Chris gets behind the wheel of Toyota’s elegant new crossover SUV. The 2026 Crown Signia hybrid features a standard 2.5-liter Toyota Hybrid System with 240 horsepower, electronic on-demand all-wheel drive, and an EPA-estimated 38 mpg combined, offering a quiet, car-like ride. With a premium interior including leather-trimmed heated and ventilated front seats, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, available panoramic glass roof, and up to 6.5 feet of cargo space with folded seats, it provides versatility for families. Chris explores its handling, tech features like Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, and how it stacks up in the competitive hybrid SUV market.

🎙️ Special Guest Interview

Jack talks with Zach Walker, Senior Director of Advanced Product Creation at Lucid Motors and previously the Chief Engineer for the Lucid Gravity. The interview offers an in-depth discussion on the SUV’s groundbreaking electric architecture, spacious three-row design, impressive range, and how Lucid’s engineering innovations are shaping the future of sustainable family vehicles.

📰 This Week’s Headlines

California Studies Per-Mile Driving Tax

Despite assurances it’s just research, California lawmakers have approved a study on replacing the gas tax with a mileage-based fee, potentially adding hundreds or thousands in annual costs for drivers. Critics highlight privacy concerns, fairness issues for rural commuters, and the trend in other states like Oregon as EVs reduce fuel-tax revenue.

Waymo Faces NHTSA Probe After Striking Child

Federal regulators are investigating Waymo after one of its autonomous vehicles hit a child near a Santa Monica school at low speed. The company claims its tech outperformed a human driver in simulations, but the incident amplifies safety questions around robotaxis in school zones amid ongoing scrutiny.

Peninsula Hotels Launches Luxury Motoring Series

The Peninsula Hotels unveils high-end driving experiences, including a $37,000 six-day Scottish Highlands adventure with classic cars, scenic routes, and exclusive activities like whisky tastings. Upcoming trips include Monterey Car Week in California and a return to Japan in 2027 for affluent enthusiasts.

TrueCar Founder Returns After $227M Buyout

Scott Painter reacquires TrueCar in a $227 million deal to take it private, aiming to enhance pricing transparency and reduce buying friction for consumers without disrupting dealerships. The move focuses on rebuilding trust in an era of digital-first car shopping.

📩 Listener Question of the Week

Terrence from Orem, Utah asks: “I’m looking at buying a new car and I think I want a hybrid. What’s the real difference between a hybrid and a plug-in hybrid in daily driving?”
Jack and Chris break down how hybrids rely on regenerative braking and gas engines for seamless efficiency, while plug-in hybrids add home charging for short electric-only ranges, impacting fuel savings, costs, and convenience.

📚 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.