Description:
This week on America on the Road, we get behind the wheel of two standout SUVs—one that screams luxury, and another that leans into green. Host Jack Nerad road tests the 2026 Genesis GV70 3.5T Sport Prestige, a twin-turbocharged powerhouse wrapped in premium materials and loaded with high-end tech. Co-host Chris Teague takes a first drive in the 2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid, as the rugged favorite evolves with electrification while staying true to its roots.

Our special guest is Kathleen Rizk, Senior Director of User Experience Benchmarking and Technology at J.D. Power, who joins Jack to discuss how drivers are reacting to AI-powered features in modern vehicles. Are consumers onboard—or overwhelmed?

🚗 Road Test #1:
2026 Genesis GV70 3.5T Sport Prestige
Jack dives into Genesis’s compact luxury SUV flagship, packing 375 hp, a 27-inch OLED display, and Nappa leather comfort. From its show-stopping Ceres Blue paint to its refined ride and strong warranty coverage, this GV70 shows Genesis is going the extra mile to make its mark in the hotly competitive luxury SUV market.

🌿 Road Test #2:
2025 Subaru Forester Hybrid
Chris explores the newly hybridized Forester, testing how it blends Subaru’s signature all-weather confidence with improved fuel economy and a smoother ride. Will this be the electrified SUV that wins over both loyalists and newcomers? And does hybridization add more than just better fuel economy?

🎧 Special Guest Interview:
Kathleen Rizk – J.D. Power
We unpack new research on how drivers feel about AI-powered features like driver assist, voice controls, and automated parking. Are automakers moving too fast?Or is progress not fast enough?

🗞️ In the News:

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  Jeep cancels Gladiator 4xe: Stellantis pulls the plug on its plug-in pickup, citing changing customer demand.

  
  


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  Vehicle thefts drop in 2025: National auto thefts are down 23%, but hotspots like D.C. and L.A. still lead in this dubious statistic.

  
  


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  Cyberattack halts Jaguar Land Rover: JLR plants remain closed until October after a serious breach.

  
  


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  Volvo to build hybrid SUV in South Carolina: New U.S.-made hybrid coming before 2030 as part of $1.3B investment.

  
  


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  Bentley goes to the dogs: New luxury pet accessories for the Bentayga mean even your pup rides first class.

  
  

📬 Listener Question:
Quentin from Yucaipa, CA asks:
“With all the talk about electric cars and plug-in hybrids, it seems like we are going to see an end to normal cars. What brands, if any, do you see making a comeback?”

🎙️ Hosts: Jack Nerad & Chris Teague
📢 Presented by: DrivingToday.com & Mercury Insurance
📚 Book Plug: Jack’s new novel Only One Thing Stays the Same is available now on Amazon.
📺 Watch: Subscribe to our YouTube and Rumble channels for videos, reviews, and shorts.
📨 Listener questions? Email us at editor@drivingtoday.com

Don’t Miss the Next Episode

If you enjoy America on the Road, make sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts, check out our YouTube and Rumble channels, and spread the word. And don’t forget to send your questions to: editor@drivingtoday.com.

Check Out Matt’s Book:

Pick up a copy of co-host Matt DeLorenzo’s terrific new book How to Buy an Affordable Electric Car: A Tightwad’s Guide to EV Ownership.

Look 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.