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Who says there are no affordable cars on the market? This week on America on the Road, Jack Nerad and Chris Teague review two vehicles that put the lie to that notion — the redesigned 2026 Subaru Outback and the fun-to-drive 2026 Kia K4 GT-Line Turbo hatchback. They also discuss lagging consumer trust in self-driving cars, big discounts in the EV market, and tightening synthetic oil supplies. In the Hey What’s Going On Department, they take a look at Jeep’s attempt to leverage the World Cup, the nation’s 250th birthday and the desire to get something for free into a tongue-in-cheek promotion contest. If your name is George Washington, please raise your hand. All others, remain seated.
🚙 Jack Nerad’s Road Test: 2026 Kia K4 Hatchback GT-Line Turbo
Jack reviews the 2026 Kia K4 Hatchback GT-Line Turbo, a practical and engaging compact hatch that proves that fun-affordable cars still exist — they’re just colored in a weird shade of yellow. (Okay, it’s available in other colors, too.) Powered by a 190-hp turbo 1.6-liter engine backed by an eight-speed automatic, it offers sporty handling, a premium-feeling interior, generous cargo space (up to 59.3 cu ft), and advanced safety features. It bears a total price of $32,870 as tested, so it probably won’t force you to clear out your 401k.
🚗 Chris Teague’s Road Test: 2026 Subaru Outback
Chris tests the seventh-generation 2026 Subaru Outback. The “all-new” model looks a lot like the old one, but it brings bolder styling, increased interior space, and enhanced capability. The Outback is available with a 2.5-liter 180-hp boxer or 2.4-liter turbo 260-hp boxer engine, standard Symmetrical AWD, and up to 9.5 inches of ground clearance on Wilderness trim. Inside it features a large 12.1-inch touchscreen, improved EyeSight safety tech, and a more refined cabin while retaining its legendary adventure-ready DNA. If your adventure consists of a four-block trip to the local ice cream shop, all the better.
🎙️ Special Guest Interview
Auto branding expert Matt Powell, CEO of Moroch, joins the show to discuss the recent controversy surrounding the Ferrari Luce.
📰 This Week’s Headlines
Consumer Confidence in Self-Driving Cars Stalled
JD Power research shows awareness of autonomous vehicles is up, but fewer than 1 in 4 Americans feel comfortable riding in one, with safety concerns remaining the top barrier. Hmmmmm…safety concerns? Go figure.
Jeep’s Patriotic, Soccer-Related, Comical Wrangler Giveaway
Jeep will give new Wranglers to the first 100 eligible Americans named George Washington if the U.S. wins the World Cup as part of its “All In On America” campaign. (Yes, we know it’s a joke, and here at AOTR we’re in favor of jokes. Go USA! Go George Washington! Go Jeep!)
EV Prices Drop as Inventories Grow
Significant discounts, low-interest deals, and a booming used EV market are making electric vehicles more affordable than ever.
Synthetic Motor Oil Supplies Tighten
Global disruptions are causing shortages and potential price increases for popular low-viscosity synthetic oils. Panic is unnecessary, however.
❓ Listener Question
Raymond from Cody, Wyoming, asks: “What discontinued car would you most like to see return?” Jack and Chris share their picks.
#SubaruOutback #KiaK4 #EVNews #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
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📨 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.
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