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This week on America on the Road, Jack Nerad test-drives the luxurious new 2026 Lexus TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid three-row SUV, and Chris Teague reviews the adventure-ready 2026 Honda CR-V TrailSport Hybrid. Plus, the two hosts break down the top news stories, including a stunning wave of nine major auto CEOs replaced in just over a year, Scout Motors’ possible U.S. launch delay, Canada opening the door to up to China-built EVs, and NHTSA closing its seven-year Stellantis headrest investigation without a recall. The guys welcome special guest Greg Migliore, Editorial Director of AutoGuide.
🚗 Jack Nerad Test Drives the 2026 Lexus TX 550h+
Jack gets behind the wheel of the top-tier 2026 Lexus TX 550h+ AWD plug-in hybrid. With 404 horsepower, standard all-wheel drive, 33 miles of EPA-estimated electric-only range, and seating for six, this three-row luxury SUV blends serene comfort, strong performance (0-60 in 5.2 seconds), and genuine family practicality. Jack shares real-world impressions on its quick acceleration, composed ride, spacious cargo capacity (up to 97 cu ft), premium interior, advanced 14-inch infotainment, Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, and how it stacks up against BMW, Mercedes, and Porsche plug-in hybrids. But is it the TX to buy? Jack and Chris share their thoughts.
🚙 Chris Teague Test Drives 2026 Honda CR-V TrailSport
Chris gets behind the wheel of the 2026 Honda CR-V TrailSport Hybrid, Honda’s adventure-oriented take on its best-selling compact SUV. The TrailSport adds targeted toughness with standard all-wheel drive, a 204-horsepower hybrid system featuring a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle engine and two-motor setup delivering 247 lb-ft of instant torque, unique all-terrain tires, and recalibrated suspension for better traction and compliance. Chris shares impressions of its confident pavement manners, firm yet comfortable ride, smooth eCVT, and impressive combined fuel economy. He praises its spacious cabin with best-in-class rear legroom, 39.3 cubic feet of cargo behind the rear seats (expanding to 76.5 cubic feet), intuitive 9-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, full Honda Sensing safety suite, and strong value starting just under $39,000. But, again, is this the one to buy?
🎙️ Special Guest Interview
Jack sits down with Greg Migliore, Editorial Director of AutoGuide, for an in-depth conversation on the week’s biggest stories and what they mean for the future of the auto industry.
📰 This Week’s Headlines
Bad Time for Car Company CEOs
Nine major automakers have replaced their chief executives in just over a year as the industry grapples with tariffs, Chinese competition, and massive EV write-downs.
Scout’s U.S. Launch Reportedly Delayed
Volkswagen-owned Scout Motors’ planned 2027 debut for the Terra pickup and Traveler SUV may slip to mid-2028 due to software and powertrain challenges.
Canada Okays Chinese Car Imports
Up to 49,000 China-built EVs (including models from Tesla, Polestar, Volvo, and BYD) can enter over the next 12 months at a reduced 6.1% tariff under a new trade deal.
NHTSA Ends Stellantis Investigation
The seven-year probe into 7.4 million vehicles with active headrests closes without a recall; Stellantis will instead offer a 10-year extended warranty.
📩 Listener Question of the Week
Lemmuel from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, asks: “Will bigger wheels really mess up my ride and mileage?”
Jack and Chris break down the real effects of upsizing wheels on ride quality, handling, and fuel economy.
🎧 America on the Road is named Best Radio Show by the International Automotive Media Conference and is now in its 33rd year on the air.
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📚 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.
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