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This week on America on the Road, Jack Nerad and co-host Chris Teague deliver fresh road tests of the 2026 Genesis GV80 and the limited-edition 2026 Toyota Corolla FX. They also examine GM’s push into domestic sodium-ion batteries, the latest climb in used-vehicle prices, and President Trump’s comments on possible Chinese auto plants in the United States. The pair detail the hybrid-only 2027 Lexus NX and Bristol Cars’ return with the formerly moribund Fighter supercar. Special guest Alisha Bumgarner, Goodyear tire expert, joins the show.
⚡ Jack Nerad Road Test: 2026 Toyota Corolla FX
The limited-edition Corolla FX hatchback mixes retro styling cues with modern efficiency. Based on the SE, it features 18-inch gloss-white wheels, sport mesh grille, and unique badges. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder (169 hp) and CVT deliver 8.2-second 0-60 times and 33 mpg combined. Supportive sport seats, heated fronts, and solid materials define the cabin. Cargo space is modest but practical. With a base price $26,780; as-tested $29,132, it delivers distinctive, efficient manners with head-turning looks at an accessible price. But does it deliver enough fun?
🚗 Chris Teague Road Test: 2026 Genesis GV80
The Genesis GV80 is a stylish luxury midsize SUV that prioritizes design, a lavish interior, and value. Its distinctive exterior, quilted leather, large 27-inch display, and strong standard tech and safety features are all praiseworthy. For 2026 it adds a more affordable rear-drive 2.5T (300 hp) version, expanded third-row availability, and Terrain mode. The 3.5-liter twin-turbo V-6 that Chris tested makes 375 hp and it features a comfortable ride and spacious cabin. Pricing ranges from $59,195 to $91,545.
🔋 GM Targets 2029 for U.S. Sodium-Ion Battery Production
General Motors is developing sodium-ion cells for commercial production around 2029, initially for stationary energy storage. The effort emphasizes domestic materials such as U.S. soda ash and aims to reduce reliance on Chinese supply chains. Partnership with Peak Energy and new Michigan lab facilities support the plan.
📈 Used-Vehicle Prices Hit Highest Average Since 2022
Average used-vehicle listing prices reached $27,239 in August, the highest monthly figure in more than three years according to Cox Automotive. Budget models under $15,000 face the tightest supply, with inventory down nearly 26 percent year over year.
🇺🇸 Trump Open to Chinese Auto Plants in U.S.—With Conditions
President Trump said he might support Chinese car companies building plants in the United States if they hire American workers. Existing Commerce Department rules still bar most Chinese-connected vehicles from the U.S. market starting with model year 2027, and industry groups continue pushing for permanent bans.
⚡ 2027 Lexus NX Goes Fully Hybrid
The updated NX becomes a hybrid- and plug-in-hybrid-only lineup with improved efficiency, a more rigid chassis, sharper steering, and a standard 14-inch touchscreen. The plug-in version offers more than 40 miles of electric range on select grades. Lexus Safety System+ 4.0 is standard.
🏎️ Bristol Cars Returns by Completing the Legendary Fighter
British marque Bristol is back, finishing the long-unfinished gull-wing Fighter supercar on an original chassis. The 8.0-liter V-10 produces 525–600 hp with a claimed top speed up to 210 mph. Four additional chassis will be completed to customer order.
🎙️ Special Guest
Goodyear tire expert Alisha Bumgarner joins Jack and Chris.
📩 Listener Question of the Week
Tadd from Ames, Iowa asks: “Are these new small unibody pickups really as useful as a body-on-frame pickup?”
💻 Investigate Jack’s New Substack
📚 Jack Nerad’s Latest 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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