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This week’s episode of America on the Road features road tests of two standout vehicles–the 2025 Honda Civic Sport Touring hatchback and the 2025 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo. Co-Host Chris Teague put the Civic Sport Touring hatchback to the asphalt, and he found it to be one of the best values in the stellar Civic lineup. Powered by a hybrid system pairing a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle engine and electric motor, it delivers 200 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque. With 50 mpg city and 45 highway, it’s one of the most efficient compact cars available, while at the same time delivering laudable performance. Four drive modes, a refined suspension, a 9-inch infotainment screen with Google built-in, a 12-speaker Bose audio system, and full Honda Sensing safety suite round out a well-equipped, tech-forward package. He’ll offer a full report.
Host Jack Nerad took the wheel of the 2025 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo, a $39,455 compact SUV with 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque from a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine. All-wheel drive, a six-speed automatic, and premium touches like Terracotta leather-trimmed seats and a 10-speaker Bose system give it a refined edge. Though fuel economy sits at 24 mpg combined, the CX-5 impresses with its sophistication, design, and feature-rich value. And it is arguably the most fun-to-drive vehicle in its segment. At the same time, its price might surprise — or even shock– you.
At the top of the news, we detail the debut of the 2026 Lexus RZ, now offered in three EV variants, including the new 402-horsepower F SPORT. Lexus has improved its range, added fast charging, and introduced performance upgrades like “M Mode,” which simulates manual shifting.
Meanwhile, the 2026 Honda CR-V gets tech and trim upgrades, including a new off-road-ready TrailSport Hybrid model with standard AWD and improved fuel economy. All trims now offer wireless phone integration and larger screens. Not to be outdone, Toyota pulled the wraps off the all-new 2026 RAV4, the CR-V’s chief nemesis, and we’ll have more details on its gala introduction next week.
In this week’s auto-political news, a U.S. Senate resolution could overturn California’s authority to enforce its 2035 all-EV mandate. Backed by automakers and dealers, supporters argue it protects national market consistency, while critics warn it could undercut state autonomy and slow EV adoption.
Another legal battle has emerged between the California New Car Dealers Association and Honda/Sony over direct-to-consumer Afeela EV sales. The CNCDA claims these sales violate franchise laws requiring manufacturers to work through licensed dealers. The case may set a major precedent as EV startups and joint ventures explore nontraditional retail models.
Also in the news, General Motors has halted U.S. exports to China, citing trade tensions and the winding down of its premium Durant Guild brand. GM will continue operating in China through joint ventures, but this move signals shifting priorities amid rising tariffs and regulatory uncertainty.
This week’s guest, Andre Ravinowich, Senior Manager of Product Planning at Hyundai, joins the show to talk about the all-new Hyundai Ioniq 9, a large electric SUV set to broaden Hyundai’s EV lineup with space, performance, and tech innovation. Nerad drove the new battery-electric wonder during a Hyundai-sponsored event in Savannah, Georgia.
To close out the show, the listener question of the week comes from Stanley in Macon, Georgia, who asks: “What’s your take on the return of sedans and smaller cars? Are they gone for good, or do you think there will be a comeback for cars?” Jack and Chris weigh in, noting that while crossovers dominate, rising vehicle prices, tighter parking, and renewed interest in efficiency could trigger a modest resurgence for sedans and compacts—especially hybrids and EVs.
Jack Nerad’s newest book
Jack is now offering his newest crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same, at a pre-publication price of just $4.99. Click here to buy from Amazon at this special limited-time price.
Matt DeLorenzo’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.
Brought to you by:
• DrivingToday.com
• Mercury Insurance: Find out how much you can save at DrivingToday.com/auto-insurance.
• EMLandsea.com, publisher of Only One Thing Stays the Same and Dance in the Dark
We have a lot of shows for you this week. Thanks for joining us, and don’t forget to look for new content on our YouTube and Rumble channels. Please subscribe. If you do, we’ll like you forever.
America on the Road is brought to you by Driving Today.com, Mercury Insurance, and EMLandsea.com , the publisher of Nerad’s latest book, Only One Thing Stays the Same which is available HERE on Amazon.com
Chapters
00:00 New Models, Controversies
03:00 2026 Lexus RZ, 2026 Honda CR-V Previews
07:11 California’s Gasoline Vehicle Ban Controversy
08:41 Direct Sales Model: Honda and Sony’s New Brand
10:32 General Motors’ Exports to China
13:00 Road Test: 2025 Honda Civic Hybrid Sport Touring
18:27 Road Test: 2025 Mazda CX-5 Turbo
25:30 Interview: Hyundai’s Andre Ravinowich on 2026 Ioniq 9
39:30 Listener Question: Do Sedans Have a Future?
Keywords
automotive news, 2026 model year, electric vehicles, Honda Civic, Mazda CX-5, California EV mandate, direct sales model, GM exports, listener questions
Summary
In this episode of America on the Road, hosts Jack Nerad and Chris Teague discuss the latest automotive news, including the introduction of 2026 model year vehicles, California’s controversial EV mandate, and the direct sales model being adopted by Honda and Sony. They also review the 2025 Honda Civic Hybrid Sport Touring and the 2025 Mazda CX-5, highlighting their features and performance. The episode concludes with a listener question about the future of sedans in the automotive market.
Takeaways
The 2026 model year vehicles are starting to roll in, with significant updates from brands like Lexus and Honda.
California’s EV mandate could have serious implications for buyers and dealers alike.
The Honda Civic Hybrid offers impressive performance and fuel efficiency, making it a strong contender in the compact car market.
Mazda continues to position itself as a sporty alternative in the compact SUV segment with the CX-5.
Direct sales models, like those being explored by Honda and Sony, may reshape the automotive retail landscape.
General Motors is restructuring its export strategy to China amid ongoing trade tensions.
The infotainment systems in vehicles are evolving, with Google integration becoming more common.
Driving engagement remains a key selling point for Mazda vehicles, appealing to enthusiasts.
The future of sedans looks uncertain as crossovers gain popularity in the market.
Listener engagement is encouraged, with questions and comments welcomed for future discussions.
Sound Bites
“I think a lot of people want to buy direct.”
“Mazda is knocking on the door of premium.”
“I think we’ll see more small crossovers.”
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