Mazda Magic x 2: Mazda MX-5 Miata, Mazda3 Turbo Premium Plus

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Mazda has made its name creating cars that enthusiast drivers love, and we have two examples of that this week in our road test segment — the Mazda MX-5 Miata and the Mazda3. Of course, the Miata needs no introduction. For decades, it has been a go-to renowned for its sharp handling and perky, fun-to-drive demeanor. But is it the right choice for Maine on the edge of winter? Co-host Chris Teague will have his thoughts on that.

Across the country in more pleasant climes, Host Jack Nerad got a weeklong stint in the Mazda3 2.5T Premium Plus AWD, the highest-end version of Mazda’s highly praised compact sedan. He discovered that the Mazda3 continues to combine performance, luxury, and advanced technology in a surprisingly affordable package. Featuring a 2.5-liter SKYACTIV-G turbocharged engine, it delivers 250 horsepower and puts that power to good use via its all-wheel drive and G-Vectoring Control Plus.

Its sleek exterior boasts 18-inch black alloy wheels and LED lighting, while inside, black leather-trimmed seats, heated front and rear seats, and a dual-zone climate control system provide a premium-brand experience. Then there’s the infotainment system. The Mazda3 has a 10.25-inch display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system, but does its idiosyncratic control scheme spoil what is otherwise a stellar potential purchase? Jack and Chris will give their thoughts.

In the news this week, those seeking a battery-electric pickup will find Tesla’s Cybertruck is making waves with its new lease pricing. We’ll have details on if the deal is as good as it first seems.

Jaguar continues on its controversial way, unveiling the jaw-dropping Type 00 concept. It blends futuristic design with electric luxury to deliver something both new and remarkably retro. Chris and Jack have their reactions to a vehicle that some describe as shocking.

Also in the news, Hyundai has just introduced its first three-row electric SUV, the Ioniq 9, showcasing versatility, tech innovation, and sustainability. With Nerad in attendance, Volkswagen pulled the wraps off the newest iteration of its Tiguan compact SUV, Genesis unmasked its 2025 GV70 crossover, and Ford has announced its Ford Mustang GTD supercar will be the subject of a short film available this coming week.

Our special guest this week is Steve Center, Kia America chief operating officer. Host Jack Nerad sits down with him for a wide-ranging discussion on the future of EVs in America, the upcoming regulatory climate, and,of course, Kia’s newest vehicles, two of which were unveiled at the Los Angeles Autio Show.

In this week’s Listener Question, Tony from Fresno asks if buying a used hybrid is a smart move amid rising gas prices. Jack and Chris dive into the pros and cons.

FREE STUFF: America on the Road is giving listeners a free copy of Jack R. Nerad’s book The GR Factor: Unleashing the Undeniable Power of the Golden Rule.  Just send an email to editor@drivingtoday.com, and E.M. Landsea Publishers will do the rest. The offer is limited, so get your request in today.

So we have a lot of show 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, Dance in the Dark, which is available HERE on Amazon.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

Show Notes for America on the Road
 Episode Highlights:
• Road Tests:
◦ 2024 Mazda3 Turbo Premium Plus AWD: A compact car with luxury aspirations and sporty performance.
◦ 2025 Mazda Miata: A sneak peek at the roadster icon’s future.
• Driving News:
◦ Tesla Cybertruck’s updated lease terms—affordable or not?
◦ Jaguar Type 00 concept stuns at Miami Art Week.
◦ Ford’s Mustang GTD chases Nürburgring glory in Road to the Ring.
◦ Volkswagen, Genesis, and Hyundai unveil new vehicles.
• Interview: Steve Center, COO of Kia America, discusses the brand’s innovations and vision.
• Listener Question: Is a used hybrid a cost-effective choice right now?

Sponsored by:
• Mercury Insurance: Save on auto and home insurance.
• EMLandsea.com: Publisher of Dance in the Dark and The GR Factor.
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Stay tuned for next week’s edition of America on the Road!