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In this episode, host Jack Nerad and guest co-host Matt DeLorenzo take listeners behind the wheels of two high-end 2025 SUVs—the all-new 2025 Lincoln Navigator and the 2025 Genesis GV80 3.5T. Both vehicles demonstrate clearly that today’s automakers are pulling out all the stops in the quest to entice luxury SUV buyers.
First up is Matt DeLorenzo’s review of the 2025 Lincoln Navigator, which continues to push boundaries in the full-size luxury SUV segment. The heavily revised Navigator retains its twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6, now offering slightly more power and improved fuel efficiency. Key updates for 2025 include enhanced ActiveGlide hands-free driving capability, a larger infotainment system, and upgraded interior materials across all trims. With its spacious third row, extensive safety tech, and traditional American luxury cues, the Navigator gains even more credentials as a top-tier choice for families who prioritize comfort and prestige.
While Matt DeLorenzo was attending the Navigator launch, host Jack Nerad was conducting a thorough test drive of one of the most likable luxury SUVs on the market, the 2025 Genesis GV80 3.5T AWD Prestige. This midsize luxury SUV cuts through the prestige vehicle clutter with its refined ride, upscale cabin, and contemporary technology. It features a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6, advanced suspension, and a 27-inch OLED display that integrates navigation and instrumentation. Its Nappa leather upholstery, suede headliner, and a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system highlight its luxury credentials. Does it have an Achilles’ heel or two? Matt and Jack will offer their opinions.
The news segment leads with the public debut of the Slate Truck, a battery-electric, back-to-basics compact pickup from Michigan-based startup Slate Auto. Designed with simplicity and affordability in mind, it launches with a base price under $27,000—potentially under $20,000 after incentives—and that’s just one of its eye-popping attributes. Another? Owners can retrofit it into a small SUV using a modular rear-seat kit. The minimalist design and customization-first philosophy are drawing attention, but questions remain about performance, durability, and market viability. Do American buyers want a vehicle with cloth seats and crank windows?
Also in the news, there’s been a shift in the U.S. auto tariff landscape. New adjustments to President Trump’s 25% import duties aim to ease pressure on automakers and encourage domestic manufacturing at the same time. Matt and Jack detail how automakers might leverage unused American factory capacity and what the changes could mean for production strategy and the price you might pay at your local dealer.
Other segments of this week’s show highlight Toyota’s rollout of hydrogen-powered Class 8 trucks and its more efficient Gen 3 fuel cell system, along with timely safety reminders about preventing heatstroke deaths among children and pets as summer approaches.
Plenty of show this week.
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 What’s Happening in Automotive Trends
02:56 Slate Auto’s Affordable Electric Truck
07:30 Tariffs and Production Capacity in the U.S. Auto Industry
10:46 Vehicle Heat Safety for Kids and Pets
12:54 Luxury SUVs: 2025 Lincoln Navigator
18:00 Luxury SUVs: 2025 Genesis GV80
25:55 Hydrogen Fuel Cells and Heavy-Duty Trucks
31:48 The Future of Electric Vehicles
36:44 Affordable Vehicles and Market Trends
39:44 Listener Question: Difficulty Pairing Phone
Keywords
automotive news, electric vehicles, Slate Auto, tariffs, production capacity, vehicle safety, luxury SUVs, Lincoln Navigator, Genesis GV80, hydrogen vehicles, automotive, hydrogen fuel cells, electric vehicles, affordable cars, driving experience, technology, market trends, transportation, fuel economy, vehicle pricing
Summary
In this episode of America on the Road, hosts Jack Nerad and Matt DeLorenzo discuss the latest trends in the automotive industry, including the introduction of Slate Auto’s affordable electric truck, the implications of tariffs on production capacity in the U.S., the critical issue of vehicular heat safety, and a review of luxury SUVs like the Lincoln Navigator and Genesis GV80. They also discuss the effectiveness of blind spot warnings, the value of hydrogen fuel cells in heavy-duty trucks, the challenges facing electric vehicles, and the current state of affordable vehicles in the market. The episode also examines the economics of hydrogen as a fuel source, the future of battery technology, and the need for basic, affordable cars in today’s market.
Takeaways
The automotive industry is constantly evolving with new vehicle introductions.
Slate Auto’s new electric truck offers a bare-bones approach to affordability.
Tariffs are impacting production capacity in the U.S. auto industry.
Vehicle heat safety is a critical issue, especially for children and pets.
Luxury SUVs are becoming more expensive, but offer unique features.
The 2025 Lincoln Navigator has been redesigned with a focus on comfort and luxury.
The 2025 Genesis GV80 provides a luxury experience without overwhelming technology.
Battery costs remain a significant factor in electric vehicle pricing.
The importance of safety features in modern vehicles cannot be overstated.
Consumer preferences are shifting towards more affordable and practical vehicles.
Blind spot warnings can be overly sensitive.
Hands-free driving technology is not widely embraced.
Hydrogen fuel cells show promise for heavy-duty trucks.
Electric vehicles face challenges with battery costs and infrastructure.
Affordable vehicles are becoming scarce in the market.
The demand for basic cars remains strong.
Gas prices influence the appeal of electric vehicles.
Hydrogen infrastructure is still developing.
Battery technology advancements are still years away.
Consumer preferences lean towards simplicity in vehicle features.
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