Show notes
This week on America on the Road, roomy SUVs go under the microscope. Host Jack Nerad tests the family-focused 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 SEL AWD, Hyundai's newest three-row electric SUV. And co-host Chris Teague details his week-long experience in the luxurious 2026 Lincoln Navigator. The hosts also discuss key industry developments, including Honda's reverse exports and federal oversight of autonomous vehicles. Plus, Jack sits down with Cameron Creighton, an expert on the 2026 Toyota C-HR and bZ Woodland, to explore Toyota's latest compact crossover and electric SUV offerings.
🚙 Jack Nerad Test-Drives the 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 SEL AWD
Jack evaluates Hyundai's flagship electric three-row SUV, the 2026 Ioniq 9 SEL AWD. Priced at $67,920, it features a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system delivering 303 horsepower, a 110.3-kWh battery pack offering an EPA-estimated 320-mile range, and efficiency of about 88 MPGe. The interior provides seating for seven with generous space, including power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats, sliding second-row seats, and cargo capacity expanding from 21.9 to 86.9 cubic feet. Tech highlights include dual 12.3-inch displays with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, seven USB-C ports, and Hyundai's comprehensive safety suite with forward collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and Highway Driving Assist 2. Jack notes its focus on comfort, usability, and value for families transitioning to EVs.
🚗 Chris Teague Test-Drives the 2026 Lincoln Navigator
Chris gets behind the wheel of the full-size 2026 Lincoln Navigator, which starts at $94,890. Powered by a 440-horsepower twin-turbocharged V6 engine backed by a 10-speed automatic transmission, it accelerates from 0-60 mph in 5.1 seconds. Seating up to seven passengers, the interior boasts heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, along with a massive 48-inch panoramic screen serving as both the instrument panel and infotainment system. Standard features include BlueCruise hands-free driving and adaptive cruise control. With a maximum towing capacity of 8,700 pounds, the 2026 Navigator delivers plenty of luxury appeal, making it a strong choice for those seeking premium comfort and capability. But is it worthy of a six-figure price as tested?
🎙️ Special Guest Interview
In an exclusive interview, Jack talks with Cameron Creighton, an expert on the 2026 Toyota C-HR and bZ Woodland. Creighton provides insights into the compact C-HR's bold styling, agile handling, and efficient powertrains, as well as the bZ Woodland's all-electric performance, rugged design elements, and advanced tech features aimed at eco-conscious adventurers.
📰 This Week’s Headlines
Honda Exports U.S.-Built Vehicles to Japan
Honda is exporting U.S.-built vehicles back to Japan for the first time in decades, introducing the Acura brand to its home market. Starting in the second half of 2026, the Acura Integra Type S and Honda Passport TrailSport Elite will ship from American plants, retaining left-hand-drive U.S. specs. This follows Japan's simplified inspections for U.S. vehicles under a bilateral agreement, amid pressure for balanced trade. Challenges include Japan's preference for smaller vehicles and right-hand drive, but the move highlights the strategic role of U.S. production.
Which Car Company Exports the Most from the U.S.?
BMW's South Carolina plant led U.S. automotive exports by value in 2025, shipping nearly 200,000 vehicles worth about $9 billion. Primarily crossover SUV models destined for 120 global markets, exports mainly used the Port of Charleston. The Spartanburg facility, BMW's largest worldwide, produced over 412,000 vehicles last year and employs more than 12,000 workers.
Feds Take Long Look at Robotaxis
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) hosted a forum with executives from Waymo, Zoox, and Aurora to discuss safe expansion of autonomous vehicles. As robotaxis grow—Waymo reports 200 million autonomous miles and 400,000 weekly rides—the Trump administration seeks to ease regulations while addressing safety.
Chrysler Gets New Chief
Stellantis has appointed Dodge CEO Matt McAlear to lead Chrysler and oversee Alfa Romeo in North America, following Chris Feuell's departure. McAlear retains his Dodge role, where he launched the award-winning Charger. Chrysler offers only the Pacifica and Voyager minivans, with a 2027 Pacifica refresh planned, while Alfa Romeo sales fell 36% last year amid limited updates.
📩 Listener Question of the Week
Irv from Duluth, Minnesota, asks: “What should I look for if I tow a small boat or camper a few times a year?”
Jack and Chris recommend focusing on vehicles with adequate towing capacity (at least 3,500-5,000 pounds for small loads), integrated trailer brake controller, and features like tow/haul modes. They suggest midsize SUVs or trucks with strong engines, good stability control, and rear- or all-wheel drive for better traction, and they stress remaining well under trailering limits.
🎧 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.
Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and wherever you listen.
📚 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
📺 Watch & Subscribe
Find America on the Road on YouTube and Rumble. Subscribe for road test videos, shorts, and extended reviews.
📨 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.
Our TOPPODCAST Picks 
Stay Connected
