2025 Subaru Impreza RS: Who Says Affordable Can’t be Fun?
About this episode
The episode dives into the 2025 Subaru Impreza RS, highlighting its affordability and fun driving experience. Hosts Jack Neerad and Chris Teague discuss the vehicle's value in a market where affordable options are dwindling. They also touch on Subaru's reputation for reliability and all-wheel drive capabilities. The conversation includes comparisons with competitors like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla, emphasizing the Impreza's practicality and engaging handling. Additionally, the episode features automotive news, including updates on Toyota's exports and Volkswagen's ID Buzz sales halt.
This week on America on the Road, co-host Chris Teague joins host Jack Nerad for a deep dive into the latest automotive news, two insightful road tests, and a special interview with veteran journalist Gary Witzenburg. Chris reviews the premium 2026 Toyota 4Runner Limited, highlighting its refined on-road manners and off-road prowess, while Jack takes the wheel of the sporty 2025 Subaru Impreza RS hatchback, praising its engaging drive and all-weather capability. Jack also chats with Gary Witzenburg, former North American Car of the Year Jury president and Motor Trend alum, about his upcoming book of automotive reminiscences.
đźš™ Jack Nerad Test-Drives the 2025 Subaru Impreza RSJack drives the top-trim Impreza RS hatchback, equipped with a 2.5-liter Boxer engine, standard Symmetrical AWD, sport-tuned handling, and modern tech. The appealing compact hatchback offers surprisingly fun-to-drive dynamics, practicality, and value in its hotly competitive. Its features include 18-inch alloy wheels, RS-specific sport seats with red stitching, a Harman Kardon premium audio option, and advanced EyeSight safety systems with automatic emergency steering.
🚗 Chris Teague Test-Drives the 2026 Toyota 4Runner LimitedChris explores the upscale Limited trim of Toyota’s redesigned midsize SUV, featuring available hybrid power, adaptive suspension, luxury appointments like leather seats and a massive touchscreen, and Toyota’s comprehensive safety tech. The new-gen 4Runner delivers a winning balance of comfort and ruggedness for everyday and adventurous use. It also includes premium touches such as available power-extending running boards, a power moonroof, and a digital rearview mirror for enhanced convenience and visibility.
🎙️ Special Guest InterviewJack speaks with acclaimed automotive journalist Gary Witzenburg about his career highlights, time at Motor Trend, leadership in the North American Car of the Year awards, and his forthcoming book sharing behind-the-scenes stories from decades in the industry.
📰 This Week’s Headlines • Toyota to Export U.S.-Built Camry, Highlander, Tundra to JapanToyota plans to sell American-made models in its home market starting 2026, including the Kentucky-built Camry, Indiana Highlander, and Texas Tundra—a strategic move to address trade tensions and offer Japanese buyers larger, capable vehicles.
• Volkswagen Halts ID.Buzz U.S. Sales; Ford Ends F-150 Lightning ProductionVW pauses U.S. deliveries of the retro electric minivan amid high inventory and lost tax credits, shifting to fleets and autonomy, while Ford ceases Lightning production, favoring hybrid-like extended-range EVs in a cooling market.
• Delaware Court Reinstates Elon Musk’s $139 Billion Tesla Pay PackageThe state supreme court overturns a prior ruling, restoring Musk’s massive 2018 compensation and boosting his wealth dramatically after shareholder approvals.
• Waymo Resumes Driverless Service After San Francisco Power OutageWaymo robotaxis briefly paused operations during a widespread blackout that caused traffic disruptions, highlighting infrastructure challenges in autonomous deployment.
• Hyundai Elantra N TCR Joins Gran Turismo 7Hyundai’s championship-winning race car debuts virtually in the game next month, celebrating the N brand’s 10th anniversary with enhanced in-game content.
📩 Listener Question of the WeekRandall from Fresno, California, asks: “Are modern cars more expensive to maintain than older ones?”
Jack and Chris discuss evolving maintenance costs, reliability trends, and factors influencing ownership expenses today.
Jack’s crime novel Only One Thing Stays the Same is out now in ebook and paperback—perfect for post-holiday reading at a special low price.
🎧 Where to ListenCatch America on the Road on this station every week, and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and Rumble. You’ll also find road test videos, interviews, and shorts on our YouTube channel.
Special thanks to Mercury Insurance for sponsoring the show and to our Sports Byline Network affiliates nationwide.
🎙️ HostsJack Nerad — Award-winning auto journalist and author of Only One Thing Stays the Same
Chris Teague — Longtime auto critic and journalist
• DrivingToday.com
• EMLandsea.com
• Mercury Insurance – Switch today and save. Californians save an average of $670.
Find America on the Road on YouTube and Rumble. Subscribe for road test videos, shorts, and extended reviews.
📨 Email: [email protected]
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.
Toyota Camry
"...Toyota has announced plans to export the US-built Camry, Highlander and Tundra to Japan starting next yea..."
Toyota Highlander
"Toyota has announced plans to export the US-built Camry, Highlander and Tundra to Japan starting next year."
The Toyota Highlander is a family-friendly SUV that has lots of room for passengers and cargo. It's great for road trips and everyday use.
The Toyota Highlander is a midsize SUV that offers a spacious interior, advanced safety features, and a choice of hybrid or gasoline engines. It's designed for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Toyota Tundra
"...lans to export the US-built Camry, Highlander and Tundra to Japan starting next year."
autonomous vehicles
"...after a power outage exposed infrastructure vulnerabilities to autonomous vehicles."
Autonomous vehicles are cars that can drive themselves without needing a person to control them. They use technology like cameras and sensors to see and understand their surroundings.
Autonomous vehicles are cars or trucks that are capable of driving themselves without human intervention. They use a combination of sensors, cameras, and artificial intelligence to navigate and operate safely on the roads.
Hyundai Elantra N TCR
"...Hyundai's championship-winning Elantra NTCR race car is set to join Gran Turismo 7 next month..."
The Hyundai Elantra N TCR is a special version of the Elantra made for racing. It's built to be fast and handle well on the track, which is why it's used in racing competitions.
The Hyundai Elantra N TCR is a race car designed for touring car racing, specifically built to compete in the TCR series. It features enhancements for performance, handling, and safety, making it suitable for competitive racing environments.
Gran Turismo 7
"...I have been known to play some Gran Turismo 7 in the past, haven't in quite a while though, but it's a fantastic racing game."
Gran Turismo 7 is a racing video game where players can drive different cars and compete in races. It's known for its realistic graphics and driving experience.
Gran Turismo 7 is a popular racing video game that features a wide variety of cars and realistic driving physics. It allows players to race, customize, and collect cars in a virtual environment.
Toyota 4Runner
"I spent the week driving the 2026 Toyota 4Runner Limited with the new hybrid powertrain, and I can't wait to tell you all about it."
The Toyota 4Runner Limited is a type of SUV that can handle rough terrains and is designed for outdoor adventures. The 2026 version has a new hybrid engine that helps save fuel.
The Toyota 4Runner Limited is a mid-size SUV known for its off-road capabilities and rugged design. The 2026 model features a new hybrid powertrain, enhancing fuel efficiency while maintaining performance.
Subaru Impreza
"My test vehicle is the Subaru Impreza RS, so stay with us for that, and we'll be right back right here on America on the Road."
The Subaru Impreza RS is a sportier version of the regular Impreza car. It has features that make it fun to drive and is great for handling different weather conditions.
The Subaru Impreza RS is a sporty variant of the Impreza, known for its all-wheel-drive system and performance-oriented features. It offers a balance of practicality and driving excitement.
Toyota And Toyota
"... think the U.S. market is so important to Toyota, and Toyota is smart about the U.S. market."
The Toyota Land Cruiser is a big, tough SUV that can handle rough roads and off-road adventures. People like it because it's built to last a long time.
The Toyota Land Cruiser is a rugged SUV known for its off-road capabilities and durability. It has a strong reputation for reliability and longevity, making it a favorite among adventurers and those needing a dependable vehicle.
Volkswagen Id Buzz
"... that maybe this, pushing the pause button on the ID buzz sales, Volkswagen doing that in the United States..."
The Volkswagen ID. Buzz is a new electric van that looks like the old VW buses but is made with new technology. It's part of Volkswagen's plan to make more electric cars.
The Volkswagen ID. Buzz is an electric van that pays homage to the classic VW Microbus while incorporating modern electric vehicle technology. It represents Volkswagen's shift towards electric mobility and is designed for a new generation of drivers.
electric vehicle
"...the fact that it's an electric vehicle. I think this would be cool..."
An electric vehicle is a type of car that runs on electricity instead of gas. They are better for the environment because they produce no exhaust fumes.
An electric vehicle (EV) is a car that is powered entirely or partially by electricity, rather than traditional gasoline or diesel fuel. EVs are known for being more environmentally friendly and often have lower operating costs compared to conventional vehicles.
Volkswagen Type 2
"...the former owner of a type two that the Volkswagen micro bus kind of variant that I drove in college."
The Volkswagen Type 2 is an old model of van that many people loved in the past. It's famous for its unique shape and was often used for road trips and camping.
The Volkswagen Type 2, also known as the Volkswagen Microbus or Kombi, is a classic van that became iconic in the 1960s and 70s. It is known for its spacious interior and distinctive design, making it a popular choice for families and travelers.
Volkswagen Jetta
"I had a Jenna, so yes. Yeah, there you go."
The Volkswagen Jetta is a small car that's easy to drive and often chosen by college students because it's affordable and reliable.
The Volkswagen Jetta is a compact sedan known for its practicality and performance. It's popular among students and young drivers for its affordability and reliability.
wheelbase
"One thing that's interesting, though, is how long the wheel base"
Wheelbase is the distance between the front and back wheels of a car. It helps determine how stable the car is when driving.
Wheelbase refers to the distance between the front and rear axles of a vehicle. It affects the car's stability, handling, and interior space.
Ford Lightning
"And then we have the Ford with the lighting. Again, here's another vehicle that Ford put all kinds of juice"
The Ford Lightning is a fast version of the regular Ford F-150 truck. It has a powerful engine that makes it quicker and more fun to drive than a typical truck.
The Ford Lightning is a high-performance variant of the Ford F-150 pickup truck, known for its powerful engine and sporty features. It's designed to offer both utility and speed, making it popular among truck enthusiasts.
Ford F150 Lighting
"...certainly they have pushed the F-150 Lightning and it is a cool vehicle. But again, price and the fact that it has to be recharged..."
The Ford F-150 Lightning is a special electric truck from Ford. It's designed to be powerful and useful like regular trucks but runs on electricity instead of gasoline.
The Ford F-150 Lightning is an all-electric version of Ford's popular F-150 pickup truck. It combines the utility of a traditional truck with electric vehicle technology, offering features like instant torque and advanced tech integration.
price
"...the first is the price, right? Ford promised what? $40,000 for the truck when it was announced..."
Price is how much money you need to buy a car. It can change based on different features or options you choose.
In automotive terms, price refers to the cost of purchasing a vehicle. This can include the base price, taxes, fees, and any additional options or packages.
Stellantis
"Other automakers, Stellantis is going to a range extended electric model for its next ram truck."
Stellantis is a big car company that makes many different brands of vehicles. It was created when two companies, Fiat Chrysler and PSA Group, combined their businesses.
Stellantis is a multinational automotive manufacturing corporation formed from the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group. It encompasses several well-known automotive brands, including Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, and Peugeot.
simulator
"And I'm starting to think and having been in some of these simulators"
A simulator is a machine or software that helps people practice driving cars. It tries to make the experience feel like real driving, so racers can improve their skills without being on a real track.
A simulator in racing refers to a system that replicates the experience of driving a car, often using advanced technology to mimic real-world physics, handling, and environments. These simulators are used by professional drivers for training and practice.
Hyundai i20 N
"...and Hyundai's i20 N and all the things that you could do there, I would love to be able to play it."
The Hyundai i20 N is a sportier version of the regular i20 car. It has a stronger engine and better handling, making it more fun to drive.
The Hyundai i20 N is a performance-oriented version of the standard i20 hatchback, designed for enthusiasts who seek a sporty driving experience. It features enhancements such as a more powerful engine, sport-tuned suspension, and aggressive styling.
horsepower
"...278 horsepower, 317 pound-feet of torque. My iForce Hybrid Max test vehicle"
Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful an engine is. The more horsepower an engine has, the faster and stronger it can make a vehicle go.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, commonly used to quantify the power output of engines. It indicates how quickly work can be done, with higher horsepower generally meaning better performance.
torque
"...278 horsepower, 317 pound-feet of torque. My iForce Hybrid Max test vehicle"
Torque measures how strong an engine is at turning things, like the wheels of a car. Higher torque means better acceleration and the ability to pull heavier loads.
Torque is a measure of rotational force, which in vehicles translates to how much pulling power an engine has. It is especially important for acceleration and towing capacity.
eight-speed automatic transmission
"and all models have an eight-speed automatic transmission. Jack, I want to get your opinion on this,"
An eight-speed automatic transmission is a system that helps the car change gears automatically. It makes driving smoother and can save fuel.
An eight-speed automatic transmission is a type of gearbox that automatically changes gears in a vehicle, allowing for smoother acceleration and improved fuel efficiency. More gears can help the engine operate more efficiently across different speeds.
hybrid
"...about the complication of a hybrid, right? I mean, it strikes me as there's one more thing to potentially go wrong. I mean, we've seen Toyota hybrid systems..."
A hybrid car uses both a gas engine and an electric motor to run. This can help save gas and reduce pollution, but it also means there are more parts that could potentially break down.
A hybrid vehicle combines a traditional internal combustion engine with an electric motor, allowing for improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. The complexity of hybrid systems can introduce additional maintenance considerations.
Land Rover Defender
"...I just bought a Land Rover Defender. You've got to go a little bit slower around the corners because you do feel the body movement."
The Land Rover Defender is a very tough vehicle made for off-roading. It's designed to drive over rough ground and is popular among people who like adventures.
The Land Rover Defender is a renowned off-road vehicle known for its ruggedness and versatility. It has a strong reputation for handling tough terrains and is often used in adventurous settings.
fuel economy
"But the good news here is that the fuel economy isn't terrible. I was averaging 22 to 23 miles per gallon on the highway with the hybrid..."
Fuel economy tells you how far a car can go on a certain amount of fuel. It's usually shown as miles per gallon, meaning how many miles you can drive with one gallon of gas.
Fuel economy refers to the efficiency of a vehicle in terms of distance traveled per unit of fuel consumed, typically measured in miles per gallon (MPG). A higher fuel economy indicates better efficiency, which can lead to lower fuel costs for the driver.
Android Auto
"...Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, which I think is nice."
Android Auto is a way to connect your Android phone to your car's screen, letting you use apps for navigation and music while driving.
Android Auto is similar to Apple CarPlay but designed for Android devices. It allows users to connect their Android phones to the car's infotainment system for easy access to apps and features.
Apple CarPlay
"...Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, which I think is nice."
Apple CarPlay lets you use your iPhone in the car by connecting it to the car's screen. You can use apps for navigation and music without having to look at your phone.
Apple CarPlay is a feature that allows iPhone users to connect their devices to the car's infotainment system, enabling access to apps, navigation, and music directly from the car's touchscreen.
infotainment system
"...Jack Toyota's infotainment system, we've talked about this until we're both blue in the face, but it is much better than it used to be."
The infotainment system is the car's computer that controls music, navigation, and other features. It usually has a touchscreen for easy use.
An infotainment system is the integrated multimedia system in a vehicle that combines entertainment, information, and connectivity features, such as navigation, audio, and smartphone integration.
Toyota Safety Sense
"...this vehicle comes well-equipped with a full suite of safety equipment. You get Toyota Safety Sense as standard."
Toyota Safety Sense is a package of safety features that help keep you safe while driving. It includes things like alerts for when you're too close to another car and helps you stay in your lane.
Toyota Safety Sense is a suite of advanced safety features designed to enhance driver awareness and vehicle safety. It typically includes technologies like pre-collision systems, lane departure alerts, and adaptive cruise control.
blind spot monitoring
"...my limited trim added front and rear cameras, as well as blind spot monitoring."
Blind spot monitoring is a system that helps you see cars that are in areas you can't easily check while driving. It warns you if there's a car in your blind spot when you try to change lanes.
Blind spot monitoring is a safety feature that uses sensors to detect vehicles in the driver's blind spots and alerts the driver, usually with a visual or audible warning. This helps prevent accidents during lane changes.
Toyota Corolla
"essentially competes with the Civic and Corolla, those type of vehicles, the Sentra."
The Toyota Corolla is a small car that's very popular because it's easy to drive and doesn't cost much to keep running. Many people choose it because it's dependable and gets good gas mileage.
The Toyota Corolla is a compact car known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and affordability. It has been one of the best-selling cars worldwide for decades, making it a significant player in the automotive market, often compared to competitors like the Honda Civic and Nissan Sentra.
Honda Civic
"essentially competes with the Civic and Corolla, those type of vehicles, the Sentra."
Nissan Sentra
"...the Sentra. It's a hatchback-only body style this time around."
The Nissan Sentra is a small car that's comfortable to drive and has useful features. It's similar to the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla.
The Nissan Sentra is a compact sedan that offers a comfortable ride and practical features. It competes in the same segment as the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla.
Honda Civic Type-R
"say it's, you know, the equivalent of a Civic Type R or a Civic SI"
The Honda Civic Type-R is a sportier version of the regular Civic, made to be faster and more fun to drive. It's popular among people who like performance cars.
The Honda Civic Type-R is a performance-oriented version of the popular Civic, known for its sporty handling and powerful engine. It represents Honda's commitment to creating exciting and dynamic driving experiences, often compared to other sporty models like the Civic Si.
Porsche 917
"but at Le Mans Vic Elford's Porsche 917 raged down the mulsins straight at"
The Porsche 917 is a super-fast race car that won many big races. It's famous for being really well-made and looking cool.
The Porsche 917 is a legendary race car known for its incredible speed and success at endurance races like Le Mans. It is often celebrated for its engineering and design, making it a significant part of automotive racing history.
Ferrari 512
"the racing pit of the Porsche 917 versus the Ferrari 512 the fastest road racing ever"
The Ferrari 512 M is a fast race car from the 1970s that was built to compete in big races. It's famous for being very powerful and competing against other legendary cars.
The Ferrari 512 M is a race car that competed in endurance racing during the 1970s, known for its speed and performance against rivals like the Porsche 917. It is celebrated for its engineering and has a significant place in racing history.
General Motors Ev1
"...gh the decade of the 90s and that resulted in the EV1 and some other interesting stuff"
The General Motors EV1 was an early electric car made in the 1990s. It was important because it helped start the idea of electric cars we see today.
The General Motors EV1 was one of the first modern electric vehicles, introduced in the 1990s. It is significant for its role in the early development of electric cars and has become a symbol of the challenges and potential of electric vehicle technology.
Datsun 510
"an old beat up used Datsun 510 that I very slowly with no budget essentially"
The Datsun 510 is a small, affordable car from the late 60s and early 70s that many people loved for how well it drove. It's still popular today among car fans.
The Datsun 510 is a compact car produced in the late 1960s and early 1970s, known for its affordability and performance. It has a cult following among car enthusiasts and is often praised for its handling and versatility.
Chevrolet Camaro
"series races that preceded the Mustang Camaro Parnelli Jones"
The Chevrolet Camaro is a sporty car that looks cool and goes fast. It's been around for a long time and is known for racing and fun driving.
The Chevrolet Camaro is a classic American muscle car that has been a symbol of performance and style since its introduction in 1966. It has a rich history in motorsports and is often discussed in the context of its rivalry with the Ford Mustang.
Chevrolet Corvettes
"the the wide body Batmobile Greenwood Corvettes and Rick built himself one of those"
The Chevrolet Corvette is a fast and stylish sports car that many people love. Some special versions are made for racing and have a unique look.
The Chevrolet Corvette is an iconic American sports car known for its high performance and distinctive design. The wide-body versions, like the Greenwood Corvettes, are particularly celebrated for their racing pedigree and unique styling.
Ford GT
"very early in her career before she did IMSA GT with the Ford before she did Indy and we actually"
The Ford GT is a really fast and fancy car that Ford made for racing. It's known for its cool looks and high speed.
The Ford GT is a high-performance supercar that pays homage to Ford's racing heritage, particularly its success at Le Mans. It combines advanced technology with a striking design, making it a topic of interest for car enthusiasts and racing fans alike.
Delorean DMC-12
"the most memorable event was the John DeLorean trip in Northern Ireland"
The DeLorean DMC-12 is a special car that has doors that open up like wings. It's famous because it was in a popular movie about time travel.
The DeLorean DMC-12 is a unique sports car famous for its distinctive gull-wing doors and stainless steel body. It gained iconic status due to its appearance in the 'Back to the Future' movies, making it a topic of nostalgia and automotive history.
Request an Explanation
Heard something you'd like explained? We'll add it to this episode.
Sign in to request explanations for terms you heard.
Want to learn more?
Browse our glossary for plain-English explanations of automotive terms, jargon, and concepts.
Help improve this episode
See something that's not quite right? Our annotations are AI-generated and can sometimes miss the mark. Click the flag icon on any annotation to suggest a correction.