2026 Genesis G80 3.5T Sport Prestige AWD Guns for BMW, Mercedes-Benz
About this episode
The episode dives into the 2026 Genesis G80 3.5T Sport Prestige AWD, highlighting its competitive stance against luxury giants like BMW and Mercedes-Benz. Hosts Jack Neerad and Chris Teague discuss the rising vehicle payments, Ford's record recalls, and the return of the Ram TRX. They also touch on LG's CES announcement about in-car entertainment and Will.I.Am's unique electric vehicle. The hosts share their experiences with the Subaru Forester Wilderness and the Genesis G80, emphasizing comfort, performance, and the evolving automotive landscape as they celebrate their 301st episode.
This week on America on the Road (episode 301), host Jack Nerad and cohost Chris Teague kick off the new year with road tests of two very different vehicles, breaking news from Ford, and a special discussion on the highs, lows, and lessons from the 2025 auto industry. This week’s road tests are especially compelling. Chris evaluates the rugged 2026 Subaru Forester Wilderness, built for off-road adventures. while Jack reviews the refined 2026 Genesis G80 3.5T Sport Prestige AWD.
🚗 Jack Nerad Test Drives the 2026 Genesis G80 3.5T Sport Prestige AWDJack explores Genesis’ top-trim, high-value luxury sedan, powered by a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 delivering 375 horsepower and paired with an eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive for smooth, confident acceleration in the low five-second 0-60 mph range. It features an electronically controlled suspension for composed handling, a premium interior with soft leather, open-pore wood trim, heated/ventilated/massaging seats, a wide OLED display with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and advanced safety. Priced at $79,845 as tested, the G80 emphasizes serenity and craftsmanship over aggressive sportiness, and it’s backed by a strong warranty package including 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain coverage.
🚙 Chris Teague Test Drives the 2026 Subaru Forester WildernessChris takes on Subaru’s off-road-focused crossover, equipped with a 2.5-liter boxer engine producing 180 horsepower and 178 lbft of torque, a revised Lineartronic CVT with XMODE Dual settings for Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud, and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. It boasts 9.3 inches of ground clearance, all-terrain tires on 17inch matte black wheels, Bilstein shocks, a 3,500-pound towing capacity, water-resistant StarTex upholstery with copper accents, and the latest EyeSight safety suite, including BlindSpot Detection and Emergency Lane Keep Assist. Starting at $38,385, the Forester Wilderness combines rugged capability with everyday practicality.
🎙️ Looking Back at 2025, Forward to 2026 and BeyondHosts Jack Nerad and Chris Teague reflect on 2025’s startling impact on car buyers and the auto industry, from market trends to upcoming challenges. They share insights on why 2025 was such a consequential year and predict what to expect in 2026 for vehicles, technology, and consumer choices.
📰 This Week’s Headlines Vehicle Affordability Crisis DeepensOver 20% of new-car buyers faced $1,000+ monthly payments in Q4 2025, but dealers express optimism for 2026 profits and AI integration.
Ford’s Record Recalls in 2025The automaker issued 152 safety recalls, a new high, but emphasizes improved quality processes and falling warranty costs.
Ram Revives the TRX for 2027The supercharged 6.2L HEMI V8 now delivers 777 horsepower in this off-road beast, with Bilstein adaptive shocks, 14inch suspension travel, and a starting MSRP of $99,995.
LG Expands In-Car EntertainmentPrime Video joins LG’s Automotive Content Platform for streaming on vehicle screens starting Q2 2026.
Will.i.am Unveils TRINITY at CESA self-balancing electric three-wheeler with AI brains, 0-60 mph in under two seconds, and 150-mile range.
📩 Listener Question of the WeekLenore from Calabasas, California, asks: “I drive about an hour each way back and forth to work. I’m thinking of buying a new car this year. What do you think is the best car for long highway commutes?”
Jack and Chris share recommendations based on their expertise in comfort, efficiency, and reliability for extended drives.
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 ListenCatch 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
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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 NovelJack 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.
vehicle payments
"Vehicle payments hit new highs at the end of 2025, but the dealer Outlook for 2026 tells a very different story."
Vehicle payments are the monthly bills you pay when you buy or lease a car. If cars cost more, these payments can get really high, making it harder for people to afford them.
Vehicle payments refer to the monthly amounts that consumers pay to finance or lease a vehicle. As prices for new and used cars rise, these payments can significantly impact buyers' budgets.
enthusiast forums
"the numbers attached to it are already lighting up enthusiast forums."
Enthusiast forums are websites where people who love cars talk about them. They share tips, news, and experiences about different car models and modifications.
Enthusiast forums are online communities where car enthusiasts discuss various topics related to cars, including modifications, performance, and industry news. These forums are valuable resources for sharing knowledge and experiences.
Subaru Forester
"I spent the week driving the 2026 Subaru Forester, I'm sorry, 2026 Subaru Forester wilderness, and I can't wait to tell you all about it."
The Subaru Forester is a small SUV that is great for families and outdoor activities. The 2026 version has new features and improvements compared to earlier models.
The Subaru Forester is a compact SUV known for its practicality, all-wheel drive capability, and safety features. The 2026 model continues to build on these strengths with updated technology and design.
CVT transmission
"years of CBT transmission complaints that I've had for Nissan but I still like them I hope they pulled through"
A CVT transmission is a type of automatic transmission that can change seamlessly through a range of gear ratios. This can make driving smoother and more efficient, but some people have had problems with them, especially in certain car brands.
CVT stands for Continuously Variable Transmission, which provides seamless acceleration without the distinct gear shifts of traditional automatic transmissions. While it can improve fuel efficiency, some users have reported reliability issues, particularly with certain manufacturers.
monthly payments
"20% of new vehicle buyers committed to payments of over $1,000 a month, this according to Edmunds."
Monthly payments are the regular amounts you pay every month when you buy a car on credit. If the price of cars goes up, these payments can become very high, making it harder for people to afford them.
Monthly payments refer to the amount of money that a buyer pays each month towards the financing of a vehicle. With rising car prices, many buyers are facing higher monthly payments, which can impact their financial situation significantly.
amounts financed
"The average new car payment is $772 and amounts financed were $43,700."
Amounts financed is the total money you borrow to buy a car. It includes the car's price and any extra costs, and it affects how much you pay each month.
Amounts financed refer to the total sum of money that a buyer borrows to purchase a vehicle. This amount typically includes the price of the car, taxes, and any additional fees, and it is crucial for determining monthly payments and overall debt.
Lexus
"...not surprisingly, Toyota and Lexus are the most sought after franchises."
Lexus is a luxury car brand that is part of Toyota. They make high-end cars that are very comfortable and have lots of features.
Lexus is the luxury vehicle division of Toyota, known for its high-quality, comfortable, and well-equipped cars. It competes with other luxury brands like BMW and Mercedes-Benz.
GMC
"...Chevrolet and GMC Buick Cadillac also had big gains in value expectations."
GMC is a brand that makes trucks and SUVs. They are known for making strong vehicles that can handle tough jobs.
GMC is a division of General Motors that focuses on trucks and SUVs. It is known for its rugged and capable vehicles, often marketed towards consumers looking for utility and performance.
Chevrolet
"...Chevrolet and GMC Buick Cadillac also had big gains in value expectations."
Chevrolet is a car brand from America that makes many different types of vehicles, including trucks and sports cars.
Chevrolet, commonly known as Chevy, is an American automotive brand that produces a wide range of vehicles, from compact cars to trucks. It is known for models like the Silverado and the Corvette.
Buick
"...Chevrolet and GMC Buick Cadillac also had big gains in value expectations."
Buick is a car brand that makes comfortable and stylish cars, often aimed at older drivers.
Buick is one of the oldest automotive brands in America, known for producing comfortable and stylish vehicles that often appeal to a more mature audience. It is part of General Motors.
safety recalls
"Ford posted a record 152 safety recalls in 2025 calendar 2025. That's the highest single year total ever logged by an automaker."
A safety recall happens when a car company finds a problem with one of their cars that could be dangerous. They then ask car owners to bring their cars in for free repairs to fix the issue.
Safety recalls occur when a manufacturer identifies a defect in a vehicle that poses a safety risk. The manufacturer is required to notify owners and provide a remedy, which may include repairs or replacements at no cost.
General Motors
"...that dwarfed the 2014 record of 77 recalls that General Motors set."
General Motors, often called GM, is a big car company that makes many different brands of cars, like Chevrolet and Cadillac. They are one of the largest car manufacturers in the world.
General Motors (GM) is one of the largest automotive manufacturers in the world, known for brands like Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, and Cadillac. The company has a significant presence in both the U.S. and global markets.
Ford Motor Company
"I'm certain that's a record that Ford Motor Company is not too excited about having your thoughts."
Ford Motor Company is a well-known car maker in the United States that makes many different types of vehicles.
Ford Motor Company is a major American automotive manufacturer known for producing a wide range of vehicles, including cars, trucks, and SUVs.
Ram TRX
"I remember going on the launch of the Ram TRX. This was during COVID time. Kind of a crazy time to do vehicle testing and to go on a vehicle testing event."
The Ram TRX is a special version of Ram's pickup truck that is built for speed and off-road driving, making it very exciting for truck enthusiasts.
The Ram TRX is a high-performance version of the Ram pickup truck, designed for off-road capabilities and equipped with a powerful engine.
fuel economy regulations
"You know, certainly the change in fuel economy regulations is responsible for this."
Fuel economy regulations are rules that set how far cars should be able to drive on a gallon of gas, helping to make cars more efficient and better for the environment.
Fuel economy regulations are government standards that dictate how many miles a vehicle must travel per gallon of fuel, aimed at improving efficiency and reducing emissions.
horsepower
"777 horsepower. Is that enough for you, Chris? 777 horsepower?"
Horsepower tells us how powerful an engine is. The more horsepower a vehicle has, the faster it can go.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, indicating how quickly work can be done. In automotive terms, it reflects the engine's ability to perform and accelerate a vehicle.
Ram 1500
"... Ram brought back the V8, the Hemi V8 in the Ram 1500 in the past year, this has been something that pe..."
The Ram 1500 is a big truck that people use for work or towing things like trailers. It recently brought back a powerful engine called the Hemi V8, which makes it even stronger and better for heavy jobs.
The Ram 1500 is a full-size pickup truck known for its strong performance, spacious interior, and advanced technology features. Recently, it has garnered attention for reintroducing the iconic Hemi V8 engine, which enhances its power and towing capabilities, making it a popular choice among truck enthusiasts.
Hellcat engine
"And look, the Hellcat engine in that truck, I mean it makes"
The Hellcat engine is a very powerful engine that makes cars go really fast. It's famous for being one of the strongest engines available.
The Hellcat engine is a high-performance supercharged V8 engine produced by Chrysler, known for its extreme power and speed. It has become iconic among muscle car enthusiasts.
zero to 60 time
"It goes zero to 60 in three and a half seconds."
Zero to 60 time tells you how fast a car can go from a complete stop to 60 miles per hour. It's a way to measure how quick a car is.
Zero to 60 time is a common performance metric that measures how quickly a vehicle can accelerate from a complete stop to 60 miles per hour.
BMW G80
"...to hearing about that. I was in the 2026 Genesis G80. So stay with us for that, and we'll be right bac..."
Genesis G80
"...forward to hearing about that. I was in the 2026 Genesis G80. So stay with us for that, and we'll be right bac..."
The Genesis G80 is a fancy car that looks nice and has a lot of cool features to make driving comfortable. It's part of a luxury brand from Hyundai, which means it offers good quality without being as expensive as some other luxury cars.
The Genesis G80 is a luxury sedan that combines elegant design with advanced technology and a comfortable ride. As part of the Genesis brand, which is Hyundai's luxury division, the G80 is significant for offering high-end features at a competitive price point.
options
"My wilderness model was just under $40,000 with options as tested, and you can go up to around $42,000 with the limited and getting the nicer finishes inside."
Options are extra features you can choose to add to a car, like a better sound system or special wheels, which usually cost more money.
Options refer to additional features or upgrades that can be added to a vehicle, often at an extra cost, allowing buyers to customize their cars to better suit their preferences.
torque
"with 180 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque. Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel drive is standard..."
Torque is a measure of how much twisting force an engine can produce. It helps the car accelerate and pull heavy loads.
Torque is a measure of rotational force, which in vehicles translates to the engine's ability to do work, particularly in terms of acceleration and pulling power.
ground clearance
"...This vehicle has almost nine inches of ground clearance thanks to its all-terrain tires,..."
Ground clearance is how high a car sits off the ground. A higher clearance means the car can drive over bumps and rough roads without getting stuck or damaged.
Ground clearance refers to the distance between the ground and the lowest point of a vehicle's body. Higher ground clearance allows vehicles to navigate rough terrain more easily.
symmetrical all-wheel drive
"...the key thing. Yeah, and the handling here is pretty decent too,..."
Symmetrical all-wheel drive means that power goes to all four wheels of the car equally. This helps the car grip the road better, especially in bad weather like snow or rain.
Symmetrical all-wheel drive is a system used by Subaru that distributes power evenly to all four wheels, enhancing traction and stability, especially in challenging driving conditions.
X-mode driving mode
"You also get X-mode driving mode with this, which kind of slows the differential down and gives you more grip. One thing I will say about the forester, I took this off."
X-mode is a special setting in some cars that helps them drive better on slippery surfaces like snow or mud. It makes the car grip the road better and helps it not to slip.
X-mode is a driving mode feature that optimizes a vehicle's performance for challenging conditions, such as snow or mud. It adjusts the engine output and transmission settings to enhance traction and stability.
miles per gallon
"...you still get around 24 miles per gallon in the city, and I think 26 miles per gallon combined."
Miles per gallon is a way to see how far a car can go using just one gallon of gas. The higher the number, the better the car is at saving fuel.
Miles per gallon (MPG) is a measure of how far a vehicle can travel on one gallon of fuel. It is an important metric for assessing fuel efficiency and operating costs.
Subaru Crosstrek
"...een, and this is the same screen that the Subaru Crosstrek I tested a couple of months ago had, and we had a..."
The Subaru Crosstrek is a small SUV that can drive well on different types of roads, making it great for adventures. It's popular with people who like outdoor activities because it has a lot of space and is reliable.
The Subaru Crosstrek is a compact crossover SUV known for its all-wheel drive capability and versatility. It appeals to outdoor enthusiasts and those looking for a reliable vehicle that can handle various terrains.
Android Auto
"...it's pretty intuitive and responsive. You get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and so on."
Android Auto lets you connect your Android phone to your car, so you can use apps and get directions on the car's screen while driving.
Android Auto is a mobile app developed by Google that allows you to connect your Android device to your car's infotainment system, enabling access to apps, navigation, and hands-free communication.
Apple CarPlay
"...it's pretty intuitive and responsive. You get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and so on."
Apple CarPlay lets you use your iPhone in the car by showing apps on the car's screen, making it easier to navigate and listen to music while driving.
Apple CarPlay is a smart driving companion that allows you to connect your iPhone to your car's infotainment system, providing access to apps, navigation, and music directly from the dashboard.
Subaru Wilderness
"...the wilderness is easily one of the, I think, better looking in the model line for sure."
The Subaru Wilderness is a version of Subaru cars that is built for off-road driving, with features that help it handle rough terrain better.
The Subaru Wilderness is a trim level of Subaru vehicles designed for off-road capability, featuring enhancements like increased ground clearance and rugged styling.
blind spot monitoring
"...my wilderness trim came with reverse automatic braking and blind spot monitoring."
Blind spot monitoring is a system that helps drivers see cars that are in areas they can't easily see, making it safer 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, helping to prevent accidents during lane changes.
reverse automatic braking
"...my wilderness trim came with reverse automatic braking and blind spot monitoring."
Reverse automatic braking helps stop your car if it detects something behind you while you're backing up, preventing accidents.
Reverse automatic braking is a safety feature that detects obstacles behind the vehicle while reversing and automatically applies the brakes to prevent a collision.
Cadillac Fleetwood
"...certainly more fun to drive than a 1960 Cadillac Fleetwood, but I was driving the 3.5 T Sport Prestige All-W..."
The Cadillac Fleetwood is an old luxury car that was very big and comfortable, often seen as a symbol of wealth. It was known for its smooth driving experience and fancy features.
The Cadillac Fleetwood is a classic luxury car known for its spacious interior and smooth ride, popular during the mid-20th century. It symbolizes the height of American luxury and craftsmanship in automotive design.
Mercedes-Benz Sclass
"Yeah, compare it to some of the cars that it competes with, the BMW 5.7 Series, the Mercedes high-end E and S-class cars, some of those go well above $100,000 easily, so it's a value, and I agree, some of the Germans have gotten too sharp with their sportiness, and they've"
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a top-of-the-line luxury car that is very comfortable and packed with the latest technology. It's known for being really expensive, but many people consider it one of the best luxury cars you can buy.
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a flagship luxury sedan known for its cutting-edge technology, exceptional comfort, and performance. It often sets the standard for other luxury vehicles and is frequently discussed for its high price and advanced features.
Hyundai Genesis
"...g about nice balance with Forrester. I think the Genesis G80 has a nice balance in its own way of enough ..."
The Hyundai Genesis is a luxury car that offers a lot of comfort and high-tech features. It was made to compete with other fancy cars, providing a good option for people who want something special without spending too much.
The Hyundai Genesis is a luxury sedan that was introduced to compete with established luxury brands, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and advanced technology. It has since evolved into the Genesis brand, focusing on premium vehicles.
Ford Model Ford
"they've responded right and they've all responded differently so Ram Stalantis responded by bringing back the V8 engine and knocking off their plug-in hybrid model. Ford responded by saying we'll make more affordable hybrids and we're going to discontinue the F-150 Lightning and some other"
The Ford Model T is an old car from the early 1900s that was one of the first cars that regular people could afford. It changed how cars were made and helped many families own a car for the first time.
The Ford Model T is a historic vehicle that revolutionized the automotive industry by making cars affordable for the average person. Produced from 1908 to 1927, it is often credited with popularizing mass production techniques in manufacturing.
Ford F150 Lightning
"back the V8 engine and knocking off their plug-in hybrid model. Ford responded by saying we'll make more affordable hybrids and we're going to discontinue the F-150 Lightning and some other things. However Toyota you know some others are going hybrid too so I think where what you're saying"
The Ford F-150 Lightning is an electric version of the popular F-150 truck, which means it runs on electricity instead of gas. It's designed to do everything a regular truck can do but with the benefits of being more environmentally friendly.
The Ford F-150 Lightning is an all-electric version of the best-selling F-150 pickup truck, offering a blend of traditional truck capabilities with modern electric performance. It represents Ford's commitment to electrification in the pickup segment, though recent announcements indicate some changes in its production strategy.
Honda Ev Fits
"...even to do that and I just don't know how well an EV fits into that lifestyle yeah when you're looking for..."
The Honda Fit EV is an electric car that is small and easy to drive, perfect for city use. It's designed to save energy and is a good option for people who want to be more environmentally friendly.
The Honda Fit EV is an electric version of the popular Honda Fit, designed for urban commuting with an emphasis on efficiency and practicality. While it was a pioneer in the electric vehicle market, its availability was limited, making it a unique choice for eco-conscious drivers.
Tesla Model 3
"...estions about for a while they were building the Model 3 in a tent outside the factory you know so people ..."
The Tesla Model 3 is a small car that runs on electricity instead of gas, making it better for the environment. It's popular because it can go a long distance on a single charge and has a lot of cool technology inside.
The Tesla Model 3 is a compact electric sedan that has gained popularity for its impressive range, performance, and technology features. It represents Tesla's effort to make electric vehicles more accessible to the average consumer.
Nissan Leaf
"...oked at as a follower even though it launched the leaf an electric car and had a you know because some ..."
The Nissan Leaf is an electric car that doesn't use gas and is designed to be affordable and easy to drive. It's one of the first electric cars that many people bought, helping to make electric cars more popular.
The Nissan Leaf is one of the first mass-produced electric cars, known for its practicality and affordability. It has played a significant role in popularizing electric vehicles and continues to be a choice for eco-conscious drivers.
Porsche 917
"...miles an hour but at Le Mans Vic Alfred's Porsche 917 raged down the Mulson straight at 248 miles per ..."
The Porsche 917 is a famous race car known for being super fast and winning big races in the 1970s. It's considered one of the best racing cars ever made because of its special design and speed.
The Porsche 917 is a legendary race car that achieved significant success in the 1970s, particularly at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Its design and engineering innovations have made it an iconic symbol of automotive performance and racing history.
Ferrari 512
"...hour the racing pit of the Porsche 917 versus the Ferrari 512 the fastest road racing ever and Rodentrack sent..."
The Ferrari 512 M is a super-fast sports car made for racing in the 1970s. It's famous for its speed and is considered one of the best cars Ferrari has ever made.
The Ferrari 512 M is a high-performance sports car that was designed for endurance racing in the 1970s. Known for its speed and engineering excellence, it remains an iconic model in Ferrari's racing history.
Toyota Corolla
"...der or even you know some car like that a Toyota Corolla Honda Civic Hyundai Elantra those cars are very f..."
Honda Civic
"...u know some car like that a Toyota Corolla Honda Civic Hyundai Elantra those cars are very fuel efficien..."
Hyundai Elantra
"...r like that a Toyota Corolla Honda Civic Hyundai Elantra those cars are very fuel efficient on the highway..."
The Hyundai Elantra is a small car that is good on gas and easy to drive. It's a popular choice for people looking for a reliable and affordable vehicle.
The Hyundai Elantra is a compact sedan that offers a balance of efficiency, comfort, and technology at an affordable price. It is often compared to other compact cars like the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic for its value and reliability.
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