Driving America: The Best And Worst States Explained
About this episode
Chip Lupo from Wallet Hub joins the hosts to discuss the findings of a study ranking the best and worst states for driving in 2026. The conversation covers various factors influencing these rankings, such as cost of ownership, road safety, and access to maintenance. Texas ranks 13th overall, with notable discussions on gas prices, road quality, and car theft rates. The hosts share personal anecdotes and insights about driving conditions in their respective states, making for an engaging and informative dialogue about regional driving experiences.
Think your state has the worst drivers? We put that assumption to the test with WalletHub’s 2026 rankings, breaking down where it’s cheapest, safest, and most convenient to own and drive a car—and why it rarely matches what your daily commute feels like. With WalletHub’s Chip Lupo, we unpack a clear four-part framework: cost of ownership and maintenance, traffic and infrastructure, safety, and access to vehicles and repair. We go beyond headlines to the practical questions drivers actually face: How do gas prices and insurance premiums stack up? Does dealership and shop density change how well people maintain their cars? Where do theft and fatality risks really live, and how do sprawling metros skew statewide averages?
Texas becomes our on-the-road case study. Ranked 13th overall, it benefits from strong access to dealerships and service and competitive fuel prices, even as fast growth and weather nudge road quality down the list. We contrast urban congestion in Houston and Dallas with the relief found on rural stretches, then look at how fatality rates include pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcycles—an essential nuance when speed limits function more like guidelines than rules. For anyone planning a move, budgeting for a teen driver, or weighing a new car purchase, the data offers a map to smarter decisions: fuel, insurance, registration fees, property taxes on vehicles, and maintenance costs all add up differently by state.
We keep it useful with two hands-on segments. First, a Motor Minute on tire disposal that shows the cleanest, legal ways to recycle or repurpose old rubber—retailer returns, city transfer stations, and safe DIY options. Then we take the Lexus RX 450h+ for a deep spin: standout design, refined cabin, satisfying power, and real-world efficiency, with a few ergonomic wishes for more physical controls. If you’re curious where your state lands, how the numbers are built, and what choices actually lower your total cost of ownership, this episode connects the dots from policy to pavement.
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Jeep Patriot
"2016 Jeep Patriot, which I will drive until the wheels fall off. Yeah. Now, of course, you want..."
The Jeep Patriot is a small SUV made by Jeep, known for being tough and good for off-road driving. It was made until 2017.
The Jeep Patriot is a compact SUV that was produced by Jeep from 2006 to 2017. It is known for its off-road capability and utilitarian design, making it a popular choice for those seeking a versatile vehicle.
Nissan
"...my father worked at a Nissan also built in the service department many years in North Carolina. And it was exactly as you, as you cited it there."
Nissan is a car company from Japan that makes many types of vehicles, including cars and trucks. They are known for making reliable cars and have popular models like the Nissan Altima and Nissan Rogue.
Nissan is a Japanese automotive manufacturer known for producing a wide range of vehicles, from compact cars to trucks and SUVs. The brand has a reputation for reliability and innovation, particularly in electric vehicles with models like the Nissan Leaf.
Toyota
"...one of the downsides of buying an import, whether it's some of these have really high resale value, whether they're Toyotas or Hondas, is that when they do"
Toyota is another car company from Japan that makes many popular cars, like the Camry and Corolla. They are known for making reliable cars that hold their value well over time.
Toyota is a leading Japanese automotive manufacturer recognized for its commitment to quality, durability, and reliability. The brand is well-known for its popular models such as the Camry and Corolla, and it has a strong reputation for high resale value.
Ford Escort
"...as it would be for a, maybe a Ford Escort or something. I was going to say a Chevy Impala."
The Ford Escort is a small car that Ford made for many years. It was popular because it was affordable and practical for everyday use.
The Ford Escort was a compact car produced by Ford from the early 1980s until the early 2000s. It was known for its affordability and practicality, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers.
brake pads
"...break pads or something, they're going to be like twice as much for a Honda Accord as it would be for a, maybe a Ford Escort or something."
Brake pads are parts of your car that help it stop when you press the brake pedal. They can wear out and need to be replaced to keep your car safe.
Brake pads are components of a vehicle's braking system that press against the brake rotors to create friction and slow down or stop the vehicle. They are essential for safe driving and can wear out over time, requiring replacement.
Honda Accord
"...they're going to be like twice as much for a Honda Accord as it would be for a, maybe a Ford Escort or something."
The Honda Accord is a well-known car that many people drive. It's known for being reliable and good on gas, making it a popular choice for families and commuters.
The Honda Accord is a popular midsize sedan known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and spacious interior. It has been a best-seller in the U.S. for many years and is often praised for its comfortable ride and advanced safety features.
Chevrolet Impala
"...I was going to say a Chevy Impala. Oh, they don't matter. There you go. Oopsie Daisy."
The Chevy Impala is a large car made by Chevrolet. It's known for being roomy and comfortable, making it a good choice for families.
The Chevrolet Impala is a full-size sedan that has been a staple of American automotive culture since its introduction in the 1950s. Known for its spacious interior and smooth ride, the Impala has been popular among families and fleet services.
Chevrolet Corvette
"I've got an old Corvette doesn't get driven very much, but I don't want to take it to some place that I think that it's going to get stolen."
The Chevrolet Corvette is a famous sports car that many people love. It's known for being fast and having a unique look.
The Chevrolet Corvette is a high-performance sports car known for its distinctive design and powerful engine options. It's a symbol of American automotive engineering and has a strong enthusiast following.
numbers matching
"unless of course they've got some, you know, special, you know, numbers matching 1963 split window Chevrolet Corvette coupe or something"
'Numbers matching' means that a classic car still has the same engine and parts it came with when it was first made. This can make the car more valuable to collectors.
The term 'numbers matching' refers to a classic car where the engine, transmission, and other components have their original factory numbers. This is important for collectors as it can significantly increase the car's value.
insurance
"...the insurance obviously is a factor, particularly for like a sports car, even if you, and if you keep a strict budget..."
Car insurance is a way to protect yourself financially if you get into an accident. If you have a sports car, your insurance might cost more because those cars are usually faster and can be more expensive to repair.
Insurance for vehicles is a financial product that provides coverage for damages or injuries resulting from accidents involving the insured vehicle. Sports cars typically have higher insurance premiums due to their performance capabilities and associated risks.
registration fees
"...registration from what I understand. Registrate registration and some, some states do charge property taxes on vehicles too. So that's another thing."
Registration fees are what you pay to officially register your car with the government so you can drive it legally. Different states have different costs for this.
Registration fees are charges imposed by the state to register a vehicle for legal operation on public roads. These fees can vary significantly from state to state and may include additional costs like property taxes on vehicles.
property taxes
"...California. Well, I'm assuming. Yeah. Yeah. California and Louisiana has a state tax as well. I found out recently."
Property taxes on cars are fees you pay based on how much your car is worth. Not all states charge this, but some do, and it can increase how much you spend on your vehicle each year.
Property taxes on vehicles are taxes levied by some states based on the value of the vehicle owned. These taxes can add to the overall cost of vehicle ownership and vary by location.
winter tires
"winter tires, summer tires. The best way, maybe the easiest way to get rid of your tires is to return them to the retail store where you buy them."
Winter tires are tires made for driving in cold weather, snow, and ice. They help your car grip the road better when it's slippery outside.
Winter tires are specially designed to provide better traction and handling in cold weather conditions, particularly on snow and ice. They are made from a softer rubber compound that remains flexible in low temperatures, enhancing grip.
summer tires
"winter tires, summer tires. The best way, maybe the easiest way to get rid of your tires is to return them to the retail store where you buy them."
Summer tires are tires made for warm weather. They help your car handle better on dry and wet roads, but they aren't safe to use in snow or ice.
Summer tires are designed for optimal performance in warm weather conditions. They provide better handling and braking on dry and wet roads compared to winter tires, but they are not suitable for snow or ice.
recycling program
"It's important to dispose of these tires right away through a recycling program and not in a way that can be dangerous to your health or the environment."
A recycling program for tires helps to safely dispose of old tires so they don't harm the environment. It makes sure the tires are reused or processed properly instead of being thrown away.
A recycling program for tires involves collecting used tires and processing them in a way that minimizes environmental impact. This can include shredding them for use in other products or repurposing them in various applications.
Nitto
"some Nitto or some sort of, you know, Michelin racing or something sticky"
Nitto makes tires that are designed for better grip and performance, especially for racing or off-road driving.
Nitto is a well-known tire manufacturer that specializes in high-performance tires for various types of vehicles, including racing and off-road applications.
Michelin
"some Nitto or some sort of, you know, Michelin racing or something sticky"
Michelin makes tires that are used on many cars and are known for their quality and performance, especially in racing.
Michelin is a leading tire manufacturer known for producing a wide range of tires, including those for racing, passenger vehicles, and trucks.
Lexus RX 450H Plus
"Had a chance to drive the Lexus RX 450H Plus. I've told the story a bit jillion times..."
The Lexus RX 450H Plus is a new type of car that uses both gas and electricity to run, making it more environmentally friendly. It has a roomy interior and comes with modern tech features.
The Lexus RX 450H Plus is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) that combines a gasoline engine with electric motors for improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. It offers a spacious interior and advanced technology features.
trim levels
"So here are the trim levels. 350, 350H hybrid, 350F Sport..."
Trim levels are different versions of the same car model that come with various features and options. Some might be more basic, while others have more luxury or technology.
Trim levels refer to the different versions of a vehicle model that come with varying features, options, and price points. Each trim level may offer different performance specifications, interior materials, and technology packages.
PHEV
"This is a PHEV. That's a hybrid. Five seats..."
A PHEV is a car that can be plugged in to charge its battery and also uses gas. It can drive on electricity alone for a while before switching to gas, making it more efficient.
PHEV stands for Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle, which is a type of vehicle that can be charged from an external power source and uses both an electric motor and a gasoline engine for propulsion. This allows for greater electric-only driving range compared to traditional hybrids.
infotainment screen
"Stand-alone instrument cluster and a great big infotainment screen. Non-cluttered center console, read minimalist."
An infotainment screen is a screen in the car that shows information like maps and music. It helps you stay connected while driving.
An infotainment screen is a display in a vehicle that provides information and entertainment features, such as navigation, music, and vehicle settings. It often integrates with smartphones and other devices for a connected experience.
plug-in hybrid
"...engine, 2.5-liter four-cylinder plug-in hybrid of 304 combined horsepower..."
A plug-in hybrid is a type of car that can run on electricity or gasoline. You can charge it by plugging it into an outlet, which helps save fuel and can let you drive short distances without using gas.
A plug-in hybrid is a vehicle that can be charged from an external power source and uses both a gasoline engine and an electric motor. This allows for greater fuel efficiency and the ability to drive on electric power alone for short distances.
horsepower
"...304 combined horsepower, CVT transmission, tow rating, believe it or not, 3,500 pounds..."
Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful an engine is. The higher the horsepower, the faster and more powerful the car can be.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, commonly used to quantify the power output of engines. It indicates how much work an engine can perform over time, affecting a vehicle's acceleration and top speed.
CVT transmission
"...304 combined horsepower, CVT transmission, tow rating, believe it or not, 3,500 pounds, which is a lot."
A CVT transmission is a special kind of automatic transmission that helps the car change gears smoothly without any noticeable shifts. This can make driving feel more comfortable and can save fuel.
A CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) is a type of automatic transmission that can change seamlessly through a continuous range of gear ratios. This allows for smoother acceleration and improved fuel efficiency compared to traditional automatic transmissions.
miles per gallon
"...it's 85 miles per gallon electric, 35 for the gas only..."
Miles per gallon (MPG) tells you how far a car can go using one gallon of gas. Higher MPG means the car is more fuel-efficient and will cost less to drive.
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 understanding a car's fuel efficiency and operating costs.
Mercedes-Benz GLE 450E
"...Competitors, Mercedes-Benz GLE 450E, $72,525. BMW X5, $76,375..."
The Mercedes-Benz GLE 450E is a hybrid SUV that uses both electricity and gasoline to power the vehicle, making it more efficient than traditional gas-only models.
The Mercedes-Benz GLE 450E is a plug-in hybrid version of the GLE SUV, combining electric and gasoline power for improved efficiency and performance.
BMW X5
"...Competitors, Mercedes-Benz GLE 450E, $72,525. BMW X5, $76,375..."
The BMW X5 is a luxury SUV that offers a comfortable ride and lots of features, making it a popular choice among families and those who want a premium vehicle.
The BMW X5 is a luxury mid-size SUV known for its sporty performance, high-quality interior, and advanced technology features.
Acura MDX Type S
"...the Acura MDX Type S non-hybrid is $77,3. Wow. Expensive. Next week I'm going to review..."
The Acura MDX Type S is a sportier version of the MDX, which is a mid-size SUV. It has more powerful engines and better features than the regular MDX.
The Acura MDX Type S is a performance-oriented variant of the popular MDX SUV, offering enhanced features and a more powerful engine compared to the standard model.
Hyundai Santa Fe
"...Next week I'm going to review the Hyundai Santa Fe and I think that you'll really enjoy that..."
The Hyundai Santa Fe is a family-friendly SUV that provides a lot of space and features for a reasonable price, making it a good choice for many buyers.
The Hyundai Santa Fe is a mid-size SUV that offers a balance of comfort, technology, and value, making it a strong competitor in its class.
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