First Drive Road Test: 2026 Toyota RAV4 Takes on Arizona Desert
About this episode
The episode features a detailed road test of the 2026 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition, highlighting its hybrid powertrain and off-road capabilities. Co-host Chris Teague discusses the 2025 Kia Sportage X-Pro Prestige, comparing its performance and features. The hosts also delve into automotive news, including Ram's innovative NASCAR driver program, the rise of driverless taxis, and Ford's partnership with Amazon for online used car sales. Special guest Ashton Munoz shares insights about the Dodge Charger and its new powertrains, including a twin-turbo inline-six engine.
This week on America on the Road, Jack Nerad and Chris Teague drive a pair of compact SUVs that are among the most popular vehicles in America. Jack takes the wheel of the rugged new 2026 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition, while Chris puts the off-road-ready 2025 Kia Sportage X-Pro Prestige through its paces. Our news segment includes important announcements at the Los Angeles Auto Show, breakthrough developments in autonomous driving, and a surprising new partnership that puts Ford on Amazon’s digital storefront. In our exclusive interview, we welcome Ashton Munoz, Dodge Challenger & Charger Brand/Product Manager, who joins us to discuss Dodge’s latest performance direction.
🚙 Jack Nerad Test-Drives the 2026 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Woodland EditionJack was one of the first journalists to get behind the wheel of Toyota’s latest SUV, the 2026 Toyota RAV4 Woodland Edition, a model that blends hybrid efficiency with real all-weather utility. Using Toyota’s fifth-generation hybrid system paired with a 2.5-liter engine and on-demand AWD, the Woodland Edition enhances the bestselling RAV4 Hybrid with unique wheels, all-terrain tires, and functional upgrades aimed at light-trail users. Inside, Toyota updates the tech story with a 10.5-inch multimedia system, a fully digital 12.3-inch gauge cluster, and 5G connectivity. Jack details how the Woodland Edition balances comfort, capability, and hybrid performance for buyers who split time between urban commuting and weekend adventure.
🚗 Chris Teague Test-Drives the 2025 Kia Sportage X-Pro PrestigeChris takes the 2025 Kia Sportage X-Pro Prestige on- and off-road, highlighting its rugged AWD tuning and 187-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an 8-speed automatic. With 8.3 inches of ground clearance, off-road-friendly approach and departure angles, and a multi-link rear suspension, the X-Pro Prestige brings surprising capability to the compact SUV class. The roomy cabin offers more than 41 inches of legroom in both rows, while the dual-level cargo floor allows up to 74.1 cubic feet of storage. Chris examines its combination of refinement, cargo flexibility, and light-trail confidence, along with its 26-mpg combined fuel economy and 2,500-pound towing capacity.
🎙️ Special Guest Interview: Ashton Munoz, Dodge Challenger & Charger Brand/Product ManagerJack sits down with Dodge’s Ashton Munoz for an inside look at the brand’s new Charger product strategy as it launches a new era of muscle performance. Munoz shares insights on design direction, product planning, and how Dodge is keeping its performance identity strong in a changing market.
📰 This Week’s HeadlinesRam Could Make You a Race Car Driver
Ram is shaking up the NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series with a “Free Agent” driver program that puts a rotating lineup of racers behind the wheel of the No. 25 Ram 1500. Drivers from across motorsports can apply, and each race will feature a different competitor. Ram aims to inject fresh energy into the series while anchoring the program with full-time entries from Brenden Queen, Daniel Dye, and Justin Haley.
Driverless Taxis Hit the Freeways
Waymo has expanded its autonomous service to major freeways in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Phoenix. Riders can now travel highway routes, including a full 45-mile stretch from San Francisco to San Jose International Airport, entirely without a human driver. Competition is heating up, with Zoox scaling production and Tesla teasing its 2026 Cybercab.
Ford and Amazon Team Up for Online CPO Sales
Ford Blue Advantage certified pre-owned vehicles are now available through Amazon Autos in Los Angeles, Seattle, and Dallas. Shoppers can browse, finance, and schedule pickup online, though some dealers are wary about how Amazon’s marketplace could reshape customer relationships. Up to 180 dealers have expressed interest in the program.
Subaru and Lexus Go All-In on Pop Culture
Subaru brings back its Barkley dog family for holiday ads, including a chase involving the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile. Meanwhile, Lexus unveils a “Karaoke LX” tied to the premiere of “Wicked,” complete with emerald-and-pink detailing and Broadway-ready audio. Both brands lean heavily on pop culture to stand out during the holiday ad rush.
Myra from LaCrosse, Wisconsin, asks:
“I’m thinking of buying a family SUV, and I’m wondering what’s the best midsize SUV for reliability? That means a lot to me.”
Jack and Chris reference the latest J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Index for guidance.
Jack’s crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same, is now available in paperback and eBook on Amazon.
🎧 Where to ListenCatch America on the Road each week on this station, subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts. Audacy, iHeart Radio, and Spotify, and check out our YouTube and Rumble channels for road tests and short videos. Please like, subscribe, and share the show with friends.
🎙️ HostsJack Nerad — Award-winning auto journalist and author of Only One Thing Stays the Same
Chris Teague — Longtime auto critic and journalist
📢 Presented by• 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 How to Buy an Affordable Electric Car: A Tightwad’s Guide to EV Ownership.
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.
Kia Sportage
"...I spent the week behind the wheel of the 2025 Kia Sportage X-Pro Prestige. It's a vehicle I actually got able to see being built in Georgia a few weeks ago."
The Kia Sportage is a compact SUV that offers a lot of space and features. The X-Pro Prestige is a specific version of this model that has extra features and upgrades for a more luxurious experience.
The Kia Sportage X-Pro Prestige is a trim level of the Sportage, a compact SUV known for its practicality and modern features. The 2025 model includes various enhancements in technology and comfort compared to previous versions.
Toyota Rav4
"or a competitor of the 2026 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition. So we'll tell you all about that."
The RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition is a version of the Toyota RAV4 that is more suited for outdoor activities, offering special features for off-roading.
The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Woodland Edition is a special variant of the popular RAV4 Hybrid, designed for outdoor enthusiasts with features that enhance its off-road capabilities.
Dodge Challenger
"he's going to be telling us all about the Dodge Challenger and Charger brand, because he is the Charger brand product manager."
The Dodge Challenger is a sporty car that looks like the classic muscle cars from the past and is known for being fast and powerful.
The Dodge Challenger is a classic American muscle car known for its powerful engine options and retro styling, appealing to performance enthusiasts.
Dodge Charger
"he's going to be telling us all about the Dodge Challenger and Charger brand, because he is the Charger brand product manager."
The Dodge Charger is a large car that is known for being fast and powerful, often used by people who enjoy driving sporty vehicles.
The Dodge Charger is a full-size sedan that combines performance with practicality, often recognized for its bold design and powerful engine options.
Craftsman Truck Series
"...Now, Ram is shaking up NASCAR in the Craftsman Truck Series with a new idea."
The Craftsman Truck Series is a NASCAR racing series where trucks race against each other. It's different from regular car races and has its own set of rules.
The Craftsman Truck Series is a NASCAR racing series that features modified pickup trucks. It allows teams to compete in a unique format, showcasing both driver skill and vehicle performance.
Dodge Ram
"But that's about as far as it went for me. Now, Ram is shaking up NASCAR in the Craftsman Truck Serie..."
The Dodge Ram is a tough truck that people use for work or towing things. It's known for being strong and comfortable to drive, and it's also getting attention for racing in NASCAR.
The Dodge Ram, now known simply as Ram, is a line of pickup trucks that has made a name for itself with powerful engines and a robust build. It has been recognized for its performance and comfort, often competing closely with other major truck brands. Recently, Ram has also made headlines for its involvement in motorsports, particularly in NASCAR.
NASCAR
"...Now, Ram is shaking up NASCAR in the Craftsman Truck Series with a new idea."
NASCAR is a type of car racing that happens mostly on oval tracks. It's very popular in the U.S., and the cars used are specially built for racing.
NASCAR, or the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, is a popular motorsport organization in the United States known for its stock car racing events. It features a unique set of rules and a distinct style of racing on oval tracks.
Ram 1500
"...for the 2026 season, the number 25 Ram 1500 team fielded by Colleague Racing will have rotating, quote-unquote,..."
The Ram 1500 is a big truck that people use for work and everyday driving. It's known for being powerful and comfortable.
The Ram 1500 is a full-size pickup truck known for its strong performance, comfort, and advanced technology features. It's popular among both work and recreational users for its versatility.
Jaguar Marks I
"I think that's kind of a fascinating thing to do. It marks, I guess, a landmark for these kinds of vehicles. What's your overall take on this?"
The Jaguar Mark I is an old luxury car from the 1950s that looks really nice and was known for being fast. People talk about it because it's a classic and represents a special time in car history.
The Jaguar Mark I is a classic luxury sedan that was produced in the 1950s and is notable for its elegant design and performance. It represents a significant milestone in Jaguar's history, showcasing the brand's commitment to quality and style. Enthusiasts often discuss the Mark I for its vintage appeal and historical significance.
GM SuperCruise
"...like Ford BlueCruise and GM SuperCruise, those are all highway only."
GM SuperCruise is a technology from General Motors that lets you drive without using your hands on certain highways. It uses special sensors and cameras to keep the car in its lane and make sure you're paying attention to the road.
GM SuperCruise is General Motors' semi-autonomous driving system that allows for hands-free driving on compatible highways. It uses a combination of LiDAR mapping, cameras, and sensors to navigate and maintain lane position while ensuring driver attention through a monitoring system.
Ford BlueCruise
"...like Ford BlueCruise and GM SuperCruise, those are all highway only."
Ford BlueCruise is a feature that lets you drive your car without using your hands on the steering wheel, but only on certain highways. It uses cameras to keep the car in its lane and control its speed.
Ford BlueCruise is a hands-free driving technology that allows for semi-autonomous driving on certain highways. It uses cameras and sensors to monitor the road and surrounding environment, enabling the vehicle to steer, accelerate, and brake without driver input under specific conditions.
Waymo
"Of course, Waymo is going to have some competition. Amazon is preparing to build Zooks Robo Taxis."
Waymo is a company that makes self-driving cars. They are working on technology to allow cars to drive themselves without a human driver.
Waymo is a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc. that focuses on developing self-driving car technology. They are known for their autonomous vehicles and are a leader in the autonomous taxi industry.
Zooks
"Amazon is preparing to build Zooks Robo Taxis."
Zooks is a company that is working on making self-driving taxis. They are part of Amazon and want to create cars that can drive people around without anyone in the driver's seat.
Zooks is a company owned by Amazon that is developing autonomous vehicles, specifically designed for ride-hailing services. Their focus is on creating fully electric self-driving taxis.
Tesla
"Tesla, of course, wants to have cyber cab service by next year."
Tesla is a company that makes electric cars and is working on self-driving technology. They are popular for their high-tech vehicles.
Tesla is an American electric vehicle and clean energy company founded by Elon Musk and others. They are known for their innovative approach to electric cars and autonomous driving technology.
Amazon
"...Go figure. Ford and Amazon are teaming up to offer used vehicles,..."
Amazon is a big online shopping website that sells many things, including cars now.
Amazon is a multinational technology company that has expanded into various sectors, including e-commerce and automotive services.
certified pre-owned vehicles
"...to offer used vehicles, in this case certified pre-owned vehicles online,..."
Certified pre-owned vehicles are used cars that have been checked and approved to ensure they're in good condition, usually with some warranty.
Certified pre-owned vehicles are used cars that have been inspected and certified by the manufacturer or dealer, often coming with a warranty.
CPO vehicles
"They're offering CPO vehicles there."
CPO vehicles are used cars that have been checked and certified to be in good condition, often coming with a warranty to give buyers extra peace of mind.
CPO stands for Certified Pre-Owned vehicles, which are used cars that have been inspected, refurbished, and certified by a manufacturer or dealer. They often come with extended warranties and other benefits.
CPO cars
"This is rolled out on CPO cars, a certified pre-owned, in Los Angeles, Seattle, and Dallas."
CPO cars are used cars that have been checked and certified to be in good shape. They often come with a warranty, so buyers can feel more secure about their purchase.
CPO stands for Certified Pre-Owned, which refers to used vehicles that have been inspected, refurbished, and certified by the manufacturer or dealer. These cars typically come with a warranty and are considered to be in good condition.
Lexus
"...it's kind of interesting to me that Subaru and Lexus are kind of leaning on pop culture to sell vehicles."
Lexus is a luxury car brand from Japan that is part of Toyota, famous for making comfortable and high-end vehicles.
Lexus is the luxury vehicle division of the Japanese automaker Toyota, known for its high-quality, comfortable cars and advanced technology.
Subaru
"...it's kind of interesting to me that Subaru and Lexus are kind of leaning on pop culture to sell vehicles."
Subaru is a car company from Japan that makes vehicles known for being tough and good in all weather conditions.
Subaru is a Japanese automotive manufacturer known for its all-wheel-drive vehicles and rugged designs, often appealing to outdoor enthusiasts.
all-terrain tires
"These are like all-terrain tires and plastic skid plates and things like that to make it look beefier."
All-terrain tires are special tires that work well on different types of surfaces, like roads and dirt paths.
All-terrain tires are designed to provide good traction on a variety of surfaces, including both paved roads and off-road conditions.
2.5-liter four-cylinder
"It's a 2.5-liter four-cylinder. It makes 187 horsepower."
A 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine means it has four cylinders and can hold 2.5 liters of fuel and air mixture. It's a common engine size that offers a good mix of power and fuel savings.
A 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine refers to an engine with four cylinders and a total displacement of 2.5 liters. This size is common in compact and midsize cars, providing a balance of power and fuel efficiency.
horsepower
"It makes 187 horsepower, 178 pound-feet of torque."
Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful an engine is. More horsepower usually means the car can go faster and accelerate better.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, indicating how much work an engine can perform over time. Higher horsepower typically means better acceleration and performance.
torque
"178 pound-feet of torque, which reaches all four wheels in the X-Pro model."
Torque is a measure of how strong an engine is when it starts moving. More torque helps the car accelerate faster and pull heavier loads.
Torque measures the twisting force an engine generates, which is crucial for acceleration and pulling power. Higher torque is beneficial for tasks like towing and off-road driving.
8-speed transmission
"via an 8-speed transmission. So 187 horsepower doesn't sound all that great on paper."
An 8-speed transmission means the car can change gears eight different ways. This helps the car drive smoothly and use fuel more efficiently.
An 8-speed transmission refers to a type of gearbox that has eight different gear ratios, allowing for smoother acceleration and improved fuel efficiency by keeping the engine in its optimal power range.
blind spot monitoring
"So blind spot monitoring with the camera system in this car, forward collision alerts, rear automatic braking, all the rest."
Blind spot monitoring helps drivers see cars that are hard to notice when changing lanes. It warns you if there's a car in your blind spot, making driving safer.
Blind spot monitoring is a safety feature that uses sensors to detect vehicles in the driver's blind spots and alerts the driver, often through visual or audible warnings.
forward collision alerts
"...forward collision alerts, rear automatic braking, all the rest."
Forward collision alerts help you know if you're getting too close to the car in front of you. It gives you a warning to avoid an accident.
Forward collision alerts are safety systems that warn drivers of an impending collision with a vehicle or object in front, often using visual and audible signals.
rear automatic braking
"...rear automatic braking, all the rest. So I think if I were going for this vehicle..."
Rear automatic braking helps stop your car if it senses something behind you while you're backing up, which can prevent crashes.
Rear automatic braking is a safety feature that automatically applies the brakes when a potential collision is detected while reversing, helping to prevent accidents.
Ford F150
"recently. Outselling the Ford F-150 I think last year, kind of amazing."
The Ford F-150 is a big truck that many people use for work or to haul things. It's very popular because it's strong, can carry a lot, and comes in different styles to fit what you need.
The Ford F-150 is a full-size pickup truck that has been a best-seller in the United States for decades. Its significance lies in its versatility, strong performance, and wide range of configurations, making it popular among both work and leisure users. The F-150's sales figures often reflect broader trends in the automotive market.
off-road
"...this is a vehicle that's kind of meant for off-road, but kind of light off-roading, light trail driving, maybe dirt roads are what people consider off-roads with this vehicle."
Off-road means driving on surfaces that aren't regular roads, like dirt paths or trails. Cars made for off-roading are built to handle rough and uneven ground.
Off-road refers to driving on unpaved surfaces, such as dirt roads, trails, or rugged terrains. Vehicles designed for off-road use typically have features like higher ground clearance and specialized tires to handle rough conditions.
all-wheel drive
"...and it has unique wheels, all-terrain tires and exterior upgrades that make it a..."
All-wheel drive means that all four wheels of the car get power from the engine, which helps the car grip the road better, especially in bad weather or on rough terrain.
All-wheel drive (AWD) is a drivetrain system that provides power to all four wheels of a vehicle simultaneously, improving traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions or off-road situations.
hybrid system
"...and it has unique wheels, all-terrain tires and exterior upgrades that make it a..."
A hybrid system uses both a regular gas engine and an electric motor to help the car use less fuel and produce fewer emissions. It can switch between the two or use both at the same time.
A hybrid system combines an internal combustion engine with an electric motor to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. It can operate on either power source or both simultaneously, depending on driving conditions.
Honda Pilot
"I've got the Honda Pilot or Passport"
The Honda Pilot is a larger SUV designed for families, providing plenty of room for passengers and luggage.
The Honda Pilot is a midsize SUV that offers spacious seating and cargo capacity, making it a family-friendly option.
Honda Passport
"I've got the Honda Pilot or Passport"
The Honda Passport is an SUV that is built for adventure, offering more off-road features than the Honda Pilot.
The Honda Passport is a midsize SUV that emphasizes off-road capability and ruggedness compared to its sibling, the Pilot.
Toyota Highlander
"it's hard to go wrong with the Toyota Highlander it's hard to go wrong with the Honda Pilot I thin..."
The Toyota Highlander is a popular family SUV that has three rows of seats, so it can fit a lot of people. It's known for being safe and lasting a long time, which makes it a good choice for many families.
The Toyota Highlander is a midsize SUV that is well-regarded for its reliability, safety features, and family-friendly design. It offers a comfortable ride with three rows of seating, making it suitable for larger families or those needing extra space. The Highlander's reputation for durability makes it a popular choice among consumers.
Hyundai Palisade
"points on them the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade have proven over the past what almost seven years"
The Hyundai Palisade is a roomy SUV that families often choose because it has lots of space and good features. It's known for being comfortable and has a lot of technology to help make driving easier.
The Hyundai Palisade is a midsize SUV that has gained attention for its spacious interior, advanced technology, and overall value. Since its introduction, it has been praised for its comfort and family-friendly features, making it a strong competitor in its segment. The Palisade's success reflects Hyundai's commitment to quality and design.
Nissan Murano
"among midsize SUVs in dependability the Nissan Murano the Chevy Blazer"
The Nissan Murano is a midsize SUV that looks nice and is comfortable to ride in. It's known for being dependable and has features that make it easy to use, which is why many people like it.
The Nissan Murano is a midsize SUV that is recognized for its stylish design and comfortable interior. It has been praised for its reliability and user-friendly technology, making it a solid choice for families and individuals alike. The Murano's blend of performance and comfort has helped it maintain a strong presence in the competitive SUV market.
Toyota Venza
"and one of your favorites of all time the Toyota Venza not exactly intuitive but I think"
The Toyota Venza is a crossover vehicle that feels like a mix between an SUV and a car. It's known for being stylish and good on gas, making it a nice choice for people who want something comfortable to drive.
The Toyota Venza is a midsize crossover that combines the attributes of an SUV with a more car-like driving experience. It is appreciated for its stylish design, fuel efficiency, and advanced safety features. Although it may not be as intuitive as some competitors, it offers a unique blend of comfort and practicality.
GMC Acadia
"I guess a more expensive GMC Acadia Buick Enclave and the Mazda CX-9 which is a vehic..."
The GMC Acadia is a roomy SUV that can fit a lot of people and has nice features. It's comfortable to drive and looks good, which makes it a popular choice for families.
The GMC Acadia is a midsize SUV that offers a spacious interior and a range of features aimed at families. It is known for its comfortable ride and upscale design, making it a popular choice among those looking for a more premium SUV experience. The Acadia competes with other midsize SUVs, providing a balance of style and practicality.
Buick Enclave
"I guess a more expensive GMC Acadia Buick Enclave and the Mazda CX-9 which is a vehicle"
Mazda Cx9
"Acadia Buick Enclave and the Mazda CX-9 which is a vehicle that I like a lot these all"
The Mazda CX-9 is a family SUV that drives more like a sporty car, which many people like. It has three rows of seats and lots of tech features, making it a fun and practical choice for families.
The Mazda CX-9 is a midsize SUV that stands out for its sporty handling and upscale interior. It offers three rows of seating and a variety of technology features, making it a great option for families who enjoy a more engaging driving experience. The CX-9's design and performance have earned it a loyal following among SUV enthusiasts.
Porsche 917
"but at Le Mans Vic Alfred's Porsche 917 raged down the mulsins straight"
The Porsche 917 is a famous race car that was really fast and won important races. It's talked about a lot because it helped make Porsche a well-known name in racing.
The Porsche 917 is a legendary race car that played a significant role in the history of endurance racing, particularly at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Known for its speed and innovative design, the 917 helped establish Porsche's reputation in motorsports. Its iconic status and performance make it a frequent topic of discussion among car enthusiasts.
Ferrari 512
"the racing pitted the Porsche 917 versus the Ferrari 512 the fastest road racing ever"
The Ferrari 512 M is a super-fast race car from the 1970s that was famous for competing against other great cars like the Porsche 917. It's talked about a lot because of its cool design and important place in racing history.
The Ferrari 512 M is a high-performance race car that competed in the endurance racing scene during the 1970s. Known for its speed and engineering excellence, it was part of the legendary rivalry with the Porsche 917. The 512 M is often discussed for its iconic design and significant role in motorsport history.
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