{"version":"1.0.0","episode":{"title":"Spring Training Special: 2026 Volvo XC90 Plug-in Hybrid Takes on Arizona Heat","url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/spring-training-special-2026-volvo-xc90-plug-in-hybrid-takes-on-arizona-heat","audioUrl":"https://media.blubrry.com/america_on_the_road/mc.blubrry.com/america_on_the_road/AOTR_Episode_311_airs_3-21-2026.mp3?awCollectionId=1236214&awEpisodeId=12027797&aw_0_azn.pgenre=Leisure&aw_0_1st.ri=blubrry&aw_0_azn.pcountry=US&aw_0_azn.planguage=en&cat_exclude=IAB1-8%2CIAB1-9%2CIAB7-41%2CIAB8-5%2CIAB8-18%2CIAB11-4%2CIAB23%2CIAB24%2CIAB25%2CIAB26&aw_0_cnt.rss=https%3A%2F%2Fdrivingtoday.com%2Ffeed%2Fpodcast%2F","description":"This week on America on the Road, hosts Jack Nerad and Chris Teague test the 2026 Volvo XC90 and Kia K4 Hatchback. In the news, they unpack climbing gas prices tied to global tensions, which are driving an uptick in searches for electrified vehicles, and cover the upcoming 2027 Infiniti QX65 fastback luxury crossover, the updated 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-in Hybrid, and sweeping safety recalls affecting Hyundai Palisade and Ford vehicles. They’ll also discuss ambitious plans from Rivian and Lucid to reach mainstream buyers as consumer interest in battery-electric vehicles wanes.\n🚗 Jack Nerad’s Road Test: 2026 Volvo XC90 T8 AWD Ultra\nThe Volvo XC90 remains a benchmark in the midsize three-row luxury SUV segment, and the 2026 T8 plug-in hybrid Ultra trim delivers calm, refined performance with a combined 455 horsepower from its turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder and electric motor setup. Jack tested it during his Spring Training trip to Arizona, praising its smooth power delivery, quick acceleration, quiet cabin, excellent ride comfort, premium Nappa leather interior with ventilated seats and four-zone climate control, advanced Google-based infotainment, comprehensive safety suite including Pilot Assist, and up to 32 miles of electric-only range. At around $89,695 as tested, it excels in family practicality, safety, and relaxed long-haul comfort over aggressive sportiness.\n🚙 Chris Teague’s Road Test: 2026 Kia K4 Hatchback GT-Line Turbo\nChris Teague spotlights the 2026 Kia K4 Hatchback GT-Line Turbo, the sporty flagship of Kia’s new compact five-door lineup. It combines a peppy 1.6-liter turbocharged engine (190 hp, 195 lb-ft) with an eight-speed automatic and front-wheel drive, plus a sport-tuned suspension, multi-link rear, and upgraded brakes for engaging handling. The hatchback design boosts versatility with generous rear legroom, 22 cubic feet of cargo, and easy loading. Inside, it shines with dual 12.3-inch displays, wireless connectivity, premium touches like ventilated seats and robust driver aids. But does it have the performance credibility its looks suggest?\n🎙️ Special Guest Interview\nSang Lee, National Manager of Product Planning at Kia North America, joins the show as our expert on the all-new 2026 Kia Telluride three-row SUV, discussing its fresh design, updated tech, enhanced capability, and why it has become a standout in the competitive family SUV class.\n📰 This Week’s Headlines\nGas Prices Spark EV Interest\nRising gas prices over $3.75/gallon, driven by Iran tensions, have boosted electrified vehicle searches from 20.7% to 22.4% per Edmunds, but experts say short-term curiosity rarely leads to purchases.\nInfiniti Unveils Sleek 2027 QX65 Crossover\nThe all-new 2027 Infiniti QX65, a fastback-style two-row midsize luxury SUV inspired by the classic FX, debuts in just a few days, with New York Auto Show reveal and U.S. sales starting early summer.\n2026 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Gets Major Upgrade\nThe refreshed 2026 Outlander Plug-in Hybrid arrives in May with 45 miles of EV range, 297 horsepower, sharper handling, refined interior, and pricing from $43,245.\nHyundai Halts Palisade Sales After Fatal Seat Incident\nHyundai has stopped sales of select 2026 Palisade Limited and Calligraphy trims and plans to recall nearly 70,00 vehicles due to an apparenr power seat defect linked to a child fatality.\nFord Issues Massive Recalls on 1.8M+ Vehicles\nFord is recalling over 1.8 million vehicles for headlamp glitches, faulty EGR valves (multiple models), and rearview camera failures causing shutdowns or inverted images in ~1.74 million units.\nRivian Launches Affordable R2 Compact SUV\nRivian’s new R2 compact electric SUV starts around $46,495, offers up to 656 hp, 330 miles of range, off-road capability, and begins production in spring 2026 to challenge the Tesla Model Y.\nLucid Targets Mainstream with Sub-$50K EVs\nLucid revealed a new midsize platform for three models under $50,000—including SUVs Cosmos and Earth—plus cost-cutting Atlas drive tech and a Lunar robotaxi concept partnered with Uber.\n❓ Listener Question\nRicky from Topeka, Kansas asks: “Are extended warranties worth it on today’s modern cars?” Jack and Chris offer their seasoned perspective based on reliability trends and real-world ownership.\n📚 Jack Nerad’s New Book\nJack’s crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same, is available now in paperback and eBook on Amazon — currently at a sale price.\n🎧 Where to Listen\nCatch 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.\nSponsored by Mercury Insurance and DrivingToday.com\n📺 Watch & Subscribe\nFind America on the Road on YouTube and Rumble. Subscribe for road test videos, shorts, and extended reviews.\n📨 Email: editor@drivingtoday.com\nCheck Out Matt DeLorenzo’s Book:\nPick up a copy of co-host Matt DeLorenzo’s terrific new book Mercedes-AMG: Race-Bred Performance\nSpecial Price for Jack’s Newest Crime Novel\nJack 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.\n\n "},"annotations":[{"startTime":68.8,"endTime":79.4,"type":"concept","title":"safety concerns","url":"/glossary/safety-concerns","quote":"Safety concerns are also making headlines. Hyundai has altered sales... Ford is dealing with a sweeping series of recalls...","canonicalId":"concept:safety-concerns","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"Safety concerns are issues that could cause injury or death, prompting actions like sales changes, recalls, or investigations. In this segment, safety headlines include Hyundai’s seat-related incident and Ford’s large recall count, showing how quickly safety issues can escalate.","simplifiedExplanation":"Safety concerns are problems that could hurt people. The hosts mention examples where companies had to take action—either pausing sales or issuing recalls."}},{"startTime":237.0,"endTime":252.6,"type":"concept","title":"searches don't necessarily mean anybody's buying","url":"/glossary/searches-don-t-necessarily-mean-anybody-s-buying","quote":"searches for electrified vehicles... accounted for 22.4%... A couple things I would comment about here... searches don't necessarily mean anybody's buying these vehicles.","canonicalId":"concept:searches-don-t-necessarily-mean-anybody-s-buying","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"The hosts caution that search-interest metrics don’t directly translate to sales. People may research without purchasing, and the segment suggests looking at actual market behavior—like used inventory and discounts—to gauge real demand.","simplifiedExplanation":"Just because people search for something doesn’t mean they’re definitely buying it. The hosts say you have to look at what’s actually happening in the market, not just online interest."}},{"startTime":240.7,"endTime":252.6,"type":"concept","title":"used EV market","url":"/glossary/used-ev-market","quote":"That said, though, the used EV market is rife with very heavily depreciated vehicles with low miles, so I think that there are some good opportunities that people are actually looking to buy.","canonicalId":"concept:used-ev-market","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"The “used EV market” refers to previously owned electric vehicles sold after depreciation. The hosts argue that heavily depreciated EVs with low miles can create buying opportunities even if new EV sales aren’t surging.","simplifiedExplanation":"The used EV market is where you buy electric cars that someone else owned first. The hosts say prices can drop a lot, so there may be good deals on low-mile cars."}},{"startTime":263.1,"endTime":268.0,"type":"concept","title":"coming off lease","url":"/glossary/coming-off-lease","quote":"I think that's where the opportunities are, probably in the lightly used or heavily discounted new electric vehicles out there. I think maybe lightly used is the way to go there, because some are coming off lease...","canonicalId":"concept:coming-off-lease","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"“Coming off lease” describes vehicles returned at the end of a lease term, often with relatively low mileage and in predictable condition. The segment suggests these can feed the “lightly used” market where EV deals may be found.","simplifiedExplanation":"When a lease ends, the car gets returned. Those cars often have low miles, so they can show up as used vehicles at better prices."}},{"startTime":299.0,"endTime":311.4,"type":"concept","title":"plug-in hybrids","url":"/glossary/plug-in-hybrid","quote":"recommit to hybrids and even some plug-in hybrids, because they're cheaper to produce, they're much cheaper to buy, and they get the job done for a lot of people.","canonicalId":"concept:plug-in-hybrid","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.95,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) are hybrids with a larger battery that you can charge from an outlet. They can often drive a meaningful distance on electricity alone, then switch to gas when the battery is depleted.","simplifiedExplanation":"A plug-in hybrid can run on electricity for a while, but it also has a gas engine. You can charge it like an EV, then it uses gas when needed."}},{"startTime":306.8,"endTime":311.4,"type":"concept","title":"can't charge","url":"/glossary/can-t-charge","quote":"there's a lot to be said for strong fuel economy over fully electric for a lot of people who can't charge and for other reasons.","canonicalId":"concept:can-t-charge","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.88,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"The discussion highlights a common EV limitation: not everyone has convenient charging access. For drivers who can’t charge at home or work, hybrids and plug-in hybrids can be easier to live with because they still rely on gas for longer trips.","simplifiedExplanation":"Some people don’t have a place to plug in. For them, a hybrid can be simpler because you can still use gas like a normal car."}},{"startTime":401.4,"endTime":414.9,"type":"term","title":"Pricing starts at $43,245","quote":"Pricing starts at $43,245, so that might be a bit of a tripping point for a vehicle this size.","canonicalId":"term:pricing-starts-at-43-245","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"Starting MSRP (manufacturer’s suggested retail price) is the baseline price before taxes and dealer add-ons. The speaker flags it as a potential “tripping point,” meaning the sticker price could be a barrier for buyers considering a plug-in hybrid SUV."}},{"startTime":434.1,"endTime":441.1,"type":"concept","title":"New York Auto Show","url":"/glossary/new-york-auto-show","quote":"...it's going to show it at the New York Auto Show. This is a two-row mid-sized luxury SUV...","canonicalId":"concept:new-york-auto-show","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"The New York Auto Show is a major North American event where automakers debut vehicles and concept cars. Mentioning it signals that the QX65 reveal is part of a formal launch/announcement cycle."}},{"startTime":521.1,"endTime":545.5,"type":"car","title":"Hyundai Palisade","url":"/cars/hyundai/palisade","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/4f/Hyundai_Palisade_IMG_7301.jpg","quote":"Let's talk about recalls. I mean, this is a sad story about the Hyundai Palisade... But they have a recall affecting about close to 70,000 vehicles...","canonicalId":"car:hyundai:palisade","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.95,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"The Hyundai Palisade is a three-row midsize SUV that the hosts describe as having earned major accolades before a safety recall. In this segment, the recall affects power seats, including a fatal incident involving a child, and it leads to a stop-sale on certain trims.","imageAttribution":"Alexander-93 (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":879.8,"endTime":884.8,"type":"car","title":"Toyota GR Corolla","url":"/cars/toyota/gr-corolla","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/66/2023-2025_Toyota_GR_Corolla_RZ_rear.jpg","quote":"The last three cars I've owned have been hatchbacks. Most recently, the Toyota GR Corolla, which gave me high hopes for the driving capabilities of this car.","canonicalId":"car:toyota:gr-corolla","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.95,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"The Toyota GR Corolla is a hot hatch built by Toyota’s GR (Gazoo Racing) performance division. It’s known for being more track-capable than typical economy hatches, which is why the host mentions it as a benchmark for driving expectations.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Toyota GR Corolla is a sporty hatchback from Toyota’s performance team. It’s meant to be fun to drive, not just practical.","imageAttribution":"TTTNIS (CC0)"}},{"startTime":935.6,"endTime":941.1,"type":"term","title":"body roll","url":"/glossary/body-roll","quote":"It's extremely fun to drive just on a twisty road. You're not going to be hot rotting anywhere, but it holds its own. There's very little body roll.","canonicalId":"term:body-roll","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"Body roll is the side-to-side leaning of a car’s body when cornering. Lower body roll usually indicates stiffer suspension tuning and/or better chassis control, which helps a car feel more composed on twisty roads.","simplifiedExplanation":"Body roll is when a car leans outward in a turn. Less body roll usually means the car feels more stable and controlled."}},{"startTime":1025.6,"endTime":1030.1,"type":"term","title":"synthetic leather upholstery","url":"/glossary/synthetic-leather-upholstery","quote":"Inside you get synthetic leather upholstery in the GT line turbo trim.","canonicalId":"term:synthetic-leather-upholstery","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"Synthetic leather upholstery is a man-made material used to mimic leather. It’s often chosen for cost and durability, and it can feel different in heat/cold and wear patterns compared with real leather."}},{"startTime":1039.2,"endTime":1039.2,"type":"term","title":"lumbar support","url":"/glossary/lumbar-support","quote":"But one thing I'd like to see in this vehicle is a little bit better lumbar support.","canonicalId":"term:lumbar-support","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"Lumbar support is the adjustable (or shaped) support for the lower back. If it’s not adequate—especially combined with a bouncy ride—it can lead to passenger fatigue on longer trips."}},{"startTime":1088.1,"endTime":1093.8,"type":"term","title":"12.3 inch touchscreen","url":"/glossary/12-3-inch-touchscreen","quote":"In terms of technology, you get a 12.3 inch touchscreen, a digital gauge cluster...","canonicalId":"term:12-3-inch-touchscreen","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"A 12.3-inch touchscreen is the main infotainment display size used to control media, navigation, vehicle settings, and driver-assist menus. Larger screens are common in modern SUVs and can improve usability."}},{"startTime":1097.8,"endTime":1102.9,"type":"company","title":"Harman Kardon sound system","url":"/glossary/harman-kardon-sound-system","quote":"...wireless phone charging in the top trim, and a Harman Kardon sound system that sounds great.","canonicalId":"company:harman-kardon-sound-system","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"Harman Kardon is an audio brand known for premium sound systems used in many vehicles. When paired with the right speakers and tuning, it can significantly improve clarity, bass response, and overall listening experience."}},{"startTime":1203.5,"endTime":1215.3,"type":"term","title":"infotainment system","url":"/glossary/infotainment-system","quote":"We used the maps a lot. We used the onboard infotainment system and all that stuff. And then we tried to hook up various phones to it and all that.","canonicalId":"term:infotainment-system","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"An infotainment system is the car’s integrated touchscreen/audio/navigation interface. In this segment, it’s highlighted as working well during the trip, including using maps and connecting devices.","simplifiedExplanation":"The infotainment system is the car’s main screen and controls for things like navigation, music, and apps. They’re saying it was easy to use on the trip."}},{"startTime":1354.3,"endTime":1362.3,"type":"term","title":"air suspension","url":"/glossary/air-suspension","quote":"But that was fun. And air suspension made this very, very comfortable to drive over reasonably good roads, I think.","canonicalId":"term:air-suspension","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"Air suspension uses air springs instead of conventional steel springs, allowing the vehicle to adjust ride height and damping for comfort. The episode credits the XC90’s air suspension for making the drive very comfortable over imperfect roads.","simplifiedExplanation":"Air suspension uses air-filled springs to smooth out the ride. It can make bumps feel less harsh and help the car stay comfortable."}},{"startTime":1439.0,"endTime":1446.5,"type":"term","title":"cargo space","url":"/glossary/cargo-space","quote":"Good cargo space. I mean tons of cargo space, actually. So a super practical vehicle.","canonicalId":"term:cargo-space","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.87,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"Cargo space is the amount of room available for luggage and gear, usually measured behind the second row and with the third row folded or in use. The host emphasizes “tons of cargo space,” framing it as a practical advantage for a three-row SUV.","simplifiedExplanation":"Cargo space is how much stuff you can carry in the back of the SUV. They’re saying this one has a lot of room, which matters for trips and everyday errands."}},{"startTime":1452.5,"endTime":1467.7,"type":"term","title":"touchscreen interface","url":"/glossary/touchscreen-interface","quote":"I guess there's a little issue with the touchscreen interface and how much stuff is in the touchscreen. Your quick take on that.","canonicalId":"term:touchscreen-interface","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.86,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"The touchscreen interface refers to how the vehicle’s infotainment and settings are controlled primarily through the screen. The host’s critique is that the system requires too many gestures and makes it harder to find functions quickly while driving.","simplifiedExplanation":"This is about how the car uses the screen to control things like media and settings. The speaker thinks it’s not as easy or quick to use as it should be."}},{"startTime":1598.1,"endTime":1603.7,"type":"car","title":"Kia Telluride","url":"/cars/kia/telluride","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/57/2020_Kia_Telluride_LX_V6_AWD.jpg","quote":"The brand new Kia Telluride. Thanks so much for being with us... This was a game changer, the original Telluride of about six years ago or so, was a game changer for your brand.","canonicalId":"car:kia:telluride","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.95,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"The Kia Telluride is Kia’s midsize three-row SUV that became a major hit in North America. In this segment, the guest frames the original Telluride as a “game changer” and discusses improving the next generation.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Kia Telluride is a family SUV with three rows of seats. The speaker is saying the first one was a big success, and the new one has to improve on it.","imageAttribution":"Ghostofakina (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":1756.8,"endTime":1768.5,"type":"concept","title":"wheel base","url":"/glossary/wheelbase","quote":"It feels light on its feet. It feels agile. Quantify that for us a little bit. Wheel base is a little longer, like a couple inches longer.","canonicalId":"concept:wheelbase","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"Wheelbase is the distance between the front and rear axles. It strongly influences ride comfort and stability, and the guest notes the wheelbase is slightly longer to help explain why the vehicle feels more composed while still feeling agile.","simplifiedExplanation":"Wheelbase is the distance between the front and back wheels. A longer wheelbase can make the ride feel steadier and smoother."}},{"startTime":1816.2,"endTime":1823.5,"type":"concept","title":"power adjustable steering column","url":"/glossary/power-adjustable-steering-column","quote":"...addressed whatever we didn't have in things like one of the things I really wanted on the last generation was a power adjustable steering column. We have that now.","canonicalId":"concept:power-adjustable-steering-column","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"A power adjustable steering column uses an electric motor to move the steering wheel/column to different positions. It improves driver comfort and reach without manual adjustment.","simplifiedExplanation":"This means the steering wheel can move up/down or in/out using a button or switch. It helps you find a comfortable driving position."}},{"startTime":1869.6,"endTime":1875.6,"type":"term","title":"third row heated seats","url":"/glossary/third-row-heated-seats","quote":"...even third row, third row heated seats available, for example.","canonicalId":"term:third-row-heated-seats","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.88,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"Third row heated seats add comfort for passengers in the back, especially in cold climates. They’re a notable convenience feature because many SUVs reserve heating for the front seats only.","simplifiedExplanation":"These are seat heaters for the back row. It’s a nice feature for passengers when it’s cold out."}},{"startTime":1955.7,"endTime":1964.1,"type":"term","title":"towing","url":"/glossary/towing","quote":"4,500 pounds of towing versus 4,000. And of course, it comes with a standard spare tire. So these two vehicles are essentially on the same platform.","canonicalId":"term:towing","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.95,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"Towing capacity is the maximum weight a vehicle can safely pull, typically measured in pounds. It’s a key spec for buyers who haul trailers, boats, or campers, and it often correlates with cooling capacity and drivetrain strength.","simplifiedExplanation":"Towing is how much weight the vehicle can pull behind it. If you plan to haul a trailer, this number matters for safety and performance."}},{"startTime":1955.7,"endTime":1996.2,"type":"term","title":"spare tire","url":"/glossary/spare-tire","quote":"And of course, it comes with a standard spare tire. So these two vehicles are essentially on the same platform... American consumers, Tomor, they go on longer road trips, where having a spare tire matters...","canonicalId":"term:spare-tire","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"A spare tire is the backup wheel used if you get a flat, letting you continue to a shop or safer location. Many modern vehicles use compact “donuts” or tire-repair kits; having a full spare can matter for long trips and remote areas.","simplifiedExplanation":"A spare tire is your backup wheel if you get a flat. It’s especially helpful on long trips when you might not find help quickly."}},{"startTime":2034.4,"endTime":2062.3,"type":"term","title":"torque","url":"/glossary/torque","quote":"So our standard engine is a turbo 2.5-liter GTI, putting out 311 foot-pounds of torque. Very early in the RPM range of 1700. Tell why that's important...","canonicalId":"term:torque","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.92,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"Torque is the rotational force an engine produces, and it strongly influences how quickly a vehicle accelerates, especially at lower speeds. For everyday driving, torque available early in the RPM range often improves passing and merging.","simplifiedExplanation":"Torque is the engine’s pulling power. More torque—especially when it shows up early—helps the car feel responsive when you need to speed up."}},{"startTime":2130.5,"endTime":2138.6,"type":"term","title":"combined MPG","url":"/glossary/combined-mpg","quote":"So we didn't want to lose power. In fact, we wanted to add, if possible, which is the case here,\n329 horsepower, 339 foot-pounds of torque, but up to 35 miles per gallon combined.\nSo in the development phase, we said, let's look at what's out there and let's deliver","canonicalId":"term:combined-mpg","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.86,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"Combined MPG is a single fuel-economy figure that blends multiple driving conditions (typically city and highway) into one rating. For hybrids, combined MPG reflects how often the vehicle can use electricity and how efficiently it uses the engine when it does.","simplifiedExplanation":"Combined MPG is the overall fuel-efficiency number used to compare cars. It averages different kinds of driving into one score."}},{"startTime":2319.3,"endTime":2325.8,"type":"term","title":"ground clearance","url":"/glossary/ground-clearance","quote":"starting with the most important aspect of capability, which is ground clearance, 9.1 inches of ground clearance. We all know if you can't clear it, you can't you can't go past it.","canonicalId":"term:ground-clearance","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.95,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"Ground clearance is the distance between the lowest part of the vehicle and the ground. More clearance helps prevent scraping the underbody and allows the tires to reach over obstacles on trails.","simplifiedExplanation":"Ground clearance is how high the car sits off the ground. If it’s too low, you can hit the bottom on bumps or ruts when you go off-road."}},{"startTime":2426.84,"endTime":2431.4,"type":"concept","title":"extended warranty","url":"/glossary/extended-warranty","quote":"I'm about to buy a new car, and I've always gotten an extended warranty, but now I'm wondering, are extended warranties worth it on today's cars?","canonicalId":"concept:extended-warranty","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.95,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-5.4-nano","data":{"explanation":"An extended warranty is extra coverage you buy beyond the factory warranty period. It can help pay for certain repairs after the original warranty expires, but it often comes with exclusions, deductibles, and limits that matter a lot.","simplifiedExplanation":"An extended warranty is extra protection you buy after the regular warranty ends. It may pay for some repairs, but it usually doesn’t cover everything and you may still have to pay a deductible."}}],"speakers":[{"id":"s1","name":"Jack Nerad - Host","role":"host"}],"transcripts":[{"url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/spring-training-special-2026-volvo-xc90-plug-in-hybrid-takes-on-arizona-heat/transcript.vtt","type":"text/vtt"}]}