Testing All-New EVs: 2026 Toyota C-HR, 2026 Toyota bZ Woodland
About this episode
Exploring the latest in electric vehicles, the hosts dive into the 2026 Toyota BZ Woodland and the revamped 2026 Toyota CHR. They discuss the BZ Woodland's off-road capabilities and impressive specs, including 375 horsepower and a range of up to 281 miles. The conversation shifts to the CHR, highlighting its sporty performance and competitive pricing. The episode also touches on Ford's ambitious EV plans amidst financial losses and revisits the ongoing Dieselgate scandal with Volkswagen facing criminal charges in France. Insightful commentary and engaging banter make for a lively discussion.
This week on America on the Road, host Jack Nerad and co-host Chris Teague deliver special first-drive reports on the all-new 2026 Toyota bZ Woodland and the 2026 Toyota C-HR. In the road test segment, Chris drives the off-road-ready 2026 Ram 1500 Warlock with the Hurricane engine, while Jack reviews the efficient 2026 Hyundai Tucson PHEV Limited AWD. Jack also sits down with Beatris Diaz, marketing and product expert with Toyota, for an exclusive look into the details of the all-new 2027 Toyota Highlander.
🚗 Chris Teague Test-Drives the 2026 Ram 1500 WarlockChris gets behind the wheel of the 2026 Ram 1500 Warlock, which harnesses the 3.0-liter Hurricane Straight-Six Turbo engine, a twin-turbo inline-six delivering 420 horsepower and 469 lb.-ft. of torque for responsive acceleration and a maximum towing capacity of up to 11,580 pounds alongside a payload rating of 1,930 pounds. This off-road-oriented trim elevates adventure with a 1-inch raised ride height, 18-inch black aluminum wheels fitted with all-terrain tires, performance-tuned shock absorbers, an electronic-locking rear axle, underbody skid plates, tow hooks, and Selec-Speed Control for superior trail performance. It’s all wrapped in a menacing blacked-out design accented by Warlock badging and optional LED fog lamps. The Warlock offers refined handling via its coil-spring rear suspension, an affordable yet capable alternative to higher-end Ram models.
đźš™ Jack Nerad Test-Drives the 2026 Hyundai Tucson PHEV Limited AWDJack reviews the 2026 Hyundai Tucson PHEV Limited AWD, a compact SUV that combines plug-in hybrid efficiency with premium features and all-wheel drive. Powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and electric motor delivering 268 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque, it offers 32 miles of all-electric range and a combined 77 MPGe/35 mpg rating. The refined chassis provides a comfortable ride, while the upscale interior includes leather-trimmed heated/ventilated seats, a 12.3-inch digital cluster, Bose audio, and comprehensive safety tech like Highway Driving Assist. Jack covers real-world performance, charging convenience, cargo area, and whether its near-$50,000 price tag delivers strong value in a crowded segment.
🎙️ Special Guest Interview: 2027 Toyota HighlanderJack talks with Beatris Diaz, marketing and product expert with Toyota, to dive into the all-new 2027 Toyota Highlander. Diaz shares details on the redesigned midsize SUV’s updates, including enhanced performance, advanced technology, family-friendly features, and how it fits into Toyota’s evolving lineup.
📰 This Week’s Headlines Toyota Expands EV Lineup with 2026 bZ WoodlandToyota’s new rugged battery-electric SUV, the 2026 bZ Woodland, combines dual-motor all-wheel drive with 375 horsepower, up to 281 miles of range, 8.4 inches of ground clearance, and advanced tech features starting at over $45,000, arriving in March.
Toyota Revives C-HR as Electric Crossover for 2026The 2026 Toyota C-HR returns as an all-electric compact SUV with dual-motor all-wheel drive, 338 horsepower, up to 287 miles of range, sporty styling, ample cargo space, and modern amenities like a 14-inch touchscreen, priced from about $37,000 and launching in March.
Ford Plans Profits from Affordable EVsFord aims to achieve profitability in its Model e division by 2029 through cost-cutting measures, a shift to lower-priced EVs like a $30,000 midsize truck, and revenue from software and energy products, despite expecting ongoing multibillion-dollar losses.
VW Faces Dieselgate Trial in FranceNearly a decade after the scandal, Volkswagen faces a criminal trial in France for using illegal defeat devices in diesel vehicles, part of ongoing global legal actions that could endanger health, with hearings not expected until 2027.
📩 Listener Question of the WeekWillard from Interlochen, Michigan, asks: “How much should I really care about resale value when choosing a car?”
Jack and Chris discuss factors like depreciation trends, brand reliability, market demand, and how resale impacts long-term ownership costs.
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📚 Jack Nerad’s New BookJack’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.
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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.
2026 Toyota BZ Woodland
"...special reports on the all new 2026 Toyota BZ Woodland and the 2026 Toyota CHR. I was on that event."
The 2026 Toyota BZ Woodland is a new electric SUV that Toyota is planning to release. It's designed to handle rough terrain while being environmentally friendly.
The 2026 Toyota BZ Woodland is an upcoming electric SUV designed for rugged capabilities and outdoor use. It aims to blend off-road performance with zero emissions, making it suitable for adventurous drivers.
Toyota Chr
"...the all new 2026 Toyota BZ Woodland and the 2026 Toyota CHR. I was on that event."
The Toyota C-HR is a small SUV that looks different from other cars and is easy to drive in the city. It has a comfortable interior and gets good gas mileage. People talk about it because it's a stylish option for those who want a smaller vehicle.
The Toyota C-HR is a subcompact SUV known for its distinctive styling and agile handling. It is designed for urban driving, offering a smaller footprint while still providing a comfortable ride and good fuel efficiency. The C-HR is often discussed for its unique design and suitability for city dwellers.
EVs
"Ford says it finally has a path to making money with EVs with cheaper models and new tech bets."
EVs are cars that run on electricity instead of gas. They are better for the environment and can be cheaper to drive over time.
EVs, or electric vehicles, are cars that are powered entirely by electricity instead of gasoline or diesel. They are known for being more environmentally friendly and often have lower running costs.
Dieselgate
"Dieselgate has erupted again. Volkswagen is heading into a criminal trial in France."
Dieselgate is a scandal where Volkswagen was caught cheating on emissions tests for their diesel cars. They used software to make it look like their cars were cleaner than they really were, which caused a lot of legal trouble for the company.
Dieselgate refers to the emissions scandal involving Volkswagen, where the company was found to have installed software in diesel vehicles to cheat emissions tests. This led to significant legal repercussions and damage to the brand's reputation.
Volkswagen
"Volkswagen is heading into a criminal trial in France. A criminal trial in France, just as delayed, is just as denied."
Volkswagen is a well-known car brand from Germany that makes many popular cars. They got into trouble for cheating on emissions tests, which hurt their reputation.
Volkswagen is a German automotive manufacturer known for producing a wide range of vehicles, including the iconic Beetle and the Golf. The company faced significant scrutiny and legal challenges due to the Dieselgate scandal.
Ram 1500
"Well, Chris, tell us what vehicle you will be testing for us this week. I drove the 2026 Ram 1500 in the Warlock trim. I'm excited to tell you about a lower trim model for once."
The Ram 1500 is a popular pickup truck that can handle heavy loads and is great for both work and everyday use. The 2026 version has new features and styles, including the Warlock trim, which is designed for off-road driving.
The Ram 1500 is a full-size pickup truck known for its strong performance, comfortable ride, and advanced technology features. The 2026 model continues to build on these strengths with various trim options, including the Warlock trim, which offers a distinctive style and off-road capabilities.
Hyundai Tucson PHEV
"My test vehicle is the Hyundai Tucson PHEV, limited all-wheel drive. Hi, we have a great guest talking about the all-new, even newer than new, 2027 Toyota Highlander..."
The Hyundai Tucson PHEV is a type of car that can run on both electricity and gasoline. It has all-wheel drive, which means it can send power to all four wheels for better control, especially in bad weather.
The Hyundai Tucson PHEV is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle that combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor, allowing for both electric-only driving and traditional gasoline operation. The 'limited all-wheel drive' indicates that this version has enhanced traction capabilities, making it suitable for various driving conditions.
Toyota Highlander
"...ut the all-new, even newer than new, 2027 Toyota Highlander, so stay with us for that, and we'll be right bac..."
The Toyota Highlander is a medium-sized SUV that can fit a lot of people, making it great for families. It's known for being safe and reliable, and it has a smooth ride. People talk about it because it's a good option for those needing more space.
The Toyota Highlander is a midsize SUV that offers three rows of seating, making it suitable for larger families. With a strong reputation for safety and reliability, it is often discussed in the context of family vehicles. The Highlander is known for its comfortable ride and advanced technology features.
Toyota bZ4X
"...Toyota BZ, which of course was introduced as the BZ4X, one of the worst vehicle names of all time. Now..."
The Toyota bZ4X is a new electric SUV that runs on batteries instead of gas. It's part of Toyota's effort to make more eco-friendly cars. People talk about it because it's one of the first electric SUVs from Toyota and has a cool design.
The Toyota bZ4X is an all-electric SUV that marks Toyota's entry into the electric vehicle market under its new bZ (Beyond Zero) sub-brand. It features a modern design and aims to provide a sustainable driving experience. Discussions often focus on its performance, range, and how it compares to other electric SUVs.
all-wheel drive
"You can get it with all-terrain tires and all-wheel drive, of course. It has plenty of horsepower..."
All-wheel drive means that power goes to all four wheels of the car, which helps it grip the road better, especially in rain or snow.
All-wheel drive (AWD) is a drivetrain system that provides power to all four wheels of a vehicle simultaneously, enhancing traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions.
horsepower
"It has plenty of horsepower, 375 horsepower, range up to 281 miles, while vehicle equips..."
Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful an engine is. The more horsepower a car has, the faster and more powerful it can be.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement that indicates the power an engine produces. It is a key factor in determining a vehicle's performance and acceleration capabilities.
all-terrain tires
"with the all-terrain tires have 260 miles of range. What's your take on all of this?"
All-terrain tires are special tires that can handle different types of roads, like smooth highways and rough dirt paths. They have a unique design that helps them grip the ground better when driving off-road.
All-terrain tires are designed to perform well on a variety of surfaces, including both on-road and off-road conditions. They typically have a more aggressive tread pattern than regular tires, which helps provide better traction in rugged environments.
range
"I will say that the all-terrain tires that give it some more off-road capability do zap some of the range, but 260 is still OK."
Range is how far a car can go before it needs to be refueled or recharged. For electric cars, a longer range means you can drive further without stopping to charge.
In automotive terms, range refers to the distance a vehicle can travel on a single charge or tank of fuel. This is particularly important for electric vehicles, where range can significantly impact usability.
ground clearance
"It does offer 8.4 inches of ground clearance, so that's pretty good when you have the all-terrain tires. Virtually all of that added ground clearance comes from the all-terrain tires."
Ground clearance is how high a car is off the ground. If it's higher, the car can go over bumps and rocks better, which is important for off-road driving.
Ground clearance refers to the distance between the ground and the lowest point of a vehicle's body. Higher ground clearance is beneficial for off-road driving as it allows the vehicle to navigate over obstacles without getting stuck or damaged.
roof rails
"It does have standard roof rails, and it tows up to 3,500 pounds, so that's pretty interesting."
Roof rails are bars on the top of a car that help you carry extra stuff, like bags or bikes. They make it easier to attach things to the roof.
Roof rails are structural components on the roof of a vehicle that provide a mounting point for carrying additional cargo, such as luggage or sporting equipment. They enhance the vehicle's versatility for transporting larger items.
towing capacity
"...and it tows up to 3,500 pounds, so that's pretty interesting. 75 cubic feet of cargo space."
Towing capacity is how much weight a car can pull behind it, like a trailer or boat. It's important to know so you don't try to pull something too heavy.
Towing capacity is the maximum weight a vehicle can safely tow. It is an important specification for those who need to haul trailers, boats, or other heavy loads, and it varies by vehicle model and configuration.
Subaru
"...I do love that Toyota's leaned into the Subaru side of this equation, because Subaru and Toyota made twin vehicles on this platform."
Subaru is another car company that makes vehicles, often recognized for their ability to handle rough terrains and bad weather.
Subaru is an automotive brand known for its all-wheel-drive vehicles and strong performance in off-road conditions.
X-Mode
"Toyota's using X-Mode from Subaru to give it some more off-road grip and chops there. I'm sure it'll do just about everything anybody asks of it."
X-Mode is a special setting in some cars that helps them drive better on rough or slippery roads, making it easier to handle tough conditions.
X-Mode is a driving mode developed by Subaru that enhances the vehicle's off-road capabilities by optimizing the engine, transmission, and all-wheel drive systems for better traction on slippery or uneven surfaces.
Subaru Crosstrek
"Yeah, a lot of times I felt like I was driving an electric version of the Subaru Crosstrek. I mean, it kind of has that same overall look and overall feel."
The Subaru Crosstrek is a small SUV that can handle rough roads and is great for outdoor adventures, like camping or hiking.
The Subaru Crosstrek is a compact crossover SUV known for its all-wheel drive capability and off-road performance, making it popular among outdoor enthusiasts.
MSRP
"But just over $45,000 for this vehicle, I think compared to, say, the Kia EV9 and the Ioniq 9 from Hyundai, it's probably priced well."
MSRP is the price that the car maker suggests you should pay for a new car. It's like a starting point for how much the car should cost.
MSRP stands for Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price, which is the price that the manufacturer recommends for the vehicle. It's often used as a baseline for pricing negotiations at dealerships.
Kia EV9
"...r this vehicle, I think compared to, say, the Kia EV9 and the Ioniq 9 from Hyundai, it's probably pric..."
The Kia EV9 is a large electric SUV that can fit a lot of people and their things. It uses batteries instead of gas, which is better for the environment. People mention it because it has a lot of room and cool technology.
The Kia EV9 is an all-electric SUV that offers a spacious interior and advanced technology features, positioning itself as a competitor in the growing electric vehicle market. With its bold design and family-friendly layout, it aims to attract buyers looking for an eco-friendly option without sacrificing space or comfort. Discussions often revolve around its features and pricing compared to similar models.
Hyundai Ioniq 9
"...e, I think compared to, say, the Kia EV9 and the Ioniq 9 from Hyundai, it's probably priced well. And the..."
The Hyundai Ioniq 9 is a new electric car that will be coming out soon. It's designed to be modern and have lots of cool features. People are excited to talk about it because it's part of the growing trend of electric vehicles.
The Hyundai Ioniq 9 is an upcoming electric vehicle that aims to expand Hyundai's electric lineup with innovative features and design. It is expected to compete with other electric SUVs in terms of performance and technology. Discussions often highlight its anticipated specifications and market positioning.
Kia EV6
"And then there's the EV6, of course, right there. Maybe that's even a more direct competitor to this vehicle."
The Kia EV6 is a sporty electric crossover from Kia. It has a stylish look and can charge quickly, making it a great option for those looking for an electric vehicle.
The Kia EV6 is an all-electric crossover that offers a sporty design and impressive performance. It is built on the Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) and features rapid charging capabilities and a range of advanced technology.
Hyundai Ioniq 5
"... more direct competitor to this vehicle. And the Ioniq 5, I don't know. A lot of money for a vehicle that..."
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a new electric car that looks very modern and has a lot of space inside. It runs on electricity instead of gas, which is better for the environment. People talk about it because it has cool features and can go a long distance on a single charge.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is an all-electric crossover that stands out with its futuristic design and advanced technology features. It offers a spacious interior and impressive range, making it a strong contender in the growing electric vehicle market. Discussions often center around its performance and value compared to other electric vehicles.
small SUV
"Again, this is being pitched as a small SUV. But to me, it's almost more like a hot hatch than anything else."
A small SUV is a type of vehicle that is bigger than a car but smaller than a full-sized SUV. It usually has more space and can handle rougher roads better than regular cars.
A small SUV, also known as a compact SUV, is a vehicle that combines the features of a sport utility vehicle with a smaller size, making it more maneuverable and fuel-efficient. They typically offer higher seating and cargo space compared to sedans.
hot hatch
"But to me, it's almost more like a hot hatch than anything else, a hot hatch with electric drive."
A hot hatch is a sporty version of a small car that has a hatchback design. It's designed to be fun to drive while still being practical for everyday use.
A hot hatch is a high-performance version of a hatchback, typically featuring a more powerful engine and sportier handling compared to standard hatchbacks. They are known for their practicality combined with fun driving dynamics.
base price
"...the previous CHR, when it was discontinued, had a base price of $25,000."
Base price is the starting cost of a car before you add any extra features or options. It's the price you see for the most basic version of the car.
The base price of a vehicle is the starting price before any additional options, features, or taxes are added. It represents the cost of the standard model without any upgrades or add-ons.
four-cylinder engine
"...wasn't our favorite car. That's for certain with that four-cylinder engine, but there you go."
A four-cylinder engine is a type of car engine with four parts that create power. It's usually smaller and uses less fuel than bigger engines, which can help save money on gas.
A four-cylinder engine is an internal combustion engine that has four cylinders, which are the chambers where fuel and air mix and combust to create power. This type of engine is often lighter and more fuel-efficient than larger engines, making it a popular choice for compact cars.
Hemi
"It's not the Hemi, so we could talk about that. But this is the 226 Ram 1500."
Hemi is a type of engine that helps cars go faster and use fuel better. It's known for its unique shape that makes it work more efficiently.
Hemi refers to a type of engine design characterized by a hemispherical combustion chamber. This design allows for more efficient airflow and combustion, resulting in increased power and performance.
Tungsten trim
"And you can spend more than $90,000 on this truck in the Tungsten trim, which is like the luxurious version."
The Tungsten trim is a fancy version of the Ram 1500 truck that has a lot of luxury features and nice materials inside. It's for people who want a more comfortable and stylish truck.
The Tungsten trim is a high-end version of the Ram 1500, featuring luxurious materials, advanced technology, and premium finishes. It is designed for buyers looking for a more upscale experience in a pickup truck.
3.6 liter Pentastar engine
"But this truck, you can get it with the 3.6 liter Pentastar engine. That's the V6 that comes standard with that engine."
The 3.6 liter Pentastar engine is a type of V6 engine that provides a good mix of power and fuel efficiency. It's used in many Chrysler vehicles, including the Ram 1500.
The 3.6 liter Pentastar engine is a V6 engine produced by Chrysler, known for its balance of power and efficiency. It is commonly used in various models, including the Ram 1500.
eight-speed automatic transmission
"and it's got an eight-speed automatic transmission. So acceleration is strong."
An eight-speed automatic transmission is a type of car gearbox that changes gears automatically and has eight different settings. This helps the car drive more smoothly and can save fuel.
An eight-speed automatic transmission allows for smoother shifting and better fuel efficiency by providing more gear ratios. This means the engine can operate at optimal RPMs for a wider range of speeds.
four-wheel drive
"good torque, and even in deep snow with four-wheel drive and the all-terrain tires that this truck had on it, it is almost unstoppable."
Four-wheel drive means that power from the engine goes to all four wheels of the car, which helps it grip the road better, especially in bad weather or rough terrain.
Four-wheel drive (4WD) is a drivetrain system that allows all four wheels of a vehicle to receive power from the engine simultaneously. This enhances traction and control, especially in off-road or slippery conditions.
Gmc Sierra
"... the Ford F-150, the Chevy Silverado 1500 and the GMC Sierra 1500. And it handles pretty well for a large ful..."
The GMC Sierra EV is a new electric truck that can do many of the same things as regular trucks but runs on electricity. It has a lot of space inside and cool technology features. People talk about it because it's part of the growing trend of electric vehicles.
The GMC Sierra EV is an all-electric version of the popular Sierra pickup truck, combining the utility of a truck with the benefits of electric power. It features advanced technology and a spacious interior, making it a strong competitor in the electric truck market. Discussions often focus on its capabilities and how it compares to traditional gas-powered trucks.
Ford F150
"if not the best in the class. It still does the Ford F-150, the Chevy Silverado 1500 and the GMC Sierra 1500. And it handles pretty well for a large full-size truck."
The Ford F-150 is a big truck that can carry heavy loads and tow trailers. It's very popular in America because it can be used for work or just for driving around. People often talk about it because it's known for being tough and reliable.
The Ford F-150 is a full-size pickup truck known for its versatility, strong towing capacity, and robust performance. It has been one of the best-selling vehicles in the United States for decades, making it a significant player in the truck market. Its ability to handle various tasks, from work to recreation, is often highlighted in discussions about trucks.
Toyota RAV4
"...etitor that competes with things like the Toyota RAV4, which I think is the hottest selling vehicle in ..."
The Toyota RAV4 is a small SUV that is very popular because it has a lot of space and is known for being reliable. It's a good choice for families and people who need a versatile car. People often compare it to other SUVs like the Honda CR-V.
The Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV that has consistently been one of the best-selling vehicles in the U.S., known for its reliability, spacious interior, and versatility. It competes with other SUVs like the Honda CR-V and is often discussed for its practicality and strong resale value. The RAV4 is popular among families and individuals alike.
Honda Crv
"the Toyota RAV4, which I think is the hottest selling vehicle in the country, and the Honda CR-V and others like that. I think it's a really good competitor to those."
The Honda CR-V is a small SUV that has a lot of space inside for passengers and cargo. It's known for being good on gas and lasting a long time, which makes it a popular choice for families. People often compare it to other similar cars like the Toyota RAV4.
The Honda CR-V is a compact SUV that offers a spacious interior, excellent fuel efficiency, and a reputation for reliability. It competes closely with other popular models like the Toyota RAV4, making it a common topic in discussions about family-friendly vehicles. Its balance of comfort and practicality makes it a favorite among consumers.
Toyota Grand Highlander
"...we call the Highlander family, which we have the Grand Highlander, which I'm sure you're familiar with,"
The Toyota Grand Highlander is a bigger version of the Highlander SUV, which means it has more room for people and their stuff. It's still known for being safe and dependable, making it a good choice for families needing extra space. People mention it when talking about family cars.
The Toyota Grand Highlander is an extended version of the popular Highlander SUV, designed to provide additional space and comfort for families. It retains the Highlander's reputation for reliability while offering more room for passengers and cargo. This model is often discussed for its practicality and family-friendly features.
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