Testing All-New SUVs: 2026 Hyundai Palisade, 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan
About this episode
A deep dive into the all-new 2026 Hyundai Palisade and Volkswagen Tiguan highlights their design, performance, and features. Guest co-host Matt DiLorenzo shares insights on the redesigned Tiguan, emphasizing its upscale interior and improved powertrain. Meanwhile, the Palisade's luxurious calligraphy trim impresses with its spaciousness and advanced technology, including a massaging driver's seat. The episode also touches on automotive news, including Kia's new Celtos SUV, Waymo's self-driving taxi issues, and a discussion on Hagerty's bull market list for classic cars.
This week on America on the Road, guest co-host Matt DeLorenzo joins Jack Nerad as they look at a packed slate of automotive news, two major road tests, and a special design-focused interview. Jack drives the range-topping 2026 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy, while Matt reviews the redesigned 2026 Volkswagen Tiguan, a compact SUV with more power, more tech, and a more refined cabin than ever before. Jack also sits down with Ian Cartabiano, President of Calty Design, to talk about Toyota’s long-running design studio, its newest work, and how design thinking translates into the next generation of vehicles.
🚗 Jack Nerad Test-Drives the 2026 Hyundai Palisade CalligraphyJack gets behind the wheel of Hyundai’s newly redesigned three-row flagship SUV. The 2026 Palisade grows larger, gains a smoother and quieter V6, and adds premium comfort features like Relaxation seats, a dual-pane sunroof, and a digital rearview mirror. With a refined interior and an extensive safety suite, the Palisade aims to offer near-luxury comfort at a value price. Jack breaks down real-world ride quality, technology upgrades, and where the Calligraphy trim stands in a crowded family SUV market.
🚙 Matt DeLorenzo Test-Drives the 2026 Volkswagen TiguanMatt reviews the all-new Tiguan, now riding on VW’s updated MQB Evo platform. With more power, sharper design, upgraded driver-assistance features, and a tech-rich interior anchored by large digital displays, the Tiguan takes a meaningful leap forward. Matt covers performance from both available turbo engines, cabin comfort, and how the latest Tiguan compares to its class rivals.
🎙️ Special Guest InterviewJack talks with Ian Cartabiano, Calty Design President, during a visit to Toyota’s Southern California design studio. Cartabiano shares insight into Calty’s latest projects, how design shapes the user experience, and what future vehicles may look like as new technologies and materials influence the creative process.
📰 This Week’s Headlines • Kia Introduces the All-New 2027 SeltosKia has revealed a comprehensive redesign of its global subcompact SUV. The new Seltos features more assertive styling, a wider cabin, upgraded materials, twin 12.3-inch displays, expanded driver-assistance tech, and multiple powertrain options, including a high-output turbo engine and a hybrid. Production begins late this year with global rollout in 2026.
• Waymo Cited After Passing Stopped School BusesA voluntary recall has been issued after 19 incidents in Texas where Waymo robotaxis illegally passed stopped school buses. Despite software updates, violations continued into November and December, prompting deeper scrutiny from NHTSA and local officials. Waymo says a programming error caused the vehicles to proceed when they should have remained stopped.
• Hagerty Unveils the 2026 Bull Market ListHagerty’s latest list highlights 11 vehicles expected to appreciate next year. They range from accessible icons like the Mazda MX-5 Miata and VW GTI VR6 to high-dollar collectibles such as the Porsche Carrera GT. The list leans heavily on ’90s and early-2000s performance, which Hagerty calls the final chapter of the analog era.
• Canada Accuses Stellantis of Defaulting on Aid AgreementThe Canadian government has issued a formal default notice after Stellantis shifted Jeep Compass production out of Ontario. With thousands of workers still laid off, the Canadian government says the automaker violated commitments tied to more than half a billion dollars in support. Stellantis maintains the Brampton plant is on an “operational pause.”
📩 Listener Question of the WeekPatrick from Interlochen, Michigan asks: “I’m thinking of buying a hybrid for the first time. How do hybrids perform in cold weather?” Jack and Matt explain how battery chemistry, engine warm-up cycles, and hybrid system design affect winter performance.
📚 BooksJack’s crime novel Only One Thing Stays the Same is out now in ebook and paperback. It’s an easy holiday gift at an easy price.
Matt’s newest book, Mercedes-AMG: Race-Bred Performance, is now available at Amazon.
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🎙️ HostsJack Nerad — Award-winning auto journalist and author of Only One Thing Stays the Same
Chris Teague — Longtime auto critic and journalist
Matt DeLorenzo — Author and frequent guest host
📢 Presented by• DrivingToday.com
• EMLandsea.com
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Check Out Matt DeLorenzo’s Book:Pick up a copy of co-host Matt DeLorenzo’s terrific new book Mercedes-AMG: Race-Bred Performance
Special Price for Jack’s Newest Crime 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 Celtos
"Kia has just introduced an all-new version of its Celtos small SUV. We'll have the details direct from Seoul."
The Kia Celtos is a compact SUV that is designed for city driving and family use. It has a stylish look and comes with modern technology features.
The Kia Celtos is a small SUV that offers a blend of style, technology, and practicality, making it a popular choice in its segment. It features a modern design and various tech options, appealing to urban drivers and families alike.
Waymo
"Waymo has come in for criticism with the revelation that its self-driving taxis have repeatedly passed stop school buses, something that's obviously illegal, not wise. We'll tell you more about that, reveal what Waymo has done about it."
Waymo is a company that works on self-driving cars. They are trying to make cars that can drive themselves without a human driver.
Waymo is a self-driving technology company that originated as a project within Google. It focuses on developing autonomous vehicles and has been testing self-driving taxis in various cities.
Hagerty
"As certainly Matt DiLorenzo always says, Hagerty has just unveiled its bull market list with a lot of intelligence suggestions and we'll run them down for you coming up."
Hagerty is a company that helps people insure classic cars and provides information about car values and trends in the car market.
Hagerty is a well-known company specializing in classic car insurance and automotive lifestyle. They also provide market insights and trends related to collectible cars.
Stellantis
"And finally, Canada is accusing Stellantis of reneging on a previous deal to build."
Stellantis is a big car company that makes many different types of cars, including brands like Jeep, Dodge, and Peugeot. They were formed when two car companies merged.
Stellantis is a multinational automotive manufacturing corporation formed from the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group. It produces a wide range of vehicles under various brands.
Jeep Compass
"its newest version of the Jeep Compass in Ontario. The company has shifted production to Illinois and the Canadians are cranky about that, so we'll talk through that."
The Jeep Compass is a small SUV that can handle rough terrain and is popular for its style and features. It's designed for both city driving and outdoor adventures.
The Jeep Compass is a compact SUV known for its off-road capabilities and versatility. It has undergone several updates to improve its design and technology features.
Mercedes AMG
"My latest is the Mercedes AMG race-bred performance. Kind of the history of the AMG."
Mercedes AMG is a special part of the Mercedes-Benz brand that makes faster and sportier cars. They take regular Mercedes cars and make them more powerful and exciting to drive.
Mercedes AMG is the performance division of Mercedes-Benz, known for producing high-performance versions of their standard models. They focus on enhancing power, handling, and overall driving experience.
Volkswagen Tiguan
"I'm driving the VW Tiguan and they redesigned it and they have a new"
The VW Tiguan is a small SUV made by Volkswagen. It's designed to be comfortable and practical for families, and it has a new design that makes it look even better.
The VW Tiguan is a compact SUV produced by Volkswagen, known for its practicality, comfort, and advanced technology features. It has been redesigned to enhance its appeal in the competitive SUV market.
Hyundai Palisade
"...l. I'm going to be talking about the 2026 Hyundai Palisade calligraphy version, and our special guest is Ian..."
The Hyundai Palisade is a large family car that can fit many passengers and their stuff. The 2026 Calligraphy version is the fancy version, which means it has extra nice features and comforts.
The Hyundai Palisade is a mid-size SUV that has gained popularity for its spacious interior, advanced technology, and family-friendly features. The 2026 Calligraphy version represents the top trim level, offering luxury elements and enhanced comfort, making it a significant player in the competitive SUV market.
subcompact SUV
"...in that segment, the subcompact segment, and you want size in an SUV. So it's pretty cool."
A subcompact SUV is a small type of SUV that is easier to drive and park than larger SUVs, but still gives you more space than a regular car.
A subcompact SUV is a smaller version of a sport utility vehicle that typically offers a higher driving position and more cargo space than a compact car, while being more maneuverable and fuel-efficient than larger SUVs.
Kia
"...that are in some of the more upscale Kia models."
Kia is a car company from South Korea that makes many types of vehicles, including small cars and SUVs. They are known for offering good value for the price.
Kia is a South Korean automobile manufacturer known for producing a range of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and electric cars. The brand has gained popularity for its value, warranty, and design.
torque
"177 horsepower, 195 pound-feet of torque from the standard engine, which is a 1.6-liter turbo engine."
Torque is a measure of how much force an engine can use to turn the wheels. More torque means better acceleration and the ability to pull heavier loads.
Torque is a measure of rotational force. In automotive terms, it indicates how much twisting force an engine can produce, which affects acceleration and towing capacity.
horsepower
"177 horsepower, 195 pound-feet of torque from the standard engine, which is a 1.6-liter turbo engine."
Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful an engine is. The more horsepower an engine has, the faster and stronger it can make a vehicle go.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, commonly used to describe the power output of engines. It indicates how much work an engine can perform over time, with higher horsepower generally translating to better performance.
1.6-liter turbo engine
"which is a 1.6-liter turbo engine. And then there's a high output version."
A 1.6-liter turbo engine is a small engine that uses a turbocharger to make it more powerful. This means it can produce more power than a regular engine of the same size.
A 1.6-liter turbo engine refers to an engine with a displacement of 1.6 liters that uses a turbocharger to increase power output. Turbocharging allows for more power without increasing the engine size significantly.
high output version
"And then there's a high output version. It's 190 horsepower."
A high output version means that this engine makes more power than the regular version. It's designed to give better performance.
A high output version of an engine typically refers to a variant that produces more power and torque than the standard version, often achieved through modifications or enhancements.
hybrid
"I should have said, too, that there is going to be a hybrid coming later. And I think hybrids are maybe the future here or the near future."
A hybrid car uses both a gas engine and an electric motor to run. This helps save fuel and produce less pollution compared to regular cars that only use gas.
A hybrid vehicle combines a conventional internal combustion engine with an electric propulsion system, aiming to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. They can operate on either the engine, the electric motor, or both, depending on driving conditions.
head-up display
"12-inch head-up display. I mean, it could be fully equipped."
A head-up display is a screen that shows important information, like your speed, right on the windshield. This way, you don’t have to look down at your dashboard while driving.
A head-up display (HUD) projects important information, such as speed and navigation directions, onto the windshield, allowing drivers to see this data without looking away from the road. This technology enhances safety and convenience.
Chevrolet Corvette
"...including the 2006 to 2013 Corvette Z06. Pretty cool, the BMW M5 from 2006 to 2010."
The Chevrolet Corvette Z06 is a faster and more powerful version of the regular Corvette. Models from 2006 to 2013 are known for being great sports cars that can also be a good investment.
The Chevrolet Corvette Z06 is a high-performance variant of the Corvette sports car, known for its powerful engine and track-ready features. The 2006 to 2013 models are particularly noted for their balance of performance and value, making them a popular choice among enthusiasts.
BMW M5
"Pretty cool, the BMW M5 from 2006 to 2010."
The BMW M5 is a sporty and powerful version of the BMW 5 Series sedan. Models from 2006 to 2010 are known for being luxurious while also very fast and fun to drive.
The BMW M5 is a high-performance version of the BMW 5 Series, known for its powerful engines and luxury features. The 2006 to 2010 models are particularly praised for their blend of comfort and performance, making them a favorite among car enthusiasts.
Z06
"...that's why the Z06 value has dropped because that thing was kind of like King of the Road in its day."
The Z06 is a special version of the Corvette that is made for high performance and racing. It has more power and better handling than regular Corvettes.
The Z06 is a high-performance variant of the Chevrolet Corvette, featuring enhancements in power, handling, and aerodynamics. It's designed for track use and offers a more aggressive driving experience compared to standard models.
Aston Martin
"...Aston Martin. Yeah, really cool cars you think,..."
Aston Martin is a brand that makes luxury sports cars. They are known for being stylish and fast, and they are often featured in James Bond movies.
Aston Martin is a British luxury sports car manufacturer known for its high-performance vehicles and association with the James Bond franchise. Their cars are often characterized by elegant design and powerful engines.
Bentley
"...like a Bentley or something like that. You better have a thick wallet..."
Bentley is a brand that makes very expensive and luxurious cars. They are known for being very high quality and are often seen as a sign of wealth.
Bentley is a British luxury automobile manufacturer known for producing high-end vehicles that combine performance with opulence. Their cars are often seen as status symbols and are known for their craftsmanship and luxury features.
brake job
"...you better have a thick wallet when it comes time to get a brake job..."
A brake job is when you fix or replace parts of the car's brakes. It's important for keeping the car safe to drive.
A brake job refers to the maintenance or replacement of the braking system components, such as brake pads, rotors, and calipers. This is an essential service for ensuring the safety and performance of a vehicle.
Mazda Miata
"Yeah, I mean, certainly the Miata is on here. This is a special iteration. That's a no brainer."
The Mazda Miata is a small sports car that is known for being fun to drive and easy to maintain. The models from 1999 to 2005 are part of a generation that many enthusiasts love for their style and performance.
The Mazda Miata, also known as the MX-5, is a lightweight two-seater sports car that has been popular for its fun driving dynamics and reliability. The model years 1999 to 2005 represent the NB generation, known for its classic roadster styling and engaging driving experience.
Volkswagen Golf
"And the right Volkswagen Golf GTI, the VR6, 20 grand, that could be a maintenance nightmare."
The Volkswagen Golf GTI is a sportier version of the regular Golf, designed for better performance and driving fun. The VR6 is a type of engine that provides more power but can sometimes be harder to maintain.
The Volkswagen Golf GTI is a high-performance variant of the standard Golf, known for its sporty handling and turbocharged engine. The mention of the VR6 refers to a specific engine option that provides a unique driving experience, but it can also lead to maintenance challenges due to its complexity.
Dodge Durango
"... fill that plant up. So they're gonna be building Durango there and I think they decided that they need"
The Dodge Durango is a big family car that can carry a lot of people and things. It's known for being strong and powerful, which makes it great for driving around with a full load or towing stuff.
The Dodge Durango is a mid-size SUV that offers a powerful engine lineup and spacious seating, making it suitable for families and those needing towing capabilities. Its muscular design and performance-oriented features make it a noteworthy option in the SUV market.
third generation
"Well, last year at Volkswagen redesigned the Tiguan. It's the third generation of this compact SUV. Some pretty big changes."
'Third generation' means this is the third version of the Tiguan SUV. It has been updated twice before this new model.
The term 'third generation' refers to the third iteration of a vehicle model, indicating that the Tiguan has undergone two previous redesigns before this latest version.
Volkswagen Atlas
"...by the larger Atlas, which is a really good move because it's a nice vehicle."
The Volkswagen Atlas is a big family SUV that can fit a lot of people and their stuff. It's designed to be comfortable and useful for families who need more space.
The Volkswagen Atlas is a mid-size SUV designed to accommodate families with its spacious interior and optional third-row seating. It is known for its practicality and comfort, making it a popular choice among larger vehicles.
two-liter engine
"...was normally aspirated two liter engine."
A two-liter engine is a type of car engine that has a total size of two liters. It's a common size that helps the car have enough power while still being good on gas.
A two-liter engine refers to the engine's displacement, which is the total volume of all the cylinders in the engine. This size is common in many vehicles, providing a balance of power and fuel efficiency.
eight speed transmission
"Very nice eight speed transmission. You can get it either in front drive or with four motion all wheel drive."
An eight-speed transmission is a system that helps the car change gears smoothly and efficiently, making it easier to drive and saving fuel.
An eight-speed transmission is a type of automatic transmission that has eight gears. It allows for smoother acceleration and better fuel efficiency by optimizing engine performance across various speeds.
four motion all wheel drive
"You can get it either in front drive or with four motion all wheel drive."
Four Motion is a system that sends power to all four wheels of the car, helping it grip the road better, especially in rain or snow.
Four Motion is Volkswagen's all-wheel-drive system that distributes power to all four wheels, enhancing traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions.
SEL R Line Turbo
"For the 26 model year, they decided to come back with a little bit more muscle with this SEL R line turbo."
The SEL R Line Turbo is a version of a Volkswagen car that has a turbo engine for more power and a sportier look.
The SEL R Line Turbo is a trim level of Volkswagen vehicles that features a turbocharged engine, offering enhanced performance and sporty styling.
Volkswagen Beetle
"... of styling, I think this dates back right to the Beetle. They have kind of timeless styling or, you know,"
The Volkswagen Beetle is a small car with a unique round shape that many people recognize. It's famous for being fun to drive and has a long history, making it a classic car that people still love today.
The Volkswagen Beetle is an iconic compact car known for its distinctive rounded shape and historical significance as a symbol of the 1960s counterculture. Its timeless design and cultural impact make it a frequent topic of discussion among car enthusiasts.
Volkswagen Jetta
"...ow, styling that endures my oldest daughter has a Jetta that's 11 years old and it's pretty darn good, ri..."
The Volkswagen Jetta is a small car that is easy to drive and good on gas. It's a popular choice for people who want a reliable car that works well for daily use.
The Volkswagen Jetta is a compact sedan that has been praised for its balance of performance, comfort, and practicality. With a reputation for reliability and efficiency, it remains a popular choice for those seeking an everyday vehicle.
MSRP
"base MSRP of the calligraphy, as I saw it was around, of the Palisade was $56,060."
MSRP is the price that car makers suggest for their vehicles. It's what you might see listed at a dealership, but you can often negotiate a different price.
MSRP stands for Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price, which is the price that the manufacturer recommends for a vehicle. It's a starting point for negotiations at dealerships.
Land Rover Range Rover
"... somebody on the highway might mistake this for a Range Rover. Yeah, easily."
The Land Rover Range Rover is a fancy SUV that can handle tough roads and rough terrains while keeping you comfortable inside. It's a popular choice for people who want a stylish car that can also go off the beaten path.
The Land Rover Range Rover is a luxury SUV known for its off-road capabilities and opulent features. It combines rugged performance with high-end comfort, making it a popular choice among those who want both adventure and luxury.
Hyundai Genesis
"And the last time I experienced that was in a Genesis product. And here I am now in a Hyundai that's do..."
The Hyundai Genesis is a fancy car that feels really nice to drive and has a lot of cool features. It's made to compete with other luxury cars but is often more affordable.
The Hyundai Genesis is a luxury sedan that showcases Hyundai's commitment to high-quality craftsmanship and advanced technology. It has been well-received for its elegant design and competitive features against established luxury brands.
Calty Design Research
"Yeah, you're currently inside Calty Design Research. We're the advanced design facility for Toyota and Lexus in North America."
Calty Design Research is a place where cars are designed for Toyota and Lexus. It's important because it helps create the look and feel of new cars.
Calty Design Research is an advanced design facility for Toyota and Lexus in North America, known for its innovative automotive design work.
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