In this week’s episode of America on the Road, host Jack Nerad takes a close look at the 2025 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid Limited and walks away thoroughly impressed. This top-tier Elantra hybrid doesn’t try to reinvent the compact sedan, but it delivers a balanced blend of premium features, smooth handling, and outstanding efficiency. With a 50 MPG combined rating, dual 10.25-inch digital screens, ventilated front seats, and Hyundai’s full suite of advanced safety tech, all for just over $30,000, the stunning hybrid punches well above its class. The dual-clutch transmission offers a more engaging drive than typical hybrids, and the sharp styling gives it a confident, upscale look. It begs the question: Is this the best-value hybrid sedan you can buy?

Also in this episode, co-host Chris Teague takes the 2026 Nissan Rogue Platinum out for a week-long spin to see what the top-trim version of the popular compact SUV brings to the asphalt. The answer is: quite a lot. From quilted leather seats and a panoramic moonroof to an intuitive Google-powered infotainment system and advanced ProPILOT Assist 2.1 semi-autonomous tech, this SUV makes a case for itself as a true luxury-lite option. Its overachieving 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder puts out 201 horsepower, while delivering laudable fuel economy. Comfort and convenience are clearly the priorities, with wireless smartphone integration, a premium Bose sound system, and clever cargo solutions among its bag of tricks. But is the Rogue Platinum a high-end bargain or just an over-equipped, over-priced niche vehicle? We’ll share our thoughts.

This week’s special guest is car-builder, DIY expert, and Quaker State influencer Anatalia Villaranda. Known for her energetic presence and hands-on knowledge, Villaranda talks about how she got into cars, her favorite builds, and what it takes to grow a garage-based brand in today’s automotive landscape. Whether you’re into turning wrenches or just watching builds online, her passion and insights bring a fresh voice to the enthusiast community.

In the news, Tesla’s EV market share is slipping, dropping to just 38% in August, its lowest since 2017. With rivals like Hyundai, Toyota, and Volkswagen gaining ground in the EV space through aggressive pricing and fresher lineups, Tesla’s once-untouchable lead looks anything but secure. It’s a wake-up call for a company that’s been slow to refresh its core models while its CEO’s attention has drifted elsewhere.

Things aren’t especially rosy at Ford either. The giant automaker is recalling over 1.5 million vehicles due to defective rear-view cameras that can display blank or distorted images. Affected models span from Mustangs to F-Series trucks, and some units even had cameras supplied by Magna that are now part of a separate, broader recall. It’s the latest in a long string of issues that have made Ford the recall leader this year.

Mercedes-Benz has completed an historic 749-mile drive from Germany to Sweden using solid-state battery tech. Using lithium-metal cells developed with Factorial Energy, the test highlights how this next-gen battery format could radically improve EV range, performance, and durability. The brand says it aims to bring this breakthrough to production by decade’s end.

Lexus has unveiled the 2026 IS 350, giving its compact sports sedan a sharper new design, more tech, and upgraded materials. With F Sport trims, forged bamboo accents, and an available 17-speaker Mark Levinson sound system, Lexus is hoping to keep performance-sedan lovers from switching brands. A 311-horsepower V6 and retuned suspension aim to keep things fun behind the wheel. But where’s the V8, Chris and Jack ask.

In additional Lexus news, Toyota will consolidate Lexus production in Indiana, shifting ES sedan production out of Kentucky in response to tariffs and changing market demands. Some high-end models will return to Japanese factories, as the automaker retools its U.S. strategy around SUVs and hybrids.

To close out this episode, Jack and Chris answer a listener’s question from Ian in Atlanta: “I hear Jack talking about owning his Chevy Tahoe for a long time. What’s the best way to keep a high-mileage car running smoothly?” Their answers touch on routine maintenance, choosing the right fluids, replacing aging components before failure, and how being proactive can extend the life of any vehicle, regardless of brand.

If you enjoy America on the Road, make sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts, check out our YouTube and Rumble channels, and spread the word. And don’t forget to send your questions to: editor@drivingtoday.com.

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.

Jack is now offering his newest crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same, at a pre-publication price of just $4.99. Click here to buy from Amazon at this special limited-time price.