Episode Details

This week’s episode of America on the Road features road tests of two standout vehicles–the 2025 Honda Civic Sport Touring hatchback and the 2025 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo. Co-Host Chris Teague put the Civic Sport Touring hatchback to the asphalt, and he found it to be one of the best values in the stellar Civic lineup. Powered by a hybrid system pairing a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle engine and electric motor, it delivers 200 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque. With 50 mpg city and 45 highway, it’s one of the most efficient compact cars available, while at the same time delivering laudable performance. Four drive modes, a refined suspension, a 9-inch infotainment screen with Google built-in, a 12-speaker Bose audio system, and full Honda Sensing safety suite round out a well-equipped, tech-forward package. He’ll offer a full report.

Host Jack Nerad took the wheel of the 2025 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo, a $39,455 compact SUV with 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque from a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine. All-wheel drive, a six-speed automatic, and premium touches like Terracotta leather-trimmed seats and a 10-speaker Bose system give it a refined edge. Though fuel economy sits at 24 mpg combined, the CX-5 impresses with its sophistication, design, and feature-rich value. And it is arguably the most fun-to-drive vehicle in its segment. At the same time, its price might surprise — or even shock– you.

At the top of the news, we detail the debut of the 2026 Lexus RZ, now offered in three