Episode Details

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 Sta