Episode Details
Back to Episodes2026 Toyota Crown Signia Hybrid, Maserati Grecale Trofeo, California's per-mile tax, Waymo safety, luxury drives, Lucid Gravity's chief engineer Zach Walker
Description
This week on America on the Road, co-host Chris Teague joins host Jack Nerad as they dive into the latest automotive news, two compelling road tests, and an insightful engineering-focused interview. Jack reviews the high-performance Maserati Grecale Trofeo, a compact luxury SUV that makes the most of its supercar roots, while Chris drives the all-new 2026 Toyota Crown Signia hybrid, a premium crossover blending efficiency and sophistication. Jack also sits down with Zach Walker, chief engineer of the 2026 Lucid Gravity SUV, to discuss its innovative design, advanced technology, and how it pushes the boundaries of electric mobility.
đźš™ Jack Nerad Test-Drives the 2026 Maserati Grecale Trofeo
Jack reviews the top-tier Grecale Trofeo, Maserati’s performance-first compact luxury SUV boasting a 530-horsepower twin-turbo V6 derived from the MC20 supercar, all-wheel drive, and adaptive air suspension for a blend of speed and refinement. With a 0-60 mph time of about 3.8 seconds, premium materials like perforated leather and carbon fiber, a tech-rich cabin featuring dual touchscreens and a Sonus faber audio system, plus comprehensive safety aids, the Trofeo emphasizes emotional driving appeal. Jack breaks down its real-world performance, comfort, and value at a starting price of over $117,000 in a rarified segment.
đźš— Chris Teague Test-Drives the 2026 Toyota Crown Signia Hybrid
Chris gets behind the wheel of Toyota’s elegant new crossover SUV. The 2026 Crown Signia hybrid features a standard 2.5-liter Toyota Hybrid System with 240 horsepower, electronic on-demand all-wheel drive, and an EPA-estimated 38 mpg combined, offering a quiet, car-like ride. With a premium interior including leather-trimmed heated and ventilated front seats, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, available panoramic glass roof, and up to 6.5 feet of cargo space with folded seats, it provides versatility for families. Chris explores its handling, tech features like Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, and how it stacks up in the competitive hybrid SUV market.
🎙️ Special Guest Interview
Jack talks with Zach Walker, Senior Director of Advanced Product Creation at Lucid Motors and previously the Chief Engineer for the Lucid Gravity. The interview offers an in-depth discussion on the SUV’s groundbreaking electric architecture, spacious three-row design, impressive