Approachably Cool: 2025 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo: 2025 Honda Civic Sport Touring Hatch
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 EV variants, including the new 402-horsepower F SPORT. Lexus has improved its range, added fast charging, and introduced performance upgrades like “M Mode,” which simulates manual shifting.
Meanwhile, the 2026 Honda CR-V gets tech and trim upgrades, including a new off-road-ready TrailSport Hybrid model with standard AWD and improved fuel economy. All trims now offer wireless phone integration and larger screens. Not to be outdone, Toyota pulled the wraps off the all-new 2026 RAV4, the CR-V's chief nemesis, and we'll have more details on its gala introduction next week.
In this week’s auto-political news, a U.S. Senate resolution could overturn California’s authority to enforce its 2035 all-EV mandate. Backed by automakers and dealers, supporters argue it protects national market consistency, while critics warn it could undercut state autonomy and slow EV adoption.
Another legal battle has emerged between the California New Car Dealers Association and Honda/Sony over direct-to-consumer Afeela EV sales. The CNCDA claims these sales violate franchise laws requiring manufacturers to work through licensed dealers. The case may set a major precedent as EV startups and joint ventures explore nontraditional retail models.
Also in the news, General Motors has halted U.S. exports to China, citing trade tensions and the winding down of its premium Durant Guild brand. GM will continue operating in China through joint ventures, but this move signals shifting priorities amid rising tariffs and regulatory uncertainty.
This week’s guest, Andre Ravinowich, Senior Manager of Product Planning at Hyundai, joins the show to talk about the all-new Hyundai Ioniq 9, a large electric SUV set to broaden Hyundai’s EV lineup with space, performance, and tech innovation. Nerad drove the new battery-electric wonder during a Hyundai-sponsored event in Savannah, Georgia.
To close out the show, the listener question of the week comes from Stanley in Macon, Georgia, who asks: “What’s your take on the return of sedans and smaller cars? Are they gone for good, or do you think there will be a comeback for cars?” Jack and Chris weigh in, noting that while crossovers dominate, rising vehicle prices, tighter parking, and renewed interest in efficiency could trigger a modest resurgence for sedans and compacts—especially hybrids and EVs.
Jack Nerad's newest book
Jack is now offering his newest crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same,
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