This week on America on the Road, we put the spotlight on two 2025 model-year vehicles that represent very different segments with wildly different powertrains but share a commitment to technology, practicality, and style — the 2025 Volvo EX40 and the 2025 Hyundai Palisade.
Leading off, host Jack Nerad delivers a detailed road test of the 2025 Volvo EX40 Twin Motor Ultra. While the name may sound new, the EX40 is essentially a renamed version of Volvo’s previous XC40 Recharge. This all-electric compact SUV features dual motors delivering 402 horsepower and 494 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 78 kWh battery that provides up to 275 miles of range. Its minimalist Scandinavian interior includes heated seats front and rear, a panoramic sunroof, Google-powered infotainment, and a Harman Kardon audio system. With DC fast-charging capabilities and a long list of advanced safety features, the EX40 offers luxury EV buyers a stylish and well-rounded all-wheel-drive package, but is its as-tested price of $62,045 a hill too high?
Next up is co-host Chris Teague’s road test of the 2025 Hyundai Palisade, a three-row SUV that’s become a go-to family vehicle thanks to its spacious cabin, upscale features, and user-friendly tech. Powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, the Palisade delivers confident performance through an 8-speed automatic transmission, available in both front- and all-wheel-drive configurations. It earns an EPA-estimated 21 MPG combined, giving it solid range for long-distance travel. Inside, the Palisade offers seating for up to seven, 18 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, and a maximum of 86.4 cubic feet with seats folded. It also tows up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. Its near-luxury feel, intuitive tech, and extensive standard safety features win it kudos from both Chris and Jack, and they’ll have more in this road test.
This week’s special guest is Frank Hanley, Senior Director of Automotive Benchmarking at J.D. Power. Frank joins the show to break down the results of the 2025 APEAL Study, which measures how emotionally satisfying a vehicle is to own and drive. He explains which brands are connecting with owners on a deeper level and what manufacturers can learn from the data. It’s an insightful and data-rich segment that pulls back the curtain on the psychology of car ownership.
This week’s top automotive news stories:
• Chrysler Gets Rugged with the Pacifica Grizzly Peak Concept
Chrysler has revealed an overlanding-ready concept minivan, the Pacifica Grizzly Peak, at Overland Ex
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