America on the Road - Episode 222: 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge, 2024 Mazda CX-30, Plus guest Lauren Fix

In the same week that Volkswagen announced a giant investment in electric-vehicle maker Rivian, the brand also reinforced its stance in conventional gasoline-powered vehicles with the unveiling of the newest Volkswagen Golf R and Golf R Variant. The fraternal twins redefine their class with 328 horsepower and the handling chops to leverage it. The new models are the most powerful Golf versions to date. They rocket 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 4.6 seconds (Golf R) and 4.8 seconds (Variant). With the Performance package, top speeds increase to a claimed 167 mph, making these the fastest Volkswagens alongside the Arteon R Shooting Brake that will never see the light of day in America.

Both models feature a new front-end design, advanced light systems, 19-inch forged wheels, and an updated infotainment system. In Germany, they come standard with DCC adaptive damping to complement their impressive horsepower. The Golf R Black Edition, with darkened Volkswagen badges and a Performance package, adds more spice to the Golf R lineup. The Golf R Variant combines sports car performance with the practicality of a wagon. Since the debut of the legendary Golf R32 in 2002, the Golf R series has sold over 250,000 units. We’ll have more details in the news this week.

Also in the news, a global carmaker has delayed the launch of a new, affordable EV in the wake of the Biden Administration’s new tariff on Chinese-built electric vehicles. We’ll tell you the carmaker, the model and why the decision was made to scrub the launch in this episode, plus our comments.

Another important news story concerns the potential ticking timebomb you have in your car. We’ll tell you what the danger is and how you can defuse it in this episode.

Our special guest is Lauren Fix. You might have seen her on TV or heard her on the radio as The Car Coach. She’s terrifically knowledgeable about cars and, like host Jack Nerad, a member of the North American Car of the Year jury. The two share stories about Paul Brian, another jury member and a friend of ours who passed away recently. Brian was a larger-than-life guy, and we’re sure you enjoy the tales Lauren has to tell about her longtime on-air partner.

In this week’s road test segment, Co-Host Chris Teague will evaluate the 2024 Mazda CX30. Its maker calls it a crossover SUV, but Teague and Nerad think another name might be just as appropriate. Both will share their views on the vibrant hatch.

Nerad had a far more luxurious assignment this week. He put the 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge through its paces. The plug-in hybrid happens to be the most performance-oriented version of the Swedish automaker’s three-row crossover, bot Nerad and Teague will offer their opinions on it in this episode.