2026 Kia K4 GT-Line Turbo: Who Says Affordable Can’t Be Fun?

Who says there are no affordable cars on the market? This week on America on the Road, Jack Nerad and Chris Teague review two vehicles that put the lie to that notion — the redesigned 2026 Subaru Outback and the fun-to-drive 2026 Kia K4 GT-Line Turbo hatchback. They also discuss lagging consumer trust in self-driving cars, big discounts in the EV market, and tightening synthetic oil supplies. In the Hey What’s Going On Department, they take a look at Jeep’s attempt to leverage the World Cup, the nation’s 250th birthday and the desire to get something for free into a tongue-in-cheek promotion contest. If your name is George Washington, please raise your hand. All others, remain seated.

🚙 Jack Nerad’s Road Test: 2026 Kia K4 Hatchback GT-Line Turbo

Jack reviews the 2026 Kia K4 Hatchback GT-Line Turbo, a practical and engaging compact hatch that proves that fun-affordable cars still exist -- they’re just colored in a weird shade of yellow. (Okay, it’s available in other colors, too.) Powered by a 190-hp turbo 1.6-liter engine backed by an eight-speed automatic, it offers sporty handling, a premium-feeling interior, generous cargo space (up to 59.3 cu ft), and advanced safety features. It bears a total price of $32,870 as tested, so it probably won’t force you to clear out your 401k.

🚗 Chris Teague’s Road Test: 2026 Subaru Outback

Chris tests the seventh-generation 2026 Subaru Outback. The “all-new" model looks a lot like the old one, but it brings bolder styling, increased interior space, and enhanced capability. The Outback is available with a 2.5-liter 180-hp boxer or 2.4-liter turbo 260-hp boxer engine, standard Symmetrical AWD, and up to 9.5 inches of ground clearance on Wilderness trim. Inside it features a large 12.1-inch touchscreen, improved EyeSight safety tech, and a more refined cabin while retaining its legendary adventure-ready DNA. If your adventure consists of a four-block trip to the local ice cream shop, all the better.

🎙️ Special Guest Interview

Auto branding expert Matt Powell, CEO of Moroch, joins the show to discuss the recent controversy surrounding the Ferrari Luce.

📰 This Week’s Headlines

Consumer Confidence in Self-Driving Cars Stalled

JD Power research shows awareness of autonomous vehicles is up, but fewer than 1 in 4 Americans feel comfortable riding in one, with safety concerns remaining the top barrier. Hmmmmm...safety concerns? Go figure.

Jeep’s Patriotic, Soccer-Related, Comical Wrangler Giveaway

Jeep will give new Wranglers to the first 100 eligible Americans named George Washington if the U.S. wins the World Cup as part of its “All In On America” campaign. (Yes, we know it’s a joke, and here at AOTR we're in favor of jokes. Go USA! Go George Washington! Go Jeep!)