2027 Kia Seltos Gets Big-Time ‘Elevation’

This week on America on the Road, Jack Nerad reports on his early drive of the all-new 2027 Kia Seltos X-Drive SX, and co-host Chris Teague evaluates the overlanding-focused 2026 Toyota 4Runner Trailhunter. The pair also cover a full slate of automotive news and present an exclusive conversation with Kia North America marketing chief Russell Wager. In the news and comment department, Jack and Chris offer new vehicle-theft prevention advice, detail the updated Toyota Corolla Hatchback, and discuss Bill Ford’s calls for stronger U.S. competition with Chinese automakers. In addition, they dive into the leadership changes at Ram and Jeep, California’s controversial and gerrymandered new EV rebate rules, and the redesigned Volkswagen Atlas.

🚗 Jack Nerad Test-Drives the 2027 Kia Seltos X-Line SX AWD

Jack previews the second-generation Kia Seltos after driving the highly equipped X-Line SX AWD on Southern California’s Ortega Highway. The small SUV combines Telluride-inspired styling, a roomier cabin, available all-wheel drive, and a broad technology upgrade. The tested model uses a 190-horsepower 1.6-liter turbocharged engine, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and torque-vectoring all-wheel drive. Jack also discusses the more affordable 147-horsepower 2.0-liter powertrain, the Seltos’s expanded passenger and cargo space, its available panoramic display, upgraded safety systems, and pricing that begins just under $25,000.

🚙 Chris Teague Test-Drives the 2026 Toyota 4Runner Trailhunter

Chris reviews the Trailhunter, the sixth-generation 4Runner’s purpose-built overlanding model. It pairs Toyota’s body-on-frame TNGA-F platform with the standard i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain, producing 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque. Specialized equipment includes Old Man Emu shocks, a locking rear differential, Crawl Control, steel underbody protection, 33-inch Toyo all-terrain tires, rock rails, an ARB roof rack, and an integrated air compressor. Inside are a 12.3-inch digital instrument display, a 14-inch touchscreen, heated and ventilated front seats, and up to 82.6 cubic feet of cargo capacity.

🎙️ Special Guest Interview

Jack talks with Russell Wager, Vice President of Marketing for Kia North America. Wager discusses Kia’s strong momentum in the United States and the marketing strategy behind the brand’s growth.

📰 This Week’s Headlines

OnStar Offers Summer Vehicle-Theft Prevention Tips

GM and OnStar say more than half of vehicle thefts involve basic human error, including keys left inside or vehicles left running. They urge drivers to lock doors, remove valuables, park in well-lit areas, and keep connected services active. OnStar tools include remote locking, alarm alerts, GPS location, Remote Ignition Block, and Stolen Vehicle Slowdown.

2027 Toyota Corolla Hatchback Adds Technology and Style

The 2027 Corolla Hatchback arrives this summer with updated digital displays, new colors, available 18-inch gloss-white wheels, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produces 169 horsepower, while Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, Blind Spot Monitor, and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert remain standard. The SE starts at $24,780.