Exploring the 2025 Toyota GR86 Hakone Edition, this episode dives into the joys of budget-friendly canyon carving in California. Hosts Jack and Chris discuss the car's performance, handling, and unique features, while also reflecting on its Subaru roots. They debate the merits of the automatic versus manual transmission and share their thoughts on the vehicle's design and practicality. The episode also features insights into the automotive market, including EV sales trends and a guest segment on home EV chargers, making it a comprehensive listen for car enthusiasts.
In this week’s episode of America on the Road, host Jack Nerad and co-host Chris Teague put two very different vehicles through their paces. Jack gets behind the wheel of the 2025 Toyota GR86 Hakone Edition, a special, limited-run sports coupe aimed squarely at driving purists. Chris tests the redesigned 2026 Nissan Murano, a tech-forward crossover that aims to raise the comfort and luxury bar in the midsize SUV segment. Together, they compare notes and offer real-world insights on performance, practicality, and value.
đźš— Road Test: 2025 Toyota GR86 Hakone Edition
Jack takes the wheel of what Toyota hopes is the “collector-grade” 2025 GR86 Hakone Edition, whose name is a shout-out to Japan’s iconic Hakone Turnpike. With just 860 units available in the U.S., this limited-edition trim brings exclusive Ridge Green paint, satin bronze wheels, and premium performance touches like SACHS dampers and Brembo brakes to the switchbacks. Powered by a 2.4-liter flat-four engine with 228 horsepower paired with either a manual transmission or paddle-shifted automatic, it offers an analog driving experience in an increasingly digital world. While loving the GR86 concept, Jack and Chris explore whether the car’s slick driving feel makes up for its somewhat modest straight-line speed.
đźš™ Road Test: 2026 Nissan Murano
Chris hits the road in Nissan’s fully redesigned 2026 Murano, a midsize crossover that trades in dated styling for a more sculpted body, minimalist interior, and modern tech. Power comes from a 241-horsepower VC-Turbo engine mated to a 9-speed automatic, with available AWD. Inside, buyers get dual 12.3-inch displays with Google built-in, ventilated and massaging seats, and a premium interior vibe. Nissan Safety Shield 360, a new “Invisible Hood View,” and upgraded cargo capacity round out the package. Chris shares his impressions on how well the Murano balances upscale features with family-friendly usability.
🎧 Special Guest Interview:
John Dicken, Director of Material Damage Claims at Mercury Insurance, joins the show to talk about a topic many EV buyers overlook: what it really takes to install a home EV charger. He walks through cost factors, insurance implications, and logistical challenges that can trip up even the most prepared homeowners.
🗞️ In the News:
• Jaguar Land Rover Resumes Production After Cyberattack: After a major August breach, JLR has restarted key operations including engine and battery assembly. A $1.12 billion UK-backed loan guarantee aims to stabilize its supply chain.
• Auto Sales Strong, But EV Signals Are Mixed: September U.S. sales climbed 3.5%, led by a spike in EV demand before tax credits expired. But experts warn this may be a short-term surge rather than a long-term trend.
• Lucid Falls Short Again: Q3 numbers disappointed, with Lucid falling behind rivals and now banking heavily on the upcoming Gravity SUV to drive recovery.
• Mercedes Goes Anti-Fossil Carbon: The automaker becomes the first to join the Renewable Carbon Initiative, pledging to replace fossil-derived materials with bio-based and recycled alternatives.
📬 Listener Question
Bradley from Stockton, CA writes:
“I’m looking to buy a used car, and I’m wondering about trying to buy one from an auto auction. What do you two guys think of that idea?”
Jack and Chris break down the pros, cons, and what buyers should watch out for before bidding.
"...one EV maker that didn't get a big lift in September was Lucid Motors. We'll tell you what their next moves are likely to be..."
Lucid Motors is a company that makes electric cars, focusing on luxury models. They are known for their high-end electric sedan called the Lucid Air.
Lucid Motors is an American automaker that specializes in electric vehicles (EVs), known for their luxury electric sedan, the Lucid Air. The company aims to compete with established brands in the EV market by offering high-performance and technologically advanced vehicles.
"What is your test vehicle this week, Chris? I drove the 2026 Nissan Murano. It was all new for 2025 and I can't wait to tell you all about it."
The Nissan Murano is a type of SUV that is designed for comfort and style. The 2026 version has new features that make it even better than the previous year.
The Nissan Murano is a midsize crossover SUV known for its stylish design and comfortable interior. The 2026 model continues to build on the updates introduced in 2025, offering modern features and technology.
Car
Toyota GR6 Hakone Edition
"the 2025 Toyota GR6 Hakone Edition. We'll tell you about it in our road test segment."
The Toyota GR6 Hakone Edition is a special version of a Toyota sports car designed for better performance and unique looks. It's part of Toyota's racing-inspired series called Gazoo Racing.
The Toyota GR6 Hakone Edition is a special variant of the GR6 model, which is part of Toyota's performance-oriented Gazoo Racing lineup. This edition is likely to feature unique styling and performance enhancements.
"And big news for Jaguar Land Rover. They have finally restarted their engines."
Jaguar Land Rover is a company that makes high-end cars, including luxury SUVs and sports cars. They recently had to stop production because of a cyber attack but are now getting back to making cars.
Jaguar Land Rover is a British automotive company that designs, manufactures, and sells luxury vehicles under the Jaguar and Land Rover brands. They have faced various challenges, including production halts due to cyber attacks.
"Battery electric vehicles, of course, kind of led the charge here. One of the leaders of the charge, they took a record 11.8 percent of US new car, the total market."
Battery electric vehicles are cars that run only on electricity, using batteries instead of gas. They don't produce any pollution from exhaust, making them better for the environment.
Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) are cars that are powered entirely by electricity stored in batteries, with no internal combustion engine. They produce zero tailpipe emissions and are becoming increasingly popular due to advancements in technology and government incentives.
"that, you know, they're hitting a wall in terms of these federal tax credits. As you say, some of the some of the manufacturers and many of the manufacturers have come up with ways to try to extend that."
Federal tax credits are money the government gives back to you when you buy an electric car. This helps lower the price you pay for the car.
Federal tax credits are financial incentives provided by the government to encourage the purchase of electric vehicles (EVs). These credits can significantly reduce the overall cost of an EV, making them more accessible to consumers.
"And just as we're doing the show today, we heard that Tesla is lowering prices and has low price models going out there."
Tesla is a car company that makes electric cars. They are known for their high-tech features and long driving range on a single charge.
Tesla is a leading manufacturer of electric vehicles known for its innovative technology and performance. The company has played a significant role in popularizing electric cars and has a range of models from sedans to SUVs.
"It'll be fascinating to see whether electric vehicle sales do drastically go off the cliff or whether they hang in there."
Electric vehicle sales are when people buy cars that run on electricity instead of gasoline. These cars are becoming more popular as more people want to be environmentally friendly.
Electric vehicle sales refer to the transactions involving the purchase of cars powered entirely or primarily by electricity. This market segment has been growing rapidly due to increased consumer interest and government incentives.
"...Dodge is bringing back the V8 instead of pushing forward with new electric models. So I guess that, you know, automakers are going to do what makes them the most money."
A V8 engine is a type of car engine that has eight cylinders arranged in a V shape, which helps it produce a lot of power, making it great for fast cars.
A V8 engine is an eight-cylinder engine configuration where the cylinders are arranged in a V shape. This design allows for more power and performance, making it popular in muscle cars and trucks.
"...Dodge is bringing back the V8 instead of pushing forward with new electric models. So I guess that, you know, automakers are going to do what makes them the most money."
Dodge is a car brand from the United States that makes sporty and powerful cars, especially known for their V8 engines.
Dodge is an American automobile brand known for its performance vehicles, including muscle cars like the Charger and Challenger, which often feature powerful V8 engines.
"... or not. They're trying to concentrate on the new gravity SUV, which makes a ton of sense because that's wh..."
The Lucid Gravity is a new electric SUV that promises to be very luxurious and high-tech. It's made by a company called Lucid Motors and is designed to be a fancy and powerful vehicle for those who want an electric car.
The Lucid Gravity is an upcoming luxury electric SUV from Lucid Motors, designed to offer high performance, advanced technology, and spacious interiors. It aims to compete with established luxury brands by providing a premium electric driving experience.
"There was a coalition that includes other companies like BASF, Covestro, Michelin, and Continental."
Michelin is a famous tire company that makes tires for cars and trucks. They are known for their quality and performance.
Michelin is a French tire manufacturer known for producing high-quality tires for various vehicles, including cars, trucks, and motorcycles. They are also recognized for their innovations in tire technology.
"There was a coalition that includes other companies like BASF, Covestro, Michelin, and Continental."
Continental is a large company that makes tires and other parts for cars. They supply many car manufacturers with important components.
Continental is a German automotive manufacturing company that specializes in tires, brake systems, and other automotive components. They are a major supplier to the automotive industry.
"There was a coalition that includes other companies like BASF, Covestro, Michelin, and Continental."
BASF is a big chemical company that makes materials used in many products, including cars. They help create parts that are used in car manufacturing.
BASF is a German chemical company and the largest chemical producer in the world. They provide a wide range of products, including materials used in automotive manufacturing.
"There was a coalition that includes other companies like BASF, Covestro, Michelin, and Continental that have signed on to what they call the Renewable Carbon Initiative."
The Renewable Carbon Initiative is a group of companies working together to find better ways to use carbon that doesn't come from fossil fuels. They want to help the environment by using renewable sources instead.
The Renewable Carbon Initiative is a coalition aimed at promoting the use of renewable carbon sources instead of fossil-derived carbon in various industries, including automotive. This initiative seeks to reduce the environmental impact of carbon use.
"Jack, that comes in three trims, SV, SL and Platinum."
Trim levels are like different versions of the same car, with each version having its own set of features. The Nissan Murano has three versions called SV, SL, and Platinum.
Trim levels refer to the different versions of a vehicle that come with varying features and options. For the Nissan Murano, the available trims are SV, SL, and Platinum, each offering a different set of amenities.
"It costs around $52,000 to start. And mine was around $54,000 after options."
MSRP is the price that the car maker suggests you should pay for a new car. It's a starting point for negotiations when buying a vehicle.
MSRP stands for Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price, which is the price that the manufacturer recommends for a vehicle. It serves as a guideline for dealerships and customers when negotiating the sale price.
"...you get a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with this vehicle. It makes 241 horsepower..."
Turbocharged means that the engine has a special device that helps it produce more power without using more fuel. This makes the car faster and more efficient.
Turbocharged refers to an engine that uses a turbine-driven forced induction system to increase its power output by forcing more air into the combustion chamber.
"...It makes 241 horsepower. And my biggest, most anticipated change to this SUV for the model year was the move..."
Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful an engine is. The higher the horsepower, the faster and stronger the vehicle can be.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, commonly used to describe the power output of engines. In this case, the engine produces 241 horsepower, indicating its performance capability.
"from a continuously variable transmission to a nine-speed automatic transmission. And I'll talk about that more in just a minute."
A continuously variable transmission, or CVT, is a type of automatic transmission that doesn't have traditional gears. Instead, it can change smoothly through a range of speeds, which helps the car accelerate more smoothly and can save fuel.
A continuously variable transmission (CVT) is an automatic transmission that can change seamlessly through a continuous range of effective gear ratios, rather than having a fixed number of gears. This allows for smoother acceleration and improved fuel efficiency.
"to a nine-speed automatic transmission. And I'll talk about that more in just a minute."
A nine-speed automatic transmission is a system in a car that automatically changes gears for you, with nine different settings. This helps the car run more efficiently and smoothly at different speeds.
A nine-speed automatic transmission is a type of automatic transmission that offers nine distinct gear ratios. This allows for better performance and fuel efficiency by optimizing engine power across a wider range of speeds.
"But front-wheel drive is available. I'm sorry, front-wheel drive is standard."
Front-wheel drive means that the power from the engine goes to the front wheels of the car. This setup can help the car handle better in bad weather and usually makes the car more spacious inside.
Front-wheel drive (FWD) is a vehicle configuration where the engine's power is directed to the front wheels. This layout typically provides better traction in slippery conditions and is more space-efficient than rear-wheel drive.
"All-wheel drive is available and all models get an eight-speed automatic transmission."
All-wheel drive means that power goes to all four wheels of the car, which helps it grip the road better, especially in bad weather or off-road situations.
All-wheel drive (AWD) is a drivetrain configuration that provides power to all four wheels of a vehicle, enhancing traction and stability on various surfaces. It is particularly beneficial in off-road conditions or during inclement weather.
"and all models get an eight-speed automatic transmission. So, Jack, we've talked about the continuously variable"
An eight-speed automatic transmission is a system in a car that changes gears automatically, with eight different settings. This helps the car perform better and use less fuel while driving.
An eight-speed automatic transmission is a type of automatic transmission that has eight distinct gear ratios. This allows for improved acceleration and fuel efficiency by optimizing engine performance across a broader range of speeds.
"One, the Morano is a pretty big vehicle, I think, for a CVT. I think they work best in smaller vehicles."
A CVT is a special kind of automatic transmission that helps cars use fuel more efficiently. It can change gears smoothly without the usual steps you feel in regular automatic transmissions.
A CVT, or continuously variable transmission, is a type of automatic transmission that can change seamlessly through a continuous range of effective gear ratios. This allows for smoother acceleration and improved fuel efficiency compared to traditional automatic transmissions.
"...some of the touches from the Nissan Ariya EV. So what you get is a more visually appealing space."
The Nissan Ariya is a new electric SUV from Nissan. It has a stylish design and is made to be environmentally friendly, using electricity instead of gasoline.
The Nissan Ariya is an all-electric SUV that features modern design and technology, including advanced interior features and a focus on sustainability. It represents Nissan's shift towards electric vehicles.
"The platinum trim has heated and ventilated front seats. You also get massaging functionality here, which is unique for a Morano."
Heated and ventilated seats can warm you up when it's cold or cool you down when it's hot. They make sitting in the car more comfortable no matter the weather.
Heated and ventilated seats are features that allow the seats to be warmed up in cold weather and cooled down in hot weather. This adds to the overall comfort of the vehicle's interior.
"On the technology front, you get a dual 12.3-inch display screen system. You get a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and then a touchscreen."
This means there are two big screens in the car that show important information like maps and music. They help you control different features easily.
A dual 12.3-inch display screen system refers to two large digital screens used for displaying information and controls in a vehicle. This setup often enhances the driver's experience by providing clear visuals for navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings.
"Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. My platinum trim came with a Bose audio system and wireless charging."
These are features that let you connect your phone to the car without using a cable. You can use apps and listen to music from your phone on the car's screen.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allow users to connect their smartphones to the car's infotainment system without needing a physical cable. This feature enables access to apps, navigation, and music directly from the car's display.
"My platinum trim came with a Bose audio system and wireless charging. I like Nissan's infotainment system."
Bose is a brand that makes really good sound systems. In cars, they help you enjoy music and sounds better.
Bose is a well-known audio equipment company that specializes in high-quality sound systems. In vehicles, Bose audio systems are often praised for their superior sound quality and immersive listening experience.
"... swing this vehicle, I would go for the mid-range SL trim. You still get most of the nice stuff"
The Mercedes-Benz SL is a fancy convertible car that can have its roof taken off. It's designed for people who want to drive in style and comfort, especially on nice days.
The Mercedes-Benz SL is a luxury roadster that combines performance with elegance, featuring a retractable hardtop and a range of powerful engines. It is known for its advanced technology and comfort, making it a popular choice for those seeking a high-end convertible experience.
"...mbination is really hard to beat. But I chose the GR Corolla over the GR86 for a reason. You get more power an..."
The Toyota GR Corolla is a sporty version of the regular Corolla, designed to be more powerful and fun to drive. It has a hatchback shape, which means it has extra space in the back for things like groceries or gear.
The Toyota GR Corolla is a performance-oriented hatchback that combines practicality with sporty driving dynamics. It features a turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive, making it a compelling choice for enthusiasts looking for a versatile yet fun vehicle.
"... really a Toyota. It shares the platform with the Subaru BRZ, and I think there's a ton of a Subaru in this,"
The Subaru BRZ is a small sports car that is fun to drive and has its engine in the back, which helps it handle well on the road. It's built for people who love speed and agility in their cars.
The Subaru BRZ is a compact sports coupe known for its rear-wheel-drive layout and engaging driving dynamics. Developed in collaboration with Toyota, it emphasizes lightweight construction and precise handling, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts.
"For example, if you're looking at a regular Ford F-150 and you're looking at a F-150 Lightning, there's a lot more lighting"
The Ford F-150 Lightning is an electric pickup truck that looks like the regular F-150 but runs on electricity instead of gas. It can still do all the tough jobs you'd expect from a truck, but it's better for the environment.
The Ford F-150 Lightning is an all-electric version of the popular F-150 pickup truck, combining the utility of a traditional truck with the benefits of electric power. It features impressive towing capabilities, advanced technology, and a range that makes it suitable for both work and everyday use.
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This is America on the Road, main best radio show by the International Automotive Media
Conference and now in its 33rd year on the air.
Thanks for being with us.
This is we bring you the latest automotive information from around the world.
I'm Jack D. Rad.
With me is co-host Chris Teague.
Chris, have fall-colored tourists invaded your town yet?
My town is right on the coast and we get some fall colors but they head to the
mountains for those and I've heard it's pretty spectacular.
We've been in a big drought so we'll see how it goes.
Not a weather show.
Yeah, exactly.
Although this is probably a good week for that I would imagine to be in Maine.
Plenty of news to talk about this weekend on the car side after a long pause due to
a cyber attack, a global automaker has resumed its manufacturing operations.
I'll tell you what automaker we're talking about and what the future may bring
for them next.
Auto sales have been humming through the first three quarters of the year.
Water battery electric sales were particularly strong in September.
But is there a hidden warning in their September numbers?
We'll give you our opinions on that coming up.
Curious about Chris's opinions as always, one EV maker that didn't get a big
lift in September was Lucid Motors.
We'll tell you what their next moves are likely to be and give you our
predictions a little later.
Mercedes-Benz has just gone on record against carbon derived from fossils.
And we'll tell you more about what I think is a baffling story coming up.
And how do you show a new e-bike that looks pretty cool?
Are you an e-bike fan, Chris?
I am a fan.
I didn't used to be, but I tested one and they are quite entertaining.
Yeah, they're kind of cool.
America on the Road is brought to you by drivingtoday.com, emlancy.com, the publisher
of my latest book, Only One Thing Stays the Same, and Mercury Insurance.
If you're looking to save some money, you should switch to Mercury for your
auto and home insurance.
Californians save an average of $670 with Mercury.
So imagine how much you could save.
I got a quote today at drivingtoday.com slash auto insurance.
That's drivingtoday.com slash auto hyphen insurance.
Well, as you long time listeners of the show know, Chris lives at one end of the
country.
I live at the other.
Each week we get together to talk about cars, the car industry, and how you
can save some money on your car.
What is your test vehicle this week, Chris?
I drove the 2026 Nissan Murano.
It was all new for 2025 and I can't wait to tell you all about it.
My test vehicle this week is the all new, well maybe not all new, but
the 2025 Toyota GR6 Hakone Edition.
We'll tell you about it in our road test segment.
And our special guest this week is John Dickon.
He serves as director of material damage claims at Mercury Insurance, but we'll
be talking about home EV chargers.
And you've got one of those at your house, Chris.
So stay with us for that.
We'll have tons of show right here on America on the Road.
Chris is back with us and we're happy about that.
So we'll have a great show.
Stay with us and we'll be right back right here on America on the Road.
Welcome back everybody to America on the Road.
Jack Ney read along with Chris Teague with you for a news time on America on the Road.
And big news for Jaguar Land Rover.
They have finally restarted their engines.
Their revving back to life after a major cyber attack brought its operations to a halt.
This was in late August.
They began a phased restart recently and they started engine building, battery assembly and
stuff like that.
Now they're pretty much back into full production.
But this has been a giant thing.
And again, I think we talked about this a couple of weeks ago, Chris.
Under reported a whole company being shut down by a cyber attack, a global company
like this.
This is major, major stuff, isn't it?
Yeah.
The other automakers have to be looking at this and saying, wow, you've got some
holes when you need to plug up here.
But for Jaguar Land Rover, you know, Jaguar only has I think one vehicle in production
right now.
So this was literally the worst timing that this action could have happened to them.
And I hope they're able to kind of come out of this as they were in the middle
of restructuring anyway.
But it'll be interesting to see where they go.
Yeah.
I mean, they were having a tough time.
As you mentioned before that, they got a $1.1 billion loan guarantee from the
United Kingdom government, which will help them and their suppliers, because
suppliers are hard hit by this, too.
I think you talked about that a couple of weeks ago, too.
Parent company Tata Motors is working closely with British authorities to try
and figure this all out.
It would be kind of interesting to figure out where this cyber attack
emanated from, because nobody quite knows, at least nobody's saying.
But as you say, this is a warning shot for, I think,
all car manufacturers and all big manufacturing operations of any type.
Yeah. The scope of this thing, it just seemed a balloon immediately.
And it covered every part of their business operations.
And, you know, any cyber attack has a negative impact.
But this one, you know, being able to shut down an entire company,
pretty serious stuff.
Yeah. When your assembly line stop is a carmaker, I mean,
everything has to at some point kind of come to a halt because, you know,
you have no product to sell.
Although I think maybe in Jaguar Land Rover's case, they might have had some
built up inventory that maybe some other manufacturer wouldn't have had.
So they could catch their breath that way.
Speaking of car sales, US car sales picked up speed in September.
They climbed 3.5 percent year over year.
Of course, there was a race to take advantage of the expiring federal
tax credits on electric vehicles.
And the seasonally adjusted annual rate, sales rate, which is, you know,
something the industry looks at, hit 16.4 million units, which means
that they're on a pace to sell in the calendar year, 16.4 million vehicles
totally, which is pretty darn strong.
Battery electric vehicles, of course, kind of led the charge here.
One of the leaders of the charge, they took a record 11.8 percent
of US new car, the total market.
What should you take on that, Chris?
I have some questions about that.
Yeah, it was interesting to see, you know, everybody predicted
that EV sales would climb at the nearing the end of the EV tax credit.
Going forward, though, you know, I think some automakers, a lot of automakers
have held on to some of their in-house incentives to kind of keep
driving sales. So I don't think we're going to see a cratering.
But, you know, we've said this many times, I don't have a crystal ball.
So I'm kind of watching this with everybody else.
Yeah. Well, I don't have a crystal ball either.
But, you know, I look to these sales and I kind of wonder why
the market share wasn't even higher than 12 percent, you know, given the fact
that, you know, they're hitting a wall in terms of these federal tax credits.
As you say, some of the some of the manufacturers and many of the
manufacturers have come up with ways to try to extend that.
And just as we're doing the show today, we heard that Tesla
is lowering prices and has low price models going out there.
So there is quite a bit of incentive spending,
but not the kind of incentive spending on non-electrics that we might have guessed.
Just have to see what the fourth quarter holds.
It'll be fascinating to see whether electric vehicle sales do
drastically go off the cliff or whether they hang in there.
Yeah, I mean, I think I think we'll see them come down a bit.
But I don't think we'll see them crater.
I mean, people still want the cars.
So, yeah, it'll just be interesting to watch where, you know, January,
February of 2026 leads us.
Yeah, I wonder what the un-incentivized market share of electric vehicles would be.
You know, I've seen predictions anywhere from four to 10 percent.
Matt DiLorenzo on the show last week was saying that he expects
that electric vehicle sales could be 25 percent at some point.
He didn't exactly specify when.
So I found that interesting because I think kind of their natural rate
is probably significantly lower than that.
But, you know, we all have our opinions, right?
Opinions are like noses.
Yeah, some of this will probably depend on where regulations go in the future, right?
I mean, we've rolled back some of the emissions rules.
So Dodge is bringing back the V8 instead of pushing forward with new electric models.
So I guess that, you know, automakers are going to do what makes them the most money.
And if that's a gas engine, then that's probably where we'll be.
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