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.
🚗 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.
🚙 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.
🎙️ Hosts: Jack Nerad & Chris Teague
📢 Presented by: DrivingToday.com & Mercury Insurance
📚 Book Plug: Only One Thing Stays the Same — Jack Nerad’s new crime novel, available now on Amazon
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📨 Email us your questions: editor@drivingtoday.com
Check Out Matt’s Book:
Pick up a copy of co-host Matt DeLorenzo's terrific new book How to Buy an Affordable Electric Car: A Tightwad's Guide to EV Ownership.
Look for Jack’s Newest Crime Novel:
Jack is now offering his newest crime novel,