In a thrilling nod to its heritage and a testament to modern engineering prowess, Toyota unveils the 2025 GR86 Hakone Special Edition, a car that not only promises to captivate enthusiasts but also pays homage to the iconic Hakone Turnpike in Japan. Scheduled to hit Toyota dealerships across the United States in the fall of 2024, this limited-production marvel blends performance with distinctive styling in ways that redefine the driving experience.
Performance and Power
At the heart of the GR86 Hakone Special Edition lies a robust 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder boxer engine, capable of delivering 228 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque. Designed to thrill, whether with its six-speed manual transmission or its slick automatic counterpart, this engine ensures an exhilarating zero-to-60 sprint in just 6.1 seconds for the manual version. Such spirited performance is enhanced further by a Torsen® limited-slip rear differential, ensuring optimal traction and stability, especially while cornering.
Design and Styling
Toyota’s commitment to crafting a lightweight sports car is evident throughout the GR86, weighing in at just 2,811 pounds for the manual variant, thanks to thoughtful engineering choices like an aluminum hood, front fenders, and roof panel. These elements not only contribute to the car’s agility but also underscore its dedication to maximizing control without compromising on comfort.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Step inside, and you’ll find a cockpit designed with the driver in mind, featuring Ultrasuede® sport seats with tan leather trim and stitching, exuding both luxury and functionality. The interior of the Hakone Special Edition is further distinguished by a bespoke shift knob adorned with bronze accents, complemented by a GR special edition plaque, all serving as reminders of its exclusive pedigree.
Enhanced Driving Dynamics
When it comes to handling, Toyota’s engineering prowess shines through in every detail. The GR86 Hakone Special Edition boasts re-tuned shocks, Electric Power Steering, and other enhancements that refine the driving dynamics to offer unparalleled responsiveness and a heightened sense of connection to the road. Whether navigating tight corners or cruising down a straight stretch, every aspect of the driving experience is finely tuned to deliver pure exhilaration.
Safety and Technology Features
Safety remains paramount, with Toyota’s Active Safety Suite standard across all models. This includes advanced features such as Pre-Collision Braking System, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Lane Departure Warning, ensuring peace of mind on every journey. Additionally, the GR86 includes Toyota’s Star Safety System™, which integrates technologies like Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Smart Stop Technology® to enhance overall safety and control.
Connectivity and Convenience
Beyond its performance credentials, the GR86 Hakone Special Edition offers a suite of modern conveniences and connected services. An 8-inch touchscreen multimedia system, coupled with a premium audio setup, ensures that drivers stay entertained and informed while on the move. Moreover, a complimentary one-year membership to the National Auto Sport Association (NASA) accompanies every purchase, providing enthusiasts with exclusive access to high-performance driving events.
Availability and Warranty
As Toyota continues to push the boundaries of automotive innovation, the GR86 Hakone Special Edition stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to delivering exhilarating driving experiences. With only 860 units available in the U.S. market, each exemplifies a blend of heritage-inspired design and cutting-edge technology that is set to redefine the sports car landscape.
The Nissan Z is one of the most iconic sports cars in history, with a legacy that spans over 50 years and six generations. The latest iteration, the 2024 Nissan Z, is a stunning tribute to the past and a thrilling vision for the future. But for those who want even more performance, style, and exclusivity, there is the 2024 Nissan Z NISMO.
The 2024 Nissan Z NISMO is the ultimate expression of the Z spirit, a track-ready machine that delivers 420 horsepower, 384 lb-ft of torque, and a host of enhancements that elevate every aspect of the driving experience. This article will explore how the Z NISMO amplifies the sports car experience, from its engine and transmission to its aerodynamics and interior.
Engine and Transmission: More Power, More Control
The heart of the Z NISMO is its 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, which is tuned to produce 20 more horsepower and 34 more lb-ft of torque than the standard Z. This translates to a 0-60 mph time of around 4 seconds and a top speed of 186 mph. The engine also features increased cooling capacity, including a larger engine-oil chiller, to ensure optimal performance and durability on the track.
The Z NISMO comes exclusively with a nine-speed automatic transmission, which is beefed up to handle the extra power and torque. The transmission also features a new Sport+ mode, which delivers faster and more responsive shifts, as well as rev-matching and launch control functions. The transmission is paired with a limited-slip differential, which improves traction and stability in corners.
Aerodynamics and Handling: More Grip, More Agility
The Z NISMO is not only faster in a straight line, but also in the curves. The car features a comprehensive aerodynamic package inspired by the GT500 race car that enhances downforce, reduces drag, and optimizes airflow. The package includes a front splitter, side skirts, a rear diffuser, and a rear spoiler, all made of carbon fiber. The car also features NISMO badges, red accents on the bodywork, and a unique NISMO grille.
The 2024 Nissan Z NISMO also benefits from a stiffer and lighter chassis, thanks to underfloor braces and forged aluminum wheels. The wheels are 19 inches in diameter, 9.5 inches wide in the front, and 10 inches wide in the rear. They are wrapped with Dunlop SP Sport Maxx GT600 summer tires, which provide exceptional grip and feedback. The tires are sized 255/40R-19 in the front and 285/35R-19 in the rear.
The Z NISMO also features a sportier suspension system with firmer bushings, larger passive dampers, stiffer springs, and anti-roll bars. The suspension system reduces body roll, improves cornering balance, and enhances steering feel. The 2024 Nissan Z NISMO features larger brakes, with 15-inch front rotors and four-piston calipers and 13.8-inch rear rotors and two-piston calipers. The brakes provide strong and consistent stopping power, as well as improved heat dissipation.
Interior and Technology: More Comfort, More Convenience
The Z NISMO is not only a performance machine but also a comfortable and convenient one. The car features a unique Alcantara-appointed cockpit, with Recaro sport seats, a NISMO steering wheel, a NISMO tachometer, and NISMO floor mats. The seats are power-adjustable, heated, and bolstered to provide optimal support and comfort. The steering wheel is also heated and features paddle shifters and a red center mark.
The 2024 Nissan Z NISMO also features a range of modern technology features, such as a nine-inch touchscreen display with navigation, an eight-speaker Bose audio system, Amazon Alexa Built-in, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and wireless charging. The car also features front and rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, and a suite of driver assistance and safety functions, such as blind spot warning, lane departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking.
Conclusion: The Ultimate Z Experience
The 2024 Nissan Z NISMO is a car that honors the legacy of the Z and pushes the boundaries of the sports car experience. It is a car that delivers more power, control, grip, agility, comfort, and convenience. It is a car that is designed for the track but also enjoyable on the road. It is a car that is rare, exclusive, and desirable. It is the ultimate Z experience.