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 Toyota Mirai is a fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) that runs on hydrogen and produces only water as a byproduct. Unlike battery electric vehicles (BEVs) that must be plugged in to recharge, the Mirai can be refueled at a hydrogen station in minutes. The Mirai offers an electrifying driving experience, a dynamic performance, and a luxurious interior. It also has an impressive EPA-estimated range rating of 402 miles on the XLE grade, making it one of the longest-range zero-emission vehicles on the market.
What is a Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle?
A fuel cell electric vehicle is a type of electric vehicle that generates its electricity onboard from hydrogen. A fuel cell system combines stored hydrogen with oxygen from the air and a chemical reaction that produces electric current and water, which drops out of a hidden vent pipe beneath the car. Electricity generated by the Mirai’s fuel cell and the regenerative braking system is stored in a lithium-ion battery. Pressing the accelerator pedal yields an immediate flow of electric power from the fuel cell and/or battery to the rear-mounted AC synchronous electric motor, which drives the rear wheels.
How Does the Mirai Compare to Other Electric Vehicles?
The Toyota Mirai has several advantages over other electric vehicles, especially regarding range and refueling. The Mirai has a longer range than most BEVs, which typically have a range of 200 to 300 miles. The Mirai can also be refueled in about five minutes at a hydrogen station, whereas BEVs can take several hours to charge fully. The Mirai also has a lower environmental impact than gasoline or diesel vehicles, emitting only water vapor and no greenhouse gases or air pollutants.
What are the Benefits of Driving a Mirai?
Driving a Mirai is not only good for the environment, but also for the driver and the passengers. The Mirai offers a smooth, quiet, and responsive ride thanks to its electric motor and advanced suspension system. The Mirai also has a sleek and futuristic design, a low and wide stance, a long wheelbase, and a coupe-like silhouette. The Mirai’s interior is spacious and comfortable, with premium materials, ambient lighting, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen display. The Mirai also comes with a host of safety and convenience features, such as Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, digital smartphone key capability, and wireless charging.
What are the New Features of the 2024 Mirai?
The 2024 Toyota Mirai has added a few new upgrades that will turn heads. A new Elemental Silver exterior color will now be available across grades. Mirai will also sport new Beyond Zero badging, highlighting Toyota’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions to move toward a carbon-neutral future. The Mirai will also include up to $15,000 of complimentary hydrogen with a purchase or lease and free maintenance for three years or 35,000 miles, whichever comes first.
How Can I Get a Mirai?
The Toyota Mirai is available in select markets in California and Hawaii, with hydrogen stations available. The Mirai is sold in two grades: the XLE and the Limited. The XLE starts at $49,500, and the Limited starts at $66,000. Both grades are eligible for federal and state incentives, such as a $8,000 federal tax credit and a $4,500 California rebate. The Mirai can also be leased for 36 months, with a $2,499 due at signing and a $389 monthly payment for the XLE or a $549 monthly payment for the Limited.
Conclusion
The 2024 Toyota Mirai is a remarkable vehicle that combines zero-emission technology with a long-range and luxurious ride. The Toyota Mirai is great for drivers who want to reduce their environmental impact and enjoy an electrifying driving experience. The Mirai also represents Toyota’s vision of a carbon-neutral future, where hydrogen and fuel cells play a key role in powering transportation and society. The Mirai is more than just a car, it is a symbol of hope and innovation.
If you’re looking for a minivan to handle your family’s needs, you might want to check out the 2024 Toyota Sienna. This is not your ordinary minivan. It’s a hybrid that offers class-leading fuel efficiency, available all-wheel drive, and stylish design. In this article, I’ll show you how the new Toyota Sienna can improve your life.
Save Money and the Environment with the Hybrid Powertrain
One of the most impressive features of the 2024 Toyota Sienna is its hybrid powertrain. It combines a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to produce 245 horsepower. The best part is that it delivers an EPA-estimated 36 mpg combined (35 for AWD), the highest among all minivans. That means you can save money on gas and reduce your carbon footprint simultaneously.
The hybrid system also provides smooth and responsive acceleration thanks to continuous variable transmission (CVT) and electric torque. You don’t have to worry about plugging in or running out of battery, as the system automatically recharges itself through regenerative braking and the engine. You can also choose from four driving modes: EV, Normal, Eco, and Sport, depending on your mood and road conditions.
Enjoy the Comfort and Convenience of the Spacious Cabin
Another reason to love the 2024 Toyota Sienna is its spacious and comfortable cabin. It can accommodate up to eight passengers in three rows of seating, with plenty of legroom and headroom for everyone. The second-row seats are captain’s chairs that can slide, recline, and even have built-in ottomans on some trims. The third-row seats are split and stow seats that can fold flat into the floor with one motion, creating a large cargo area.
The cabin is also equipped with many tech and driver-assistance features that make your life easier and safer. Some of these features include:
- A 9-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility
- A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that shows vital information and navigation
- A 10-inch color head-up display that projects speed, hybrid system status, and safety alerts on the windshield
- A JBL premium audio system with 12 speakers and a subwoofer
- A rear-seat entertainment system with an 11.6-inch display, HDMI input, and wireless headphones
- A wireless charging pad and seven USB ports for your devices
- A hands-free dual power sliding side doors and a hands-free power liftgate that open with a kick of your foot
- A four-zone automatic climate control with air vents for all rows
- A Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite of driver-assistance features, such as a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, lane tracing assist, road sign assist, and more
Stand Out from the Crowd with the Stylish Design
The 2024 Toyota Sienna minivan is not only practical but also stylish. It has a bold and dynamic design that sets it apart from other minivans. It features a large grille, sharp headlights, sculpted sides, and sporty wheels. The XSE trim adds a sport-tuned suspension, 20-inch dark wheels, and more-aggressive front and rear bumpers. The Woodland trim offers a higher ground clearance, roof rails, and exclusive exterior colors.
The interior is also refined and elegant, with soft-touch materials, ambient lighting, and contrast stitching. You can choose from various color schemes and upholstery options, such as cloth, SofTex, or leather. The Platinum trim offers the most luxurious features, such as heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, heated steering wheel, wood-grain trim, and a bird’s eye view camera.
Conclusion
The new Toyota Sienna is a hybrid minivan that can change your life in many ways. Its class-leading fuel efficiency can help you save money and the environment. It can provide comfort and convenience with its spacious and comfortable cabin and tech and driver-assistance features. It can also make you stand out from the crowd with its stylish design. If you’re interested in the 2024 Toyota Sienna, visit the official Toyota website or read some reviews to learn more.
