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The 2025 Dodge Charger Daytona and the 2025 Polestar 3 Launch Edition are two of the quickest vehicles we’ve ever road-tested. Their sizzling 0-60-mile-per-hour times might also set your hair on fire. Yet, as quick as those two battery-electrics and as technologically savvy as they are, they are very different. That’s what co-host Matt DeLorenzo and host Jack Nerad discovered as they tested the two vehicles this week.
The 2025 Dodge Charger Daytona is a bold, all-electric muscle car featuring a sleek, aerodynamic design and cutting-edge technology. Built on Dodge’s new STLA Large platform, it delivers up to 670 horsepower in its top performance trim, which allows the Daytona to rocket from 0 to 60 mph in just about 3 seconds. That heart-stopping go-power places it among the quickest modern performance cars. Its most controversial feature is the Fratzonic Chambered Exhaust that delivers ersatz muscle car sounds, which thrilled one of our hosts and turned off the other.
The 2025 Polestar 3 Launch Edition aims to redefine the luxury electric SUV with its minimalist Scandinavian styling, 489 horsepower, 620 lb-ft of torque, and all-wheel drive. Despite weighing over 5,000 pounds, it manages a brisk 0–60 mph time of about 4.5 seconds, helped by active air suspension and torque vectoring. Inside, it offers premium touches like ventilated Nappa leather seats, a panoramic glass roof, a Bowers & Wilkins sound system, and a slick Android Automotive OS with Google built-in. But is its reliance on the large 14.5-inch touchscreen for most functions distracting? Is its $88,100 price with options just too high? And will it be the victim of Chinese tariffs? Matt and Jack will have the answers.
We have two great guests for you this week. Danielle Livingston is a marketing expert, and Jake Robin is a product expert on the brand-new Toyota 4Runner. Jack Nerad had a chance to chat with them recently about that very cool new SUV, so we’re sure you’ll enjoy what they have to say.
We have an EV expert with us this week, so it’s appropriate that we look at the current state of EVs in the United States and where the market might be headed. J.D. Power’s E-Vision report is the source of our conversation starters.
Of course, tariffs in the auto industry continue to grab headlines. Again this week, with veteran industry reporter Matt DeLorenzo aboard, we’ll tell you what is real and what is hype and give you thoughts on how you should proceed if you’re planning to buy a car.
So we have tons of show for you this week.
Jack Nerad’s newest book
Jack is now offering his newest crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same, at a pre-publication price of just $4.99. Click here to buy from Amazon at this special limited-time price.
Matt DeLorenzo’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.
Brought to you by:
• DrivingToday.com
• Mercury Insurance: Find out how much you can save at DrivingToday.com/auto-insurance.
• EMLandsea.com, publisher of Only One Thing Stays the Same and Dance in the Dark
We have a lot of shows for you this week. Thanks for joining us, and don’t forget to look for new content on our YouTube and Rumble channels. Please subscribe. If you do, we’ll like you forever.
America on the Road is brought to you by Driving Today.com, Mercury Insurance, and EMLandsea.com , the publisher of Nerad’s latest book, Only One Thing Stays the Same which is available HERE on Amazon.com
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to America on the Road
03:04 Current State of Electric Vehicles
05:56 Market Trends and Consumer Considerations
08:50 Political Influences on EV Adoption
9:28 Impact of Tariffs on the Auto Industry
13:00 Road Testing 2025 Dodge Charger Daytona
18:35 Road Testing 2025 Polestar 3 Launch Edition
26:07 Interview 2025 Toyota 4Runner Product Experts
40:00 Listener Question: EVs vs. Hybrids for City Driving
Keywords
Electric Vehicles, Automotive News, EV Market, Tariffs, Muscle Cars, Automotive Industry, Consumer Trends, Car Buying, Tesla, Market Analysis, performance vehicles, Polestar 3, Toyota 4Runner, EVs, hybrids, city driving, automotive trends, electric vehicles, off-road vehicles, car reviews
Summary
In this episode of America on the Road, hosts Jack Nerad and Matt DeLorenzo discuss the current state of electric vehicles (EVs) in the U.S., market trends, consumer considerations, and the impact of tariffs on the automotive industry. They also delve into the political influences on EV adoption and share insights from their road tests of electric muscle cars, including the Dodge Charger Daytona and the Polestar 3. Beyond that, Jack Nerad and Matt DeLorenzo discuss the evolving landscape of performance vehicles, focusing on the Polestar 3 and its unique features. They delve into the Toyota 4Runner’s off-road capabilities and the brand’s commitment to maintaining its rugged character. The conversation also touches on the practicality of EVs versus hybrids for city driving, highlighting the importance of charging access and vehicle suitability for urban environments.
Takeaways
Electric vehicles are finding a home with a certain niche.
The EV market is not yet a mass market.
Interest in EVs is highest among higher-income consumers.
Political affiliation influences EV consideration.
Tariffs may not have as significant an impact as perceived.
The automotive industry is shifting towards onshore production.
The Dodge Charger Daytona is an interesting electric muscle car.
Consumer interest in authenticity remains strong.
The market for electric muscle cars is still developing.
The design and performance of new EVs are impressive. The Polestar 3 offers impressive performance with 489 horsepower.
Electric vehicles can provide a unique driving experience, akin to a spaceship.
Toyota is strategically positioning the 4Runner and Land Cruiser in the off-road market.
Hybrids may be more practical for city dwellers without charging access.
Performance vehicles are evolving, with a focus on electric options.
The market for SUVs is expanding, catering to diverse consumer needs.
Charging infrastructure is crucial for the success of EVs in urban areas.
Toyota’s commitment to off-road vehicles reflects market demand.
The Polestar 3’s design prioritizes minimalism and high-end materials.
Understanding the differences between EVs and hybrids is essential for consumers.
Titles
Exploring the Future of Electric Vehicles
The EV Market: Trends and Insights
Political Dynamics in EV Adoption
Sound Bites
“It’s not a panacea.”
“The market is shifting.”
“They’re trying to discount them.”
“People want authenticity.”
“It’s like getting into a spaceship.”
“I would appreciate that.”
“Thanks again, Matt.”
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