Tag Archives: GR86

Listen To This 2JZ-Swapped Toyota GR86 Scream On The Dyno

There’s loads of love on the market for the Toyota GR86 and its nimble nature. As for complaints, there’s the finicky oil issue that typically turns the Subaru-sourced flat-four into a brick. But even with every little thing buzzing, one may at all times use a bit extra horsepower. Do you understand what has extra energy? A boosted 2JZ. But this is not the three.0-liter six-pot you are accustomed to. This is a stroked 3.4L, and it sounds superior on the dyno.

That a lot is obvious on this brief video from 144.Printhouse & Racestudio on YouTube. It’s the newest in a year-long construct that turned a factory-stock GR86 Premium right into a 900-hp drift automotive. But it would not have 900 hp simply but, because the crew remains to be within the tuning section. That’s okay, as a result of the preliminary check reveals a lot of promise.

The dyno session begins with some fast fixes, as a coolant leak surfaced. There’s additionally a difficulty with the water and gas pumps shutting off as soon as the automotive will get heat, the latter of which in the end prevented a second dyno pull. But with the automotive connected for a baseline cross, the modded GR86 lays down 440 hp and 394 pound-feet of torque. Keep in thoughts, these are energy figures on the rear wheels.  At the crankshaft, this 2J must be making extra like 520 hp, factoring in a 15 % driveline loss.

We know a few of you might not be impressed with that determine, however earlier than hitting ship on that spicy remark you are typing, know this. You’re seeing the primary dyno session for this engine, which is basically untuned at this level. It’s a race-built, single-turbo mill at the moment operating seven kilos of enhance. It would not have any timing dialed in but, and the pull ended at roughly 6,500 rpm. In different phrases, this engine has a lot extra nonetheless to offer. And we suspect a follow-up video will present precisely that.

In the meantime, sit again and switch your audio system up. Few issues in life sound pretty much as good as a well-built 2JZ. This BRZ must be an absolute monster when it hits the monitor.

2024 Toyota GR86 Revealed In Japan With AE86 40th Anniversary Edition

Toyota has given the GR86 a makeover for the 2024 model year in Japan. The rear-wheel-drive sports coupe now comes with a special edition to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the original AE86. This limited-edition variant is available with a manual or automatic transmission and features a retro-inspired design with various updates inside and out. It is based on the RZ trim and is offered in white or red with black stripes, giving it a distinct Initial D vibe.

The special edition GR86 comes equipped with 18-inch wheels, finished in a dark gray metallic color, and fitted with 215/40 R18 tires. Toyota has also added a black finish to the side mirror caps and a prominent trunk lid spoiler to create a visual contrast with the body paint. Inside the car, there is a black and red theme, accompanied by a “Since 1983 40th” logo on the door cards, which complements the exterior decal.

Watch How Toyota GR86 Handles The Moose Test

The Toyota GR86 (and its Subaru BRZ sibling) offers buyers a rear-drive sports coupe at a price that undercuts similar, more powerful offerings like the Nissan Z and Toyota’s own Supra, among others. This video showcases how the model handles the slalom and the moose test.

This GR86 comes with the optional Touring Package, which includes sports brake pads and 18-inch Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires. The powertrain remains the same, with a 2.4-liter flat four-cylinder engine that produces 228 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque in the United States. This particular GR86 is equipped with a six-speed manual transmission instead of the available Subaru Performance Transmission CVT.

Toyota GR86 in Japan Gets New $3.5K Carbon-Fiber Swan Neck Wing

In Japan, Toyota has introduced a new swan-neck rear wing for the GR86. The wing comes with a price tag of $3,556 (517,000 yen).

This rear wing features a body made of carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic, providing a strong and lightweight structure. The uprights, on the other hand, are made of aluminum, ensuring stability. The wing is attached to the vertical section of the trunk lid.

Subaru BRZ, Toyota GR86 Owner Test Reveals Oil Pressure Issue During Right Turns

The Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86, introduced in 2021, grabbed attention with their larger 2.4-liter boxer four-cylinder engine, offering more power than the previous model. However, some owners have reported sporadic engine problems. To investigate further, a 2022 Subaru BRZ owner has conducted a test.

The test, featured in a video on the YouTube channel “900BRZ,” is introduced by a person named Brian, who owns a 2022 BRZ. In the video, he evaluates both his BRZ and a 2022 Toyota GR86 on a track, with four different drivers of varying skill levels. The cars were equipped with two oil pressure sensors and connected to a custom software suite that recorded real-time data of engine oil pressure during track driving.

2024 Toyota Supra And GR86 Honor MkIV, Initial D With New Special Editions

The Toyota GR86 and GR Supra are two sports cars with a long history. The Supra nameplate has been around since the 1980s, and the iconic fourth generation from the mid-90s is especially beloved by enthusiasts. The GR86 owes its existence to the Sprinter/Corolla AE86, even though the two cars don’t technically share a name. Now, both cars are getting special edition packages for 2024 that pay homage to their heritage.

The Supra’s 45th Anniversary Edition trim celebrates the nameplate as a whole, but also specifically references the MkIV Supra with certain unique features. The Mikan Blast paint job, which translates to orange in Japanese (referring to the fruit, not the color), is a subtle nod to the MkIV. It’s similar to the Plasma Orange Edition released overseas, and although Toyota hasn’t confirmed it, the designers likely took inspiration from Paul Walker’s Supra in The Fast And The Furious.

2024 Toyota Supra 45th Anniversary Edition

2024 Toyota Supra 45th Anniversary Edition

2024 Toyota Supra 45th Anniversary Edition

In addition to the orange paint, the Supra 45th Anniversary Edition also features black 19-inch wheels, a black graphics package along the door panels, and a gloss black adjustable rear wing. The rear wing is another subtle reference to the MkIV Supra, even though it’s smaller in size compared to the original.

The 45th Anniversary Edition package is available for the Supra 3.0 Premium grade, with either the eight-speed automatic or the six-speed manual transmission. The turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine remains unchanged, delivering 382 horsepower and 368 pound-feet of torque.

The Toyota GR86 Trueno Edition pays tribute to the original Sprinter Trueno – also known as the AE86 – which gained fame through its appearance in the anime Initial D. The GR86 Trueno Edition features a black-and-white, two-tone look reminiscent of the original, along with new 18-inch wheels, “Trueno” badges on the front and rear bumpers, and a matte black graphics package on the door panels and hood.

2024 Toyota GR86 Trueno Edition

2024 Toyota GR86 Trueno Edition

2024 Toyota GR86 Trueno Edition

Unlike the Supra, the GR86 Trueno Edition also receives some performance upgrades. The Performance Pack, which debuts for 2024, includes upgraded Sachs dampers and Brembo brakes. This pack comes standard on the Trueno Edition, but owners of 2022 and 2023 GR86 models can also retrofit the option onto their cars.

For added safety, the 2024 GR86 with a manual transmission comes equipped with the new Active Safety Suite, which includes features such as automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and high-beam headlight assist.

Both the Supra 45th Anniversary Edition and the GR86 Trueno Edition will be produced in limited quantities. Toyota plans to build just 900 examples of the Supra, with half in Mikan Orange and the other half in Absolute Zero white. There will be even fewer GR86 Trueno Editions, with only 860 examples available. These special edition sports cars are set to be released in winter, but pricing details have not been announced yet.

2024 GR Supra Celebrates 45 Years of Legendary Power

  • TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Announces GR Supra, GR86, and GR Corolla Special Editions for Model Year 2024 Lineup
  • GR Supra 45th Anniversary Edition Pays Tribute to Custom MkIV Supra
  • Available in Mikan Blast or Absolute Zero and Limited to 900 Units for U.S. Market
  • Aggressive Style with Oversized, Manually Adjustable Rear Spoiler
  • Matte-Black Finished Wheels, Black GR Brake Calipers, and Black Supra Side Graphic
  • Choice of Paddle Shifted 8-Speed Automatic or 6-Speed Manual Transmission

PLANO, Texas (June 21, 2023) – The Toyota Supra has been a legendary sports car for over four decades. From its first-generation roots as the Celica Supra in 1979 to today’s fifth-generation GR Supra, this model has captured the hearts of enthusiasts with its power, handling, technology, and style. To commemorate this history, Toyota is introducing a stunning 45th Anniversary Edition for the 2024 model year.

The GR Supra 45th Anniversary Edition takes inspiration from the iconic 1990’s models and will be available in two striking colors: Mikan Blast (a deep orange) or Absolute Zero (a stunning white). Built on the 3.0 Premium Grade, this special edition GR Supra features a low-slung, aggressive design highlighted by a large, manually adjustable rear spoiler. The spoiler can be adjusted to change its angle and affect the downforce on the rear wheels.

The 45th Anniversary Edition also features matte-black finished 19-inch aluminum wheels, black GR brake calipers, and a black Supra side graphic that adds to its distinctive look. The special edition pays homage to the iconic MkIV Supra and brings a touch of nostalgia and flair to the 2024 Supra lineup. Only 900 units of the 45th Anniversary Edition will be available, with Mikan Blast and Absolute Zero colors evenly split. The engine will be powered by the same 382-hp B58 inline six-cylinder 3.0-liter turbocharged engine found in all 3.0 Supra models, giving it exceptional performance.

The GR Supra 45th Anniversary Edition continues the tradition of offering unique versions of the Supra since its relaunch in 2019. Over the years, Toyota has introduced special editions like the Launch, A91, A91 Carbon Fiber, and A91MT. The GR Supra has also undergone continuous improvements, with upgrades to its power, handling, and the addition of new models like the 2.0-L 4-cylinder and the Manual Transmission option. In 2020, Toyota GAZOO Racing started producing a GR Supra GT4 model for racing.

Customers can expect the GR Supra 45th Anniversary Edition to arrive at Toyota dealerships in the fall of 2023. Pricing details for the special edition model and the complete 2024 GR Supra lineup will be announced at a later date.

Blast From the Past

The Toyota Supra first went on sale in 1979 as the Toyota Celica Supra in the U.S. The first-generation model, also known as the Mark I (MkI) Supra, featured a luxury, rear-wheel drive sports car design. It underwent several changes during its short production run and eventually became known as the A50 Celica Supra. It featured a 2.6-liter inline-six engine and was available with both manual and automatic transmissions.

In 1982, the second-generation A60 Celica (MkII) Supra was introduced. This model featured a 2.8-liter 5M-GE twin-cam straight-six engine and had a completely redesigned aerodynamic body. It included features like retractable headlights, an independent rear suspension, and a more aggressive overall look.

In 1986, Toyota introduced the third-generation A70 Supra (MkIII), dropping the Celica name and positioning it as a high-performance sports car. The A70 Supra featured a sleek, aerodynamic body with a 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine that produced up to 230-hp with the twin-turbocharged variant. It also introduced advanced features like anti-lock braking system (ABS) and an electronically moderated suspension.

The fourth-generation A80 Supra (MkIV) arrived in 1993. It featured a timeless design, two choices of inline-six engines (naturally aspirated or twin-turbocharged), and advanced features like electronically controlled suspension and driver/passenger-side airbags.

After an absence of nearly two decades, the Toyota Supra made its triumphant return in 2019 as the A90 GR Supra (MkV). It featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine with up to 335-hp and 365 lb.-ft. of torque, delivering exhilarating performance. The GR Supra was the first model globally badged under TOYOTA GAZOO Racing’s (GR) brand and marked Toyota’s commitment to driver-centered sports cars. Since then, Toyota has continued to enhance the GR Supra, introducing more powerful models, adding a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder variant, and offering a Manual Transmission option.

In addition to the road-going GR Supra models, TOYOTA GAZOO Racing also developed the GR Supra GT4 EVO for racing. The GT4 model allows professional and amateur drivers to compete in GT4 racing categories worldwide and has achieved success in various races and championships.

With the introduction of the 2024 GR Supra 45th Anniversary Edition, Toyota celebrates the Supra’s legacy while delivering a thrilling sports car experience to enthusiasts.

2024 GR Corolla Circuit Edition: A Stylish and Powerful Hot Hatch

  • TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Announces GR Supra, GR86, and GR Corolla Special Editions for Model Year 2024 GR Lineup
  • GR Corolla Circuit Edition Available in an Attention-Grabbing Blue Flame Color
  • Circuit Edition Adds Weight-Saving, Forged Aluminum 18-inch Wheels
  • Forged Carbon Fiber Roof, Large Rear Spoiler, and Black Exterior Accents Add to Hot Hatch Style
  • Blue Accents on Shift Knob and Interior Stitching along with Standard JBL® Premium Audio
  • Chassis and Duct Enhancements Across GR Corolla Lineup for Added Stability

PLANO, Texas (June 21, 2023) – The Toyota GR Corolla is back with the Circuit Edition for the 2024 model year. This edition offers a striking Blue Flame color option, in addition to the Ice Cap color. The Circuit Edition features black forged aluminum 18-inch BBS ® wheels as standard, similar to those on the 2023 MORIZO Edition. The Blue Flame Circuit Edition also includes black side rocker graphics with the GR-Four logo.

The Circuit Edition retains its vented bulge hood, GR sport mesh gloss-black front grille with functional brake ducts, and angular LED headlights. The rear of the car features a gloss-black rear spoiler, rear lower diffuser, and triple exhaust. Inside, the Circuit Edition boasts Brin Naub® Suede and synthetic leather-trimmed sport seats with blue accents, a unique blue striped GR shift knob, and blue accent stitching. It also comes standard with a JBL® Premium Audio system with eight speakers and an amplifier.

The TOYOTA GAZOO Racing engineering team has made several enhancements to the chassis and aerodynamics of the 2024 GR Corolla. These include material updates to the chassis, such as changes to the mounting bolts of the steering gear, rear suspension, and battery ground. The aerodynamic updates include the addition of aluminum sheets to the front and rear bumpers, as well as a redesigned duct shape for improved airflow.

The 2024 GR Corolla Circuit Edition will be available in the coming Winter. Pricing and further details for all 2024 GR Corolla models will be announced later.

An Epic AWD Hot Hatch

The GR Corolla is TOYOTA GAZOO Racing’s first model developed and manufactured specifically for the North American market. It carries the motorsport-to-road development spirit of Toyota’s racing division. The GR Corolla underwent extensive testing at leading Japanese circuits, such as Fuji Speedway, Suzuka, and Tsukuba Circuit. It also underwent heavy-duty dirt and snow driving tests with a Japanese Rally Championship driver to ensure exceptional acceleration and control.

Under the hood, the GR Corolla Circuit Edition is equipped with a turbocharged G16E-GTS 1.6-liter 3-cylinder turbo engine. It delivers 300 hp at 6,500 rpm and 273 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,000-5,500 rpm. The GR Corolla models come exclusively with a six-speed intelligent Manual Transmission with rev matching.

The GR Corolla Circuit Edition is equipped with the rally racing developed GR-FOUR All-Wheel-Drive system. The system can adjust the front/rear torque distribution to 60:40 for everyday driving, 30:70 for winding roads, and 50:50 for maximum grip on the circuit. The GR-FOUR system optimizes drive power to each wheel, delivering exceptional traction and control.

All GR Corolla models are built on the Toyota New Global Architecture-C platform (TNGA-C), which provides a super-rigid structure. The Circuit Edition also features a range of performance-enhancing components, including independent MacPherson-type strut front suspension, double-wishbone rear suspension, front and rear Torsen® Limited-Slip Differentials (LSD), and wide tread tires mounted on forged aluminum 18-inch wheels.

The Circuit Edition’s aerodynamic performance comes from a combination of aero panels, ducting, rear diffusers, and a rear spoiler, which contribute to added downforce. The GR Corolla also features underbody panels with wide underfloor covers for seamless coverage and aero stabilizing fins for improved airflow. The front of the car incorporates side air curtains to guide airflow and has redesigned ducts and aluminum sheets for enhanced stability. The Circuit Edition also includes hood and fender ducts for engine bay airflow.

GR Corolla Safety

The GR Corolla Circuit Edition is equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 (TSS 3.0) as standard. This safety suite includes features such as Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Lane Tracing Assist, Road Sign Assist, and Automatic High Beams. The Circuit Edition also includes Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Hill Start Assist Control (HAC), and Rear Seat Reminder for added safety and convenience.

For complete details on Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, please visit Toyota.com/safety-sense.

The GR Corolla Circuit Edition is equipped with an eight-inch color Multi-Information Display (MID) and Toyota Audio Multimedia with an eight-inch touchscreen. The multimedia system supports wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto compatibility and offers a user-friendly experience with touch, voice activation, and Intelligent Assistant available through Drive Connect*. Additionally, it features a cloud-based native navigation system with real-time Over the Air updates, integrated Google POI data, and dual Bluetooth phone connectivity. The Circuit Edition also includes a Wi-Fi Connect subscription or trial for up to five devices, Toyota Safety Connect® with a 10-year trial subscription, and other standard safety and convenience features like Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

* Drive Connect Trial Subscription Activation Required, Subscription required upon trial expiration.

**4G Network dependent

Complimentary 1-year NASA Membership

With the purchase of a 2024 GR Corolla, owners receive a complimentary 1-year membership to the National Auto Sport Association (NASA). The membership includes benefits such as a free High Performance Driving Event (HPDE) and discounted admission to NASA-sanctioned events.

Limited Warranty and ToyotaCare

Toyota offers a 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle warranty for all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. The powertrain is covered for 60 months or 60,000 miles, and corrosion has no mileage limitation. Additionally, ToyotaCare provides two years or 25,000 miles of standard factory-scheduled maintenance and 24-hour roadside assistance.

About Toyota

Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in the U.S. for more than 65 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our nearly 1,500 dealerships.

Toyota directly employs more than 39,000 people in the U.S. who have contributed to the design, engineering, and assembly of more than 33 million cars and trucks at our nine manufacturing plants. By 2025, Toyota’s 10th plant in North Carolina will begin to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. With more electrified vehicles on the road than any other automaker, Toyota currently offers 22 electrified options.

To help inspire the next generation for a career in STEM-based fields, including mobility, Toyota launched its virtual education hub at www.TourToyota.com with an immersive experience and chance to virtually visit many of our U.S. manufacturing facilities. The hub also includes a series of free STEM-based lessons and curriculum through Toyota USA Foundation partners, virtual field trips and more. For more information about Toyota, visit www.ToyotaNewsroom.com.

About TOYOTA GAZOO Racing

TOYOTA GAZOO Racing embodies Toyota’s commitment to overcoming every limit to make ‘ever-better’ cars, to forge new technologies and solutions under the extreme conditions of motorsports, and to never stop innovating. TOYOTA GAZOO Racing races its cars to push the limits for better and to learn from the toughest challenges. Competing on every kind of road, no matter what the challenge, inspires TOYOTA GAZOO Racing to build ‘ever-better’ cars and engineer Toyota’s future DNA to bring freedom, adventure, and joy of driving to everyone. For more information, visit www.toyotagazooracing.com.

2024 GR86 TRUENO Edition: Throwback Spirit, Modern Performance

  • TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Announces GR Supra, GR86, and GR Corolla Special Editions for Model Year 2024 Lineup
  • GR86 Sports Coupe Celebrates 40 Years Since AE86 Launch with a Special TRUENO Edition
  • AE86-Inspired Two-Tone Black Hood and Side Panel Graphic Paired with Halo or Track bRed
  • Upgraded Performance Package with SACHS® Dampers and Brembo ® Brakes
  • Performance Package Now Available for GR86 Models Equipped with 18-inch Wheels
  • Active Safety Suite Now Standard on Manual Transmission Equipped Models

PLANO, Texas (June 21, 2023) – Toyota is introducing exciting updates to the GR86 for the 2024 model year. The first is the limited GR86 TRUENO Edition, featuring a two-tone design in Halo and black or Track bRed and black. The TRUENO Edition also comes with an upgraded Performance Package, including SACHS Dampers and Brembo Brakes, which is now available as standard on the TRUENO Edition and as an upgrade for other GR86 models.

The GR86 TRUENO Edition, based on the Premium grade, will be produced in both manual and automatic transmission models, with only 860 units available in the US market. It will feature a two-tone look with a black wrapped hood, black TRUENO Edition side panel graphic, and black painted duckbill spoiler. The TRUENO Edition badge on the front bumper lip and rear decklid pays tribute to the 1980s model that inspired its design. Other distinctive touches include black metallic finished 18-inch, 10-spoke aluminum alloy wheels, black door handles, and mirror caps.

Inside the special edition, the GR86 TRUENO Edition will have Ultrasuede® sport seats with attention-grabbing red leather trim, a red-stitched shift boot, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Additional unique features include a TRUENO Edition logoed shift knob and all-weather floor/trunk mats. The car will also come with an 8-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility and an eight-speaker audio system as standard.

In addition to the special edition, the 2024 GR86 lineup will also feature a Performance Package. This package includes ZF SACHS Dampers and Brembo Brakes and is now standard on the TRUENO Edition. The Performance Package can also be added to new 2024 GR86 models and retrofitted to 2022 and 2023 models with 18-inch wheels. The package is specially tuned by TOYOTA GAZOO Racing for optimal handling, ride comfort, and brake system consistency.

Furthermore, manual transmission equipped models of the GR86 will now come standard with an Active Safety Suite. This suite includes features such as Pre-Collision Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, Sway Warning, Lead Vehicle Start Alert, and High Beam Assist. This addition complements Toyota’s existing Star Safety System™, which includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), and more.

The 2024 Toyota GR86 TRUENO Edition will be available in limited quantities in Winter. Pricing for the GR86 TRUENO Edition and the complete GR86 2024 lineup will be announced later this year.

About Toyota

Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in the U.S. for over 65 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, and our network of nearly 1,500 dealerships. 

Toyota employs more than 39,000 people in the U.S. who have contributed to the design, engineering, and assembly of over 33 million cars and trucks at our nine manufacturing plants. By 2025, Toyota’s 10th plant in North Carolina will begin manufacturing automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. With a range of 22 electrified options, Toyota currently has more electrified vehicles on the road than any other automaker.

To inspire the next generation for careers in STEM-based fields, including mobility, Toyota launched its virtual education hub at www.TourToyota.com which offers an immersive experience and virtual visits to many of our U.S. manufacturing facilities. The hub also provides free STEM-based lessons and curriculum through Toyota USA Foundation partners, as well as virtual field trips. For more information about Toyota, visit www.ToyotaNewsroom.com.

About TOYOTA GAZOO Racing

TOYOTA GAZOO Racing embodies Toyota’s commitment to pushing the limits to create ‘ever-better’ cars, developing new technologies and solutions through motorsports, and promoting innovation. TOYOTA GAZOO Racing races its cars to constantly improve and learn from challenging situations. Competing on every type of road inspires TOYOTA GAZOO Racing to build ‘ever-better’ cars and engineer Toyota’s future DNA, bringing excitement and joy of driving to everyone. For more information, visit www.toyotagazooracing.com.

Here’s What Makes The 2023 Toyota GR86 The Ultimate Sports Car

The 2023 Toyota GR86 is a superb example of how to combine the perfect ingredients to make an excellent sports car. It is a light, front-engine RWD car with responsive handling designed for the twistiest roads you can take it on. The 86 is the mechanical twin of the Subaru BRZ., sharing the same platform and engine, with minor tweaks from each brand.

This year, Toyota has introduced a limited run 10th anniversary Special Edition GR86 which costs $34,360 in a special ‘Solar Shift’ orange color. Some cool cosmetic upgrades are black wheels, black stripes on the C-pillar, and a sweet-sounding cat-back exhaust with black chrome tips.

The suspension of the BRZ is less stiff when compared to the GR86, which makes it a little uncomfortable on uneven roads but might be advantageous on the track. As far as the looks are concerned, the GR86 has a more aggressive-looking front end.

The choice of which car you will ultimately choose will depend on which brand is closer to your heart. The engine, while not being the biggest one, is powerful enough to make the GR86 fast and a blast to drive on canyon roads and racetracks.

The GR86 encompasses a great driving experience while being very affordable, starting at $28,400 MSRP. Toyota has got the formula for this car just right, designed to make driving enjoyable with the right power output for the size and a sweet quick-shifting six-speed manual transmission. In an era where EVs and Hybrid powertrains are taking over, the GR86 is an old-school breath of fresh air. The seating position is low but not too low and offers a focused driving position with great visibility.

RELATED: 10 Things You Need To Know About The All-New 2023 Toyota GR86

What Makes The GR86 So Great?

Orange 2023 Toyota GR86
Toyota
A front-view studio shot of a 2023 Toyota GR86

The GR86 engine is a Subaru-developed naturally aspirated four-cylinder Boxer engine that produces 228 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed manual transmission as standard with an option for a six-speed automatic as well. The engine is powerful enough to accelerate the car from 0-60 MPH in six seconds and a top speed of 135 MPH. The automatic transmission is a second slower than the manual, which Toyota claims is because the automatic is a bit heavier than the manual.

Handling is where the GR86 always comes into its own, with this being no different this time around. The legendary AE 86 which is the spiritual ancestor of the GR, was one of the best-handling cars of its time, depending on who you ask. The GR86 carries forward the same tradition. The steering offers precise feedback, which along with the stiff suspension makes the car feel nimble.

The car is still lightweight with a low center of gravity and Torsion limited-slip differential (LSD), which makes it a hoot to throw around corners. There are three drive modes to choose from Normal, Sport, and Track. You also get Vehicle Stability Control in Track Mode, which adds to the experience.

The GR86 comes in two trims regular which starts at $28,400 MSRP and Premium which costs $31,000. The Premium has some added features like 18-inch tires compared to 17-inch tires on the regular, rear spoiler, and heated seats. The Premium trim also offers additional safety features like Blind Spot Detection and Rear Parking Sonar.

They also claimed that the manual transmission is more efficient in transferring power to the wheels. The engine is not the most powerful, but it makes more power and torque than the previous generation. As per the EPA figures on the 2022 GR86, the manual version returns 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The automatic is more efficient, returning 20 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway.

RELATED: Why The Toyota GR86 Is The Perfect Sports Car For Beginners

The GR Packs A Functional Yet Sporty Cockpit

Interior of the 2022 Toyota GR86 Premium
Toyota
Interior of the 2022 Toyota GR86 Premium

While the interiors seem spartan, they are comfortable enough for long journeys as long as there are only two people. While the seat configuration is 2+2, the rear seats are extremely cramped and not meant for adults by any stretch of the imagination. They are more appropriate for children or small dogs. While there are ISOFIX points for a baby seat, it can be quite challenging to fit in there.

The Premium trim has an eight-speaker audio system, while the regular trim has six speakers. There is also a 7.0-inch TFT GR digital instrument cluster for the driver with Multi-Instrument Display. The MID presents drivers with a wide array of information like a torque graph and tire pressure monitor, The dash is straightforward, with a mixture of physical AC knobs with display screens for the temperature and an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen which comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The fit and finish of the interior upholstery are supple and good to the touch. A common complaint about the interior is that it can be loud due to subpar noise dampening. Trunk space is limited to 226-liter, which is greater than its rival the Mazda MX-5 which is limited to 130-liter. You get more space if you fold the rear seats forward, which gives you enough space for your weekly groceries.

The GR86 was featured on the IIHS annual Top Safety Pick + list for the year 2022 in the small cars’ category. This makes it one of the safest cars on the road currently. The GR86 also comes standard with a rear parking camera but misses a rear water nozzle to keep it clean. Toyota has also provided a GR86 Active Safety Suite with some driver assistance features, but for some bizarre reason only offered it for the automatic transmission variant.

RELATED: 2023 Toyota GR86 Vs. 2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata

What Makes It Worthy To Be Your Next Sports Car?

The GR86 is a sports car built for enthusiasts, with a combination of well-balanced features like phenomenal steering feedback, stiff chassis, and adequate power. In this price range, there are competitors, like the Mazda MX-5, 181 horsepower which is not as powerful as the GR 86’s 228 horsepower. Having said that, the Mazda (2,341 pounds) is lighter than the Toyota (2,811 pounds).

Another thing about the GR86 is that it is a Toyota, which means you can be rest assured about its bulletproof reliability in the long run. Another great thing about the GR86 is the well-established after-market space, The platform is sturdy enough to be endlessly customized to fit your exact needs, whether it be cosmetic or mechanical modifications. There is an HKS-tuned GR86 which has been extensively modified to produce more than 400 horsepower. The GR86 offers a solid foundation to build a formidable track machine.

Toyota has crafted a joyous driving experience with the GR86, with steady improvements over the years. Its utter simplicity and the optional manual transmission and usable performance, all at an affordable price are what make it a fantastic sportscar. It’s great to see that Toyota has been fine-tuning the GR86 car to make it more composed and better than it already was.

We can be sure that the next variant, which is rumored to release in 2025, will be better and might even come with a turbocharger. There are also rumors that Toyota is developing the new car independently of Subaru. We live in perpetual hope. In the meanwhile, we have the GR86 to play around with, which seems to be on its way to becoming a future classic.