The Toyota GR86 is made for one thing and one thing only – to capture the essence of motorsports and translate that into pure driving pleasure. The Toyota GR86 inherits its DNA from two automotive giants – Toyota Gazoo Racing and Subaru. This car is not just a successor to the original 86; it’s an evolved beast with sharper handling, more power, and an undeniable motorsport pedigree.
At its core, the Toyota GR86 remains true to its sports car roots. With a sleek, streamlined design and enhanced aerodynamics, it cuts a striking figure on the road. Gone are the round headlights and taillights of its predecessor, replaced with more angular, aggressive shapes that give the GR86 a cleaner, more confident look. The long hood and short rear end complete the classic sports car silhouette, and the subtle ducktail spoiler adds a touch of flair to its overall profile.
Under the hood, the GR86 comes armed with a 2.4-liter naturally aspirated boxer engine, a step up from the previous 2.0-liter version. Producing 237hp and 250Nm of torque, this car doesn’t rely on a turbocharger to deliver thrilling performance. While a turbo might have made it quicker off the line, it would also have added unnecessary weight. Toyota chose to keep the GR86 light and nimble, ensuring its agility and responsiveness on winding roads.
Now, don’t be fooled by the 0-100kph time of 6.3 seconds with the manual transmission. While it’s not the fastest in a straight line, the GR86 was never about winning drag races. It shines in its ability to deliver mid-range acceleration and handle tight corners with ease. Pushing the car to its 226kph top speed feels effortless, but it’s the way it handles speed that really impresses. Step on the throttle, and the torque comes in waves, propelling you forward as the engine revs toward redline.
This is where the six-speed manual transmission comes into play. With its close-ratio gearbox and short-throw shifter, gear changes are crisp, precise, and oh-so-satisfying. The clutch is heavy, giving you a visceral sense of control as you row through the gears. It’s an analog driving experience that many modern sports cars lack, making every shift feel like an event.
The GR86 is at its best on roads with long sweeping corners and tight hairpin turns. Its MacPherson strut front suspension and double-wishbone rear suspension work in perfect harmony to provide a firm, planted ride. There’s minimal body roll, and the steering feedback is raw and unfiltered, allowing you to instinctively place the car exactly where you want it. This isn’t a car that pampers you with adaptive suspension or cushy ride quality—it’s designed to let you feel the road, imperfections and all.
At times, the car’s eagerness to let the rear step out adds a layer of excitement, especially when pushing hard into corners. Even with Michelin Pilot Sport 5 tires offering plenty of grip, the GR86 loves to dance when provoked. Thankfully, if you’re on public roads, the car’s traction control and stability systems keep everything in check, though pressing the Track Mode button will loosen the reins for a sportier, more engaging drive.
Step inside the GR86, and it’s clear that the cabin is functional rather than luxurious. You won’t find fancy trim or high-end materials here, but the layout is intuitive, and the driving position is spot on. The bucket seats are clad in leather and suede-like fabric, providing both comfort and enough friction to keep you in place during spirited drives. There’s an 8-inch touchscreen for infotainment and a 7-inch digital display for the driver, offering all the necessary information like G-forces, power distribution, and lap times.
Storage is minimal but practical. The rear seats are more of an afterthought and serve better as extra cargo space when folded down. The boot is modest, but it’s enough for a weekend getaway or a day at the track.
Of course, the GR86 isn’t without its quirks. There are no reverse sensors, but you do get a reverse camera. The blind-spot detection system’s indicator light is placed on the mirror housing, making it harder to spot. And if you opt for the manual version, you won’t get some of the more advanced safety features like lane departure warning or adaptive cruise control—though, let’s be honest, this isn’t the car you’d want for a hands-free driving experience anyway.
Yet, these are minor inconveniences in a car that is otherwise focused on one thing: delivering an exhilarating drive every time you get behind the wheel. It’s a refreshing throwback to a time when driving was about skill and connection, not just speed and technology.
The Toyota GR86 is a sports car that strips away the excess and gives you the raw, unfiltered driving experience that enthusiasts crave. It’s not about lap times or luxury—it’s about feeling alive behind the wheel. If you’re looking for a car that engages you with every shift, every corner, and every throttle input, the GR86 is ready to deliver.
