This Toyota 86 auto review was great fun putting together. I’ll admit to not knowing much about the car before educating myself. If you’re in the market for something fun to drive, this may be the car for you. In this review we cover:
- Toyota 86 Beginnings
- Overall Impression
- What’s New for 2024
- Performance
- Exterior
- Interior
- Infotainment
- Toyota GR86 vs GT86
- Final Thoughts
Let’s get started!
Toyota 86 Beginnings: An Instant Classic
The Toyota 86, born from the unlikely partnership with Subaru, embarked on its journey in 2012. This lightweight, rear-wheel-drive coupe instantly captivated driving purists with its focus on driving pleasure. A 2.0-liter boxer engine provided the get-up-and-go, and the low-slung chassis, a perfectly tuned dance floor.
In 2017, the Gazoo Racing touch elevated the 86’s dynamics, amplifying its prowess on both road and track. A drift aficionado’s dream, it embraced controlled slides with the finesse of a maestro wielding a baton.
Fast forward to 2024, the GR86 emerges as the latest chapter in this automotive saga. The limited Trueno Edition pays homage to its Japanese roots, while the upgraded Performance package adds a sharper edge to its handling repertoire. The Toyota 86, an ever-evolving ode to driving enthusiasts, proves that in the era of mass-produced mundanity, a spirited driving experience is still very much alive.
Overall Impression: A Dance with Driving Purity
The Toyota 86 is a delightful nod to the purity of driving pleasure. It’s an unapologetic, old-school sports car in an era increasingly dominated by technological overload. The low-slung stance and rear-wheel-drive layout deliver an engaging dance between car and driver, reminiscent of classic sports cars that prioritized handling finesse over raw power. The naturally aspirated flat-four engine provides a soundtrack that, while not a symphony, is a refreshing departure from the synthetic notes of modern turbocharged counterparts.
The steering is communicative, the chassis responsive—qualities that transform a casual drive into an intimate conversation with the road. It might lack the brute force of some rivals, but the 86’s charm lies in its nimbleness and balance. As a driving tool, it’s a precision instrument, rewarding those who appreciate the art of driving rather than just chasing straight-line speed. The Toyota 86, in essence, is a beacon for enthusiasts who seek the essence of driving distilled into a compact, affordable package.
What’s New: An Ode to Tradition with a Modern Twist
The 2024 Toyota GR86 pays homage to tradition with the introduction of the Trueno Edition. It’s a limited-run model that’s certain to trigger nostalgia among enthusiasts. Inspired by the 1980s Corolla GT-S, this edition combines classic styling cues with modern performance enhancements. A special Trueno badge, black hood wrap, and distinctive 10-spoke 18-inch wheels underscore its heritage, creating a visual feast for those who appreciate the lineage.
Performance: Where Precision Meets Passion
At the heart of the GR86 beats a 2.4-liter naturally aspirated flat-four engine, a powerplant that embodies the essence of driving purity. With 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, the GR86 delivers an exhilarating performance that reverberates through the senses. Whether you opt for the standard six-speed manual transmission or the available six-speed automatic, the GR86 beckons drivers to revel in the seamless harmony between power and control.
The Performance package, a nod to Toyota’s in-house tuner division Gazoo Racing, elevates the driving dynamics to new heights. ZF Sachs dampers and Brembo brake components, including larger rotors, redefine the limits of handling precision. This package, standard in the Trueno Edition and available for 2024 GR86s with 18-inch wheels, transforms every corner into a canvas for enthusiasts to paint their driving dreams.
Exterior: Sculpted Sophistication with a Hint of Rebellion
In the realm of sports cars, the GR86 is a study in sculpted sophistication with a rebellious edge. The exterior design, while embracing modern aerodynamics, pays homage to the classic sports car silhouette. The Trueno Edition, with its black hood wrap, side stripes, and duckbill spoiler, not only captures attention but also embodies the spirit of its iconic predecessor.
The 2024 GR86, with its refreshed exterior, retains the signature low-slung profile and purposeful lines that hint at its dynamic capabilities. The redesigned 18-inch matte black wheels on the Premium trim, shod with high-performance summer tires, not only enhance grip but also serve as a visual testament to the GR86’s commitment to performance.
Interior Space: A Cockpit Built for Connection
Step inside the GR86, and you’re not just entering a car; you’re entering a cockpit designed for a connection between man and machine. The low, unobtrusive dashboard maximizes forward visibility, allowing drivers to immerse themselves fully in the driving experience. The small steering wheel, an unsung hero, not only aids in maneuverability but also allows taller drivers to ingress and egress with ease.
The GR86, true to its sports car DNA, offers a driver-friendly interior where every control is within arm’s reach. The manually adjustable seats, featuring improved bolstering for the upper back, strike a balance between support and freedom, making every drive an exercise in comfort and control.
Infotainment: Technological Harmony in a Driver’s Haven
In the pursuit of driving purity, technology takes a backseat in the GR86, but not without a touch of modern convenience. The 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen serves as the command center, seamlessly integrating Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. While the graphics may not win awards, the system’s simplicity ensures that the focus remains on the road.
The GR86, available with a six-speaker audio system as standard and an eight-speaker setup in the Premium trim, delivers an auditory experience that complements the driving thrill. The absence of a native navigation system might seem like a compromise, but in the world of the GR86, the journey is the destination.
Toyota GR86 vs GT86
The transition from the GT86 to the 2024 Toyota GR86 is like watching a familiar face hit the gym and develop a newfound fascination with high fashion. Visually, the GR86 maintains the classic sports car silhouette but sharpens its edges, exuding a more confident and aggressive stance. It’s as if the GT86 went through a tailored suit fitting and emerged with a touch of rebellious sophistication.
Performance-wise, the GR86 is the GT86’s bolder alter ego. With a larger 2.4-liter engine, the GR86 delivers an extra punch of power, turning every acceleration into a visceral experience. However, the essence of pure driving joy remains untouched. The steering response is as crisp as ever, and the connection between driver and tarmac is unblemished. Toyota upgraded a favorite pair of sneakers to a bespoke pair—familiar yet elevated, retaining the spirit of the GT86 but injecting a dose of newfound dynamism into the driving affair.
Final Thoughts
The Toyota 86, from GT to GR, is evidence that Toyota attempted, and was successful, to create more than just a sports car. They created an experience. The GR86 is proof that driving passion still exists in an automotive world of melancholy.
Thanks for taking the time to read this Toyota 86 auto review. If you enjoyed it, I’m sure you’ll enjoy the review of another car that represents pure driving passion – the 2025 Ford Mustang GTD. Cheers!
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