GR86

Make
Toyota
Segment
Coupe

Toyota promised to keep sports car emotions alive and it's remained true to its word. Introducing the second-generation Toyota GR 86, revealed here today for the first time in JDM prototype form. The production-spec model is not expected to look any different. Like its sister ship, the also-new Subaru BRZ, the GR 86 is a global model. The world debut today was held with Subaru; the two automakers are in no way trying to hide the cars' similarities. A majority of the GR 86's specs are already known, thanks to the BRZ's reveal last November.

Under the hood lies a 2.4-liter naturally aspirated Boxer engine rated at 231 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Interestingly, the BRZ officially has 228 hp; the minor 3 hp difference could be a difference between the JDM- and US-spec versions. A six-speed manual transmission or an optional six-speed automatic with a new Sport mode route power to the rear wheels only.

Toyota claims 0-62 mph is achieved in 6.3 seconds, down from first gen's 7.4 seconds. Engineers further enhanced engine response. Size-wise, the new GR 86 (most people will likely keep calling it just '86') has nearly identical dimensions to that of its predecessor, which, along with limiting overall height and hip-point, helps maintain the low center-of-gravity. An aluminum roof panel, fenders, and mufflers help keep curb weight in check, now totaling 2,799 pounds. The new BRZ was previously estimated to weigh less than 2,900 pounds.

Additional improvements were made to the body and torsional rigidity for better handling and greater steering stability. The air outlet, side sill spoilers, and other aerodynamic components are derived from motorsports.

Like the new BRZ, the GR 86 features evolutionary styling and that's just fine. The fender tops extend horizontally to the beltline to further emphasize the car's front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout. The new front grille has a GR-specific functional matrix pattern. Inside, the 2+2 layout and design are also nearly identical to that of the Subie, from the switches to the horizontally-accented instrument panel. A 7-inch TFT screen has a unique opening animation sequence inspired by the engine's piston movements.

Also like the BRZ, models equipped with the automatic gearbox use Subaru's EyeSight Driver-Assist Technology. Toyota says the 2022 GR 86 will go on sale in Japan next fall. US market details should arrive soon.