GR86

Make
Toyota
Segment
Coupe

There has never been a better time to buy an affordable sports car. Cars such as the Golf GTI, Subaru Impreza WRX, and Toyota 86 all offer a stunning driving experience at an affordable price. The 86 in particular has become a people's champion and a prime choice for tuners and drifters alike. This car has been around for nearly a decade, and the time has finally come for its replacement. While the world has been focused on the latest model, including design details and reveal dates, the last 86 cars have quietly rolled off of UK showroom floors, hailing the end of an era. Toyota has put together a short film to celebrate its greatest moments.

The idea of a new rear-wheel-drive Toyota sports car was born in 2005 when Toyota and Subaru were looking for a venture that would symbolise the strength of the alliance between the two companies. The companies decided on an entry-level sports car, and the following year work began on the 86. Toyota President Akio Toyoda set out the guiding principle for the new concept "if it's not fun to drive, it's not a car." The fundamentals of the car were set out as follows: it had to be RWD, run on ordinary all-season tires, and feature a naturally-aspirated engine. These elements echoed the characteristics of the classic AE86 Corolla coupe.

The final product was an instant success and was lauded the world over as a true driver's car that could be pushed to the limit by beginner to professional. Powered by a 205 horsepower boxer engine, there was just enough power to exploit. The car rose to fame thanks to shows like BBC's Top Gear, and also featured in Amil Patel's award-winning film about his dream to drive a car on track as a blind man. The 86 sold close to 7,500 cars in the UK. The new 86 is expected to make its debut in mid-2021, but the first-generation car will remain a firm favorite amongst gearheads and is set to become a future classic.