First Look: The GT86 Is Dead, Long Live the GR86

Meet the successor to the Toyota GT86, the GR86.

The fabled Toyota GT86 was introduced to the world in 2012 and is getting on a bit now, and to no surprise, Toyota has just unveiled its successor, the GR86 coupe, a faster, lighter rear-wheel-drive four-seat sports car which Toyota claims has retained the GT86's fun-to-drive characteristics but in an updated package. 

Like the GT86, the GR86 is a result of Toyota's partnership with Subaru to build compact sports cars. Subaru's new BRZ was revealed late last year, and we can now confirm that both cars share the same platform and engine.

The new 86 features more power thanks to Subaru's 2.4-litre four-cylinder horizontally opposed engine that pumps out 232bhp and 250Nm of torque (that's 35bhp and 45Nm more than the car it replaces). As a result of more power, the GR86 can make the 0-62mph sprint 1.1 seconds faster than the car it replaces, doing it in 6.3 seconds.

The JDM GR86 will be available with a six-speed manual or automatic gearbox and will feature Subaru's 'Eyesight' driver assistance systems.

The car's dimensions are practically the same as its predecessor, but it has shed five kilograms from its weight, thanks to the use of aluminium on the roof and body panels. Toyota has also come out and said that the GR86's torsional rigidity had been increased by around 50 percent, resulting in even sharper steering and handling.

For those who are keen-eyed, you would have noticed that the new 86 also features aerodynamic front and side air ducts, which Toyota claims are based on their learnings from their Gazoo Racing programmes and will help aid handling and stability of the GR86. If you haven't caught it by now, GR stands for Gazoo Racing bringing it in line with other performance-oriented Toyotas such as the GR Supra and Yaris.

Interior details are scarce, but the GR86 should feature a seven-inch infotainment screen as well as an upgraded and driver-focused dashboard design. 

The GR86 will go on sale in Japan this late this year and more about the car will be revealed closer to its launch.


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