TOYOTA GAZOO Racing (TGR) gave the new GR 86 its world debut in an online event held together with Subaru Corporation (Subaru). Following the GR Supra and GR Yaris, the new GR 86 is the third global model in TGR's GR series of sports cars. The new GR 86 is scheduled to launch in Japan in autumn 2021.

Toyota developed the original 86 with the goal of delivering the dreams and the joy of driving inherent in sports cars to its customers. Conceived as a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive vehicle with intuitive handling and instinctive responsiveness, the 86 launched in 2012. Since then, the vehicles have been utilized as base models for a variety of participatory motorsports, including rallies, one-make races, gymkhana, and dirt trials, while others have been uniquely customized. A total of more than 200,000 86s have been sold worldwide, playing the role of reliable partners for their owners.

TGR's new GR 86 and Subaru's new BRZ were jointly developed. Yet, although the two vehicles share the same vehicle base, the two companies focused on imbuing their respective models with a distinct driving feel. While engaging in friendly rivalry with the BRZ development team, TGR sought to develop a vehicle that would provide happiness to 86 fans, and realize an evolution of the 86's unique driving sensations. As a result, the new GR 86 is specially designed for sports performance, and provides direct and satisfying driving performance of the highest order.

In September 2019, Toyota and Subaru entered into a new business and capital alliance, as part of which the two companies committed to jointly engage in making ever-better cars. The new GR 86/BRZ is not only a concrete example of this commitment, but also represents a new challenge for both companies, as they seek to subvert conventional ideas of cooperation in the automotive industry. Going forward, Toyota and Subaru intend to further ally their respective strengths, deepen their relationship, and so pursue the possibilities of making ever-better cars.

Exterior

With fender tops that extend horizontally to the beltline, the Toyota GR 86 boasts a stance distinctive of front-engine, rear-wheel-drive vehicles. Its low, horizontal underbody and narrow cabin rear combine to create a broad, low-center-of-gravity appearance.

The front of the vehicle features the GR-specific Functional MATRIX Grille, which fuses performance and emotionality.

Interior

The operating system-which includes the various switches and the horizontally-accented instrument panel-is optimally located to create a space that enables the driver can concentrate on driving.

The display features a 7-inch TFT screen. Its opening animation sequence is inspired by the piston movements of the GR 86's horizontally opposed engine, and fosters a sense of excitement even before the drive begins.

The evolutionary new 2.4L horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine retains the unique qualities of the 86

Sporting a lightweight, compact engine with a low center-of-gravity in line with previous iterations, the Toyota GR 86 increases its displacement size from 2.0 to 2.4L. The engine delivers superior driving performance as a consequence, achieving 0-100km/h acceleration in just 6.3 seconds-down from the 7.4 seconds of the outgoing model. Engine responsiveness has also been enhanced, providing smooth, stress-free sensations from low to high rpms.

Inheriting an extremely low center-of-gravity front-engine, rear-wheel-drive package, the new GR86 provides a step-change in agility

The dimensions of the new Toyota GR 86 are almost identical to the previous model. Limiting both the overall height and hip-point of the vehicle helps lower the center-of-gravity and enhance turning performance, and so delivering the agility required of an 86.

The use of aluminum for the roof panels results in a lower center-of-gravity, while aluminum fenders and updated front seats and mufflers contribute to reduced weight.

Body rigidity has been improved, with the goal of offering pleasurable handling in all speed ranges-from urban driving to the upper limits of performance. Torsional rigidity has been enhanced by approximately 50% over the previous model for greater steering stability.

Aerodynamic components are rooted in motorsports

The Toyota GR 86 features aerodynamic components seen on 86 models that participate in motorsports. These include air outlets, side sill spoilers, and other parts that improve steering responsiveness and stability.

A sports car that provides a secure and safe car life

The AT version of the Toyota GR 86 uses Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. This system of comprehensive safety technologies provides safety support during everyday driving; pre-collision safety technologies that help avoid or reduce collision impacts; and emergency rescue support and secondary collision avoidance support in the event of an accident.

The 2013 Scion FR-S brought driving fun back to the Toyota family after a several-year absence, and now the automaker isn’t letting go. The rear-drive sports car lived on even after the Scion brand passed away, rechristened the 2017 Toyota 86. And now, the 2022 Toyota GR 86 bottles up the same lightweight, 2+2 sports car attitude, adding a big helping of power befitting of its new Gazoo Racing branding (also found on the stellar GR Supra).

As we saw from the global debut of the sports car, the GR 86 retains the same basic proportions as its more simply named predecessor, with an impressively low hoodline thanks to a flat-four engine. A tapering rear roofline, upturned headlights, and gaping front bumper opening accomplish that look-fast-at-standstill mission, with a swoopier hood and ducktail rear spoiler setting the GR 86 apart from the old 86 – but not necessarily the nearly identical Subaru BRZ.

Unsurprisingly, the 2022 GR 86 takes its hard specifications from its twin. That means there’s a 2.4-liter flat-four with 228 horsepower and 184 pound-feet (170 kilowatts and 249 newton-meters), with a standard six-speed manual gearbox or an optional six-speed automatic sending that grunt to the rear wheels via a limited-slip differential. The engine is larger than the 2.0-liter unit in the old Toyota 86, making 23 hp and 28 lb-ft (17 kW and 38 Nm) more than the outgoing vehicle, and its twist peaks at 3,700 rpm instead of 6,600, making it easier to drive in most situations.

That power gets put to use relatively effectively too, given the 2022 GR 86’s meager weight gains. Toyota hasn’t released specific numbers just yet, but the company says that aluminum roof and fender panels help keep the curb weight to just over 2,800 pounds. The outgoing Toyota 86 weighed between 2,776 and 2,835 pounds, depending on options and the choice of transmission. That adds up to a much quicker vehicle – the manual-transmission GR 86 sprints to 60 miles per hour in 6.1 seconds according to the automaker, or 0.9-second faster than its 86 predecessor, and the automatic takes 6.6 seconds to cross the same threshold (down from 8.0).

Even so, outright speed will never be the coupe’s strong suit. Instead, the Toyota GR 86 focuses more on handling dynamics and a fun driving experience. Its platform is much the same as the outgoing sports car, but there are new front and rear subframe reinforcements that bolster the body-in-white’s rigidity. Functional vents on the front bumper and fender enhance steering stability and response, according to Toyota, and the rocker panels and ducktail spoiler (standard on the Premium trim) smooth out aerodynamics. If the GR 86 drives anything like the BRZ we rode in last year, it’ll be a real treat on a winding road, autocross, or circuit.

Speaking of the track, Toyota will include a one-year membership to the National Auto Sport Association (NASA) with every 2022 GR 86, as well as one free high-performance driver education course and discounted admission to NASA events. That should be an attractive perk to most potential buyers, especially since the GR 86 should likely be lots of fun to wring out, preserving every last iota of momentum around corners. Making that job easier is the work of the Premium trim's 18-inch wheels wearing summer tires – the base trim's 17-inch wheels get all-season rubber.

When it’s time to turn away from the canyons and toward the interstate, the 2022 GR 86 offers more creature comforts and advanced technology than its predecessor. Both the base and Premium versions get a standard 7.0-inch digital instrument display and 8.0-inch center touchscreen – both a bit smallish by modern standards but still good enough for all but the most pixel-obsessed. The Premium gets eight speakers, to the base model’s six. Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard.

New front seats with a deeper design provide more support, and the GR 86 Premium’s chairs get Alcantara upholstery with leather accents. Both trims get a leather-wrapped wheel (with paddle shifters on automatic-equipped models) and a leather-wrapped shift selector. The auto also gets some advanced driver-assist technology: automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic high beams come standard if you go shiftless, while the manual does without any of the above.
That’s perhaps the GR 86’s lone misstep in an otherwise impressive package – other automakers have cracked the driver-assist/clutch code, so why can’t Toyota? Even so, the small rear-drive Toyota adds enough of what the old 86 needed – power and low-end torque – without messing with its near-perfect weight distribution and commendably skinny weight. The 2022 Toyota GR 86, which goes on sale later this year at a price that isn’t confirmed (but shouldn’t be too much more than its predecessor’s $27,060 cost of entry), is just more proof that the automaker is committed to driving fun. Now, what about bringing that GR Yaris to the US?

MONTICELLO, N.Y. — It’s a story playing out all over the industry: When the time comes for a new generation, internal-combustion performance cars are being significantly overhauled rather than completely redesigned. The Nissan Z is going this route, and rumors have suggested a similar fate for the next-generation Ford Mustang. Even Cadillac’s Blackwing variants were really more akin to remixed versions of their predecessors than entirely new vehicles. And so it goes with the 2022 Toyota GR 86 (and its Subaru sibling, the BRZ, but that will have to wait a bit).

Toyota’s variant has now been blessed with the “GR” designation. That stands for Gazoo Racing, which started life as a Toyota skunkworks motorsports team. While it’s still the name for Toyota’s now-official factory racing efforts, the shorthand is also being used to denote models like the 86 and Supra that were built to be fun first and transportation second. So, not a Corolla.

Toyota’s marketing team has latched onto the new designation as an indicator that the little coupe has “graduated” to Toyota’s official performance division. That’s not the wildest pitch we’ve seen come toward the plate, but considering that the updates to the 2022 model were fairly modest, it’s not one we’re inclined to swing at.

The most noteworthy upgrade to the 2022 GR 86 is its engine. Out: a thrashy 2.0-liter boxer-four making 205 horsepower and (seemingly) about 9 pound-feet of torque. In: a more refined 2.4-liter mill that produces 228 horses and a peak of 184 lb-ft that arrives 2,700 rpm sooner than the old one (it was 156 lb-ft if you must know). Still around: six-speed manual and automatic gearboxes, both of which were tweaked to account for the new engine and improve quality of life.

The 2022 model is offered in two trims: Base and Premium. The former comes standard with 17-inch wheels and Michelin Primacy HP tires (yeah, the same ones originally and infamously referred to as “Prius tires”) in 215/45R17, while the Premium gets 18-inch wheels shod in the properly summer-spec Michelin Pilot Sport 4. Even this sticky rubber remains skinny from the factory, checking in at 215/40R18.
The GR 86’s wheelbase (101.4 inches), overall length (167.9 inches) and curb weight (2,811-2,868 pounds) are all near-as-makes-no-difference the same, too, thanks to the carry-over platform. The standard Torsen limited-slip differential also soldiers on, as does the MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear. In short, the GR 86 is the same size and shape as the old 86, but slightly more powerful. With the manual, Toyota claims the 2022 GR 86 will hit 60 in 6.1 seconds on the way to a 140-mph top speed; the auto is a half a second slower and runs out of revs 6 mph sooner.

Second verse, same as the first, right? Well, that’s what Toyota was worried we’d say, so just to make it absolutely clear that the GR 86 is appreciably better than its predecessor, a few examples of the outgoing model were on-hand at the Monticello Motor Club in New York so that we could see (feel, really) for ourselves.

We started on Monticello's South Course in the morning, allowing us to get acclimated to the cars on the shorter, slower configuration before we were turned loose on a modified version of the Full Course in the afternoon. I took my recon laps in a current-generation car to refamiliarize myself with its character and quirks while learning Monticello’s basic school line.

Stepping into the GR 86 afterward, the most immediate difference is just how less intrusive the 2.4-liter boxer-four is compared to its predecessor. It’s about as loud at wide-open throttle, but the old 2.0-liter's gruffness has been largely smoothed over. There’s far less powertrain vibration in the steering wheel too, which is a welcome improvement.

Despite a 20% bump in both displacement and torque, the 2.4 actually feels a bit more free-revving too. We wouldn’t go so far as call it “eager” to climb the tach, but it’s nonetheless more willing to breathe near the top of the rev range. In fact, the difference is so pronounced that I found myself short-shifting on occasion after getting behind the wheel of the GR 86 after becoming re-acclimated to the outgoing car’s wheezier top end.



Speaking of shifting, one item that doesn’t seem significantly improved is the six-speed automatic. Frankly, this was never the gearbox to get in the FR-S/86/BRZ and that hasn’t changed. It’s a tangible drag on the car’s acceleration and it makes the GR 86 heavier and more lethargic. Meanwhile, the six-speed manual’s core gears (two, three and four – those you’re expected to shift between most often) had their throws adjusted to make it a bit easier to find what you want entirely by feel.

The chassis remains absolutely sublime, and the base model’s forgiving, low-grip tires continue to really help emphasize just how light on its feet the little 2+2 really is. Monticello’s Carousel – a long, decreasing-radius left-hander – invited us to swing the Primacy HPs back and forth across their traction peaks, transitioning seamlessly from under- to oversteer both progressively and predictably. They lack the outright grip of the Pilot Sport 4s, but they’re competent tires for any beginner looking to get a feel for a nimble, lightweight chassis.

Stepping up to the Premium gets you the larger, stickier tires at the expense of some approachability. They’re not transformative by any stretch of the imagination, but they’re certainly far less talkative. The extra grip never translated into a braking problem (stickier tires help your brakes work better at the expense of additional heat), but our sessions were brief and had no true flying laps, so it’s hard to say how well they’re likely to stand up to longer track outings. They should do just fine for a beginner’s autocross outing, however.

You’ll note that we didn't discuss the 2.4-liter’s torque output up above in the engine chat, and that’s with good reason. While much was made of the 2.0-liter’s lack of grunt, its most vocal critics often focused specifically on its mid-range delivery, which was a bit lacking. Yeah, we’re talking about the “torque dip.” But here’s the thing: If you buy the 86 as a track or autocross toy, mid-range torque is the least of your concerns. If you find it mattering, you’re in the wrong gear. On the street, however, low- and mid-range torque delivery both matter a great deal, and the new GR 86 feels every bit as torquey as its improved figure suggests.

That said, the power delivery is basically the same. Peak torque hits a little lower (3,700 RPM), but plotted against the 2.0-liter’s torque curve, the shape is virtually identical – just raised a bit due to the higher output across the board. In other words, it drives about the same, it’s just a bit punchier across its rev range, making it more forgiving around town, especially in third and fourth gears, where the older car can easily be caught flat-footed. Even when I found myself short-shifting on track, that extra grunt was there to help mitigate my mistakes. It’s not a cure for poor gear selection, but it certainly helps.






And while we're on the subject of new elements that make around-town driving more forgiving, the new 86 interior impresses immediately. The new, slightly less squared-off dash treatment is pretty easy on the eyes, and the factory seats are reasonably bolstered and sufficiently supportive. The cabin is still sparsely appointed, especially in the base model, where virtually everything is finished in a near-black monotone, but there are also some appreciable materials improvements here and there.

As for technology, the boxer engine isn't the only thing Subaru obviously contributed. Although there's a slight graphics reskin, the 86 features what is effectively Subaru's StarLink touchscreen infotainment system. Even the surrounding physical buttons/knob selections are what you'd find in a Crosstrek, Forester, etc. This is actually good news for the 86, as Subaru's tech is easier to use, quicker to respond and has better graphics than Toyota's.

The various driver assistance tech also comes from Subaru, but only on cars with an automatic transmission. Automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning and adaptive cruise control cannot be had with the manual. We can probably live with that.



At the risk of oversimplifying things, the 2022 Toyota GR 86 is the same, only better. It almost entirely retains the character that defined its predecessor while offering incremental improvement across the board. The rougher edges have been sanded down and the wick turned up a bit, but it’s still fundamentally the same car. That’s great news for fans of the formula, but probably not enough to sway those who've been demanding a turbo for nine years.

If you fall into that camp or were expecting a complete transformation, the 2022 GR 86 will leave you disappointed. If you appreciated the old car’s basic formula and just wanted a touch more outright speed, then you’re in luck. While it may not be perfect, the GR 86 ticks all the boxes for a fun, no-frills sport coupe with plenty of room for aftermarket augmentation.

We don’t have Toyota’s final pricing for the GR 86 yet, but we’re told it will start “comfortably” under $30,000 with destination included, meaning it remains affordable to boot. It may suffer from some of the same spec sheet weaknesses of its predecessor, but if you have to search that much to find a car’s flaws, I’d argue it never had any worth noting to begin with.

The new Toyota GR86 debuted in June 2021 to the delight of sports car fans everywhere. It went on sale in the US at the end of last year, but things are progressing a bit slower across the pond. Order banks for the GR86 in the UK finally opened on April 20, and they closed just 90 minutes later when every single car was claimed.

Mind you, that's not for a launch edition run or even the first year of production. Toyota says every single GR86 allocated for the UK in its planned two-year production run is now spoken for. The process was carried out entirely online to help ensure interested buyers had an equal chance to nab a car, but with two years' worth of cars snapped up in an hour and a half, not everyone got what they wanted.

Unfortunately, barring order cancellations, it's going to stay that way. Toyota did start a waiting list for GR86 fans who missed out on an order, but thus far, the automaker has held firm on not adding additional vehicles to the mix or extending production. As for just how many GR86 coupes are destined for the UK, Toyota isn't ready to share that information.

"The phenomenal response to GR86 is a sign of how it is fulfilling its role as a thoroughbred sports car that's affordable as well as thrilling to drive," said Toyota (GB) Operations Director Mark Roden. "Our Gazoo Racing-engineered models – GR Supra and GR Yaris – have generated an exceptional buzz with their competition-tuned performance and handling, helping raise expectations of what GR86 will deliver.

With a 2.4-liter flat-four engine making 228 horsepower (170 kilowatts) and 184 pound-feet (249 Newton-meters) of torque, the GR86 exists in a nearly extinct segment of affordable sports cars. Equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, it scoots to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds but the real magic of the GR86 is its poise in pretty much any environment. In our first-drive review, we found the Toyota to be a delight whether tackling corners or just cruising home.

GR86 orders might be full, but Toyota is keen to remind people that a manual-equipped Toyota Supra will be available soon.

Toyota is celebrating the pure fun of sports car driving with a limited-edition GR86 for 2023. The second-generation GR86, introduced for 2022, made headlines with a significant jump in power over the first-gen model, along with a more stirring design and tighter handling, all while keeping weight low and the price affordable.

Built on the GR86 Premium grade, the 2023 GR86 Special Edition will leave an unforgettable visual impression with its Solar Shift orange paint color, which is exclusive to this model. A GR cat-back performance exhaust system with stainless steel pipes, black chrome tips and debossed GR logo ensures that the GR86 Special Edition will leave a deep, growling auditory signature in its wake.

GR matte-black 18-inch wheels with black center caps and black lug nuts with Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires, a black GR C-pillar graphic and Ultrasuede/leather trimmed interior with GR special edition badge accent the striking color. The 2023 GR86 Special Edition will be limited to just 860 units. It makes this limited-run appearance just as Toyota expands its GR sports car line, which also includes the acclaimed GR Supra, the first-ever 300-horsepower and rally-bred All-Wheel-Drive GR Corolla hot hatch - all of which will offer a manual transmission. "GR" stands for Gazoo Racing, Toyota's motorsports and performance division.

Sports Car Fundamentals, Nailed Again

The second-gen GR86 built on the considerable cred of the first-gen, amping up affordable sports car fun with a new 2.4-liter engine that yields nearly 11% more horsepower and 18 more torque than the first-gen model's 2.0-liter. The 2.4-liter engine delivers 228 hp (up from 205 in the 2.0-liter) and 184 lb.-ft. of torque (up from 156 over prior generation). Critically, the new engine is tuned so peak torque arrives far earlier in the powerband, at 3,700 RPM, versus 6,600 RPM before. The result is a more responsive and powerful driving experience in all situations.

This more powerful engine improves zero-to-60 acceleration from 7.0 to 6.1 seconds for the 6-speed manual transmission, and from 8.0 to 6.6 seconds for the available 6-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with intelligence (ECT-i). Fuel economy comes in at an EPA-estimated 20 city/27 highway/22 combined MPG for the manual transmission and 21 city/31 highway/25 combined MPG for the automatic.

Toyota's D-4S dual injection, which combines direct fuel injection and port-injection technologies, provides a cooling effect in the cylinders to allow a very high 12.5:1 compression ratio for maximum power. The port fuel injectors come into play during light- and medium-load conditions to help maximize combustion efficiency. The exhaust system's larger center pipe capacity produces a satisfying growl, with augmented engine sound in the cabin from an Active Sound Control system.

Two Grades of Toyota Value

The special edition adds a third choice to GR86's two grade lineup.

The GR86 base grade sits on 17-inch, 10-spoke machined-finish aluminum alloy wheels wrapped in Michelin Primacy HP tires. Interior features include six-way adjustable black GR-embossed fabric with sport fabric side bolsters, along with textured vinyl and sport fabric trim on the dash and doors. Dual-zone automatic climate control, an 8-inch touchscreen multimedia system with six-speakers and an anti-theft system with engine immobilizer and alarm are also standard.

The GR86 Premium grade rides on standard 18-inch, 10-spoke black aluminum alloy wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires. To all the standard model's equipment, the Premium adds a duckbill rear spoiler that sweeps up from the rear deck. Inside, black and silver accented six-way adjustable front seats feature two-level heating and perforated UltraSuede upholstery with leather side bolsters. Black and silver accents continue to the leather-wrapped steering wheel, shifter boot and parking brake handle.

The Premium grade is upgraded to an 8-speaker audio system with an amplifier and features aluminum sport pedals and footrest. For those who want even more bass, a dealer or factory-installed 10-inch, 200W subwoofer is available for either grade.

While the Solar Shift paint is restricted to the 2023 GR86 Special Edition, the other models offer a palette of seven dynamic colors: Track bRED, Halo White, Steel Silver, Pavement Grey, Raven Black, Neptune and Trueno Blue.

Light, Strong and Taut

For the second-gen GR86, the GR engineering team reworked the chassis and body to complement the increased engine performance. Strategic chassis reinforcements and use of structural adhesives resulted in a 50% increase in torsional rigidity over the prior-gen 86. A new full-ring rear frame ties the upper and lower chassis together, and a combination of high-strength steel, hot-stamped steel and aluminum is strategically used throughout the frame.

More extensive use of aluminum in the body kept weight to just a few pounds over the prior-gen model, even with the new car's added power, safety and comfort features. The GR86 uses an aluminum hood, front fenders and roof panel, versus just the hood for the prior-gen model. The increased use of aluminum in the body lowered the already super-low center of gravity by an additional 1.6mm. That seemingly small difference pays dividends in steering response and agility.

The GR86's low weight, ultra-low center of gravity and 53% front:47% rear balance combines to make for a pure driver's car. The 2023 GR86 weighs in at just 2,811 pounds with the manual transmission, and 2,851 pounds with the automatic.

Other examples of weight-shaving ingenuity for the second-gen GR86 include a resin fuel-filler door, new lightweight front seat frames, redesigned electric power-steering and changes to the driveline and engine block.

Driven by Control

The Electronic Power Steering (EPS) system with a column-mounted integrated motor and control unit reduces both weight and space. A rigid steering gearbox mount enhances the direct steering feel for the driver, and the quick ratio yields just 2.5 turns lock-to-lock for tight maneuverability.

Sport-tuned independent MacPherson front struts feature refined damping performance and internal rebound springs to enhance handling characteristics. A double wishbone-type multi-link rear suspension employs stiffer springs and sport-tuned shock absorbers to provide planted, predictable handling. Both GR86 grades are equipped with power-assisted 11.6-inch front and 11.4-inch rear ventilated disc brakes.

High Performance in with Manual or Automatic Flavors

Sports car purists will love GR86's 6-speed manual transmission. With the push of a button, drivers can engage Track mode or switch off Vehicle Stability Control (VSC). A carbon synchronizer improves shifts into 4th gear. The transmission uses low-viscosity oil and bearings for smooth shifting operability with the higher torque output of the 2.4-liter boxer engine.

For the 6-speed automatic, steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters offer enthusiasts a dynamic driving experience. Drivers can choose between Normal, Sport or Snow modes. When in Sport mode, the transmission senses brake and accelerator operation and vehicle behavior to automatically select the optimal gear, bringing drivers the control they want. Additional clutch discs and a new high-capacity torque converter allow for smooth delivery of the 2.4-liter engine's higher power and torque.

With either transmission, the GR86 comes equipped with a Torsen® limited-slip rear differential for improved traction while cornering.

Driver-Focused Tech and Comfort

The GR86 doesn't sacrifice tech or comfort to achieve its fighting weight. A Smart Key System functions on both the driver and passenger door. A push-button start fires up a boxer-inspired GR-logo animation on its 7-inch Thin Film Transistor (TFT) multi-information display.

Display content varies based on whether drivers are in Normal, Sport, Snow or Track mode. (Track mode comes with manual transmission only.) Selecting Sport mode illuminates a red ring around the speedometer for a racy look. Track Mode was developed with race driver input. When it is selected, the instrument panel prominently displays an RPM-band in the center, along with oil and water coolant temperatures and a lap timer.

The small-diameter, leather-wrapped steering wheel integrates controls for the audio system, hands-free calling, voice-recognition system, display meters and cruise control. Power windows feature auto up/down and pinch protection. A split-opening center console provides two cup holders or storage as needed, with one auxiliary audio and two USB connections inside. The automatic transmission model also has an open storage area in the center.

For both 2023 GR86 grades, the multimedia system comes with Wired Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, Bluetooth® for hands-free phone capability, a SiriusXM® 3-month Platinum Plan trial and a trial access to a suite of available connected services (with additional subscription).

Complimentary 1-year NASA Membership

Purchase of a 2023 GR86 comes with a complimentary 1-year membership to the National Auto Sport Association (NASA). GR86 owners will enjoy a host of benefits, including one free High Performance Driving Event (HPDE) and discounted admission to NASA-sanctioned events.

GR86 Safety and Connected Services

The GR86 automatic transmission model comes standard with an active safety system that includes Pre-Collision Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Throttle Management, Lane Departure Warning, Sway Warning, Lead Vehicle Start Alert and High Beam Assist.

Both grades are equipped with: Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA) and Hill Start Assist Control (HAC). Additional safety features include rear seat LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) and a Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS). Seven airbags include a driver's knee airbag.

Remote Services are available for enhanced safety and security. The Remote Connect package, which requires a subscription, includes engine start, climate control operation, vehicle locator, lock/unlock, diagnostic alert, monthly vehicle health reports, service usage reports and lights/hazard flasher/horn operation. Important for GR86 owners with young drivers in the household, the system includes geo fencing, speed alert and curfew features.

The Safety Connect package, which also requires a subscription, includes enhanced roadside assistance, SOS emergency assistance, automatic collision notification and stolen vehicle recovery service.

Warranty and ToyotaCare

Toyota's 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles, and corrosion with no mileage limitation. ToyotaCare is a no additional cost plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance for 2 years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years, unlimited mileage.

The current-generation Toyota GR86 debuted in 2021. Since then, it's been marketed by Toyota as a fun-to-drive sports car that, according to the automaker's website, is "track bred." Toyota even offers a one-year membership in the National Auto Sport Association (NASA) with every GR86 purchase. So when Blake Alvarado experienced an engine failure in his 2022 model at 13,000 miles, he thought it would be taken care of.

According to a Facebook post from Alvarado, Toyota instead presented a photo of him getting a little sideways at a driving event three months prior to the engine failure. He was also shown a video of him driving a GR86 that wasn't his, and then he was handed a repair bill for $11,000. Toyota decided his actions in the photo and video were enough to deny him warranty coverage.

Alvarado details his full story in the post embedded above, but here's a quick summary. The engine failed on July 10 due to oil starvation. A subsequent examination of the engine showed a rod bearing had failed, and Alvarado says he found gray sealant in the oil pickup tube – a condition he says has been reported by others.

However, he claims a Toyota field technician specialist assigned to the situation never inspected the engine, instead turning to social media for potentially incriminating images or videos of Alvarado in his Toyota. Per the Facebook post, the tech denied the claim based on the images, allegedly saying such engine issues were common when drifting.

Alvarado says he tried to strike a compromise with the Toyota dealership, offering to split costs but the dealer didn't want to run afoul of Toyota corporate. He's since paid $7,000 to have a low-mileage engine installed at a Subaru specialty shop, because let's not forget, the GR86 shares its platform with the Subaru BRZ. But as you can imagine, he's not remotely happy about any of this.

For Toyota, there is certainly an inconvenient truth at play here. The GR86 is heavily marketed as an exciting car for enthusiasts to drive. In addition to offering free membership in NASA with each GR86 purchase (where high-performance driving is certainly expected), Toyota has promoted the GR86 to the public by getting plenty sideways in various venues. If such driving can lead to engine failure when drifting – as Toyota's field tech allegedly stated – it certainly doesn't look good when the automaker tries to sell the car using the exact same behavior.Motor1.com contacted Toyota regarding this situation. A company spokesperson offered the following statement:

Toyota is currently looking into the case you referenced. A customer’s satisfaction with our vehicles is important to Toyota. As always, we encourage customers who experience any issues with their vehicle to contact their authorized Toyota dealer or call the Toyota Brand Engagement Center (1-800-331-4331). Of course, in cases where a dealer is not able to resolve the matter, customers are encouraged to contact our Brand Engagement Center.

As of now, Alvarado hasn't heard anyting else from Toyota. But enthusiasts far and wide are certainly watching what happens next. Alvarado's Facebook post in the SCCA Official group presently has 573 comments and over 1,000 shares.