If you’re in the market for a driver-focused sports car that offers rear-wheel-drive excitement, sharp handling, and a thrilling manual gearbox all without breaking the bank the Toyota GR86 is a top contender. As the spiritual successor to the Toyota 86 and a proud member of the Gazoo Racing family, the GR86 blends performance and affordability in a way few other coupes can.
Toyota GR86 Engine & Performance
Powering the Toyota GR86 is a 2.4-litre naturally aspirated flat-four boxer engine, developed in collaboration with Subaru. It delivers a robust 228 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque, offering a significant improvement over the previous generation’s 2.0-litre engine.
- 0-100 km/h time: Just 6.3 seconds (manual)
- Top speed: Around 225 km/h
- Transmission options: 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic
With its low center of gravity and lightweight construction, the GR86 delivers sharp, agile, and highly responsive handling. Whether you’re carving through mountain roads or pushing it at the track, this coupe stays balanced and engaging.
Handling and Driving Dynamics
The GR86 is rear-wheel-drive, making it a joy to drive for enthusiasts who love drifting and tight cornering. It features a limited-slip differential as standard, improving traction and handling in high-performance conditions.
Toyota’s engineers also improved chassis rigidity by 50% over the previous generation. Add in track-tuned suspension, and you’ve got a car that’s both planted and playful.
Driving Highlights:
- Rear-wheel-drive excitement
- Precise steering with excellent feedback
- Lightweight and nimble body
- Available Track Mode and adjustable Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) settings
Exterior Design:
The Toyota GR86 embraces a classic sports coupe silhouette with a long hood, short rear deck, and low stance. The aggressive front fascia, aerodynamic side skirts, and functional air vents aren’t just for looks they improve airflow and stability.
Exterior Features:
- LED headlamps with signature DRLs
- Dual exhaust system
- 17-inch alloy wheels (18-inch for higher trims)
- Sleek, wind-tunnel-tested body for reduced drag
The design cues differentiate the GR86 from more pedestrian Toyota models.
Interior & Technology:
Inside, the GR86’s cabin is minimalistic but functional. Everything is laid out for the driver, with bolstered sports seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and intuitive controls.
Interior Highlights:
- An 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring seamless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
- 7-inch digital instrument cluster with sport-specific readouts
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Optional heated seats and leather-trimmed upholstery
While not luxurious, the GR86 interior balances comfort and purpose, making it suitable for spirited drives and daily commutes alike.
Toyota GR86 Safety Features
Toyota doesn’t compromise on safety, even in a compact sports coupe. The automatic version of the GR86 comes equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense suite, which includes:
- Pre-Collision System (PCS)
- Lane Departure Alert (LDA)
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert features
The manual variant, though less equipped in terms of ADAS features, still maintains a strong safety record thanks to its robust frame and six airbags.
Toyota GR86 Fuel Efficiency
Even with its sporty performance, the GR86 offers decent mileage. According to EPA estimates:
- Manual transmission: ~11.5 km/l (27 MPG)
- Automatic transmission: ~12.8 km/l (30 MPG)
These figures make it one of the more fuel-efficient cars in the performance coupe segment, adding to its appeal as a practical enthusiast’s car.
Toyota GR86 Price in Global Markets
The 2025 Toyota GR86 comes at a competitive price, delivering exceptional value for a rear-wheel-drive performance coupe.
Estimated Prices:
- USA: Starting from $30,000 (Base) to $34,000 (Premium)
- UK: Around £32,500
- India (Expected, via CBU): ₹45–50 lakh (if launched)
While not officially launched in India, the GR86 remains a hot topic among import enthusiasts and car communities.
Toyota GR86 vs Competitors
Here’s how the GR86 compares to its rivals:
| Feature | Toyota GR86 | Subaru BRZ | Mazda MX-5 Miata | Nissan Z |
| Engine | 2.4L NA Boxer-4 | 2.4L NA Boxer-4 | 2.0L Inline-4 | 3.0L Twin-Turbo V6 |
| Power | 228 hp | 228 hp | 181 hp | 400 hp |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD | RWD |
| 0-100 km/h | 6.3 sec | 6.3 sec | 6.5 sec | 4.5 sec |
| Starting Price (USD) | $30,000 | $30,000 | $28,000 | $42,000 |
The GR86 and BRZ are nearly identical twins, but Toyota fans may prefer the GR-badged styling. The Miata is lighter and more convertible-oriented, while the Nissan Z targets a higher performance bracket.
Is the Toyota GR86 Worth Buying?
If you’re an enthusiast looking for:
- A pure rear-wheel-drive coupe
- Manual transmission fun
- Balanced performance with everyday usability
- A starting price under $35,000
This positions the Toyota GR86 as a leading choice in the compact sports car segment. It’s not just a car; it’s an experience a back-to-basics sports coupe that celebrates driving in its purest form.
Conclusion:
The Toyota GR86 shows that you don’t need a massive budget to enjoy a car that delivers pure driving joy every time you hit the road. With its refined powertrain, track-ready dynamics, and unmistakable design, the GR86 is Toyota’s love letter to driving enthusiasts everywhere.