The move to EV in time for the now 2035 new ICE engine ban has seen the market focus change to crossovers and SUVs. Although these are not necessarily fleet-focused, this shift has probably been at the expense of hot hatchbacks and traditional sports cars, such as the Toyota GR86 we have here.
It is a surprise then, that Toyota, a long-time manufacturer advocating the use of the hybrid powertrain, was still offering the GR86’s predecessor, the GT86, which was launched back in 2012. More surprising, however, is that the carmaker chose to replace that car with this one – the GR86. Still, we suppose that this decision is largely the result of Toyota president Akio Toyoda’s 2017 declaration to not make any more boring cars!
Outside, whilst the basic GT86 coupe shape is unchanged, there are significant bodywork changes all-round. At the front end, there are simpler headlight units, and the introduction of a new front air dam that comes with a larger front grille. At the side, the GR86 has more pronounced side skirts, which then lead into the front wings with their fully functional air vents. There is also a curvier look to the rear, with the boot lid itself having a distinctive spoiler. There is also a new set of rear light clusters, and a new rear bumper, that comes with more aggressive lower detailing and twin pipes. The overall look is much neater and more attractive in our opinion.
Inside, just like the outside of the car, everything is all-new, but because the design is so like that of the GT86, it doesn’t feel as much of a change as it does on the outside. The larger 8in central touchscreen works with Android Auto and Apple Carplay and is easy to use.
The good news is that even the tallest will be able to get comfortable in this sports car – this is thanks to plenty of seat and steering wheel adjustment. There’s even a set of rear seats, although these are best used part-time for children. They also limit the front legroom when in use. The 226-litre boot is a useful size and can be extended by folding the rear seats – it’s just a shame that the opening is on the small side.
Underneath the GR86’s revised styling, is a new 2.4-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine rated at a healthy 231hp. 0-62mph acceleration takes 6.3 seconds, but the real story of this engine is how it comes alive past 4,000rpm. With the ease of acceleration of the EVs we drive, it’s nice to have to work a bit. It sounds good too, although, like a lot of modern cars, the sound is enhanced through this Toyota’s speakers.
Working well with this engine is the standard six-speed manual transmission of our test car. Slick and precise, there’s also a six-speed automatic option, but for the involvement we reckon the manual is better.
The GR86 is most at home on B-roads, as this is where the whole package comes together in our opinion. To go with the engine and gearbox, there’s nicely weighted steering, plus a generally compliant ride on the standard, modest 18in wheels, equalling nimble handling. The handling limits of this Toyota are perhaps found lower than you might think, but it adds to the fun, and makes you more aware of keeping the drive smooth and enjoyable.
With the move to EV, like the GR Yaris before it, we salute Toyota for producing the GR86, but it seems the enthusiast car is a dying breed, so it’s good to know there’s still a market for it. The first batch sold out before it hit the dealers, with a second batch recently made available going the same way. With its 37% BIK figure, the Toyota will have marginal appeal as a user chooser choice – but if you want one, get it while you can.
Toyota GR86 2.4
P11D: £32,495
Residual value: N/A
Depreciation: N/A
Fuel: N/A
Service, maintenance and repair: N/A
Cost per mile: N/A
Fuel consumption: 33.2 mpg
CO2 (BIK %): 200g/km (37%)
BIK 20/40% a month: £200/£401
Luggage capacity: 226 litres
Engine size/power: 2,387cc/231hp
