When Toyota released its new lightweight sports car in 2012, it became an instant hit, with one of the most iconic names returning to the sports car scene. Subaru and Toyota subdivision Scion each had identical variants of the same car, with slight visual and interior differences. This vehicle was an instant hit and became quite a popular vehicle due to its versatility and use in almost any discipline of motorsport. A second generation was unveiled with a new design and a new name for the Toyota version known as the GR86 but with the same basic formula.
Now, we’re expecting a replacement soon which would be the third generation of the GR86/BRZ twins, but the latest information available shows that the GR86 and Subaru BRZ may not be identical anymore. It seems Toyota is planning on giving the GR86 a new powerplant and chassis that may be completely different from before, and may not even share parts with its current BRZ twin.
More Power From A Different Engine
Power was never the goal of the GR86. It was a vehicle built for fun and handling, so its engine was sourced from Subaru and was mounted very low in the engine bay. In its current form, the engine makes 228 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque from a 2.4-liter boxer engine famously used by many Subaru models. However, the new GR86 may use a Toyota powerplant we’ve all come to love and appreciate.
|
Engine |
2.4-liter boxer-four |
1.6-liter turbo inline-three |
|---|---|---|
|
Power |
228 horsepower |
300 horsepower |
|
Torque |
184 pound-feet |
273 pound-feet |
|
Transmission |
Six-speed manual/automatic |
Six-speed manual |
|
Drivetrain |
RWD |
AWD |
|
0-60 |
5.4-6.1 seconds |
4.9 seconds |
|
Top Speed |
135 MPH |
143 MPH |
The new GR86 may use the 1.6-liter turbo three-cylinder engine first used in the Toyota GR Yaris, which we couldn’t get here but was later available in the GR Corolla which is available in North America. That engine makes more power in the GR Corolla at 300 horses and 273 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed manual transmission. This configuration is more than enough for a new GR86, but Toyota plans to make more power.
There are rumors that the vehicle could incorporate the hybrid setup from the latest Land Cruiser, which means way more power. It is still expected to come with a manual transmission and rear-wheel drive, which would still make it a very fun sports car.
The Development May Be Led By Toyota
The previous vehicle development has since been led by Subaru, with the use of their engine and chassis to build both sports cars. But it seems this time, Toyota may develop the GR86 this time with the aforementioned turbo three-cylinder setup. But the chassis may also be from another sports car from the Toyota Group. There are speculations that it might use a shortened version of the Lexus IS, which is already a phenomenal base to start from.
Topspeed’s Take On The Upcoming GR86
Toyota has been developing a lot of exciting cars lately, which started with the return of the 86 name, and the recipe has been quite successful. The only complaint enthusiasts have had is that it doesn’t have enough power, and people have gone on to add more to their vehicles however possible. If Toyota develops a new GR86 with the GR Corolla’s engine paired with the six-speed manual, that would be all we’ve ever wanted.
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