The 2024 Toyota GR86 Is Better Than People Think

Get ready to be amazed by the all-new 2024 Toyota GR86! Unmasking the hidden brilliance, this sporty car is about to unveil its surprises and leave you in awe. With sleek lines, powerful performance, and cutting-edge features, the GR86 takes driving to a whole new level. Under the hood, the GR86 boasts a modified 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering an impressive power output. It’s not just the performance that will grab your attention – the GR86’s exterior design is a statement of confidence and style. The bold curves and meticulous attention to detail add to its allure. Inside the cabin, you’ll find a driver-focused environment that enhances the thrill of every drive. From the comfortable sport seats to the latest technology features, everything is thoughtfully designed to elevate your driving experience. Toyota has truly outdone themselves with the 2024 GR86, showcasing their commitment to delivering exceptional performance and innovation. Whether you’re a speed enthusiast or simply appreciate a beautifully engineered car, the GR86 is sure to impress. Prepare to be astonished as the hidden brilliance of the Toyota GR86 is unveiled, pushing boundaries and redefining what a sports car can be.

The evolution of the Toyota GR86

The Toyota GR86 has evolved from its predecessors, the Toyota 86 and Scion FR-S, with the GR86 being a collaborative effort between Toyota and Subaru. Crafted for an exhilarating driving experience, the GR86 inherits the fun-to-drive characteristics of the original GT86 while incorporating aluminum extensively in its construction, making it one of the lightest four-seat coupes in its class. The model emphasizes balance, precision, a 2.4-liter boxer engine, increased torsional rigidity for enhanced handling, and improved steering responsiveness

Key features and specifications of the Toyota GR86

The Toyota GR86 is a compact sports car that builds upon the legacy of the GT86 and Scion FR-S. Key features and specifications include:

The brakes major areas of strength for are move certainty while halting.

Transmission: Offered with a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters.

Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive.

Body Construction: Lightweight aluminum construction enhances agility and improves overall performance.
Seating: Four-passenger seating capacity.

Interior Space: Limited cargo space and relatively cramped rear seating area.

Fuel Economy: Estimated mileage of 22–25 mpg combined.

Standard Equipment: Includes 17-inch wheels, power-adjustable side mirrors, dual-zone automatic climate control, six-way manually adjustable driver’s seat, and suede-like door trim.

Optional Features: Blind spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, parking sonar with reverse automatic braking, and a premium audio system.

Premium Model: Enhanced with a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, parking sonar with reverse automatic braking, and a more luxurious interior.

Price Range: Starting at approximately $28,925 for the base model and $32,095 for the Premium model.

The GR86 is praised for its nimble handling, engaging driving experience, and reasonable pricing, making it an attractive proposition for enthusiasts seeking an affordable sports car.

Performance and handling of the Toyota GR86

The Toyota GR86 is a sports car that offers a punchy 2.4-liter boxer engine producing 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. The car is available with a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters1. The GR86 is a rear-wheel drive car with lightweight aluminum construction that enhances agility and improves overall performance. The car’s handling is lively, and the steering is quick and communicative, making it a fun car to drive. Powertrain: Outfitted with a 2.4-liter fighter motor creating 228 strength and 184 lb-ft of force. The GR86 is also praised for its forgiving suspension, which makes it suitable for daily driving. The car’s fuel economy is estimated at 22-25 mpg combined. The GR86 comes with standard safety features such as pre-collision braking and throttle adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, sway warning, lead vehicle-start alert, and high-beam assist. The car’s interior is designed for visual appeal and comfort, although the rear seats remain tight. Overall, the Toyota GR86 is a well-rounded sports car that offers a fun driving experience, a comfortable ride, and decent fuel economy

Design and aesthetics of the Toyota GR86

The Toyota GR86 has a simple and timeless design that emphasizes functional beauty and driving functions. The car’s exterior features a long hood and short rear deck that highlight its racing-inspired proportions, while its refined aerodynamic profile gives it a sleek and aggressive look. The car’s front fender top is visible from the driver’s seat to better grasp the car’s behavior, and the air outlet on the side extracts air from the wheelhouse. The interior is designed to be driver-centric, with a horizontal instrument panel for visual stability and intuitive operation switches that reduce eye movement and allow the driver to focus on the road. The car’s seats are designed to provide great support and enhance the joy of driving. The GR86 comes with standard all-black leather touchpoints, like a leather-trimmed steering wheel, leather-wrapped parking brake handle, and heated leather-trimmed seats. The car’s premium model features leather-trimmed driver touchpoints, including a leather-trimmed dashboard, door panels, and center console. The GR86 is available in a range of colors, including Solar Shift orange for the 10th Anniversary Special Edition. Overall, the Toyota GR86 has a sleek and aggressive design that emphasizes functional beauty and driving functions, making it a well-rounded sports car that is both visually appealing and fun to drive.

Advanced technology in the Toyota GR86

The Toyota GR86 incorporates several advanced technological features, particularly in terms of safety and connectivity. Some notable aspects include:

• Connected Services with Safety Connect featuring Emergency Assistance Button and Enhanced Roadside Assistance, and Remote Connect allowing remote starting, locking/unlocking, and monitoring of the vehicle’s status using a compatible smart device.
• Active Safety Suite consisting of Pre-Collision System with Autonomous Emergency Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning with Sway Warning, Lead Vehicle Start Alert, and Automatic High Beams (available on automatic transmission models).
• Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (available on automatic transmission models).
• Digital Gauge Display with three customizable modes (Normal, Sport, and Track) that displays essential data such as tachometer, speedometer, and gear position indicator.
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
• SiriusXM Satellite Radio with a three-month Platinum Plan trial subscription.
• Eight-Speaker Audio System (standard on Premium models.

These features contribute to a safer and more connected driving experience for the GR86 owner. Additionally, the GR86 benefits from a lightweight body structure, low center of gravity, and precise tuning for optimal handling and performance

Safety features in the Toyota GR86

The Toyota GR86 comes equipped with various safety features, primarily when fitted with an automatic transmission. These features include:

• Pre-Collision Braking System
• Pre-Collision Throttle Management
• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Lane Departure Warning with Sway Warning
• Automatic High Beams
• Rear Parking Sonar with Reverse Automatic Braking (only on automatic transmission models)
• Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (Premium models only)
• Vehicle Stability Control (VSC)
• Traction Control (TRAC)
• Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)
• Electronic Brake-Force Distribution (EBD)
• Brake Assist (BA)
• Star Safety System™

Additionally, the GR86 features a low center of gravity due to its engine placement, contributing to improved handling and stability

Comparing the Toyota GR86 to its competitors

The Toyota GR86 competes directly with other compact sports cars in its segment. Notably, it shares some common ground with the following models:

• Mazda Miata/MX-5
• Fiat 124 Spider
• Subaru BRZ (GR86 shares a platform with the BRZ)
• Hyundai Veloster N
• Chevrolet Camaro (entry-level models)

While these cars vary in their specifications and pricing, they share a passion for engaging driving experiences and often cater to enthusiasts seeking a combination of affordability and performance. The GR86 stands apart with its distinctive styling, rear-wheel drive configuration, and balanced handling characteristics. However, it does not compete directly with higher-end sports cars like the Porsche 718 Cayman or the BMW Z4, which typically command higher prices and offer different levels of performance and luxury.

Testimonials and reviews from Toyota GR86 owners

Reddit User Long-Term Review Concerns

A Reddit user expressed concerns about the long-term reliability of the Toyota GR86, citing a previous engine failure experience with a Subaru BRZ, which shares a similar engine. The user sought insights from owners who have had their GR86 for a few years to gauge their experiences.

Parkway Toyota Boston Overview

Parkway Toyota Boston provided an overview of the Toyota GR86, highlighting its collaboration with Subaru, exciting driving experience, and shared platform with the Subaru BRZ. The article emphasized the car’s performance, design, and special edition models like the 10th Anniversary Special Edition.

TrueCar Safety Features and Performance

TrueCar outlined the safety features of the Toyota GR86, including pre-collision braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning. The review also praised the car’s powerful engine, responsive transmission options, and overall performance characteristics.

Edmunds Enthusiastic Review

Edmunds described the Toyota GR86 as a sign that manufacturers still prioritize non-SUV and pickup truck vehicles. The review highlighted the car’s fun driving experience, shared platform with the Subaru BRZ, and new Special Edition model. It also mentioned the car’s competition in the sports car category.

MotorTrend Exciting Driving Experience

MotorTrend praised the 2023 Toyota GR86 for its fun driving dynamics, responsive engine, and manual transmission option. The review noted the car’s handling prowess, available Special Edition model with unique features, and safety accolades like being named a Top Safety Pick+ by IIHS

Conclusion: Why the Toyota GR86 is a hidden gem

The Toyota GR86 is indeed a hidden gem among sports cars, offering a compelling blend of performance, handling, and affordability. Here are some reasons why the GR86 deserves attention:

• Performance and Handling: The GR86 boasts a 2.4-liter boxer engine producing 228 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. The car’s lightweight aluminum construction enhances agility and improves overall performance3. The GR86 is lauded for its nimble handling, engaging driving experience, and reasonable price point.
• Design and Aesthetics: The GR86 features a simple and timeless design that emphasizes functional beauty and driving functions. The car’s exterior showcases a long hood and short rear deck, giving it a sporty and aggressive look3. The interior is designed to be driver-centric, with a horizontal instrument panel and intuitive operation switches.
• Advanced Technologies: The GR86 comes equipped with various advanced technological features, particularly in terms of safety and connectivity. Standard safety features include pre-collision braking systems, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warnings, and blind spot monitors. The GR86 also benefits from a lightweight body structure, low center of gravity, and precise tuning for optimal handling and performance.
• Competition: The GR86 competes directly with other compact sports cars in its segment, sharing some common ground with the Mazda Miata/MX-5, Fiat 124 Spider, Subaru BRZ, Hyundai Veloster N, and Chevrolet Camaro. Despite competing against more expensive and prestigious brands, the GR86 maintains its affordability and accessibility, making it a desirable choice for enthusiasts looking for a fun and engaging driving experience without breaking the bank.

In summary, the Toyota GR86 is a hidden gem because it offers exceptional performance, handling, and design at an affordable price point. The car’s advanced technologies and competitive nature further cement its place as a standout performer in the sports car market.

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