[supra93]

https://global.toyota/en/newsroom/toyota/34997138.html

Apr. 05, 2021

Developing the unique driving feel of the GR 86 through friendly rivalry with Subaru

Toyota City, Japan―On April 5, 2021, 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.

Key Features of the GR 86

• Interior and exterior designs embrace responsive handling and functional beauty
• Exterior
• With fender tops that extend horizontally to the beltline, the 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 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 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 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 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.

[AlpineBoost]

[Merami fan]

https://global.toyota/en/newsroom/toyota/34997138.html

Largely the same, which is a good. Bump in power/torque is welcome, but it could use more torque still...

[5.M0NSTER]

0-100 kph in “just” 6.3 seconds is kinda a joke in 2021. Anything north of 5s is to be honest. Definite no on these things unless it gets boost.

[kyriian]

Originally Posted by 5.M0NSTER

0-100 kph in “just” 6.3 seconds is kinda a joke in 2021. Anything north of 5s is to be honest. Definite no on this thing unless it gets boost.

Like the Miata, and the very original AE86, this car's never about 0-60, or straight line speed. Also, the aftermarket will be more than happy to accomodate you if that's your fancy.

Also, very likely to be geared long for economy.

[Frostynorth]

Somewhat surprised it's not a turbo yet.

[5.M0NSTER]

Originally Posted by kyriian

Like the Miata, and the very original AE86, this car's never about 0-60, or straight line speed. Also, the aftermarket will be more than happy to accomodate you if that's your fancy.

Also, very likely to be geared long for economy.

I see what you're getting at, but the problem is this is supposed to be a "sports car". My 4000lbs Mercedes GLC300 does 0-100 in the exact same time with a 2.0L turbo (the smallest engine offered in that car by the way).

This thing could be brilliant with some boost and an extra 80hp and some more TQ. Missed chance in my book.

[KennyFSU]

Looks good in white, I came from a BRZ and loved it's nimbleness and tossibility in corners. Sad to see it still has 3 inch wheel gap lol.

[chowser51]

looks good. i wish they would do a drop top brz.

[Alfisti]

Just me or does it look like a Nissan?

[pikkagtr]

1270kg is impressive
Still can't pass minivans full of kids uphill though

[R N M]

As a former BRZ owner - this time I prefer the GR86 looks, the front bumper looks much better. Unfortunately you can’t get the World Rally Blue color on the Toyota.

Looking forward to driving the new one - hoped they improved the power and engine sound, otherwise its a GREAT car.

[R N M]

Originally Posted by 5.M0NSTER

0-100 kph in “just” 6.3 seconds is kinda a joke in 2021. Anything north of 5s is to be honest. Definite no on these things unless it gets boost.

These are great beginner cars or for ppl that enjoy momentum cars. These things are really fun and MUCH better driving experience than a Mustang 4cyl that will do 5s or Tesla Model 3 that will do 3s.

You can’t go wrong for $30k.

[PopsnBurbles]

Originally Posted by 5.M0NSTER

0-100 kph in “just” 6.3 seconds is kinda a joke in 2021. Anything north of 5s is to be honest. Definite no on these things unless it gets boost.

I don't know. I think cars should start to get slower or at least not get much faster. The general driving competence (at least in Los Angeles) is pretty low that I don't trust the average person driving around in a 4s 0-60 mph weapon. Even a financially irresponsible teen can get an M3...No thank, you. Get me 10 miles away from that person.

Heck, a 7s 0-60 E90 328i is plenty fast enough that it can get dangerous fast for the average consumer. Especially when these cars are relatively attainable for a working teenager...

I'm saying this exactly because a sub 5 second car (135i) is more than scary enough already and can get you in a dangerous situation with a bit of carelessness or arrogance.

On the topic of this car, the Toyo-Baru 86 is right where it's at for a fun, daily-able, and economic.

[Burrcold]

Originally Posted by 5.M0NSTER

I see what you're getting at, but the problem is this is supposed to be a "sports car". My 4000lbs Mercedes GLC300 does 0-100 in the exact same time with a 2.0L turbo (the smallest engine offered in that car by the way).

This thing could be brilliant with some boost and an extra 80hp and some more TQ. Missed chance in my book.

You're obviously not the target market for this car, so who cares and move on.

[XMetal]

Originally Posted by 5.M0NSTER

I see what you're getting at, but the problem is this is supposed to be a "sports car". My 4000lbs Mercedes GLC300 does 0-100 in the exact same time with a 2.0L turbo (the smallest engine offered in that car by the way).

This thing could be brilliant with some boost and an extra 80hp and some more TQ. Missed chance in my book.

To echo kyriian's sentiment, a "sports car" is not all about 0-60, or straight line speed. Can your 4000lbs Mercedes GLC300 keep up with the Toyobaru when the road isn't straight? People get too caught up in the 0-60 times these days. Teenagers in their Corollas/Civics are trying to drag race me at stop lights all the time when I'm in the Mcoupe for some reasons.

[OkieSnuffBox]

Originally Posted by 5.M0NSTER

I see what you're getting at, but the problem is this is supposed to be a "sports car". My 4000lbs Mercedes GLC300 does 0-100 in the exact same time with a 2.0L turbo (the smallest engine offered in that car by the way).

This thing could be brilliant with some boost and an extra 80hp and some more TQ. Missed chance in my book.

And then it's no longer under $30k or 2800 lbs.

Adding the turbo stuff adds 100 lbs to the front of the car, now you need a beefier transmission, half-shafts, brakes, etc. Pushing the car up north of 3000 lbs and probably into the mid-30s or more for price.

IE competing with base Mustang GTs that are approaching 500 hp stock. Mid-30s is also where the base STi starts. Where the 400 hp Z is supposed to start.

It doesn't make sense.

[ramman434]

The Toyota's grill makes a world of difference and looks way better.

The BRZ looks like a smiling Mazda 3

[Burrcold]

Originally Posted by stein_325i

So far I'm liking the looks of the 86 this time more than the BRZ, although the old one still looks better. Great to see such fun cars at an affordable price, pretty much the only other choice besides a Miata these days.

Agree on all points. I have a soft spot for the BRZ since I got one at launch for the first gen, but definitely this time (if I was in the market) I would be going with the 86.

[///MPhatic]

Even though the car isn't about 0-60 times, I think most people will want more juice. I also think that the 215/40/18 wheel/tire combo is so 1995. Yes, I realize it's because they want the car to be playful with less power, but I can't help thinking that it'd just be much better with 100 more HP and a set of 245/35/19's.

I do, however, like the 2,800 lb curb weight. Well done there.

[Burrcold]

Originally Posted by ///MPhatic

Even though the car isn't about 0-60 times, I think most people will want more juice. I also think that the 215/40/18 wheel/tire combo is so 1995. Yes, I realize it's because they want the car to be playful with less power, but I can't help thinking that it'd just be much better with 100 more HP and a set of 245/35/19's.

I do, however, like the 2,800 lb curb weight. Well done there.

And you'd be paying big time for all of these things. The point of this car is how affordable it is out of the box. People have so much fun modding these cars because of the low starting price. There's no fun if too much has been done already (again for the target demographic of these cars).

[5.M0NSTER]

Originally Posted by PopsnBurbles

I don't know. I think cars should start to get slower or at least not get much faster. The general driving competence (at least in Los Angeles) is pretty low that I don't trust the average person driving around in a 4s 0-60 mph weapon. Even a financially irresponsible teen can get an M3...No thank, you. Get me 10 miles away from that person.

Heck, a 7s 0-60 E90 328i is plenty fast enough that it can get dangerous fast for the average consumer. Especially when these cars are relatively attainable for a working teenager...

I'm saying this exactly because a sub 5 second car (135i) is more than scary enough already and can get you in a dangerous situation with a bit of carelessness or arrogance.

On the topic of this car, the Toyo-Baru 86 is right where it's at for a fun, daily-able, and economic.

Originally Posted by XMetal

To echo kyriian's sentiment, a "sports car" is not all about 0-60, or straight line speed. Can your 4000lbs Mercedes GLC300 keep up with the Toyobaru when the road isn't straight? People get too caught up in the 0-60 times these days. Teenagers in their Corollas/Civics are trying to drag race me at stop lights all the time when I'm in the Mcoupe for some reasons.

When the road isn't straight, that's what I have the M2 for (and soon an SS 1LE). It will space both the Toybaru and the GLC by similar distance.

And I do hear what you're trying to say about a cheap, slow, but fun car. But what does the driving an underpowered coupe prepare you for? There isn't much oversteer to manage, and when it occurs, it occurs s-l-o-w-l-y in comparison to more powerful options.

Next you jump into a proper 400+ HP car with an EXTRA 300 lb-ft, and realize your reflexes are not there, and this is a whole new ball game. Because how can you learn to manage excessive power with less than 190 lb-ft of tire spinning torque??

I learned to drive fast on a C5 Z06. Then when I got a Mustang GT, I had to learn more, because that car always wanted to go sideways and kill me whenever I gave it a chance. Tracking that car for 5 years was a great way to hone skill, butt gyro, and driver's reflexes. When I switched to the M2 after that, it felt very easy to drive fast. I didn't have to do as much to keep it in check.

I imagine stepping from an 86 into an M2C takes a learning curve. From the Mustang to M2 the curve is reversed. In a "calm down on the steering wheel, the car will sort itself under constant throttle" sort of way.

My point is that if the car doesn't have more power than you as a driver can handle from the start, you're not learning as much as your otherwise would. So yeah, perhaps you won't crash right away in a 86, and instead you will in an M4, or a Mustang, or a Vette, when the 86 gives you a false sense of "skill." Because the skill required to handle half the power and 1/3 of the TQ, is less than half the skill you otherwise might acquire. That's why I think it's a missed opportunity. $36k turbo or supercharged version would do well with a lot of drivers.