Toyota GR86 gets a driver-focused revamp that you can’t enjoy
Toyota’s small coupé soldiers on in Japan, Australia and the US with some interesting upgrades
Despite being pulled from sale in the UK two years ago, the Toyota GR86 has gained a series of updates in the markets still lucky enough to have it.
Discontinued in the UK and Europe in 2024 due to its failure to comply with safety regulations, the model was never taken off sale in Japan, the US and Australia, where these revisions will apply.
In typical Toyota fashion, the changes are subtle and highly detailed, but each is designed specifically to deliver more driving fun for the driver.
They include recalibrated throttle mapping that’s designed to make the car easier to launch in low-grip scenarios. The six-speed manual also has redesigned internals to make downshifting from fifth to fourth smoother, and there’s a reduction in kickback through the steering wheel over rough surfaces.
The engineering changes are complemented by more obvious modifications in the cabin, where a new two-tone red and black colour scheme is accompanied by new controls on the centre console which are less reflective and easier to see in bright conditions. The digital air-conditioning controls have also been tweaked. Outside, meanwhile, the limited-run Solid Grey colour finish is back.
Similar upgrades have also been made to the GR86’s sister car, the Subaru BRZ, although it was never made available in the UK in its second generation.
Despite the relatively limited nature of the changes, they serve to underscore that Toyota’s next-generation model is still some way off. The company has effectively confirmed a new generation is coming, but the specifics are not yet clear – such as whether it will continue with a similar flat-four engine layout.
For the time being, we’ll have to make do with waiting for Toyota’s GR GT supercar that is set to go toe-to-toe with Porsche’s 911 and the Aston Martin Vantage on both UK roads and on-track in the GT3 class.
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