What Makes the Toyota GR86 a True Driver's Car

The Heart of the GR86: A Naturally Aspirated Boxer Engine

At the core of the GR86 sits a 2.4-litre horizontally opposed (boxer) four-cylinder engine. Unlike turbocharged alternatives that deliver power in surges, this naturally aspirated unit rewards you for wringing it out. Peak power of 174kW arrives at 7,000rpm, which means you need to work the engine to extract its full potential.

That might sound like a negative, but for driving enthusiasts, it's exactly the point. The linear power delivery means you always know what the car is doing. There's no waiting for boost, no sudden spikes in torque. Just a direct connection between your right foot and the rear wheels.

The boxer configuration also keeps the engine low and flat, contributing to a lower centre of gravity than a traditional inline-four setup.

Rear-Wheel Drive: The Layout That Rewards

The GR86 sends its 250Nm of torque exclusively to the rear wheels via a Torsen limited-slip differential. This isn't just a spec sheet talking point. It fundamentally changes how the car behaves.

In a front-wheel drive car, the front tyres handle both steering and power delivery, which creates compromises. In the GR86, the front wheels focus purely on steering while the rears put power down. The result is more balanced handling, more adjustability on corner exit and a more engaging experience overall.

The limited-slip differential ensures power is distributed between the rear wheels based on grip, helping you maintain traction and control whether you're navigating Perth's hills or exploring roads further afield.

Light is Right: Why Weight Matters

The GR86 GTS tips the scales at approximately 1,298kg (manual) or 1,318kg (automatic). To put that in perspective, many modern hot hatches and sports sedans weigh 1,500kg or more.

Every kilogram you carry affects acceleration, braking, steering response and fuel consumption. By keeping weight low, Toyota has ensured the GR86 feels agile and responsive in a way that heavier cars simply can't replicate.

The benefits compound: lighter weight means you need less power to achieve the same performance, smaller brakes can do the same job, and the suspension doesn't have to work as hard to control body movements.

Dynamic Performance Pack: Brembo Brakes and Sachs Dampers...

The GR86 GTS with Dynamic Performance Pack adds two significant upgrades that transform the driving experience.

First, Brembo brakes replace the standard setup. The four-piston front and two-piston rear calipers provide substantially more stopping power and better pedal feel. The distinctive red calipers behind the 18-inch alloy wheels aren't just for show; they're a genuine performance upgrade.

Second, ZF Sachs sports dampers replace the standard suspension. These improve both ride comfort on the road and composure during spirited driving. The damping curve is more sophisticated, meaning the car feels more planted in corners without being harsh over bumps.

Inside: Driver-Focused, Not Stripped Out

The GR86 GTS interior strikes a balance between focused and liveable. Ultrasuede and leather-accented front seats provide excellent grip during cornering while remaining comfortable for longer drives. Heated seats, dual-zone climate control and an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto mean daily driving doesn't require compromise.

The driving position is low, with good visibility and controls placed exactly where you'd expect them. The instrument cluster features a Track Mode display designed with input from Toyota Gazoo Racing drivers, providing the information you need without distraction.

Built by Gazoo Racing: Track-Tested, Road-Ready

The GR badge isn't just branding. Toyota Gazoo Racing is the performance division responsible for Toyota's motorsport programmes, from the World Rally Championship to the World Endurance Championship. The lessons learned from racing at the highest level filter down into road cars like the GR86.

This isn't a marketing exercise. The suspension tuning, throttle response and stability control calibration have all been refined based on feedback from professional racing drivers. The result is a car that feels right, whether you're on your daily commute or exploring challenging roads on the weekend.

Who Is the GR86 For?

The GR86 is for drivers who understand that the journey matters as much as the destination. It's for people who get a little thrill from a perfectly executed downshift, who appreciate the feedback that comes through a well-weighted steering wheel, and who believe that driving should be an experience rather than a chore.

It's also for those who want a Toyota's reputation for reliability in a package that's genuinely fun to drive. This isn't a car that demands constant attention or expensive maintenance; it's a sports car you can enjoy every day.