All-new Toyota GR86 comes in two variants
After a series of previews at the Clark International Speedway, Toyota Motor Philippines has officially released the second-generation 86.
Now under the Gazoo Racing performance brand, the all-new GR86 features enhancements to its chassis, suspension, brakes, and among others, a larger (and more powerful) 2.4-liter Boxer engine.
Like the first-generation 86, the GR86 is a product of Toyota's joint development with Subaru. In addition, both the GR86 and the BRZ are still being made in Gunma, Japan. So when it comes to their appearance, the Toyobaru twins almost look identical, albeit with some minor details to distinguish which is which at the front and rear.
The GR86 adopts the larger, and more rounded head and taillight set as seen in the BRZ, but has a different bumper design with inverted L-shaped side intakes and a Gazoo Racing matrix grille. The fenders now have vents to extract hot air from the brakes, while the back gets an integrated ducktail spoiler as standard.
TMP offers the GR86 in two variants – one with a 6-speed manual transmission, and another with a 6-speed automatic. On the outside, the difference between the two can be seen based on the wheels they are wearing.
The six-speed manual transmission variant gets 17-inch machine-finished alloy wheels wrapped in 215/45R17 Michelin Primacy HP tires, while the six-speed auto has bigger 18-inch matte black alloy wheels with a more high-performance 215/40R18 Michelin Pilot Sport 4 rubber.
Size-wise, the GR86 measures 4265mm long, 1775mm wide, 1310mm high, and has a 2575mm wheelbase. Compared to the first-generation 86, the new model grew 25mm longer. The width is still the same, but the car is lower by 10mm. Lastly, the wheelbase was extended a further 5mm.
Inside the GR86 is a driver-centric interior with a flatter dashboard design compared to its predecessor. Manual transmission variants get black fabric upholstery for the seats, while the top-spec automatic variant has black Ultrasuede with leather trims.
The analog tachometer from the previous model has been replaced with a digital unit that forms part of the 7-inch TFT GR instrument panel with a multi-information display. In addition, the old 2-DIN head unit has been replaced in favor of an 8-inch touchscreen system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
For its engine, the all-new Toyota GR86 has a bigger naturally-aspirated FA24D 2.4-liter horizontally-opposed four-cylinder powerplant from Subaru. But like the previous 86, the engine uses Toyota's D-4S fuel injection system that combines direct and port injection. Power output is now 237 PS at 7,000 rpm, while the torque curve was revised for the new model. Peak torque of 250 Nm is now available at 3,700 rpm. Lastly, an oil cooler was added to the engine for the second-generation GR86.
In terms of driving modes, the GR86 has three: Normal, Sport, and Track. Each setting influences the level of intervention of the car's driver assist systems such as the traction and vehicle stability control.
Meanwhile, for its safety features, both GR86 variants get seven airbags in total – one for the driver and passenger, plus two side curtains, two seat-mounted side airbags, and one driver's knee airbag. In addition, there's a backup camera, hill start assist, and ISOFIX anchors for child seats.
Exclusive for the automatic variant is the GR86 Advanced Driver Assist System developed by Subaru. Things such as Pre-Collision System (PCS), Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), Lane Departure Alert (LDA), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) and Automatic High Beams (AHB) are added to the GR86's list of features.
The 2023 Toyota GR86 is priced at PHP 2,328,000 for the 6-speed manual variant, while the 6-speed auto sells for PHP 2,499,000. Customers can opt for special paint colors in both variants for an additional PHP 15,000 in the Crystal White Pearl and PHP 20,000 for Ignition Red. For interested buyers, the all-new GR sports car is exclusively sold at Toyota's 19 GR Performance dealerships in the country.