As the third car developed in global coordination with Gazoo Racing, Toyota’s wholly refreshed GR86 truly embodies what the Japanese automaker describes as “an analogue car for the digital age”.
If it weren’t for Toyota, the dream of owning an affordable sports car would forever remain just that for most South Africans. There are fewer sports cars on our roads than ever, and with the prospect of seeing new versions of cars such as the Mazda MX-5 and Nissan 400Z here all but gone, it remains up to the GR86 to be the torchbearer for naturally-aspirated, front-engine, rear-wheel-drive fun.
The newcomer – which is, in reality, a comprehensive reimagining and repositioning of the GT86 – enchants with stylish lines, more power, and (gasp!) an automatic transmission option.
A NEW PHILOSOPHY
An evolution of the qualities that defined the acclaimed GT86 coupe, the GR86 retains all its predecessor’s appeal, but adds a new 2.4-litre naturally aspirated boxer engine, an increase in body rigidity, a decrease in weight, and a lower centre of gravity for even more engaging handling.
The overall design retains cues of Toyota’s sportscar heritage, but thanks to Gazoo racing, a swathe of motorsports-sourced aerodynamic features now help the GR86 cut through the air, and stay glued to the road.
As a fitting introduction to the GR86, the media launch event took place at Aldo Scribante in Gqeberha, where we had the opportunity to properly put the newcomer to the test in a made-for-purpose environment.
MORE POWER, NATURALLY
While the previous GT86 was a hugely fun car to drive, with the extensive upgrades applied to the GR86, Toyota genuinely has a winner here.
Like its predecessor, the GR86’s horizontally opposed boxer engine is a defining element of the car. With its capacity increase to 2.4-litres (from 2.0 l), there is more power and torque on tap, while the engine plays a key role in keeping the car’s centre of gravity super low.
Retaining the same high, 12.5:1 compression ratio, the engine’s maximum output has risen by around 17% from 147 kW to 174 kW at 7,000 rpm. As a result, the zero to 100 km/h acceleration time has been cut by more than a second, to 6.4 seconds (6.8 seconds for the auto). Thorough upgrades to the port- and in-cylinder injection systems, intake and exhaust systems, and lower friction levels improve torque across different engine speeds.
To ensure the engine’s extra power translates into rewarding handling and responsiveness, the chassis and body have been reworked using light but high-strength materials to provide additional rigidity while reducing weight. Reinforcements in key areas mean that front body lateral rigidity has been increased by 60% while overall, body rigidity has been increased by 50%.
AUTOMATICALLY YOURS
Toyota says the six-speed manual transmission has also received significant upgrades and improvements, and while the addition of a six-speed auto option to the line-up is a sign of the times, the manual car is still the one to have. Toyota itself expects to sell fewer auto GR86s than manuals, aimed squarely at enthusiasts who will likely make up around 80% of GR86 buyers.
The electronically controlled, six-speed, intelligent automatic transmission features paddle controls for the driver to take manual control of gear shifts. Its performance can be adapted to four drive modes: Normal, Sport, Snow, and Track.
In terms of technology, everything one would expect to see in a modern car is there. However, the big news is adding a fully-loaded version of Toyota Safety Sense for the range-topping auto model. At the same time, TSS functions are restricted Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Blind Spot Monitor, and non-adaptive cruise control in the manual car.
Both derivatives get seven airbags, including a front, side, curtain, and driver knee bag.
LAST WORD
In a world of homogeneous design, the GR86 stands head and shoulders above the rest, and stays true to its original philosophy to offer pure, unadulterated driving pleasure. As both a track-capable car and a surprisingly comfortable daily driver (with a kick), the GR86 looks set to impress a new generation of enthusiasts and casual sports car drivers alike.
Report by BERNIE HELLBERG JR | Images © TOYOTA SOUTH AFRICA