Since its launch in 2012, the Toyota GT86 has been globally acclaimed but Toyota aren’t happy to sit on their laurels; so they are introducing a significant number of changes to the series already renowned as Toyota’s top Coupe.
Owners and fans needn’t panic though because the fundamental performance and handling qualities that define the coupe haven’t changed; the car is still all about driving!
There is, however, a new, more extensive range of models on offer, meaning that you get more choice when you choose a GT86 from Toyota.
Using the maxim of “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”, Toyota have made sure that certain elements of the car are staying the same: the original’s winning combination of a front-mounted normally aspirated 2.0-litre “boxer” engine with rear wheel drive and a well-balanced chassis with a low centre of gravity have been retained, for example. But across the GT86 board, in comes a smart new shark fin roof antenna, tyre pressure warning system and carbon fibre-effect finish for the instrument panel for starters.
Right at the start of the model range is the GT86 Primo with 17” alloys, limited-slip differential, aluminium sports pedals, air conditioning, power-folding door mirrors, front fog lamps, twin tailpipes, the Toyota Touch multimedia system, Bluetooth, a new tyre pressure monitoring system and is available exclusively with manual transmission. This little beauty will be on forecourts in early January.
Next up, a car that needs no introduction: the classic GT86, sat right at the heart of the range. In addition to Primo specification you can add in a rear spoiler, keyless entry, push-button start, cruise control, dual-zone climate control, dusk-sensing HID headlights, LED daytime running lights and the option of automatic transmission.
And finally, at the top of the range sits the new GT86 Aero which introduces to the GT86 spec a striking body kit, with large rear spoiler and front, side and rear skirts, and a set of 18” OZ Ultraleggera alloy wheels with an anthracite grey finish.
(For a limited period only, these core models will be joined by a new special edition GT86 Giallo which adds in bags of extra style with special Giallo Edition black leather seats (heated for the driver and front passenger), a black GT86 side decal, gloss black door mirror housings, vibrant Giallo yellow metallic paintwork, and optional single-stripe bonnet, roof and boot decals. You’ll need to be quick on these as there are only 86 (Gettit?) individually numbered available in the UK.)
All cars have options available such as the new Carbon Pack that adds carbon-effect door mirror covers, rear bumper protection plate and rear parking sensors; a JBL audio pack that comprises of NINE speakers and a 440W DSP amplifier; and an upgrade from the existing Toyota Touch multimedia system to a Toyota Touch with Go to provide satellite navigation, controlled using the centrally mounted 6.1-inch touchscreen display.
Both the GT86 and GT86 Primo can be specified with black or silver twin-line side, bonnet, roof and boot decals, with combination leather and Alcantara seats with front seat heaters available for the GT86 and GT86 Aero models.
Sometimes you can’t improve the best – and sometimes you can.
Bio
A late starter on the road (passing his test at the age of 31) Kevin drives. He gets into the car, starts it, and drives. No matter what car, it is being on the road that matters, and enjoying the feeling of being there. A passionate writer about many subjects, and author of an as-yet unpublished book based on his misspent youth in a pop band in the 80's, he works as a freelance copywriter in the North-West of England.
Away from his laptop keyboard, Kevin is a dedicated husband, dad, grandad and AFC Wimbledon football fan currently attempting to indoctrinate his 4 year old grandson into the music of his youth by playing The Jam on repeat throughout the house. He also performs stand-up comedy under the name of AFC Baggy and is the current Preston Comedian of the Year.
We use performance, social media and advertising cookies to improve your browser experience, integrate with social media and show relevant, personalised advertisements tailored to your interests. Click ‘Accept’ to accept these cookies and continue browsing. For more information or to amend your preferences, visit our privacy policy.