Toyota Change the Toyota GT86

NEW RANGE FOR TOYOTA’S TOP COUPE

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.