The first major makeover of the Toyota 86 since it made the transition from the Scion FRS includes exterior and interior tweaks to give it a racier appearance to go along with more horsepower. These upgrades also earn the 2022 Toyota GR 86 the Gazoo Racing (GR) designation that its larger Supra sibling sports.
The upgrades also see an increase in power from the flat-4 engine that comes from Subaru. Both Toyota and Subaru share the platform and mechanicals for their respective 86 and BRZ entries.
More Power, Faster 0-60
The normally aspirated powerplant is larger, growing from 2.0 to 2.4 liters, and now makes 228 horsepower, up from the previous 205 horses. Torque comes in at 184 lb-ft. The engine mates to either a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission. The automatic models come with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
Toyota says the extra output is responsible for quicker 0-60 mph times for the 2+2 rear-drive coupe. The manual transmission version scoots to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds, down from 7.0, while the automatic models drop from 8.0 to 6.6 seconds 0-to-60.
Bolder Exterior
The exterior styling changes are subtle but add more muscle to this entry-level sports car. The 2-seater has a larger, bolder grille flanked by air ducts that replace the previous fog light nacelles. Wider front fenders now sport additional venting behind the front wheels. There’s also a bold lower sill extension that adds detail to the vehicle’s profile.
At the rear, the deck-mounted rear wing gives way to an integrated ducktail spoiler that part of the trunk lid. That change, along with the rear tailpipes and diffuser design, gives it an appearance similar to Supra’s rear-end treatment.
Purposeful Cabin Design
In keeping with its higher performance levels, the 2022 Toyota GR 86 has a more purposeful, race-inspired interior. The dash has a flatter, more open appearance. The binnacle housing the climate control vent is gone, adding to the more horizontal look of the dash.
The sporting intent of the GR 86 is apparent in the aggressively bolstered sport seats, 7-inch center display screen, and digital instrumentation that changes with the Normal, Sport, and Track driving modes. The higher Premium trim level comes with leather seating and aluminum pedals.
Pricing
While Toyota has yet to announced prices for the revamp of the 86, we expect them to come in close to the current base price of about $27,000. Also included in the 2022 Toyota GR 86 price is a year’s membership to the National Auto Sport Association (NASA). The perk includes one free driving event from the group, along with discounts for entry to other NASA-sanctioned events.
