The Toyota GR 86 2020 represents a significant moment in the automotive world, breathing new life into a legendary nameplate. This collaboration with Subaru delivers a driving experience that feels remarkably pure and engaging in an era dominated by digital assistance and homogenized performance. It is a car designed to communicate directly with its driver, prioritizing handling and tactile feedback over raw, effortless speed.
The Heritage and Revival of the GR 86
To understand the 2020 model, one must appreciate the legacy of the Toyota 86 and its Subaru counterpart, the BRZ. Originally launched in 2012, the first-generation GT86 captivated enthusiasts with its low cost, lightweight construction, and exceptional balance. The 2020 refresh, while evolutionary, addressed key criticisms regarding power and refinement, solidifying its status as a modern classic for the driving purist.
Design and Exterior Refinements
Visually, the 2020 GR 86 presents a more assertive and mature stance compared to its predecessor. The front bumper features a larger air dam and revised LED headlights, improving both aesthetics and high-speed stability. Subtle updates to the rear bumper and an enlarged rear spoiler enhance downforce, contributing to the car's confident and planted feel at higher speeds.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Stepping inside reveals a cabin that finally matches the car's external aggression with improved quality and comfort. While retaining its driver-focused ethos, the 2020 model benefits from higher-quality materials, including soft-touch surfaces and more supportive sport seats. The infotainment system is a major upgrade, featuring a larger, high-resolution touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, making the digital interface more intuitive and modern.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
The heart of the GR 86 is its naturally aspirated 2.0-liter flat-four engine, producing 228 horsepower and 154 lb-ft of torque. This increase over the first generation transforms the car's personality, providing ample power for confident highway merging and spirited back-road runs. The power delivery is linear and engaging, perfectly complemented by the six-speed manual transmission, which is widely regarded as one of the best in the business.
The chassis setup is a masterclass in balance and precision. The suspension is firm yet compliant, tuning out harsh bumps while maintaining exceptional grip and control through corners. The standard electronic stability control can be completely disabled, allowing the driver to explore the car's limits safely. This commitment to a pure driving experience ensures that every journey, whether a daily commute or a weekend canyon carve, feels connected and rewarding.
Practicality and Daily Usability
Despite its performance credentials, the GR 86 surprises with a level of practicality that enhances its real-world value. The rear seats, while not spacious, can comfortably accommodate two adults for short trips, making it genuinely usable as a four-seater. The trunk offers a generous 5.6 cubic feet of cargo space, easily swallowing a week's worth of groceries or a weekend bag for a spontaneous getaway.
