What is 86GR? Difference from Normal 86

Launched by Toyota in 2017 as a "mass-produced sports model that lets you experience the joy of driving on a daily basis," the 86GR is a complete car tuning model that is distinct from the regular 86.

The current model is called the GR86, though,The previous generation model introduced here reads the opposite of "86GR".It is important to note the following points.

The 86GR has a wide range of features, including Recaro bucket seats made of Alcantara, specially tuned suspension by Sachs, and a special Torsen LSD. The engine is the same as the stock 86.Horizontally opposed 4-cylinder with 207 HP and maximum torque of 212 NmIt is powered by a single cylinder. The exterior also boasts unique styling with an exclusive front spoiler, side fins, a small rear spoiler, and a single muffler. The model we test-drove this time has the HKS muffler and lightweight flywheel added.

Impressive undercarriage performance

The greatest appeal of the 86GR is undoubtedly its suspension.

The quality of the feel created by the special Sachs suspension cannot be compared to the stock current 86 that we previously test drove. Despite the stiff setting, the damping force is very effective, achieving a perfect balance without discomfort. The legs move well,The ideal characteristics of a sports car that accurately conveys information from the road surface while eliminating unnecessary shaking.It is.

Handling is also extremelyneutralThe suspension responds faithfully to the driver's input without understeering or oversteering when driving on mountain roads. The stiffness of the suspension provides a sense of stability when cornering, allowing the driver to safely enjoy the pleasure of exploring the limits of the vehicle.FAIRLADY Z NISMOThe suspension is so perfect that it makes one think, "It would have been great if NISMO had this suspension.

Exquisite power balance and operability

The engine output of about 200 hp is not high, but it is what makes this car so appealing.

There are times when the car feels underpowered on uphill slopes, but it is precisely because it has this level of power that it is fun to push down on the accelerator pedal as hard as you can. The philosophy of enjoying the driving itself rather than the overwhelming power is similar to that of Mazda's Roadster.

The six-speed manual transmission has an exquisite feel, with a short stroke and a clear sense of moderation. The lightweight flywheel makes clutch engagement shallow, but once the driver gets used to it, it is very easy to handle. The engine speed is not too sensitive, so it is easy to adjust the RPMs with moderate gas pedal work.The brakes are also luxuriously configured with 6-piston front and 4-piston rear brakes.The braking power and rigidity are praiseworthy. The linear braking action and stability during braking are sufficient for sports driving.

Value of manufacturer's tune

The 86GR was not so popular because it cost about 5 million yen at the time, about 1.6 million yen more than the normal 86.

However, there is a clear reason for the price difference. It would be difficult to achieve such a harmonious balance even if one were to spend this amount of money to tune a stock 86 by oneself. I believe that this level of perfection was achieved because all the elements, including the seats, body rigidity, aerodynamics, brakes, and suspension, were designed to harmonize with each other.

The true value of a manufacturer-tuned model lies in the harmony of its individual parts. The combination of commercially available parts may lose the overall balance even if each individual part has high performance.86GR achieves optimal balance considering all factorsThe "I" is doing it.

Many people accustomed to European cars will be happy to drive them, or at leastI won't be disappointed."The reason for this is that it has a driving quality similar to that of European sports cars. This is not only in terms of speed and power, but also in the sense of oneness between the car and driver, the naturalness of the response to operation, and the driving pleasure that comes from the harmony of all components.

A car with the essence of a sports car

The 86GR is not just a tuned-up model, but one that pursues the essence of a sports car.

The quality of the suspension in particular deserves special mention,High level of balance between hardness and ride comfort, and accuracy in transmission of road surface informationThe new car is designed to maximize driving enjoyment. The design maximizes driving pleasure, including the feel of the manual transmission, braking effectiveness, and harmony with the engine.

The fact that it does not have high output is conversely appealing, allowing the driver to step on the accelerator pedal as hard as he/she wants and to rev the engine.Pursuing the pleasure of "driving" itself.The points embody the essence of a sports car. If you find an 86GR on the used market, it is a very attractive option for those who love sports driving. The level of perfection and harmony that can only be achieved by tuning from the manufacturer offers a value that cannot be realized by a collection of aftermarket parts. This is how we felt about this vehicle.