Sports car enthusiasts in the Qatar can look forward to an exciting addition to Toyota’s GR collection with the launch of the new GR86, AAB announced on Monday.
The sleek and stylish coupe provides an entry point to Toyota’s GR range, bringing the rewards of sports-focused handling and performance to a wider audience, it was explained in a statement.
The new GR86 is an evolution of the previous GT86; the model launched a decade ago, signalling Toyota’s renewed commitment to sports car engineering. The coupe retains the classic configuration of a front-mounted engine with rear-wheel drive.
The development of Toyota’s ever-growing GR models by the Toyota Gazoo Racing team fulfills the company’s mission to use the experience and know-how gained from participation in motorsport to build ‘ever-better cars.’
The GR86 inherits the front-independent MacPherson struts and rear double-wishbone suspension system featured on the GT86, with a performance tuned for an even higher level of response and stable handling. The lowering of the centre of gravity is central to the car’s superior handling and exhilarating driving experience. The overall dimensions of the new GR86 are close to those of its predecessor, yet, the height has been lowered by 10mm (to 1,310 mm), while 5mm has been added to the wheelbase (2,575mm).
The rear-wheel-drive coupe’s handling changes come in the form of front and rear-frame reinforcements that increase rigidity. Functional exterior air vents have been added to further support steering stability. In addition, weight-shaving details, such as aluminum roof panels and fenders, ensure a nimble curb weight of just over 1,270kg.
The 2.4L naturally aspirated, horizontally opposed four-cylinder boxer engine brings a significant power upgrade, increasing from 205 to 228hp and 212 to 250 nm of torque. The power boost stems from a series of tweaks, including increased bore size, changes to the intake and exhaust systems, and optimisation of the Toyota D-4S dual injection technology. Drivers can choose between a 6-speed manual (MT) or automatic transmission (AT). The bigger engine also improves zero-to-60 times, from 7.0 to 6.3 seconds for the MT and from 8.0 to 6.9 seconds for the AT.
With a refined, aerodynamic profile, the front of the new GR86 features a GR-specific functional Matrix ‘G Mesh’ grille. The angular LED headlights complement the aerodynamic front air dams and vents, with side sill spoilers to aid steering responsiveness and stability. The tightened wheel arches at the vehicle’s rear express a wide stance, while arch fins control airflow. Aerodynamic fins have also been added to the lower rear bumper to further enhance stability.
The 2023 GR86’s driver-focused cockpit features a 7-inch Thin Film Transistor (TFT) screen, which displays all-new three-mode digital instrumentation, including Normal, Sport, and Track modes. While in Track mode, drivers receive real-time readouts of gear position, engine speed, water temperature, and oil temperature. Standard sport front bucket seats with side bolster firmly hold drivers in place around each corner. The GR86 also brings everyday usability, with 2+2 seating that offers the versatility of fold-down rear seats.
The vehicle’s cabin hosts a range of practical features, including an 8-inch multimedia touchscreen compatible with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth for hands-free phone capability, two USB ports and one auxiliary port, a six-speaker sound system, a powerful automatic dual-zone air conditioning system, and many more.
The new GR86 comes equipped with a comprehensive array of safety features, such as seven SRS airbags (including driver’s knee airbag), Vehicle Stability Control, Traction Control, Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, Brake Assist, Emergency Brake Signal System, Hill-start Assist Control, and Tyre Pressure Warning System.
The new GR86 comes in a choice of seven exterior colours - Crystal White Pearl, Crystal Black Silica, Bright Blue, Magnetite Gray Metallic, and Ice Silver Metallic, as well as two new colours; Spark Red and Sapphire Blue. The interior is available in a choice of Black or Black and GR Red. Customers can also choose between two types of newly designed wheels, with 17-inch alloy wheels consisting of five twin spokes or 18-inch matte black alloy sports wheels.
