Top 3 things you need to know about the new Toyota GR 86

The all-new Toyota GR 86 recently made its first global appearance in a virtual event hosted by Toyota Gazoo Racing and Subaru Corporation. Toyota's new GR 86 is now the third model in the brand's GR portfolio, along with the heavily-accoladed GR Supra and the GR Yaris. Here are the top 3 things you need to know before it arrives.

1. The GR 86 is powered by a new 2.4-litre engine 

This lightweight, the horizontally-opposed four-cylinder powerplant has considerably more zest than its forebears (the GT86 was powered by a 2.0-litre engine). Toyota quotes preliminary power figures at 173kW and 250 Nm. 

2. The new GR 86 is expected to be the lightest four-seater coupé in its class

​The new Toyota GR 86 owes its ultra-low kerb weight to weight-saving materials such as aluminium, used to construct the body panels and the roof. The new GR 86 is almost exactly the same size as its predecessor, with the same low centre of gravity for great driving dynamics. The GR 86 is also 50% more rigid for sharper steering and overall handling. 

"The GT86’s experience in motorsport competition has helped the development of functioning aerodynamic components for GR 86, such as the front air ducts and side-rocker panels. These will help the new model achieve expected best-in-class handling and stability", says Toyota.​

Toyota GT86 | Namibia | NamAuto
Toyota GT86 | Namibia | NamAuto

3. If all goes according to plan, the GR 86 is set to arrive in SA* first quarter of 2022

The GT86, which was launched in 2012, was a global sales success, and more than 200 000 units worldwide found their forever homes. Toyota has high hopes for the new GR 86 when it lands locally. Exact specs and pricing will be revealed closer to the launch date. 

*Namibia is yet to set a launch date but the vehicle should be available to order at the same time.​

Toyota GT86 | Namibia | NamAuto
Toyota GT86 | Namibia | NamAuto
Toyota GT86 | Namibia | NamAuto