Toyota GT86

GT86 IS PURE DRIVING PLEASURE

Toyota says its engaging GT86 coupe has been 'fundamentally revised' with sharper dynamics and a smarter interior. As before, this remains a simple, rear-wheel drive package designed to give the person behind the wheel a good time. Jonathan Crouch reports.

Ten Second Review

If you thought involving affordable sportscars belonged back in history, then you'll find Toyota's GT86 a welcome breath of fresh air. Developed and desired by enthusiasts, it reamins a benchmark in the compact coupe sector, a masterclass in driving dynamics. Now, it's even better.

Background

The GT86 formula is simply classic: a snarly, high-revving four-cylinder engine in the nose, rear-wheel-drive, 2+2 seating, a swoopy body, a stubby gearlever and a cosy cabin with low-slung sports seats. Subaru's version of this design, the BRZ, is mechanically identical but looks a little different, plus there is a third version for the American market called the Scion FR-S which has been subtly altered again.

Common to all the variants however, is a 197bhp, 151lb ft flat four engine that uses a Subaru block and Toyota-designed cylinder heads that's been designed to spin to 7000rpm and direct its output to the road via a six-speed manual gearbox - though auto transmission is an option. So it's Old School with a modern execution - and remains so in the much improved guise we're going to look at here with its smarter cabin and uprated drive dynamics.

Driving Experience

Differences with this improved model include revised suspension that improves corner turn-in and further enhances the original version's keenness of response, agility and its ability to adjust the cornering attitude as much with the throttle as the helm. Another key change lies with a freshly-added selectable 'track' mode that lets the driver tap into the GT86's full potential by adjusting the level of stability and traction control, including a 'fully off' option. Under the skin, the body structure has been made stiffer, and the Showa shock absorbers have been retuned for better handling and ride comfort.

The 2.0-litre Boxer engine beneath the bonnet remains, as does the relatively light 1,180 kg kerb weight which might lead you to expect the GT86 to make rather more of its 197bhp and 151lb of torque than the estimated headline performance stats of 140mph and 0-62mph in 7.6s suggest. But this car isn't just about raw power. Its lean kerb weight plays just as big a role in the way it handles and rides. A limited slip differential is also fitted as standard, reaffirming GT86's essential 'driver's car' character.

Design and Build

The styling changes made to this revised model are subtle. There are now 'teeth' featured along the bottom edge of the lower grille in the redesigned nose section, which apparently help smooth the airflow. There is also a smarter, deeper rear bumper design, aero-stabilising fins have been introduced on the side of the car and there are smarter LED headlights and rear tail lamp clusters too. Otherwise it's as you were. This remains a very good looking car indeed and if the styling isn't daring enough for you, then optional side, roof and bonnet decals are available in black or silver to add an extra dimension to GT86's sporting appearance.

Inside, the driving environment should certainly help get you in the mood, with its low-slung bucket seats and driver-centric control layout, not to mention the drilled pedals and footrest. There are more detail changes here too, aimed at creating a more connected feel between driver and car. Central to this is the grippier three-spoke steering wheel, the smallest yet deigned for a production Toyota (diameter 362mm). A new 4.2-inch TFT multi-information display is included in the instrument binnacle's triple-dial arrangement with a switchable menu that provides performance-focused data, such as power and torque curves, stopwatch and a G-force monitor. As before, there are usable rear seats and a reasonably-sized 243-litre boot.

Market and Model

There's now no stripped-out entry-level variant, so prices start up at around £23,000 for the standard model - or you can find another £1,100 more to get the plusher 'Pro' version with its leather/alcantara heated seats, rear spoiler and sporting suede-effect finish for the dashboard and door trims. Both trims offer the £1,500 option of paddleshift automatic transmission.

Both versions feature the Toyota Touch 2 multimedia system with Bluetooth, 6.1-inch touchscreen and a DAB tuner. As an option, the system can be upgraded to Toyota Touch 2 with Go, adding satellite navigation, connectivity giving access to on-line services and social media channels, and three years' inclusive map updates. Active safety provisions include a switchable VSC stability control system, which can be adjusted through three driving modes to suit driver preference, and a torque-sensing limited slip differential. Seven airbags are provided, including a driver's knee airbag.

Cost of Ownership

You might be tempted by this car and then wonder if the GT86 is going to cost an arm and a leg in depreciation compared to something with a premium badge, the GT86 retains around 58 per cent.

The GT86 is reasonably economical. Yes, we know that the published figures are usually a bit of a farce that you'll never get near, but Toyota quotes 36.2mpg on the combined cycle and every person we know who's run one has reported averages of over 30mpg. Emissions aren't quite so clever at 181g/km for the manual car, although the automatic (rather surprisingly) does drop that to 164g/km. Finally, all this is backed up by Toyota's excellent aftermarket care package that includes a five year 100,000 mile warranty. What's not to like?

Summary

So, what we have here is something to savour; one of those rare machines that involves you so much that you don't need to be travelling at three figure speeds to have fantastic fun. Factor in the affordable running costs and high residuals and this becomes a very tempting proposition indeed, especially in this usefully improved guise. In years to come, it'll be a landmark car for Toyota. Get one and you won't regret it.

FACTS AT A GLANCE

CAR: Toyota GT86

PRICES: £23,170-£29,160

INSURANCE GROUPS: 30

CO2 EMISSIONS: 164-192g/km

PERFORMANCE: 0-62mph 7.6s / top speed 140mph [manual]

FUEL CONSUMPTION: 36.2-39.8mpg [combined]

STANDARD SAFETY FEATURES: ESP, ABS, twin front and side airbags

WILL IT FIT IN YOUR GARAGE?: 4240/1775/1285mm

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