The new Toyota GR86 has finally arrived in South Africa, a decade after the original Toyota 86 (which was later rechristened the GT86) hit the local market.
Two derivatives are on offer, distinguished by their transmissions: one with a close-ratio, 6-speed manual gearbox and the other with an automatic cog-swapper with the same number of gears (plus paddle shifters). The 3-pedal model is priced at R698 100, while the auto variant comes in at R733 700. Interestingly, the last list price we saw for the previous-generation model was R715 400 (for the manual). As a reminder, the 198 kW, all-paw GR Yaris is priced at R776 400.
The second-generation 86-badged model – which was revealed on the global stage in October 2021 – employs a new horizontally opposed, 2.4-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine (again from the folks over at Subaru, considering it was developed alongside the BRZ, which unfortunately isn’t destined for a local launch).
The new Toyota GR86 uses an atmospheric 2.4-litre boxer engine.
So, courtesy of some extra displacement, peak outputs of the high-revving, naturally aspirated powerplant driving the rear axle climb to 174kW and 250 Nm (up from the old 2.0-litre model’s maximum figures of 147 kW and 205 Nm), while the 0-100 kph sprint falls from 7.4 to 6.3 seconds in the case of the manual model. Top speed is listed as 226 kph.
Interestingly, the self-shifting version of the GR86 is a full six-tenths tardier to three figures than the manual model (taking a claimed 6.9 seconds), while its maximum speed falls by 10 units to 216 kph. The claimed combined fuel consumption comes in at 8.8 litres per 100 km for the manual version, while the auto sips at a rate of 9.5 litres per 100 km.
The GR86 rides on black 18-inch alloy wheels as standard, wrapped in 215/40 R18 tyres. The 2+2 coupé’s kerb weight is listed as 1280 kg (or 20kg more in auto guise), while the small luggage compartment can handle a claimed 199litres. Standard safety features include an adjustable stability control system, ABS and 7 airbags, while a limited-slip rear differential is also included.As many as 7 exterior paint colours are available in South Africa.
Four of the seven exterior colours paint colours on offer in SA.
Inside, you’ll find sports seats finished in a combination of black leather and Ultrasuede, complete with silver stitching. The 7-inch infotainment screen boasts Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality, and also doubles as the monitor for the standard reversing camera. While the manual model features cruise control, the auto-equipped version upgrades to an adaptive system, while also gaining items such as a pre-collision brake assist function, auto high-beams, rear parking sensors, a lane-departure warning feature and an advanced active safety package.
The original Toyota 86 marked the Japanese brand’s return to building sportscars, effectively setting the scene for the introduction of the Toyota Gazoo Racing division (which has since launched models such as the GR Supra and GR Yaris, not to mention the GR Corolla).
Toyota GR86 MT – R698 100
Toyota GR86 AT – R733 700
A 3-year/100 000 km warranty ships standard, along with a 4-service/60 000 km service plan.
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