Second generation 86 confirmed, Toyota and Subaru collaborates again

ABU DHABI: After months of speculations and several contradicting reports, Toyota has finally confirmed 2nd generation 86 (GT86 in some markets). This pretty much means that a new BRZ is also coming soon since Toyota and Subaru will be collaborating again. Matt Harrison, the Head of Marketing at Toyota Europe, said the 86 and Supra are “not about volume globally. It’s about adding excitement to the brand.” The 86 sits below the Supra in Toyota’s sports car line-up and could wear the GR (Gazoo Racing) badge.

Its been eight years since Toyota 86 has come out, being an old-school driver-focused sports car which was light on its feet. The 2.0-litre boxer engine puts out 197 bhp, and with a well-balanced chassis, the 86 was a popular choice for someone on a budget. Harrison went on to say that the 86 proved to be “a successful ‘halo’ product for us." Sadly though, sales of the 86 have been rather slow for many years now, a refresh is definitely needed. The low sales meant that Toyota was hesitant to upgrade the 86 in a significant way.

More power is something the 2nd gen 86 needs indeed, according to customer feedback. So, we could see a bigger 2.4-litre engine (perhaps the 260 bhp unit found on the Subaru Accent) and a better chassis with a lower centre of gravity. Or probably Toyota will go the turbocharged route? This new engine is supposed to be more tuneable, like the one on the Supra.

Toyota aims to have the ‘three brothers’ sports car family. This will comprise of the GR Supra, the 86, and another yet to be confirmed model (possibly the MR2 or Celica). Tada had earlier confirmed that there would be no sports car planned that will sit below the 86. The next generation 86 is certainly good news for sports car fans on a budget. Although it may not sell in volumes, it should still be a great driver’s car.