The Toyota 86 Gt, a sports car celebrated under various names globally – GT86, Scion FR-S, and Subaru BRZ – has garnered extensive attention. While many reviews focus on the driving dynamics from the front seat, this review takes a slightly different approach, exploring the Toyota 86 GT from a unique perspective, and delving into what makes this car a compelling choice for enthusiasts.
Originally conceived as a playful experiment – a “backseat review” – this exploration evolved into a comprehensive assessment of the Toyota 86 GT Limited, the top-tier trim in Japan. While the backseat might not be its strongest selling point, it’s the overall package, the driving experience, and the nuanced features of the GT trim that truly define the Toyota 86 GT’s appeal. Let’s dive into what makes this car more than just a quirky review concept, and why it deserves serious consideration as a driver’s car.
Toyota 86 GT Limited Backseat View
Toyota 86 GT Limited: A Step Above
The Toyota 86 GT Limited trim elevates the standard 86, adding a layer of sporty sophistication and enhanced features. In the Japanese market, opting for the “GT” designation brings a host of desirable upgrades. These include larger 17-inch wheels that not only improve aesthetics but also contribute to sharper handling. Subtle aerodynamic enhancements further refine the car’s silhouette and potentially improve stability at higher speeds.
Stepping inside the Toyota 86 GT reveals further enhancements. Aluminum pedals add a touch of sporty flair and provide improved grip for spirited driving. Additional gauges offer drivers more real-time information about the car’s performance, fostering a more connected driving experience. The dual exhaust pipe not only looks more aggressive but also hints at a slightly more pronounced exhaust note. Perhaps most notably, the “Limited” trim boasts heated Alcantara leather seats, offering a premium feel and enhanced comfort, especially in cooler climates.
In Japan, the Toyota 86 GT Limited carried a price tag of around 3 million yen, approximately $36,000. However, for the US market, the pricing and trim levels vary, often presenting a more accessible entry point into 86 ownership. For detailed specifications, you can refer to comprehensive resources dedicated to the Toyota 86 and its various iterations.
Toyota 86 GT Limited Front Seats and Interior
Driving Dynamics: Engaging and Rewarding
The Toyota 86 GT shines when you get behind the wheel. The front seats are designed to be supportive and engaging, keeping you firmly in place even during spirited driving. The driving position is low and purposeful, immediately setting the tone for a sporty experience.
The suspension setup in the 86 GT leans towards a firmer, more “European” feel, as noted during a drive through winding roads. It provides excellent feedback from the road surface, allowing drivers to feel connected to the driving experience. While it is firm, it remains compliant enough for daily driving without being overly harsh. This balance is crucial for a sports car intended for both weekend thrills and weekday commutes.
Under the hood, the boxer engine is eager to rev and truly comes alive at higher RPMs. While not boasting overwhelming horsepower figures, the engine’s character encourages drivers to explore the upper reaches of the rev range, contributing to the fun and engaging nature of the drive. The manual transmission, with its precise and satisfying shifts, further enhances this connection. The clutch feel is described as pleasant, striking a good balance between feedback and ease of use, making frequent gear changes a joy rather than a chore.
Toyota 86 GT Limited Cornering Performance
On twisty roads, the Toyota 86 GT’s low center of gravity becomes immediately apparent. It corners with remarkable agility and minimal body roll, inspiring confidence in corners. The seats effectively hold occupants in place, preventing excessive sliding during enthusiastic maneuvers. Engaging the car on winding roads reveals its playful nature and highlights the well-tuned chassis. Turning off the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) further unleashes the car’s potential, allowing for more tail-out fun for experienced drivers, though demanding respect and skill.
The Backseat Reality: Compact but Functional
Let’s address the elephant in the room – or rather, the compact space in the back. The Toyota 86 GT’s backseat is undeniably small. Intended more for occasional use or extra luggage space, it’s not ideally suited for adult passengers on longer journeys. Legroom and headroom are limited, and accessing the rear seats can be a bit of a squeeze, especially for larger individuals.
However, to dismiss the backseat entirely would be to miss a practical aspect. For owners who occasionally need to carry extra passengers short distances, or for those with smaller children, the backseat offers a degree of versatility. Furthermore, the rear seatbacks fold down, significantly expanding the cargo area. This feature is particularly useful for track days, as it allows owners to transport a set of spare tires and tools, transforming the Toyota 86 GT from a sporty coupe into a surprisingly practical track companion.
Toyota 86 GT Limited Rear Cargo Space with Folded Seats
A Taste of Japan: Roads and Culture
Driving the Toyota 86 GT in Japan adds another layer to the experience. Navigating through bustling Tokyo streets and then escaping to the serene mountain roads around Nikko provides a diverse backdrop for evaluating the car’s capabilities. Encountering Japanese road culture, from navigating with Japanese GPS systems to stopping at roadside convenience stores, offers a unique perspective.
The narrow, winding mountain roads north of Tokyo are where the 86 GT truly shines. These roads highlight the car’s agility and handling prowess. Even encounters with local wildlife warnings, like signs cautioning about “Crescent Moon Bears,” add a touch of local flavor to the driving experience. While perhaps not central to the car’s core appeal, these cultural nuances enrich the overall ownership experience for those who appreciate the car’s Japanese heritage.
Toyota 86 GT Limited on a Japanese Mountain Road
Conclusion: A Sports Car Focused on Driving Joy
The Toyota 86 GT is more than just a car with a small backseat. It’s a sports car engineered for driving enjoyment. Its strengths lie in its engaging handling, responsive engine, and driver-focused design. The GT Limited trim enhances the experience with desirable features that add both sporty flair and a touch of premium comfort.
While the backseat might be best suited for occasional use or cargo, it’s the driving experience from the front that truly defines the Toyota 86 GT. It’s a car that encourages spirited driving, rewards skilled drivers, and offers an accessible entry point into the world of sports cars. For those seeking an affordable, fun-to-drive coupe with a focus on driving dynamics, the Toyota 86 GT, in all its guises, remains a compelling choice. It’s a car that, as you spend more time with it, truly grows on you, becoming a rewarding and enjoyable companion for any driving enthusiast.
