In a market saturated with sports cars that often miss the mark, the Toyota 86 stands out as a beacon of authentic automotive athleticism. This stylish 2+2 rear-wheel-drive coupe champions the core tenets of driving enjoyment: an ideal power-to-weight ratio, a sharp and purposeful design, and exceptional balance and feedback. For the 2019 model year, the Toyota 86 not only retains its distinctive character but elevates its appeal with the introduction of the limited-production 86 TRD Special Edition.
Complementing the TRD Special Edition are the existing 86 and 86 GT grades, forming a comprehensive lineup that offers a wide array of standard features and the choice between a responsive six-speed automatic or engaging manual transmission.
Unleashing Pure Performance: The 86 TRD Special Edition
Imagine a sports car meticulously crafted for the driving purist – that’s the 2019 Toyota 86 TRD Special Edition. It represents the most focused and performance-oriented iteration of the 86 ever offered in North America. This model is engineered for those who seek the thrill of carving through winding canyon roads or mastering challenging race tracks, lap after exhilarating lap. Key to its enhanced performance are the newly developed SACHS dampers, robust 12.8-in front and 12.4-in rear Brembo brakes, and exclusive 18 x 7.5-in alloy wheels shod in high-performance Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires (215/40R18 85Y size on all corners).
Alt text: Close-up of Toyota 86 TRD Special Edition wheel showcasing Brembo brakes and Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tire.
The SACHS dampers significantly refine the 86’s steering response and improve overall vehicle stability, providing a more connected feel to the road. The upgraded Brembo brakes, featuring four-piston front calipers and two-piston rear calipers, deliver confident and consistent stopping power, enhancing the 86’s already impressive cornering capabilities. The Michelin Pilot Sport 4 summer tires amplify grip levels, contributing to sharper steering responsiveness and heightened tactile feedback through the sporty, small-diameter steering wheel.
The TRD Special Edition makes a bold visual statement with its exclusive Raven black paint finish, accented by the iconic TRD tricolor graphics and a distinctive TRD body kit. This kit includes a performance front bumper, aerodynamic side sills, a rear bumper with integrated diffuser, and a sporty rear spoiler, giving it an aggressive and track-ready stance. Completing the performance aesthetic is a standard TRD exhaust system with polished stainless steel tips, adding a refined growl to the 86’s soundtrack.
Stepping inside the TRD Special Edition reveals a driver-focused cockpit with unique red and black accents. Highlights include a leather-wrapped telescoping steering wheel with red contrast stitching, supportive red and black sport bucket seats with enhanced side bolstering, a Granlux suede-like material covering the instrument cluster, a “TRD” logo embroidered on the passenger side instrument panel, red contrast stitching throughout the cabin, and eye-catching red seatbelts.
Production of the 2019 Toyota 86 TRD Special Edition is strictly limited to just 1,418 units, making it a truly exclusive offering for driving enthusiasts. Furthermore, this ultimate performance version of the 86 is exclusively available with a six-speed manual transmission, catering to the purist driver.
The Foundation of Fun: 86 and 86 GT Grades
The core 86 and upgraded 86 GT models provide a solid foundation of sports car essentials and desirable features. The standard 86 is well-equipped with exterior amenities such as LED projector-beam headlights, color-keyed power mirrors, a chrome-tipped dual exhaust, vortex generators integrated into the front fenders, and stylish 17-inch twisted spoke alloy wheels. The 86 GT elevates the offering with added features including LED fog lamps, an aerodynamic underbody panel, color-matched heated mirrors, and a matte-black rear wing with color-keyed end plates for enhanced style and functionality.
Alt text: Interior view of Toyota 86 GT showcasing sport bucket seats and driver-focused cockpit.
Inside both the 86 and 86 GT, occupants are welcomed by supportive sport bucket front seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated audio controls (plus Multi-Information Display controls in the 86 GT). Further enhancing comfort and convenience are features like dual-zone automatic climate control (standard on 86 GT), a Granlux suede-like rear armrest cover, an anti-theft system, and cruise control. The 86 GT and TRD Special Edition models also feature the Smart Key System on both doors with Push Button Start, along with a remote keyless entry system offering lock, two-stage unlock, panic, and trunk release functions.
A standout feature for performance-minded drivers in the 86 GT and TRD Special Edition is the 4.2-inch TFT Multi-Information Display (MID). This customizable display provides real-time vehicle data screens, including a G-force meter, stopwatch, horsepower and torque curves, engine coolant and oil temperatures, and fuel consumption information. A distinctive “86” logo animation appears on the MID upon vehicle start-up, adding a touch of sporty flair.
A Legacy of Sports Car Heritage
The Toyota 86 proudly carries the torch of Toyota’s rich sports car heritage, drawing inspiration from iconic models like the legendary Toyota 2000 GT. The influence of the 2000 GT is evident in the 86’s low roofline, flowing front fenders, and sleek side profile. However, the 86 is firmly rooted in the 21st century with its modern LED headlights, daytime running lights, turn signals, and taillights.
The athleticism of the Toyota 86 is thoroughly modern as well. Its 2.0-liter horizontally opposed boxer four-cylinder engine, featuring Toyota’s advanced D-4S Dual Injection System, delivers a spirited 205 horsepower and 156 lb.-ft. of torque when paired with the six-speed manual transmission (200 hp and 151 lb.-ft. of torque with the six-speed automatic).
The engine’s “square” bore and stroke dimensions of 86 mm are no coincidence. For Toyota enthusiasts, the ’86’ designation is a direct homage to the AE86, the global name for the Toyota Corolla GT-S sold in the US in the mid-1980s. The AE86 was a beloved, affordable, and agile rear-drive sports coupe with a high-revving 1.6-liter engine, renowned for its fun-to-drive character. In Japan, it was affectionately known as “hachi-roku,” meaning 8-6. Today, the AE86 remains a popular platform for drifting and customization. The new Toyota 86 proudly incorporates ’86’ logos into a badge on the front fender and within the headlamp housings, further cementing its heritage.
Engineered for Driving Purity
The Toyota 86’s chassis is purpose-built as a rear-drive sports car platform, utilizing a sport-tuned independent MacPherson strut front suspension with strut tower bars and reinforced mounting brackets, along with a sport-tuned independent multi-link rear suspension with reinforcement bracing. The electric power-assist steering system is quick and responsive, requiring only 2.48 turns lock-to-lock and offering a tight 36.1-foot turning circle. Crucially, it provides exceptional road feel through the small-diameter, leather-wrapped steering wheel, keeping the driver connected to the driving experience.
The 17 x 7-in. alloy wheels on the base and GT models are fitted with 215/45R17 summer performance or all-season tires, balancing grip and everyday usability. For track days and autocross events, the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) system offers a Track mode or can be fully disabled, allowing for more driver control. Both manual and automatic 86 models are equipped with Hill Start Assist Control (HAC), which helps prevent rollback when starting on steep inclines.
Boxer Engine Performance and Efficiency
The 2.0-liter naturally aspirated horizontally-opposed aluminum Boxer engine at the heart of the Toyota 86 produces 205 hp at 7,000 rpm and 156 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 6,400 rpm (automatic transmission version: 200 hp at 7,000 rpm and 151 lb.-ft. at 6,400 rpm). The engine’s 86 mm x 86 mm bore and stroke dimensions enable high-revving performance, while dual variable valve timing contributes to a broad torque curve. This results in a responsive and engaging driving experience in various conditions.
Alt text: Toyota 86’s 2.0-liter horizontally-opposed Boxer engine highlighting its compact design.
Key to achieving over 100 horsepower per liter of displacement is Toyota’s innovative D-4S Dual Injection system. This system combines direct-injection and port-injection technologies. The direct-injection system cools the cylinders, enabling a high 12.5:1 compression ratio for maximum power output. The port fuel injectors optimize combustion efficiency during light- and medium-load driving conditions.
The Toyota 86 excels as a thoroughly enjoyable and well-balanced sports car on twisty roads, but it also functions as a practical and fuel-efficient daily driver. The 86 achieves EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 24 mpg city and 32 mpg highway when equipped with the six-speed automatic transmission, and 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway with the six-speed manual.
Contributing to both fuel economy and agility is the 86’s remarkably low weight. Weighing in at just under 2,800 lbs. (with the six-speed manual transmission), the Toyota 86 is among the lightest sports cars available. An ultra-low center of gravity and a low 0.29 coefficient of drag (Cd) (0.27 Cd on 86 GT) further enhance its performance and fuel efficiency.
Transmission Choices: Manual or Automatic Excellence
The standard six-speed manual transmission in the Toyota 86 is a delight for driving enthusiasts. Its short-throw shifter and light clutch action make gear changes a joy. For enhanced feel and durability, the transmission incorporates triple-cone synchromesh on 1st, 2nd, and 3rd gears, a ball-bearing-mounted shift linkage, and reverse gear lockout protection.
The available six-speed Electronically Controlled automatic transmission with intelligence (ECT-i) is also a compelling option. It delivers rapid shifts, features steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, Sport Mode, and Dynamic Rev Management technology, which automatically “blips” the throttle on downshifts for smoother transitions. A standard Torsen limited-slip differential on all models optimizes traction to the rear wheels during cornering.
Sporty Cabin with Everyday Comfort
The purist sports car philosophy extends to the interior of the Toyota 86, while still providing modern comfort and convenience features suitable for daily driving. Intuitive controls allow drivers to focus on the road. The gauge cluster is dominated by a large center-mounted tachometer with an integrated digital speedometer and a programmable rev indicator. An analog speedometer is positioned to the left, and fuel level and temperature gauges are located to the right of the tachometer.
In the 86 GT, an ’86’ logo is subtly integrated into the Granlux material covering the instrument panel surround. This same material adds a soft-touch feel to the door trim. As a practical 2+2 coupe, the Toyota 86 features a rear one-piece seatback that folds down to expand trunk space, adding versatility for carrying cargo.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The Toyota 86 comes standard with a user-friendly Display Audio system featuring a 7-inch touchscreen display. The eight-speaker Pioneer audio system includes Bluetooth for hands-free calling and music streaming, HD Radio, iPod connectivity, and AUX/USB inputs. Song titles, album names, and artist information are easily viewable on the head unit.
For enhanced connectivity and navigation, an optional 86 Display Audio with Navigation system is available, offering push-to-talk voice navigation and geo-located points of interest. Both audio systems include Aha Radio, providing access to a wide range of internet radio stations and location-based services.
Comprehensive Safety Features
The 2019 Toyota 86 is equipped with the Toyota STAR Safety System, which includes Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Traction Control (TRAC), Brake Assist (BA), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), and Smart Stop Technology (SST).
The comprehensive supplemental restraint system includes driver and front passenger dual-stage advanced airbags, driver and front passenger outboard seat-mounted side airbags, and front and rear side curtain airbags. The rear seats are equipped with the Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren (LATCH) system for secure installation of compatible child seats.
Toyota Warranty and ToyotaCare
All Toyota 86 models are backed by Toyota’s 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle warranty, covering components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional warranties include a 60-month/60,000-mile powertrain warranty and a 60-month corrosion warranty with no mileage limitation.
Standard ToyotaCare provides a complimentary maintenance plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first.
The Toyota 86, especially in its enhanced 2019 forms, including the ultimate performance TRD Special Edition, remains a compelling choice for drivers seeking a pure, engaging, and stylish sports car experience.
