The Toyota GT86, a collaborative creation with Subaru (also known as the Subaru BRZ and formerly the Scion FR-S in North America), burst onto the scene in 2012, immediately capturing the hearts of driving enthusiasts. It wasn’t about blistering speed or lap records; instead, the GT86 focused on the pure joy of driving, a philosophy that has allowed it to maintain a dedicated following. Inspired by the legendary Toyota AE86 of the 1980s, this front-engine, rear-wheel-drive coupe offered an accessible and engaging sports car experience in a market increasingly dominated by front-wheel-drive hatchbacks and overly complex performance machines.

Toyota sought to revive the spirit of its classic sports cars, and the GT86 was a direct descendant of that ambition. The AE86 Corolla Sprinter Trueno, with its lightweight chassis and rear-wheel drive, became a cult classic, particularly in the world of drifting. The GT86 consciously echoed this formula, aiming to deliver a similar sense of connection between driver and machine.
The design of the GT86 is sleek and purposeful. Its low-slung stance, long hood, and short rear deck are classic sports car proportions. Sharp lines and aerodynamic elements contribute to both its visual appeal and its performance. Over its production run, subtle updates were made to the lighting, wheels, and other details, but the core design language remained true to its original intent: to look like a fun, driver-focused car.
Inside, the focus remains on the driving experience. While not luxurious, the materials are durable and the layout is intuitive. The low seating position, supportive bucket seats, and a driver-centric dashboard all contribute to a cockpit that encourages spirited driving. While technically a 2+2, the rear seats are best considered occasional perches or additional storage space, reinforcing the GT86’s priority as a car for the driver and perhaps one passenger.
The Heart of the Matter: Powertrain and Handling
At the core of the GT86 is a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-four “boxer” engine, a hallmark of Subaru’s engineering. This engine, co-developed by Toyota and Subaru (Toyota code 4U-GSE/Subaru code FA20), is mounted low in the chassis, contributing to the car’s excellent weight distribution (around 53% front, 47% rear) and low center of gravity. This configuration is crucial to the GT86’s renowned handling prowess.
Initially, this engine produced around 200 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. While some critics desired more power, the engine’s character encouraged drivers to explore the upper reaches of the rev range, a characteristic that many enthusiasts appreciated. The GT86 was available with either a slick-shifting 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. The manual, in particular, was praised for its direct feel, enhancing the driver’s connection to the car.
The GT86’s handling is where it truly shines. Its lightweight design, combined with the balanced weight distribution and responsive steering, makes it an absolute joy in the corners. The suspension is tuned to provide excellent feedback, allowing drivers to feel exactly what the car is doing. While the ride can be firm, especially on rough roads, this firmness contributes to the car’s planted feel and agility when the road gets twisty. Some models were equipped with more performance-oriented tires, further enhancing grip and handling.
Market Presence and Pricing
The Toyota GT86 occupied a unique space in the automotive market. It offered a genuine rear-wheel-drive sports car experience at a relatively accessible price point, especially when compared to more powerful or luxurious sports cars.
Current Market Analysis:
While the first generation of the Toyota GT86 (ZN6 chassis) concluded production, its spirit lives on in the second-generation Toyota GR86 (ZN8 chassis), which features a larger 2.4-liter engine and further refinements. However, the original GT86 remains a popular choice on the used car market.
Looking at recent sales data, the average price of a used Toyota 86 (including both GT86 and the newer GR86 models) is around $28,002 USD. However, this figure varies significantly based on the year, trim, mileage, and condition of the vehicle.
- Lowest recorded sale price: Around $10,594 USD for an older, higher-mileage model.
- Highest recorded sale price: Up to $37,000 USD for a newer, low-mileage or special edition GR86.
For the original Toyota GT86 (first generation), prices generally range from the mid-teens to the low-to-mid twenties (in USD), depending on the factors mentioned above. Special editions or well-maintained, low-mileage examples might command a premium.
The introduction of the second-generation GR86 has influenced the market for the original GT86. While the GR86 offers more power and updated features, the original GT86 still appeals to those who appreciate its lighter weight and more raw driving feel.
2025 Toyota GR86 Pricing (New):
As of early May 2025, the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the new 2025 Toyota GR86 starts around $30,000 USD for the base model. The Premium trim is priced slightly higher, around $33,000 USD, and the new, limited-production Hakone Edition comes in at approximately $36,246 USD. These prices exclude destination fees and other potential charges.
The 2025 GR86 features retuned suspension and steering for improved handling, as well as enhanced throttle responsiveness. The Hakone Edition adds unique styling details, making it a desirable option for enthusiasts.
Why the GT86 Remains Relevant
Despite not having the highest horsepower figures, the Toyota GT86 (and its successor, the GR86) continues to resonate with drivers for several key reasons:
- Pure Driving Experience: It prioritizes handling, balance, and driver engagement over outright power. The rear-wheel-drive layout allows for a more interactive and rewarding driving experience, especially for those who enjoy spirited driving or drifting.
- Affordability: Compared to many other sports cars, the GT86 offered a more accessible entry point into the world of rear-wheel-drive coupes. Even on the used market, it provides excellent value for driving enthusiasts.
- Timeless Appeal: The classic sports car formula of a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, lightweight coupe never really goes out of style. The GT86 embodies this formula effectively.
- Tunability: The engine and chassis are relatively straightforward, making the GT86 a popular platform for modifications and customization among car enthusiasts.
Conclusion
The Toyota GT86 was more than just another sports car; it was a statement. It signaled a return to simpler, more engaging driving, proving that fun doesn’t always require massive amounts of power. Its balanced handling, accessible price point, and classic sports car configuration have cemented its place as a beloved machine among driving purists. Whether you’re looking at a pre-owned GT86 or considering the new GR86, you’re stepping into a car designed to put a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel. The legacy of the “hachiroku” lives on, and the GT86/GR86 continues to carry that torch for a new generation of driving enthusiasts.
Leave a Reply