2022 Toyota GR 86: All-New Track Ready Sports Car Fun

Automotive enthusiasts can rejoice, there’s an all-new 2022 Toyota GR 86 sports car. This new homage to the AE 86 Corolla features a stronger frame, a larger engine, and more power.  And those attributes are all big upgrades over the outgoing model.

Despite great overall driving dynamics, the 86 has always felt underpowered.  One major issue was a significant torque dip in the middle of the RPM range that buyers consistently bemoaned.  The 2022 Toyota GR 86 sounds like a car that will address that and more. What’s even better is that Toyota isn’t trying to fix what isn’t broken.  Let’s dive into all the new features of this new sports car.

More Power = More Fun For The 2022 Toyota GR 86

The outgoing GR 86 makes up to 205 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque.   While the new car builds 228 horsepower and 184 ft-lbs of torque.  And to achieve such a big jump, Toyota will employ a new larger 2.4liter flat-four engine sourced from Subaru.

So that adds almost 20% more displacement which helps boost power.  But there’s more.  Toyota uses Direct injection to cool the cylinders allowing the GR 86 engine to run a compression ratio of 12.5:1, high compared to most cars.

To fix the torque dip issue, Toyota tuned the intake and exhaust valves to flatten the power curve.  This results in peak torque arriving at just 3,700 RPM which is down from 6,600 RPM in the previous generation.

GR 86 Is An Enthusiasts Sports Car

Inside of the GR 86, buyers will have the choice between an automatic or a proper six-speed manual transmission.  Both will send power directly to the rear wheels only.

The automatic gets paddle shifters and can reach 60 mph in just 6.6 seconds.  That time is down from eight seconds in the previous car.  And, for those rowing their own gears, that speed is achieved in just 6.1 seconds.  That knocks nearly a full second off of the old car’s time.

Handling improves as well thanks to a stronger chassis throughout.  Toyota says that this new car has more than a 50% increase in torsional rigidity.  It also uses specific structural materials like hot-stamped steel, aluminum, and high-strength steel strategically to ensure the best load transfer.

So the end result, which Toyota is definitely touting, will make track days all the more fun.

Special Inside And Out – Toyota’s GR 86 Target

Outside of the GR 86, buyers will find special touches to ensure this car looks fast and is fast.  For example, the functional vents that are seen on the side of the car. These help to prevent air turbulence in the wheel well.

Also, on the front of the car, something Toyota calls its G-mesh-shaped grille feeds cool air into the engine.  Look closely at the bumper and you’ll notice a special shark-skin molding intended to further aid aerodynamics.

Inside, the GR 86 features a 7-inch driver information display screen and an 8-inch center infotainment screen. Inside that infotainment system, buyers will find that both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are included. Depending on trim level, occupants will enjoy either six or eight speakers.

Finally, there’s also a “Track Mode” developed in partnership with actual racing drivers to optimize behavior on the track.  And yeah, we can’t wait to get behind the wheel to try it out ourselves!

 

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