The 2022 Toyota GR86 brings us back to a time when sports cars were simple, lightweight, and all about the driving experience. I had the chance to test this car at Monticello Raceway Park, and while the name of the track may be hard to pronounce, the GR86 is easy to appreciate for its pure, old-school driving thrills.
Previously known as the Toyota 86 and, before that, the Scion FR-S, the GR86 shares its platform with the Subaru BRZ. But what makes this new generation stand out? Let’s dive into the details and explore why this car is keeping the traditional sports car experience alive—without the help of a turbocharger.
The Engine: Bigger, But Still No Turbo
One of the key distinctions of the Toyota GR86 is that it doesn’t have a turbocharger. In a world where most sporty compacts, from the Civic Si to the Hyundai Veloster N, rely on forced induction, the GR86 remains naturally aspirated. It shares this trait with the Mazda MX-5 Miata, another lightweight sports car that values simplicity over sheer power.
For 2022, Toyota has upped the engine displacement from 2.0 liters to 2.4 liters, and this bump translates to more power and torque. The new flat-four engine produces 230 horsepower (up from 205 hp in the previous generation) and a noticeable increase in torque, now at 250 Nm. The extra torque makes the car feel more responsive, especially at lower engine speeds, which was a notable weak point in the old 86.
The GR86 achieves 0-60 mph in just over six seconds with the manual transmission, making it quicker than the outgoing model. For those who prefer an automatic, Toyota offers that option, though it’s about half a second slower to 60 mph. However, if you’re after the true sports car experience, the manual transmission is the one to get.
Lightweight Design and Driver-Centric Interior
One of the best aspects of the GR86 is that it hasn’t gained much weight. At around 2,800 pounds, the car remains relatively light for a modern sports car, thanks to clever weight-saving measures like aluminum roof and fenders. This keeps the car agile and responsive on the road.
Inside, the layout is familiar but functional. Toyota kept things simple, yet effective. The digital gauge cluster is one of the highlights, designed to resemble the horizontally opposed engine layout. When you start the car, a graphic simulates the movement of the pistons, which is a neat little touch. In track mode, the tachometer shifts to a bar-style display that emphasizes the higher revs, perfect for keeping track of engine speed during spirited driving.
The infotainment system features a standard 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto—a much-needed upgrade in today’s tech-savvy world. There’s even enough room in the back seats to fold them down and fit four mounted wheels and tires, making it practical for those track days.
On the Track: A Perfect Balance of Fun and Control
Driving the 2022 GR86 on the track is where the car really shines. While it may not have the outright speed of some turbocharged competitors, it more than makes up for it in handling and driver engagement. The steering is responsive and quick, offering immediate feedback without the dead zone that plagued the previous generation. This makes it easy to build confidence in the car, whether you’re attacking corners or cruising through a tight bend.
The improved torque delivery from the new 2.4-liter engine makes the GR86 feel more lively throughout the power band. You no longer have to wait for the revs to build up to get the car moving, which was a frustrating issue with the older model.
The GR86 comes in two trims—base and Premium. The base model rides on 17-inch wheels with Michelin Primacy tires, the same tires used in the last generation. These tires don’t offer a ton of grip, but that’s part of the fun. They allow the car to slide around easily at lower speeds, making it a great tool for learning the basics of car control. In contrast, the Premium trim comes with 18-inch wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, which offer significantly more grip and allow for higher speeds and more precise handling.
The Manual vs. Automatic Debate
There’s no doubt that the manual transmission is the more engaging choice for the GR86. The six-speed manual shifts smoothly and offers a satisfying, tactile feel with every throw. The automatic transmission, while not bad, just doesn’t capture the same excitement. It’s convenient for daily driving and works well enough on the track with paddle shifters, but if you’re buying this car for the driving experience, the manual is the way to go.
Safety and Practicality
Toyota has also made strides in safety features. The GR86 comes with stability control that offers a track-oriented mode, allowing some slip while still keeping the car under control. This mode gives you room to explore the car’s limits without going overboard, which is perfect for both beginners and experienced drivers.
Fuel economy isn’t the GR86’s strong suit, but it’s respectable for a sports car. Expect to see between 20 to 24 mpg combined, depending on whether you opt for the manual or automatic transmission. While the numbers aren’t the best in the segment, they’re a reasonable trade-off for the power and performance you get.
Final Thoughts: A Sports Car for Purists
The 2022 Toyota GR86 continues to deliver on its promise of being an affordable, lightweight, and fun-to-drive sports car. With more power, improved handling, and the same balanced chassis, it’s hard to find another car in this price range that offers such a pure driving experience.
If you’re in the market for an inexpensive sports car that puts driving enjoyment above all else, the GR86 should be at the top of your list. Sure, it might not have the turbocharged grunt of some of its rivals, but it’s all the better for it. This car is about feeling the road and enjoying every moment behind the wheel.
Toyota has even sweetened the deal by offering a one-year membership to NASA (National Auto Sport Association), encouraging you to take your car to the track and experience it as it was meant to be driven.
In short, the Toyota GR86 is the kind of car that reminds us why we love driving in the first place. If that sounds like your idea of fun, this car is worth every penny.