Toyota GR86 available in NZ from September

Toyota’s entry level sports car is making its return to New Zealand in the form of the GR86.

Toyota Gazoo Racing is taking the charge with Toyota’s performance cars, and the GR86 is no exception. The racing marque has revamped the design and engineering of the new GR86, giving it more power and handling upgrades.

In keeping its roots, the GR86 features a 2.4-litre four-cylinder boxer engine which now produces more power, making 174kW (up 27kW) and 250Nm (an increase of 45Nm).

Power is sent through either a manual or automatic six-speed transmission.

A set of 18-inch, 10-spoke matte black alloys wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tyres will offer better grip than the Prius-spec rubber of the original.

With all these factors combined, the GR86 can achieve a 0 to 100kmh time of 6.4 seconds; 6.8 seconds if you opt for the automatic.

New Zealand will get the GT trim level with both transmission options being available.

“The popularity of the 86 is evident by the demand we experienced for the previous GT86, which is now sold out. That tells us that fans still have an appetite for compact, lightweight, and affordable sports coupes,” says Steve Prangnell, Toyota New Zealand General Manager for Product and New Vehicles.

“The new GR86 will no doubt continue to deliver on this performance for our New Zealand fan base.”

When the GR86 arrives in September, it will become the third member of the GR sports car family alongside the GR Yaris and GR Supra. Pricing will be announced at a later date.