Toyota 86: Complete History, Features, and Buying Guide

History of the Toyota 86

The Toyota 86, introduced in 2012, is a compact, rear-wheel-drive sports coupe developed in partnership with Subaru. It is known by several names across global markets, including the Subaru BRZ and Scion FR-S (in the United States until Scion’s discontinuation in 2016). The car emerged from Toyota’s desire to create a lightweight, driver-focused vehicle reminiscent of its classic sports models, particularly the Toyota AE86 of the 1980s, an iconic rear-wheel-drive hatchback favored by driving enthusiasts.

Toyota and Subaru collaborated on the development of the 86, with Subaru contributing its engineering expertise, including the horizontally opposed “boxer” engine, while Toyota influenced the vehicle’s design and handling. This joint effort led to a car that prioritized a balanced driving experience, affordable pricing, and driving purity, filling a niche for a sports coupe that appealed to both new buyers and automotive purists.

Design and Features

Exterior

The Toyota 86 has a sleek, low-profile design emphasizing its sporty nature. Its compact, aerodynamic shape is complemented by sharp, aggressive lines, a long hood, and a short rear deck. The front fascia features a wide, low-set grille and sharp, angular headlights that give the car a bold appearance. Aerodynamic elements, such as side vents and a rear diffuser, improve airflow and stability at high speeds.

Over the years, Toyota has made subtle updates to the design, including revised LED headlights, taillights, and new wheel designs. The car’s lightweight chassis and low center of gravity further enhance its sporty exterior appeal, making it instantly recognizable as a driver’s car.

Interior

Inside, the Toyota 86 prioritizes function over luxury, with a driver-focused cockpit. The seating arrangement is designed for optimal support during spirited driving, with well-bolstered, low-set sports seats. The simple, uncluttered dashboard features a centrally positioned tachometer, emphasizing its performance-oriented nature.

Materials used in the cabin are durable but practical, reflecting the 86’s focus on driving rather than luxury. Key features include a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and an optional premium sound system in higher trims. The cabin is compact, with limited rear-seat space, but the layout feels intimate and performance-focused.

Off-Road Capabilities

The Toyota 86 is not designed for off-road use. As a rear-wheel-drive sports coupe, its capabilities are centered around road performance and handling precision on paved surfaces, such as winding roads and track settings. Its low ride height and stiff suspension are optimized for on-road driving dynamics rather than rugged terrain.

Engine and Performance

At the heart of the Toyota 86 is a 2.0-liter, naturally aspirated flat-four boxer engine developed by Subaru. This engine layout helps to lower the vehicle’s center of gravity, improving handling and balance. Initially, the engine produced 197 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission.

The car’s balanced chassis and rear-wheel-drive configuration provide a pure driving experience, with sharp handling, responsive steering, and precise control. The lightweight construction, coupled with its low-slung stance, makes the 86 particularly agile on twisty roads and racetracks.

In 2017, a refresh boosted the manual transmission models’ output to 205 horsepower, with revised suspension tuning for enhanced performance. The Toyota 86 is often praised for its excellent weight distribution and the purity of its driving dynamics, though some enthusiasts have noted the engine’s relatively modest power output compared to other sports cars in the segment.

Trim Levels

Over its production, the Toyota 86 has been offered in various trims, including:

• Base: The standard trim includes key features like 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, a touchscreen infotainment system, and sports seats.
• GT: This trim adds features like dual-zone climate control, leather and Alcantara-trimmed seats, and a rear spoiler.
• Hakone Edition: Introduced in 2020, this special edition pays homage to Japan’s famous Hakone Turnpike with exclusive British Racing Green paint, unique interior accents, and bronze 17-inch wheels.
• TRD Special Edition: Focused on performance, this edition includes upgraded Brembo brakes, Sachs dampers, and a more aggressive body kit for better handling and braking capabilities.

Sales and Popularity

The Toyota 86 has maintained a niche but dedicated following among driving enthusiasts. Its emphasis on balance and handling, rather than outright power, has made it a popular choice for those seeking an affordable, rear-wheel-drive sports car. While sales have been modest compared to more mainstream vehicles, the 86’s unique positioning in the market has ensured steady demand.

In 2016, following the discontinuation of the Scion brand, Toyota rebranded the Scion FR-S as the Toyota 86 in North America, unifying the car’s global name. Despite facing stiff competition from vehicles like the Mazda MX-5 Miata and Ford Mustang, the Toyota 86 continues to attract buyers looking for a pure, lightweight sports car experience.

Awards and Recognition

The Toyota 86 has received multiple awards and accolades since its launch, particularly for its driving dynamics and value. It has been named to several “best sports car” lists and received praise for its balance, steering feel, and accessible price point. In 2013, it was named the “Car of the Year” by Top Gear magazine and received a “Best of the Best” award from AutoWeek.

The 86 has also been a favorite among the aftermarket tuning community, with its chassis and engine layout serving as a blank canvas for performance modifications, enhancing its appeal to car enthusiasts.

Used Toyota 86

Reliability

The Toyota 86 is known for its solid reliability, a hallmark of Toyota’s engineering. The 2.0-liter boxer engine, despite being co-developed with Subaru, has proven durable when properly maintained. However, some owners have reported issues such as valve spring recalls and engine oil leaks in early models, particularly in vehicles that have been heavily modified or driven aggressively.

Resale Value

The Toyota 86 maintains a respectable resale value, particularly because of its appeal to sports car enthusiasts. While depreciation is typical for sports cars, the 86’s enduring popularity and reputation for reliability help it retain value better than many competitors.

Key Factors for Used Buyers

Used Toyota 86 buyers should consider several factors:

• Service History: Ensure the vehicle has been properly maintained, with regular oil changes and engine servicing.
• Modifications: Many 86s have been modified for performance. Buyers should assess the quality of modifications and be wary of heavily tuned models, as these can affect reliability.
• Recalls: Check if the car has had all necessary recalls, including those related to the valve springs.

Conclusion

The Toyota 86 is a modern sports coupe that emphasizes the joy of driving, offering excellent handling, a balanced chassis, and a lightweight design. While it may lack the outright power of some competitors, its agility, affordability, and aftermarket support have made it a favorite among driving enthusiasts. For those seeking a used Toyota 86, reliability, proper maintenance, and modifications should be key considerations, making it a solid choice for performance enthusiasts on a budget.