2017 Toyota 86 Preview – Excitement Builds for New Model Launch in Japan

By Steve & Tamami Laser

We know that the Toyota 86 is coming to America this fall to replace the Scion FR-S. While we’re waiting for it to arrive comes news from Japan (and Australia) today announcing the revamped 86 models for the Japanese market.

86update1The 86 was originally developed as a unique rear-wheel-drive vehicle [along with its cousin, the Subaru BRZ], with intuitive handling that embodies the essence of driving enjoyment. Featuring a horizontally opposed (D-4S2) engine and a low center of gravity, Toyota says the 86 is “cherished by car-loving customers because it delivers the innate excitement cars have to offer.”

86update2Toyota has advanced the driving enjoyment of the 86 by applying feedback from extensive racetrack experience, including tough endurance races like the 24 Hours of Nürburgring.

Driving characteristics are said to be improved with better engine breathing that releases more power and torque for manual transmission models along with across-the-board updates to suspension and body rigidity to promote improved handling.

86update6For the revamp, engineers have revised engine components including the intake and exhaust manifolds for the 6-speed manual models, lifting maximum power and torque by 3.4 percent to 152kW (207ps) and 212Nm.

The 2.0-liter 4-cylinder horizontally opposed engine’s increased torque peak can be generated over a 200 rpm wider range of engine speeds, from 6,400 to 6,800 rpm. The torque curve has also been improved at low rpms.

All models deliver sharper steering response and improved ride comfort with additional spot welds for the rear pillars and reworked shock absorber valve structures.

86update7The 86 is lower at the front and features nose fins, foglamp bezel fins and small canards or wing-like projections beneath the wider front grille. LED headlights complete the front restyle.

New 17-inch alloy wheels contribute to a sporty side view with twisted spokes, machine-cut highlights and flat-metallic paint. The 86 logo has shifted to a stand-alone badge on the front fender.

86update8At the rear, an available wing-type rear spoiler contributes to aerodynamic performance while the black section of the bumper has been widened to create a trapezoidal shape. Reshaped rear combination lamps now utilize LEDs.

86update3Inside, the 86 is equipped with an even sportier steering wheel – its 362mm diameter makes it the smallest ever used in a Toyota. The cross-sectional shape is said to provide optimal grip and comfort.

86update5The revised tachometer is installed so that 7,000 rpm is viewed at the top – the engine speed around which the vehicle generates maximum output.

Driver aids include an available 4.2-inch thin-film transistor display with a wide range of information including, in real-time, a G-force meter and power and torque curves.

86update4The instrument panel and door trim can be specified with Grand Luxe, a high-quality suede-like material that limits glare. Perforated Alcantara® is used as the surface material for the seats on GT Limited models.

The 86 will continue to be built at Subaru’s Gunma Manufacturing Division plant in Japan. The new model is slated to go on sale in Japan on August 1st at Toyota, Toyopet, Toyota Corolla, and Netz dealers. An Australia launch is planned during the fourth quarter of this year.

Features and specifications for Japanese market models are subject to change without notice by the automaker.

News sources and photos courtesy of Toyota Motor Corp., Toyota Australia Ltd., and Toyota Gazoo Racing

Story (commentary) © 2016 CarNichiWa.com