By Steve & Tamami Laser
Toyota has introduced a new variation of the popular 86 coupe (called GT86 in Europe and Scion FR-S in the U.S.) for customers in Japan called “style Cb.” This special-order car is based on the Cb concept originally developed by Toyota’s Gazoo racing division and displayed at the Tokyo Auto Salon custom car show in January 2014.
The concept – shown in both coupe and convertible body styles – replaced the sharp-edged front styling of the 86 with a more rounded nose along with other exterior and interior enhancements in an effort to attract more women buyers. And now, instead of offering the parts as a kit, Toyota has made the style Cb a separate 86 model offering different customization possibilities plus color and trim choices.
The new front styling, said to be influenced by Zagato, also brings to mind the sixth generation Toyota Celica. Powertain choices include the FA20 2.0-liter Boxer 4-cylinder driving the rear wheels through a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission.
Toyota’s brochure for the car states: “The style Cb model has been designed to evoke the look of sport cars of yesteryear, but without resembling any particular car. The round headlamps and horizontal bar-type front grille with LED clearance lamps and turn signals show how simply changing the car’s front profile creates a completely different look.”
From there, the advertising copywriter gets carried away with statements like the style Cb “calls to mind timeless, universal values. Behind those values lies the brillance, the exclusive domain of authenticity. Its elegant style makes it a great vehicle for the price use of the mature person who knows his or her true self.”
Color schemes include two-tone treatments with Nuance Beige and Demitasse Brown, or single tones in silver, red or black. Inside, “With its white needles, the analog instrument cluster exudes a warmth that seems appropriate in a coupe designed for drivers with mature and discerning tastes.”
“The wood grain panel evokes high-end audio components, and a specially designed leather-wrapped steering wheel bars the glittering Cb emblem. Furthermore, each of the four available body colors can be upgraded to a two-tone paint scheme.”
It’s great to see Toyota make good on its promise to put this concept into production. However, we wish that the Cb concept convertible (shown above) could also be added to the mix. Unfortunately, that’s a dream that will have to wait for another Valentine’s Day.
News source and photos courtesy of Toyota Motor Corp.
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Story (commentary) © 2015 CarNichiWa.com