2020 Toyota 86

Arguably the biggest change to the 86 for 2020 is the new special Hakone Edition- Autotrader

For 2020, a new Hakone Edition joins the lineup. That rounds off the trim levels to three, including Base and GT. Pricing starts from $27,060 while the top-end Hakone Edition can go up to $30,590. A destination charge of $995 adds to the price tag at the time of purchase. The 86 is available in both manual and automatic transmissions but only the rear wheels are driven. 

The 86 is available with just one performance package called the TRD Handling package. This package adds Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires, SACHS performance shocks, and Brembo brakes. This package is exclusive only to the GT trim. The Hakone Edition adds unique Hakone Green exterior paint, matte black rear spoiler, 17-inch bronze wheels, and some interior-specific styling. 

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The GT trim is a better choice to buy as it is available with the TRD Handling package. Except for that, there are other upgrades or packages available for the 86. The GT trim also adds some comfort and convenience features such as heated front leather seats, LED headlights, a rear spoiler, dual-zone automatic climate control, etc. 

The 2020 Toyota 86 isn’t as fuel-efficient as we’d expect from a small sports car

The tiny engine in the Toyota 86 has great fuel efficiency as it is underpowered by other segment-leading cars.  With a manual transmission, it returns 21 MPG in the city, 28 MPG on a highway, and 24 MPG combined. The automatic transmission has a better gas mileage, adding 3 MPG to the manual’s figures, although a heavier right foot might change all that.

The fuel tank has a capacity of 13.2 gallons. So, a cruise along the back roads is not out of the question. You can expect a combined range of 317 miles when equipped with a manual transmission. Those who love taking long rides should go for the automatic transmission as it can drive up to 359 miles in mixed proportions. That's a decent range for a sports car. 

For a car that develops 310 horses, the fuel economy of the Ford Mustang is really good. The fuel ratings of the Chevy Camaro match with the Mustang but it is the least efficient car here. The Dodge Challenger's fuel efficiency is slightly better than the Camaro. Overall, fuel economy lovers should go for automatic transmission instead of manual. 

Material quality and fit and finish inside the 86 are good for a low-volume car at this price- CarAndDriver

The cabin quality of the Toyota 86 isn’t premium, but the build quality is solid. Even so, you do notice a little rattle when you start to pull the envelope. Two adults can easily fit in front seats, which are quite comfortable and accommodating. The front seats are manually adjustable but they are heated. The new Hakone Edition adds tan leather seats with Alcantara inserts and contrast stitching. 

The driving position is a bit low which is important for a sports car. Coupes rarely offer spacious rear seats, and that tradition is followed well in this segment. With its compact dimensions and sloping coupe roofline, there is no way passengers would be comfortable in the rear seats of the 86. They are best reserved for younger members of the family, and adults should strictly stick to the front. 

A 7-inch touchscreen is the source of infotainment functions in the 86. New-for-2020 is standard Apple CarPlay & Android Auto. The interface is simple to understand and responds to commands promptly. There are not many physical controls around the screen. An 8-speaker stereo is standard in every 86 model whereas a navigation system is the only option available. 

As was with the rear seats, the trunk volume is extremely limited.  You get just 6.9 cu-ft., which is the least in this segment. There aren’t many things you can fit in there, and the small loading bay makes matters worse. If you like to spend the weekend on the road, you could pull down the rear seats to get a fair amount of usable space. Some other cabin highlights of the coupe are:

• Tilt & telescopic multi-function leather steering wheel
• Manually adjustable front heated seats
• Cloth & leather upholstery
• Auto-dimming rearview mirror
• Proximity keyless entry
• Push-button start
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• 7-inch touchscreen w/ Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
• 8-speaker stereo
• 4.2-inch digital driver's display

Everything that follows is classic coupe and that’s absolutely fine- Kelly Blue Book

There hasn’t been any change in styling in the Toyota 86 since 2017. The aerodynamic styling looks very pretty and adds visual appeal to the side profile, along with the 17-inch wheels. The lines along the body of the 86 are sharp and smooth at all the right places. Being short, low, and, well, just tiny, the 86 manages to save quite a lot of building material.

With a curb weight of under 3000 pounds, the 86 is super easy to flick around and fit into tiny spaces. With length under 170 inches and width under 70 inches, this car sits at the bottom of every size chart. The wheelbase measures just 101.2 inches, which further adds to the maneuverability of the car. The tail section completes the look with a simple yet elegant design.

The Dodge Challenger hauls the most metal and consequently is the heaviest and the largest in here. This affects its on-road performance. It also has the widest wheelbase ergo a spacious interior. The Chevy Camaro holds a comfortable middle ground here, being neither tiny nor enormous. The Ford Mustang's high ground clearance is good for preventing scratches on the underbelly. Some main exterior features are:

• LED headlights
• LED fog lamps
• LED taillights
• LED DRLs
• Heated exterior mirrors
• Black grille
• Ground effects
• Black rear spoiler wing
• Dual exhaust chrome tips
• 17-inch alloy wheels

Lack of driver-assistance features holds the 86 back from a Top Safety Pick award- CarAndDriver

The 2020 Toyota 86 coupe has undergone a variety of crash tests from NHTSA and IIHS. NHTSA gave a 4-star overall safety rating while IIHS gave a 'Good' rating in most of the crash tests. The coupe also received an 'Acceptable rating for the driver's side crash test. Both the organizations have granted it good overall scores regarding the car's performance during a crash.

This Toyota has a small and lightweight body but the 86's cabin design that provides several crumple zones to the front and sides keeps the occupants safe from the worst of injuries. You should not expect any lane keep assist or adaptive cruise control when going for the 86. Its impeccable handling capabilities are the best measure to avoid any possible collision. The only safety features available are:

• Brake Assist
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System
• Rearview Camera
• Hill Start Assist
• Traction & Stability Control

2020 Toyota 86 vs 2020 Ford Mustang 

For a similar price tag, the Ford Mustang comes with a powerful yet fuel-efficient base engine and also offers a lineup of powerful engine options. However, the 86 is more fun to drive. The Mustang is a practical sports coupe but its interior dimensions are similar to the 86. Safety lovers would opt for the Mustang as it comes with more active safety features but the 86 has better reliability. 

2020 Toyota 86 vs 2020 Dodge Challenger

The Dodge Challenger is the only pony car to come with an AWD system. Despite making 100 hp more than the 86, it isn't agile due to its heavy curb weight. That's because it has a seating capacity of five and offers a roomier interior. But its powerful engine pays a toll on its fuel economy. The Challenger also has low ownership costs, more safety technologies and to an extent, good reliability too. 

2020 Toyota 86 vs 2020 Chevrolet Camaro

Starting at $25,000, the Chevy Camaro is the cheapest car in this competition. Obviously, it is quicker in terms of performance and offers nimble handling. Inside, both the cars are equally spacious but the Camaro is a step ahead with better cargo space. In terms of fuel efficiency, the Camaro drags behind the 86. The Camaro follows the principles of a modern sports car and offers the latest driver aids. 

All in all, the 2020 Toyota 86 achieves what it originally aspires for. Now that a TRD handling package is available, a bit more ferocious handling is possible in its stock configuration. But let's be honest, there is rarely anyone who would not want an aftermarket upgrade to boost the power from the 2.0L Boxer-four engine. If only Toyota would do it of their own accord in future versions, it would be highly appreciated.