2024 Toyota GR 86

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Rating6.9
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$27,700
Estimated Price 
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Nathan Dyer 

Senior Editor,

Updated on August 12, 2024

ProsConsWhat's New

Feels more powerful than the horsepower rating

Big guys, avoid the rear seats

Inclusion of the Trueno edition

Quick and responsive acceleration

High NVH level

The Trueno edition is bliss

Visit aftermarket for a better exhaust note

Specs & Features

$27,700

price

TBD

horsepower

TBD

torque

TBD

transmission

1A

engine

-

basic warranty

Overview

Competing in the midsize coupe segment, the Toyota GR86 is one of the best offerings in the market with exhilarating performance, no-question reliability, and good comfort, with unmatched affordability. Since its inception, the GR86 aced the market due to the same reasons, and the 2024 edition just solidifies the matter of fact. For 2024, the GR86 Trueno edition is also available which pays homage to the legendary Initial D - the dual-tone AE86 Trueno that made Keiichi Tsuchiya the drift king of the world. 

Packing an Inline-4 under the hood, the 2024 Toyota GR86 may seem to produce a nominal output on paper, but in real life, due to the unparalleled mechanisms, it delivers one of the most shivering performances one can expect from a car priced under $30,000. In fact, under this price range, there are very few cars with RWD configurations and the GR86 is one of them, competing against the 2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF and the 2024 Subaru BRZ, the GR86 is one of the best buys in 2024.

Buying Advice

The 2024 Toyota GR86 is one of the best budget sports cars in the segment, available for under $30,000. Available in 3 core trims, the GR86 not only delivers a fine and thrilling driving experience but also a quality ride to all the passengers. Among the trims, while there are no power add-ons on the upper trims, the anniversary special edition, and the Trueno edition are the collectible GR86. Both manual and automatic are available, and the base trim is only available with manual only. Considering everything we would suggest you go for the base trim if you want to experience the true nature of the GR86. For cosmetic upgrades, you can go for any of the upper trims.

Comparative Analysis against Competition

Remember the VW Golf GTi? It is often referred to as the pocket rocket. The 2024 Toyota GR86 is the same thing. It’s a pocket rocket on a budget. On paper, the power output sounds small, not so exciting. But whoever has any doubt, drive the car. Papers always don’t speak the truth. Coming with a shivering mechanism, the GR86 makes such a subtle delivery with shivering handling that post the test drive you won’t believe what paper specs say. With that comes the driver-focused interior coated with quality materials, that not only feel good to the touch but also provide an enjoyable and exciting riding experience. In a nutshell, the 2024 Toyota GR86 is one of the best sports cars under $30,000 you can pick.

Features
7.5/10

Available in three trims, the 2024 GR86 celebrates the 10th anniversary special edition as the last year on the top trim. All three trim pack the same powerplant, however, what differentiates are the attributes and the features, and these are the things that increase the price. The 10th-anniversary special edition features attributes that are not present even in the mid-trim, which is just around $2000 less than the same. However, to enjoy the beast, the base trim alone is enough.

Models

GR86

GR86 Premium

GR86 10th Anniversary Special Edition

MSRP (RWD)

$28,400

$32,500

$34,360

Key Features

Rearview mirror with manual dim

Dual sun visors with illuminated vanity mirrors

6-way power-adjustable bucket seats with 2-level heating and leather-trimmed bolsters, Ultrasuede inserts, and Solar Shift seat stripe and contrast stitching w/ seatback pockets

 

Power windows with driver and front passenger one-touch auto up-down

Multi-way adjustable two-stage heated front bucket seats

Leather-wrapped manual transmission

 

Dual-zone climate control with dual LCD toggle displays

8-speaker sound system with amplifier

Solar Shift contrast-stitched GR86 10th Anniversary Special Edition door panel embroidery with Solar Shift contrast-stitched armrests

 

Multi-function key remote with GR push button start

Aluminum sport pedals and footrest

 
 

Two USB 2.0 charging ports

One-piece folding rear seatback with Ultrasuede trim

 
 

7” TFT MID

   
 

Multifunction 3-spoke leather-trimmed sport steering wheel

   
 

Multi-way adjustable front fabric-trimmed bucket seats with side bolsters

   
 

6-speaker sound system 

   
 

8” infotainment system

   

Packages

Performance package (standard on Trueno edition)

  • ZF SACHS Dampers and Brembo Brakes
  • 18” wheels

We Recommend

The 2024 Toyota GR86 is one of the best budget sports cars in the segment, available for under $30,000. Available in 3 core trims, the GR86 not only delivers a fine and thrilling driving experience but also a quality ride to all the passengers. Among the trims, while there are no power add-ons on the upper trims, the anniversary special edition, and the Trueno edition are the collectible GR86. Both manual and automatic are available, and the base trim is only available with manual only. Considering everything we would suggest you go for the base trim if you want to experience the true nature of the GR86. For cosmetic upgrades, you can go for any of the upper trims.

Release Date

The 2024 GR86 will be available for sale from April or May 2024, however, placing the orders will start by the end of this year

Engine and Performance
6.5/10

Priced under $30,000, the Toyota GR86 is one of the few cars that is mechanized with a rear-wheel drive configuration. Packing a 2.4L 4-cylinder Boxer engine under the hood, the '23 Toyota GR86 crunches 228 hp @ 7000 rpm, and 184 lb-ft of torque @ 3700 rpm under the hood to propel the rear wheels that allow this BRZ twin to gain a top speed of 144 mph while sprinting to 60 in just 6.1 seconds, pretty impressive indeed! To control this little beast, a 6-speed manual is there, something we drivers want from a performance machine. The 2024 Toyota GR86 takes around 14 seconds to complete a quarter-mile lap.

Model

2024 Toyota GR86

2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF

2024 Subaru BRZ

MSRP

$28,400

$35,750

$30,000

Engine

2.4L 4-Cyl Boxer

2L Inline-4

2.4L 4-Cyl Boxer

Transmission

6-speed manual

6-speed manual

6-speed manual

Drivetrain

RWD

RWD

RWD

Horsepower

228 hp @ 7000 rpm

181 hp @ 7000 rpm

228 @ 7000 rpm

Torque

184 lb-ft @ 3700 rpm

151 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

184 lb-ft @ 3700 rpm

0-60 MPH (seconds)

6.1 Seconds

5.7 Seconds

6.6 Seconds

Quarter-Mile (Seconds)

N/A

14.5 Seconds

13.9 Seconds

Top Speed (mph)

144 MPH

135 MPH

140 MPH

Although comes with a smaller engine, the Miata RF is the clear winner if 0-60 is the parameter. The Miata RF makes less power and runs slower than both its rivals, yet hit the jackpot. The most possible reason could be the design and the curb weight. The 2024 GR86 and the 2024 BRZ both are heavier than the ‘23 Miata RF and at the same time, are bigger too, which plays a crucial role here. However, in the long turn, it is the GR86 who takes the spots. Speeding at a top speed of 144 mph, the GR86 drives exceptionally well, and has the same experience you can find with the BRZ, due to the same engine and the same platform.

2024 Toyota GR86 Ride and Handling

Since its debut in 2011, the Toyota GR86 is known for its unparalleled ride and handling on a budget. Not everyone is capable of spending thousands of dollars on British or German machines, and for those gearheads, these JDMs are the way out. 

Mechanized with a Torsen limited-slip differential, GR circuit tuned coil springs, shock absorbers, iron front knuckles, and rear suspension-member mounted stabilizer bar, this 2024 Toyota GR86 not only runs buttery smooth but also takes on the sharp corners like a pro. Coming with the MacPherson strut front suspension and the multi-link rear suspension, drifting now is bliss while having a comfortable ride.

For 2024, Toyota has introduced the Trueno edition, to pay homage to the legendary AE86 Trueno, a master car for the drifters. The 2024 Toyota GR86 Trueno is mechanized with the same powerplant, however, comes standard with the ZF SACHS Dampers and Brembo Brakes, which adds a little bit of spice in thrilling driving, and enjoyable riding.

2024 Toyota GR86 Braking Performance

The 2024 GR86, along with delivering a phenomenal performance, is also mechanized with quality brakes, being a responsible sports car. The 2024 GR86 comes with 11.6” 2-pistol steel floating-caliper front disc brakes at the front, while the rear rotors occupy an 11.4” 1-piston steel floating-caliper rear disc brakes, combined with several braking assistance such as antilock braking system, electronic braking force distribution, brake assist, and vehicle stability control, stop the GR86 in 113 ft from 60 mph. For 2024, Toyota’s new inclusion - the GR86 Trueno is mechanized with a more advanced braking system. ZF SACHS Dampers and Brembo Brakes come standard with this special edition that lowers the distance to a certain extent.

Model

2024 Toyota GR86

2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF

2024 Subaru BRZ

Front Brake Rotors (in.)

11.3

11

11.6

Rear Brake Rotors (in.)

11.4

11

11.4

Curb Weights (lbs)

2811 

2341

2815

60-0 (ft.)

113

112

Fuel Economy
8.0/10

Expecting good efficiency from a sports car is something we should not think about. However, the GR86, being a budget-performance car, delivers the best of both worlds, returning a relatively good figure without compromising on performance. With the equipped naturally aspirated 2.4L, the 2024 GR86, can run for around 20 miles around the town, while on on highway, you can cruise for 27 miles per gallon. With combined driving, the 2024 GR86 returns around 22 mpg. At one go, this budget-performance Toyota can cruise for 356.4 miles in one go, while 264 miles can be covered in one go if driving in the city.

Model

2024 Toyota GR86

2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF

2024 Subaru BRZ

MPG (city)

20

26

20

MPG (highway)

27

34

27

MPG (combined)

22

29

22

Fuel capacity (gallons)

13.2

11.9

13.2

Range (miles)

264/356.4/290.4

309/404.6/345

264/356.4/290.4

While all three are relatively good in both performance and fuel economy, being the twin sister of the GR86, the 2024 Subaru BRZ returns the same fuel economy with the same range. However, with the 2023 Miata RF, the figure is a little good, returning more miles per gallon, and so is the range. Although equipped with the smallest fuel tank, the MX-5 Miata RF covers over 400 miles in one go, while cruising on the highway, while in the city, a good figure of 26 miles per gallon can be gained. Well, there are certain reasons too behind this figure. First, the Mazda packs a smaller engine under the hood, and the power output too is lower than any of the BRZ and GR86. And second should be the aerodynamics, which we think is better in the RF, which altogether increases the fuel efficiency.

Interior
6.5/10

With 4 people on board, the '24 Toyota GR86 is quite comfortable with a good amount of room for everyone. While on the first row, there is no shortage of legroom, and shoulder room, on the rear, things get a little squeezy, good for the kids, and the regular gym-goers, while the front seats are suitable for all except kids. Due to the low seat height, it feels very close to the ground which comes in handy while drifting. Coming with a pilot-focused cockpit, with every control at hand's reach, the '24 GR86 is quite friendly to drive, not only because of the mechanisms underneath but also due to the controls. The multi-level heated front seats are multi-way adjustable and due to the power lumbar support provide a comfortable experience throughout the journey. Bucket seats have been given on both first and second rows, and the foldable rear seats provide a good cargo area too. With all seats in place, around 6.3 cubic ft of luggage area is available. The 2024 special Trueno edition has something more for the insiders, coming with a digital instrument panel, push-button start, an HVAC system with LED dials and piano-key switches, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Model

2024 Toyota GR86

2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF

2024 Subaru BRZ

Passenger Capacity

4

2

4

First Row (Head/leg/shoulder room)

37/41.5/53.6

37.4/43.1/52.2

37/41.5/53.6

Second Row (Head/leg/shoulder room)

33.5/29.9/51.7

N/A

33.5/29.6/51.7

Cargo area (cu-ft)

6.3

4.6

6.3

The Subaru BRZ, being the twin of the GR86, boasts the exact same measurements on the interior, providing the same amount of space, on both the first and second rows, with the same amount of thigh support, and the same room. In terms of both being comfortable, none of the two is less than the other, with the same sized cargo area, while with the Miata RF, the scenario is different. Unlike the others, the MX-5 Miata RF can seat only 2 people, just like a proper sports car priced almost double the same. Providing around 4.6 cubic feet of area for luggage storage, the Miata RF is less spacious than the two, with similar measurements of headroom, and longer legroom. Similar to the Toyota and the Subaru, the Mazda seats too, are multiple-way adjustable with manual climate control.

  • Leather and premium cloth upholstery
  • 6-way adjustable heated driver seat
  • 4-way adjustable heated passenger seat
  • Dual-zone climate control including AC
  • Leather-wrapped steering wheel
  • Adaptive cruise control with stop and go

Infotainment System of the 2024 Toyota GR86

The 2024 GR86, being a sports car, comes with a driver-focused cockpit. However, for a convenient experience for every passenger, the interior is loaded with multiple amenities and entertainment features. Coated with quality materials, the GR86 mounts an 8-inch infotainment system on the deck, while for hands-free calling, Bluetooth is there. For music, an 8-speaker stereo system including an amplifier is also there. For navigation, both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available, not only to go from point A to point B but to enjoy everything in-between. 

  • 8” touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
  • 8-speaker sound system with amplifier
  • Bluetooth hands-free calling
  • Digital instrument panel

Exterior
6.5/10

As usual, the 2024 Toyota GR86 looks stunning in a single tone, with every curve so stunningly designed and painted. The front facia features a big grille and a pair of hawkeye-styled headlights, which not only makes the car aggressive but also helps the car to cut through the air due to the proper placement of the vents on the bumper. Similar to the front, the rear facia too is equally functional and aggressive at the same time, with a rear spoiler, twin exhausts, and LED treatments. However, neither the front nor the rear are as sexy as the sides. In fact, it’s the side view that will make you fall in love with the GR86, as long as the physical attributes are considered. Coming with front fender vents, low slung sloping roofline, coupled with 17” wheels, the side view just wins the heart every single time. 

The GR86 Trueno edition being inspired by the Initial D AE86 Trueno is painted in black and white on the hood, with black stripes on the sides. The same performance elements have been implemented there too, and the 18” alloy wheels now come with red calipers. In a nutshell, whether the special edition or not, the 2024 Toyota GR86 is one of a kind sports car that is ready to take on the road, anytime, anywhere.

Model

2024 Toyota GR86

2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF

2024 Subaru BRZ

Curb Weight (lbs)

2868

3214 

2815

Length (inch)

167.9

172.9

167.9

Width w/ mirrors (inch)

N/A

78.5

N/A

Height (inch)

51.6

51

51.6

Wheelbase (inch)

101.4

97.4

101.4

Ground Clearance (inch)

5.1

4.3

5.1

The 2024 Subaru BRZ and the 2024 Toyota GR86 are of the same measurements on the exterior too, with the same length, same height, and even the same wheelbase, providing the same amount of space inside as the BRZ. Coming with a 5.1-inch of ground clearance, the 2024 GR86 drives quite closer to the ground, delivering an exhilarating performance. However, with the Miata RF, the scenario is quite different, not being any twin brother or sister. Among the trio, the Miata RF is longer while having a slightly lowered slung roof compared to any of the Toyota and the Subaru. The wheelbase is less than the two, but being a 2-seater, this difference is justifiable. And due to the less ground clearance than the BRZ, and GR86, the Miata RF is more down to earth, which improves the overall performance, although among the trio, the Mazda makes the least amount of power.

Safety

It’s a Toyota, thus being armed with a range of safety measures is not a blue moon. The GR86 is exceptionally fun to drive, so as the safety measurements. To keep the insiders and the other people safe, the GR86 is solidly built with advanced safety technologies. So that the driver doesn’t lose control, the car comes with the GR86 safety suite that includes a pre-collision braking system and throttle management, automatic high beams, lane departure warning with sway warning, lead vehicle start alert, and many more. For timely stoppage, powerful brakes with a range of brake assist systems have been installed such as the ABS, EBD, BA, etc. To keep the car stable at high speeds, vehicle stability control along with traction control has been mechanized with the 2024 GR86. Together, the 2024 Toyota GR86 marks itself as one of the safest budget sports cars in the USA.

Some of the prominent features are - 

  • Pre-collision braking system
  • Pre-collision throttle management
  • ABS, EBD, BA
  • Lane-departure warning w/ sway warning
  • VSC with TRAC
  • Rear parking sonar with reverse automatic braking
  • Hill Start Assist Control
  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Blind spot detection

Competition

The 2024 Toyota GR86 Vs. The 2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF

The 2024 Toyota GR86 and the 2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF are both exciting sports cars that cater to driving enthusiasts with their unique strengths. The GR86 boasts a rear-wheel-drive layout and a powerful turbocharged engine, delivering an exhilarating performance with precise handling and a sporty demeanor. It’s modern design and advanced technology offer a dynamic driving experience on both the track and the road. On the other hand, the 2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF is a renowned lightweight convertible, emphasizing pure driving pleasure and nimble handling. Its sleek and classic design, combined with an agile chassis, provides an engaging and fun driving experience. Though it may not have the same power as the GR86, the driving dynamics, and open-top motoring attracts people seeking freedom. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on individual preferences—those who prioritize raw power and performance might lean toward the GR86, while drivers valuing a connected and open-air experience may opt for the MX-5 Miata RF.

The 2024 Toyota GR86 Vs. The 2024 Subaru BRZ

While both are mirrors of each other, both are some of the best budget sports cars in the segment. Coming with the same engine, the GR86 and the BRZ share the same platform, and lots of components, resulting in a successful collaboration. Making the same 228 hp under the hood, both are exceptionally fun to drive. Almost everything is identical, even the driving experience. Apart from the logo, there are probably only a few differences that most people won’t even notice. Compared to the GR86, the BRZ comes with a more upgraded suspension system, and to reduce weight, more aluminum components have been used, which makes it more enjoyable than the GR86. however, these are the only attributes that differentiate the BRZ from the GR86. however, with Toyota, you will get reliability assurance which may or may not be available in the BRZ. Otherwise, both are great, offering precise driving with nimble dynamics. Both cars come with rear-wheel drive and offer a thrilling driving experience, accentuated by modern tech and sleek design.

Final Verdict

Well, there are no particular reasons for not buying the 2024 GR86. With every year passing, the GR86 is getting more powerful mechanically, and the 2024 edition justifies the fact. In and out, it is the Subaru BRZ, but underneath, the Toyota DNA is there that solidifies reliability, performance, and durability. Packing a 2.4L Inline-4, the GR86 delivers an exhilarating performance that not only runs well but also drifts like a pro. To pay homage to the AE86 Trueno that made Keiichi Tsuchiya the drift king of the world, the 2024 GR86 is now available in another edition called Trueno that comes with the same engine, and makes the same power, but to shine the output, is now mechanized with some of the best performance mods one can install in their car. Even without the Trueno, the regular GR86 is one hell of a beast that keeps you engaging whenever you’re out on the road. In short, the 2024 GR86 is one of the best buys today if you are looking for an exhilarating sports car on a budget.

Trims

    Base
    $27,700 Est. onwards
    • Engine: 1A
    • Horsepower: TBD hp
    • Torque: TBD
    • 0-60 mph: 5.8 sec
    • Top Speed: TBD mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: -

2024 Toyota GR 86 vs competitor's 0-60

    Car Name
    0-60 MPH
    Source
    5.8 sec

    Top Toyota Cars

    2024 Toyota Sequoia

    Horsepower : 437 hp @ 5200 rpm

    MPG Combined : 22 mpg

    0-60 : 5.9 sec

    #1

    2024 Toyota 4Runner

    Horsepower : 270 hp @ 5600 rpm

    MPG Combined : 17 mpg

    0-60 : 7.5 sec

    #2

    2024 Toyota Highlander

    Horsepower : 265 hp @ 6000 rpm

    MPG Combined : 25 mpg

    0-60 : 8 sec

    #3

    2024 Toyota Crown Hybrid

    Horsepower : 236 hp @ 6000 rpm

    MPG Combined : 41 mpg

    0-60 : 7.4 sec

    #4

    2024 Toyota Camry

    Horsepower : 203 hp @ 6600 rpm

    MPG Combined : 32 mpg

    0-60 : 7.5 sec

    #5

    2024 Toyota Prius Hybrid

    Horsepower : 194 hp @ 6000 rpm

    MPG Combined : 57 mpg

    0-60 : 7.2 sec

    #6

    2024 Toyota Corolla

    Horsepower : 169 hp @ 6600 rpm

    MPG Combined : 35 mpg

    0-60 : 8.1 sec

    #7

    2024 Toyota GR 86 User Reviews

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    POPULAR TAGS

    HWR

    Hayden William Radford

    2023 Toyota GR 86

    10th Anniversary Special Edition 2dr Coupe (2.4L 4cyl 6M) w/Prod. End 01/23

    Not Rated

    User Overall Rating

    Posted On: June 24, 2024

    Toyota GR86: The best entry level sports car?

    Pros - ["The manual transmission is amazing", "Amazing entry level sports car"]

    Cons - ["Not a lot of trunk space and back seats have zero room", "Engine suffers from a lot of oil problems"]

    The Toyota GR86 is an excellent first sports car for car enthusiasts. The car averages 22 mpg with its 2.4L boxer 4 engine that puts out over 220 horsepower and 180 lbs-ft of torque to the rear wheels through either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic. The manual transmission in this car is excellent for beginners and very easy to learn on. The car is very affordable when compared to most sport...

    Not Rated
    Features
    Not Rated
    Interior
    Not Rated
    Design
    Not Rated
    Safety
    Not Rated
    Reliability
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    Deal Value
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    Dealer Review


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