Toyota GR86 (ZN8 – MY 2025)
1 | Concept & Dimensions
The GR86 stays true to the classic “lightweight, front-engine, rear-drive” recipe. Its Subaru-co-developed “Z” chassis is 50 % stiffer in torsion than the outgoing GT86, and the centre of gravity sits 15 mm lower. Overall size: 4 265 × 1 775 × 1 310 mm on a 2 575 mm wheelbase; curb weight 1 275–1 295 kg depending on trim.
2 | Powertrain
Naturally-aspirated FA24 flat-four (2 387 cc, D-4S injection) rated at 234 hp and 250 Nm.
0–100 km/h: 6.3 s (6-speed manual), 6.9 s (6-speed automatic).
Standard Torsen limited-slip diff; final drive 4.10 (MT) / 4.30 (AT).
3 | Strengths Highlighted by Owners & Reviewers
| Strength | Why it matters |
|---|
| Much stronger mid-range torque | Pulls cleanly from 2 500 rpm, fixing the “torque dip” complaint of the old 2.0. |
| Exceptionally communicative steering | Precise front-end feel makes it easy to catch—and enjoy—oversteer; ideal for learning car control. |
| Neutral, progressive chassis | Drivers report that the balance flatters novices yet rewards experts, delivering fun at legal speeds. |
| Sticky Michelin Pilot Sport 4 (Executive trim) | More grip and heat resistance; last 15–20 min stints on track without fading. |
| Affordable maintenance | Routine services stay under €400 and many parts are shared with mainstream Subaru models. |
| Solid real-world reliability | No major structural recalls; engine and gearbox cope well with spirited street use and moderate track time. |
4 | Common Weaknesses Raised Online & in Road Tests
| Issue | Details often reported |
|---|
| RTV particle risk in oil pickup | Hard-run track cars have suffered bearing failure; community recommends inspecting the oil pickup screen after heavy circuit use. |
| Marginal oil cooling for sustained laps | Oil temps exceed 125 °C in long sessions; many owners add an aftermarket cooler. |
| Thin paint | Stone chips appear quickly on bonnet and arches; paint-protection film is a popular precaution. |
| High road-noise levels | Rough asphalt and PS4 tyres register 73–75 dB at 130 km/h; minimal sound deadening is part of the weight-saving. |
| Sparse ADAS | Only basic lane-departure warning; no adaptive cruise or auto-brake, which limits convenience on long commutes. |
| Token rear seats | Leg-room is virtually nil for adults; most owners use the space for helmets or spare tyres. |
| Small 50 l fuel tank | Track-day range under 200 km, so refuelling is frequent during events. |
5 | Running-Cost Snapshot (community averages)
| Service item | Parts | Labour | Typical interval |
|---|
| Oil 0W-20 + filter | €80 | €70 | 10-12 000 km |
| Iridium plugs | €130 | €90 | 48 000 km |
| LSD diff oil | €45 | €60 | 24 000 km (6 000 km if track-heavy) |
| Front brake pads | €150 | €90 | 25 000 km street |
| Michelin PS4 215/40 R18 | €760 / set | – | 18–20 000 km |
Typical fuel use: 8–9 l/100 km on the open road; 11–12 l/100 km during track days.
6 | Pricing & Residuals (Italy)
| Trim | On-the-road price |
|---|
| Active 6-MT | €37 000 |
| Active 6-AT | €38 600 |
| Executive 6-MT | €40 900 |
| Executive 6-AT | €42 500 |
Two-year resale values hover around 75 % of list; cars ordered with the Track Pack (red four-pot calipers, Sachs dampers, front splitter) command the strongest demand.
7 | Community Verdict
Owners and reviewers converge on one point: the GR86 delivers unmatched, old-school driving feedback for its price. The stronger 2.4 flat-four, sweet manual gearbox and benign oversteer window make it both a driver-training tool and a weekend hero. Downsides—modest refinement, bare-bones driver aids, paint fragility and oil-temp management—are well known but accepted as trade-offs for purity and lightweight construction.
If you crave an analogue, rear-drive sports car that teaches car control without electronic crutches, the GR86 is almost alone in today’s market. If daily comfort, tech features or long-distance civility come first, a turbo hot-hatch or premium coupé will fit better.
Toyota GR86: pros, cons, maintenance costs 
