Toyota’s back-to-basics sports car returns with a facelift. We put it through its paces and discovered whether it was worth the hype. The Toyota GT 86 first hit the road in 2012 and we instantly fell in love. It was a ‘driver’s car’. By that we mean there were no frills. There were no fancy gadgets, the interior was simple and it wasn’t particularly economical. But, it put the driver first. It was simply phenomenal to drive. It was fun, handled like a sports car worth twice the price and hugged the road. It was a fantastic little car, even edging out the brilliant Audi TT.
When we heard they were introducing a new model, we were excited. The GT 86 Aero is out now to reinvigorate the range. A quick glance at the statistics show that Toyota haven’t really messed with the recipe. In fact, the basic specification is much the same. The engine is the same, it’s still a two litre, four cylinder affair. The top speed is the same and 0-60 is actually a touch slower. We did however notice a change in price. With an extra two grand on the price tag, we were keen to see where the extra value was. Let’s take a look.
What’s new?
So, what exactly is new with the GT 86 Aero? Quite simply, it’s all aesthetic. It’s had a facelift and some body work. The body itself is sharper and more angular than the smooth original features. You also can’t fail to notice the giant rear spoiler wing which is, quite frankly, far too big. It’s also got lower skirts and an angry looking new nose. Inside, there are one or two new gadgets including a new Sat Nav system.
Competitors
The GT 86 Aero’s competitors remain much the same as before. The unstoppable Audi TT is of course its main rival. The TT boats a little more luxury and styling credentials. That of course comes at a price and the Audi is still more expensive. However, its entry level model is beginning to close the gap. The Nissan 370Z is the only other real competitor in this market. Put side by side, the GT 86 still comes out on top. It is cheaper and way more fun to drive than the TT and the Nissan.
Ride
Let’s get stuck into the Toyota GT 86 Aeros best feature: its ride. This is the single biggest selling point about this car and the most important aspect of this review. Toyota have built this car purely for the driver’s experience. This car is all about the ride. In the city, the suspension is a little hard and uncomfortable. But that’s where our disappointment ends. Take it out onto the country roads and it is simply phenomenal. It is a rear wheel, back-to-basics sportscar. Nothing more, nothing less. It is more fun and exciting than anything else in its range.
Handling
Yes, it unlocks a lot of power and excitement from its 2 litre engine, but how does it handle? Well, it’s sublime. It grips the road like you wouldn’t believe. It is responsive and handles like a dream. In fact, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were driving a car worth twice the price. It has the handling usually only reserved for the likes of a Lotus Elise. It is light, low to the ground with a perfect weight distribution. It sticks to the corners like glue and the steering is immediate and responsive.
The engine
There has been no upgrade from the original GT 86, but you won’t hear us complaining about that. The 2 litre, 4 cylinder boxer engine is just perfect for this car. The engine just begs to be revved and will perform best when you push it in the gears. It will create a fantastic 197 brake horse power, which is better than the TT. It’s also faster in the 0-60 race, achieving a respectable 7.7 seconds. Best of all, you can feel every last bhp in the engine. This is one of the most engaging cars on the market.
Styling
For all its brilliance on the road, we are drawn back to the new styling. We’re all for updating and modernising vehicles, but this is perhaps a step too far. This is entirely down to personal preference but the original GT 86 had a little more class and style. The gigantic rear wing is a testament to the Subaru developers who helped build the car. However, we can’t help but wish they’d left it alone. On the other hand, the interior facelift is a welcome change. The modest styling of the original did need an update.
Price
Despite its higher price tag, this car still offers incredible value for money. At £27,495, the new model is £2,500 more expensive than before. We’re not entirely sure where the extra money has gone, but it is still a great deal. The GT 86 is much cheaper than the Audi TT and provides twice the fun. You could also consider a lease hire on this particular vehicle for a more affordable deal.
Reliability
When it comes to reliability, you can’t fault Toyota’s pristine reputation. That continues throughout the GT 86 range. Of course, you’ll be pushing the limits much further than your average road car. This vehicle is designed to be put through its paces. You’ll want to take it to track days and throw it into the corners on the winding roads. It will hold up well, but expect a few more services than usual.
Practicality
For a car that is focused entirely on the driver, it fares surprisingly well in this category. There is a little more leg room in the back than the rival Audi TT, for example. You’ll also find ample storage space in the boot. It’s not a spacious family car, but it doesn’t claim to be. Instead, it plays to its roots. The back seat can be removed specifically to fit an additional tyre and rims. As you would expect, the car is designed in every way to suit the track.
The GT 86 Aero is a brilliant little sportscar. It is raw, ferocious and builds on the original’s no frills philosophy. Is it worth the extra money for the new model? We’re not convinced, but this is still a winning sports car at the very top of its class.
Image credit: Toyota UK