Next Toyota 86 details emerge

The next Toyota 86 will get a larger and more powerful engine, but just-released specifications of the second-generation Subaru BRZ quash any hope of a menacing turbocharged model – for now.

While Toyota is yet to officially release details, it’s understood the second-gen Toyota 86 sports car - set to be badged the Toyota GR 86 - will break cover in early 2021 powered by the same 170kW/249Nm 2.4-litre (FA24) four-cylinder boxer engine used in the new Subaru BRZ.

The current models use a smaller 147kW/205Nm 2.0-litre flat four-cylinder engine.

A Toyota Australia spokesperson wouldn’t comment on the upcoming model or expound on the differences between the twin Japanese sports cars, except to say “watch this space”.

“We can’t confirm anything except the next 86 is under development and we’ll make announcement in due course,” he said.

Subaru claims the new engine delivers stronger acceleration but hasn’t confirmed how quickly it will dash from 0-100km/h.

That said, the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ were never about straight-line speed, instead focusing on linear power delivery and handling purity – all at an affordable price.

As is currently the case, power will be sent to the rear wheels via either a six-speed manual or conventional six-speed automatic transmission.

Once again, the key differences between the Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86 will be the exterior design, cabin decor and suspension tune.

It’s not yet clear whether Toyota will continue to opt for a more ‘tail-happy’ suspension set-up, something the higher output from the new engine would encourage.

The suspension will comprise MacPherson struts with lower L-arms up front, and double wishbones at the rear, both with coil springs and anti-roll bars.

Expect 17- and 18-inch alloy wheels to feature, with Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tyres on the menu.

Improvements to the 86’s body shell should see the Toyota deliver increased torsional stiffness, which will enhance steering response, cornering grip and overall dynamics.

The new Toyota 86 will likely get the aluminium roof, bonnet and front-side panels of its twin-under-the-skin, as well as similarly benefiting from a lower centre of gravity aided by a 10mm-lower body.

While the chassis is believed to be a development of the current model’s underpinnings, the wheelbase has grown slightly, up 5mm to 2575mm, but depending on the exterior design the length and width may be different to the BRZ’s 4265mm and 1775mm dimensions.

Inside, the 2021 Toyota 86 is set to offer the same new 8.0-inch multimedia infotainment system and 7.0-inch LCD digital instrument cluster as the new BRZ.

Add in sportier seats with deeper bolstering and the cabin should deliver meaningful improvements in support and functionality.

Auto transmission versions of the BRZ will offer Subaru’s EyeSight safety suite with adaptive cruise control and autonomous emergency braking (AEB), so count on these for the Toyota 86 as well.

Local pricing and spec are still to be confirmed, but given the improvements in standard equipment and technology, chassis upgrades and bigger, brawnier powertrain, the new Toyota 86 is almost certain to cost more when it arrives in Australia.

The current range starts at $32,180 plus on-road costs, and tops out at $39,680 plus ORCs.

After its global reveal early next, sales are expected to commence in the second half of 2021.

There is still some chance that a turbocharged version of the Toyota GR 86, potentially wearing GRMN badges and producing 190kW/375Nm from its force-fed FA24 engine, will eventuate.

But given the Toyota Supra stands as the brand’s turbocharged two-door hero car, and that the Japanese auto giant has always said the 86 is about handling purity rather than raw power, this scenario is looking increasingly unlikely.