The 2024 Toyota GR86 is a testament to Toyota’s commitment to driving pleasure and affordability. As the latest iteration in a lineage of driver-focused vehicles, the GR86 maintains the brand’s ethos of providing a pure driving experience. With its sleek design and improved performance features, the GR86 is poised to continue the legacy of its predecessors.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Pure Driving Bliss: This is where the GR86 truly shines. The naturally-aspirated 2.4L boxer engine might not break any land speed records, but it delivers a smooth, responsive driving experience that begs to be pushed on winding roads.
• Sharper Handling: Compared to its predecessor, the 2024 GR86 boasts a stiffer chassis and improved suspension, translating to tighter cornering and a more connected feel with the road.
• Improved Safety: A major update for 2024, manual variants now come equipped with Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), and automatic high beams, enhancing overall peace of mind.
• Two Flavors to Choose From: The GR86 comes in two trim levels – GT and GTS. The GT offers a purist experience, while the GTS throws in some additional comfort features like heated leather seats and a blind-spot monitoring system.

Cons

• No Powerhouse: While the engine is fun, some drivers might crave a bit more oomph. If you’re looking for a tire-shredding monster, the GR86 might not be your perfect match.
• Backseat (Barely) Exists: Let’s be honest, the back seats are more for occasional storage than passengers. Think of them as a bonus trunk space, not a place for long journeys.
• Infotainment on the Basic Side: The infotainment system is functional but not class-leading. If you crave the latest tech bells and whistles, you might find it a bit underwhelming.

How Much Does it Cost?

The 2024 GR86 starts at a very attractive price point of $43,240 (before on-road costs) for the GT trim. The GTS will set you back a touch more at $45,390 (before on-road costs). Both trims are available with either a 6-speed manual or a smooth-shifting automatic transmission, with no price difference between the two.

Features and Benefits: More Than Just Sporty Looks

Sure, the GR86 looks fantastic with its aggressive lines and sporty stance, but it’s more than just a pretty face. Here’s a peek at some of the features and benefits you get:

• Lightweight Construction: The GR86 prioritizes agility with a lightweight frame that translates to a more responsive driving experience.
• Torsen Limited-Slip Differential (GTS Only): This feature (exclusive to the GTS) helps prevent wheel spin and improves traction during cornering for sharper handling.
• 18-inch Alloy Wheels: Both trims come with stylish 18-inch alloy wheels that complement the car’s sporty aesthetic and enhance handling.
• LED Headlights and Taillights: Standard on both trims, the LED lighting provides excellent visibility and adds a touch of modern flair.

Safety First: What the GR86 Offers

As mentioned earlier, the 2024 update brings significant safety upgrades, especially for manual variants. Here’s a rundown of the safety features:

• Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) – Manual Only: This system helps detect potential frontal collisions and automatically applies brakes to avoid or mitigate an impact.
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW) – Manual Only: This system alerts you if you unintentionally stray from your lane.
• Automatic High Beams: This feature automatically switches between high and low beams depending on oncoming traffic for better nighttime visibility.
• 7 Airbags: The GR86 comes equipped with a comprehensive airbag system to protect occupants in case of a collision.

Running Costs: Keeping it Affordable

The GR86 is known for being a driver’s car, but it’s also wallet-friendly. The fuel-efficient 2.4L engine offers a combined fuel consumption figure of around 8.2L/100km, making it a relatively affordable car to run. Additionally, Toyota’s reputation for reliability should translate to lower maintenance costs in the long run.

GR86 vs. the Competition

The GR86‘s main competitor is its close sibling, the Subaru BRZ. They share a platform and engine, with some minor styling and suspension tuning differences. Choosing between the two comes down to personal preference – want a touch more focus on handling? The BRZ might be your pick.

Here’s a quick comparison with some other sports car contenders:

• Mazda MX-5 Miata: The iconic Miata offers a similar focus on driving engagement in a smaller, convertible package. It boasts even sharper handling but with less practicality.
• Ford Mustang: The Mustang brings American muscle to the table, with a powerful V8 engine option and a more spacious interior. However, its handling might not be as sharp as the GR86.
• Nissan Z: The Z is a direct competitor in terms of power and performance, offering a turbocharged engine and a more aggressive feel. It might be a better choice for those seeking a raw, powerful experience.

Conclusion

A Driver’s Dream, But Not for Everyone

The 2024 Toyota GR86 remains a compelling choice for driving enthusiasts. It delivers an engaging driving experience with sharp handling, a responsive engine, and a relatively affordable price tag. The addition of safety features for manual variants in 2024 is a welcome upgrade.

However, it’s not perfect. The lack of power and cramped back seats might be dealbreakers for some. Additionally, the infotainment system is basic.

Rating: 8.5/10

The GR86 is a fantastic sports car for those who prioritize pure driving pleasure. It offers exceptional value for its price point and delivers a smile-inducing experience on every twisty road. However, its practicality limitations and lack of raw power might deter some buyers. If you crave a thrilling, driver-focused experience, the GR86 is definitely worth a test drive.