In September 2017, Toyota announced that it had plans to create a new “GR” sports car series in Japan. The range, which the automaker said would be gradually rolled out to some markets “outside of Japan as well”, will comprise the flagship GRMN models, the mid-range GR series and the entry-level GR Sport models.
And it’s a version of the latter that you see here. Yes, this is the Toyota 86 GR Sport that has just been unveiled in Japan. But don’t get too excited just yet … there’s no extra power to be found here. Indeed, the naturally aspirated 2,0-litre boxer engine still makes the standard 147 kW, directed to the rear axle via either a six-speed manual or automatic gearbox.
So, what sets this new derivative (which is available in Japan in Crystal White Pearl, Crystal Black Silica or Pure Red) apart? Well, it gains a fairly subtle body kit, which includes a new front lip, chunkier side skirts and a cheekier rear spoiler.
A rear suspension brace has also been fitted, along with a Brembo braking system (complete with red callipers), black-finished 17-inch alloys, a GR-branded (leather-trimmed) steering wheel and a special instrument cluster.
Here’s hoping the brand has plans to give its 86 the full GRMN treatment in the not-too-distant future…
