Toyota GR86 to get racing-inspired upgrades, better safety tech
Almost six years on from its unveiling, the Toyota GR86 is getting a handful of minor updates to keep it fresh.
The Toyota GR86 – the follow-up to the popular 86 sports coupe – has been updated in Japan, but as ever, it’s a case of evolution rather than revolution.
Since debuting in late 2020 globally and arriving in Australia in 2022, it’s been straightforward for the GR86, which only underwent minor changes back in 2024.
These included adjustments to its throttle and electric power steering calibrations, both of which have once again been revised with the latest set of updates announced for Japan this week.
According to Toyota Japan, the GR86’s throttle settings have been adjusted to provide more “intuitive handling and instinctive responsiveness when exiting corners, driving on low-friction surfaces, such as wet or snow-covered roads, and in other situations that require precise acceleration control”.
This has been achieved by creating a more linear throttle map, given the accelerator pedal is only electrically connected to the throttle body on the engine.
Likewise, Toyota claims lessons learned from its Super Taikyu racing series exploits with the GR86 have led to a new EPAS tune, which “eliminates wobble in high-speed corners and on rough surfaces”.
In six-speed manual models, there has been a tiny change to the shifter, with the chamfer on the shift interlock between fourth and fifth gear increased by 0.5mm, claimed to ensure smoother downshifting for a better driving experience.
On top of this, the GR86’s safety suite is being enhanced by the fitment of a new triple-camera system, replacing the current two-camera setup.
The two wide-angle stereo cameras are paired with an ultra-wide-angle monocular camera, providing a wider field of view, making it more likely for the autonomous emergency braking system to detect potential hazards.
Other non-mechanical or safety changes include the Japanese market GR86 RZ – sold here as the GR86 GTS – receiving a minor tweak to its black and red interior colour scheme, not featuring red accents on the outer bolsters.
The cabin’s switches also now provide “improved grip” and are painted in cast iron black rather than silver.
On the outside, the GR86 RZ welcomes the return of Toyota’s ‘Solid Gray’ –sold here as Moon Slate Grey – paintwork, previously only briefly available on the first-generation 86.
"Toyota Australia is pleased to confirm a raft of enhancements for the GR86, including the introduction of a distinctive Moon Slate Grey paint colour, further chassis improvements, updated interior trim, and additional safety features," a spokesperson told Torquecafe.
"The updated GR86 will arrive in Australian showrooms later this month."
The Toyota GR86 continues to produce 174kW and 250Nm from its 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, driving the rear wheels through a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.
Prices currently open from $43,940 before on-road costs for the Toyota GR86 GT, and $46,090 plus on-roads for the GR86 GTS, both irrespective of transmission choice. It's unclear whether this will change post-update.
