The Toyota GR86 is set to make a comeback for the 2024 model year, and it’s bringing some exciting updates with it. In addition to a new performance package, the GR86 will also introduce a special edition called the Trueno Edition to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the car that inspired its design.
The Trueno Edition pays homage to the legendary Toyota AE86, which was sold as the Sprinter Trueno in Japan and as the Corolla Sport GT-S in the U.S. While the AE86 may have been technically classified as an economy car, it quickly gained a reputation among enthusiasts for its nimble handling, tunable engines, and affordability. The AE86 also played a significant role in popularizing drifting through the manga and anime series “Initial D,” which explains the inclusion of “86” in the GR86 name.
Taking cues from the iconic AE86, the Trueno Edition features a two-tone color scheme with a black hood, black door handles, black mirror caps, side graphics, and a black spoiler against a white or red paint option. It also comes equipped with black metallic 18-inch wheels, further enhancing its sporty appearance.
Inside the Trueno Edition, you’ll find suede seats with red leather trim, along with red stitching on the shifter boot and steering wheel. The special edition also boasts an eight-speaker audio system for a more immersive driving experience.
One of the significant updates for the 2024 GR86 is the introduction of a new performance package. While standard on the Trueno Edition, this package is also available as an option for other GR86 models. It includes ZF Sachs dampers and Brembo brakes, featuring four-piston front and two-piston rear calipers. Even better, this performance package can be retrofitted to any 2022 or 2023 GR86 model equipped with 18-inch wheels.
Under the hood, the GR86 retains its naturally aspirated 2.4-liter flat-4 engine, delivering 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels through either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed automatic transmission. According to Toyota, the manual version can achieve a 0-60 mph time of 6.1 seconds, while the automatic version takes 6.6 seconds. Additionally, all GR86 models come standard with a Torsen limited-slip differential for enhanced performance.
In terms of safety features, the 2024 GR86 now offers driver-assist technologies for both the manual and automatic transmissions. This includes automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. The GR86 utilizes Subaru’s camera-based safety suite, as it is twinned with the Subaru BRZ.
Production of the 2024 Toyota GR86 Trueno Edition will be limited to 860 units for the U.S. market, mirroring the release strategy of the 2023 Special Edition model. Deliveries for the Trueno Edition are scheduled to start in the winter. As for pricing, Toyota plans to announce the details at a later date.
The return of the Toyota GR86 is sure to excite sports car enthusiasts who crave a thrilling driving experience. With its performance upgrades, nod to the iconic AE86, and limited edition Trueno Edition, the 2024 GR86 is poised to make a significant impact in the automotive market. Whether it’s the sleek design, enhanced performance, or nostalgic charm, the GR86 offers something special for fans of the Toyota brand and sports car enthusiasts alike.