Toyota 86 – Pure Driving Fun Explained
The Toyota 86 is the result of a joint development project between Toyota and Subaru. Designed by chief engineer Tetsuya Tada and stylist Kenji Kido, the 86 is a sleek, fastback 2-door coupé known for its engaging driving dynamics, stylish looks, and performance capability. Since its debut in 2012, it has remained one of the most exciting driver-focused sports cars in its class.
From August 2016, Toyota marketed this model globally under various names:
• Toyota 86 – Asia, Australia, South Africa, North America & South America
• Toyota GT86 – Europe
• FT86 – Brunei, Jamaica & Nicaragua
• Scion FR-S – USA & Canada (2012–2016)
Interior & Exterior
The Toyota 86 delivers an exciting sports-car driving experience but sacrifices some practicality, as expected from a compact coupé. Although technically a 4-seater, it is best considered a 2-seater with occasional child-sized rear seats. The front bucket sports seats are supportive and positioned low for a true sports-car feel. Head and legroom are adequate for taller front passengers, but rear seating is extremely tight.
Cargo space is limited to 6.9 cubic feet, but folding the rear seats allows room for a full set of four wheels and tires, making it ideal for track enthusiasts. Cabin materials include durable, decent-quality plastics for the price range.
The steering wheel and front seats feature leather wrapping, with optional suede-leather upholstery and heated seats available.
The driving position is sporty and engaging, though long-distance seat comfort has faced criticism. Rear LATCH child-seat anchors are included but are deeply recessed, making them difficult to use.
Standard interior and convenience features include:
• Automatic climate control
• Keyless entry
• LED headlights & taillights
• Folding rear seats
• 7-inch touchscreen infotainment
• Traction & stability control
• Cruise control
• Multiple airbags
With its sleek, aggressive body styling, the Toyota 86 looks and feels like a true sports car—inside and out.
Engine & Transmission
The Toyota 86 is powered by a 2.0L 4-cylinder boxer engine (4U-GSE/FA20) mounted at the front with rear-wheel drive.
Performance figures include:
• Up to 205 hp (manual)
• 200 hp (automatic)
• Top speed: 226 km/h (manual) / 210 km/h (automatic)
• Fuel consumption: approx. 8.4 L/100km
Transmission options include:
• 6-speed manual (TL70 Aisin AZ6)
• 6-speed automatic (A960E)
Fuel efficiency is strong for its class, returning around 10.2 km/L in the city and 13.6 km/L on the highway.
Features
Key safety and performance features include:
• ABS – prevents wheel lock-up during heavy braking
• Front airbags – protect driver and passenger in frontal impacts
• Curtain/overhead airbags – protect occupants during rollovers or side collisions
• Immobilizer security system – prevents engine start without the correct key
Parts can also be searched here.
Final Verdict
On the used market, Toyota 86 prices range from USD 9,220 to USD 52,790, depending on model year, mileage, condition, and trim level. New models are significantly more expensive, placing them out of reach for many buyers.
In Tanzania, the Toyota 86 is not very common, so service parts and body components may be costly and hard to find locally. Overall, the Toyota 86 is perfect for driving enthusiasts seeking style, performance, and pure driving enjoyment. It may not be the most practical choice, but for those who love sports cars, it delivers excitement and character that few cars in its price range can match. Explore the Toyota 86 stocklist and drive yours home today.