With the announcement of the 2022 Subaru BRZ late last year, we were all waiting for Toyota’s version. Now, Toyota’s Gazoo Racing division has announced the 2022 GR 86, with the ‘GR’ standing for Gazoo Racing.

Both the 2022 GR 86 and BRZ are mechanically identical, keeping the boxer engine and rear-wheel drive layout from the previous generation. However, the engine displacement has grown from 2.0L to 2.4L, improving 0-62 mph times from 7.4 seconds down to 6.3 seconds.

The front of the GR 86 is cosmetically different than the BRZ, but the rear looks to be the same.

The GR 86 is set to launch in Japan in late fall, so expect it to reach US shores sometime after that. - CM

Below are the key features of the 2022 GR 86.

1. Interior and exterior designs embrace responsive handling and functional beauty

Exterior

With fender tops that extend horizontally to the beltline, the GR 86 boasts a stance distinctive of front-engine, rear-wheel-drive vehicles. Its low, horizontal underbody and narrow cabin rear combine to create a broad, low-center-of-gravity appearance.

The front of the vehicle features the GR-specific Functional MATRIX Grille, which fuses performance and emotionality.

Interior

The operating system―which includes the various switches and the horizontally-accented instrument panel―is optimally located to create a space that enables the driver can concentrate on driving.

The display features a 7-inch TFT screen. Its opening animation sequence is inspired by the piston movements of the GR 86's horizontally opposed engine, and fosters a sense of excitement even before the drive begins.

2. The evolutionary new 2.4L horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine retains the unique qualities of the 86

Sporting a lightweight, compact engine with a low center-of-gravity in line with previous iterations, the GR 86 increases its displacement size from 2.0 to 2.4L. The engine delivers superior driving performance as a consequence, achieving 0-100km/h acceleration in just 6.3 seconds―down from the 7.4 seconds of the outgoing model. Engine responsiveness has also been enhanced, providing smooth, stress-free sensations from low to high rpms.

3. Inheriting an extremely low center-of-gravity front-engine, rear-wheel-drive package, the new GR86 provides a step-change in agility

The dimensions of the new GR 86 are almost identical to the previous model. Limiting both the overall height and hip-point of the vehicle helps lower the center-of-gravity and enhance turning performance, and so delivering the agility required of an 86.

The use of aluminum for the roof panels results in a lower center-of-gravity, while aluminum fenders and updated front seats and mufflers contribute to reduced weight.

Body rigidity has been improved, with the goal of offering pleasurable handling in all speed ranges―from urban driving to the upper limits of performance. Torsional rigidity has been enhanced by approximately 50% over the previous model for greater steering stability.

4. Aerodynamic components are rooted in motorsports

The GR 86 features aerodynamic components seen on 86 models that participate in motorsports. These include air outlets, side sill spoilers, and other parts that improve steering responsiveness and stability.

5. A sports car that provides a secure and safe car life

The AT version of the GR 86 uses Subaru's EyeSight* Driver Assist Technology. This system of comprehensive safety technologies provides safety support during everyday driving; pre-collision safety technologies that help avoid or reduce collision impacts; and emergency rescue support and secondary collision avoidance support in the event of an accident.