What is the Toyota 86?

Feb 21, 2017

Exterior Profile of the 2017 Toyota 86

The Toyota 86 has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) starting at $26,255. Previously known as the Scion FR-S, the 86 is the car maker’s entry in the sports car segment. With a history dating back to 1962 with the introduction of its predecessor during the Tokyo Auto Show, this nimble, balanced sports car continues the tradition of being a fan favorite.

The Toyota 86 Through History

First released as the world’s introduction to the two-seater sports car in 1965, today’s Toyota 86 was originally known as the Sports 800. This was followed by the Toyota 2000GT, a high-performance fastback that changed the way the world viewed Japanese cars. Produced between 1967 and 1970 using the front mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout (FMR), the 2000GT had a 2.0-liter straight six engine, five-speed manual transmission and was rumored to reach 135 MPH. Only 351 2000GTs were produced.

From 1983 until 1987, Toyota manufactured the Corolla AE86. Available either as a two-door coupe or three-door hatchback, this compact sports car used the same FMR layout that would come to signify the basis of the vehicle as it evolved.

The Toyota 86 Today

The Toyota 86 resurfaced in January 2012 and was sold in the United States as the Subaru BRZ and the Scion FR-S. When the Scion brand was discontinued in 2016, Toyota renamed the the FR-S to the Toyota 86. Its 2017 release marks a new chapter in the iconic sports car’s illustrious history.

Toyota 86 Features

In keeping with tradition, the Toyota 86 features a Boxer-Four engine with the FMR layout that it made famous. It’s available paired with a six-speed manual transmission which delivers 205 horsepower. Choose the six-speed automatic transmission and the engine delivers 200 horsepower. With a top speed of 134 MPH, the Toyota 86 can reach zero to 60 in 6.2 seconds. The EPA estimates that it gets 21 MPG in the city and 28 out on the highway*.

Interior of the 2017 Toyota 86

A sport-tuned suspension, sport steering wheel with audio controls, paddle shifters, body-strength reinforcement and chrome-tipped dual exhaust are just a few of the standard features found on this sports car. Other standard equipment includes:

LED projector low- and high-beam headlights with an embossed “86” lens
Daytime running lights (DRL)
Rear combination lights with LED lighting
17-inch twisted spoke alloy wheels
Variable intermittent front windshield wipers
“86” front fender badge
Aerodynamic lower diffuser on rear bumper
rear window defogger
Turn signals with an embossed “86”lens

Inside, drivers will find a standard multi-information display, an engine immobilizer feature, sport front bucket seats, a leather-trimmed steering wheel with an “86” center cap logo, knee support cushions to support any spirited driving that might occur and more.

Toyota 86 on Mountain Roads