The Toyota GR 86 was unveiled back in April with the US launch following in early June. As with the previous generation, Toyota’s entry-level sportscar is sharing most of its bodywork, interior, and underpinnings with the Subaru BRZ. In order to allow broader customization options, Toyota Gazoo Racing will offer a full range of accessories that were recently previewed in Japan with a duo of concept cars.
Starting off with the GR Parts Concept which is the most striking of any other GR 86 we have seen, the added parts make it look more aggressive even than the GR Supra!
The front splitter is huge, with glossy carbon-fiber accents contrasting the white bodywork and connecting with the air intakes. The fender add-ons make the GR 86 wider by 43 mm (1.7 inches) for a racecar-like stance. They have integrated inlets with the same carbon-fiber finish matching the side sill extensions with extra fins. The custom-designed 19″ forged rims with five double spokes are shod in wider Bridgestone Potenza tires.
At the back, there’s a huge wing and a pronounced diffuser giving the GR 86 a touch of the Japanese extreme modification culture. Finally, the quadruple tailpipes not only look cool but also feature sports mufflers for a richer sound.
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As for the GR Parts Customization Concept, think of it as a slightly toned-down version that still looks sporty enough without compromising usability in everyday driving. Thus, the fancy body-colored add-ons on the front and rear bumpers are less pronounced, allowing for greater approach and escape angles. Without the wide fenders, the side sill extensions with fake vents maybe look a bit over the top but the duck-tail spoiler at the back is nicely integrated.
Inside, the concept cars get a few sporty touches like the decorative panels on the doors, dashboard, and center console resembling forged carbon fiber. Other available accessories include knee pads, a key cover, and heavily tinted windows.
Toyota Gazoo Racing didn’t limit itself to visual modifications. The concept cars also benefit from more powerful brakes with monoblock calipers that could come in handy in the racetrack. Handling is improved thanks to the lowered suspension with adjustable dampers, wider performance tires, and a member bracing set for added rigidity.
As for the engine, no one mentioned it so we suspect that under the bonnet hides the stock, naturally aspirated unit. The US-spec GR 86 is fitted with a 2.4-liter flat-four engine producing 232 hp (235 PS / 173 kW) and 184 lb-ft (250 Nm) of torque. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox or a six-speed automatic, with the help of a limited-slip differential. Performance-wise, the stock GR 86 accelerates from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 6.3 seconds and can reach a top speed of 149 mph (240 km/h).
Also Read: The 2022 GR 86 Makes A Good Impression During Our First Ride As Toyota Explains Why It Lacks A Turbo
It is true that Toyota fans all over the world would love to see a more powerful and track-focused version of the GR 86, however that would come too close in terms of cost and performance to the base-spec four-cylinder GR Supra. After all, Toyota has made it clear that their compact sports car is aimed at purists who don’t really care about the performance figures as long as the driving dynamics put a smile on their face.
The factory upgrades for the Toyota GR 86 were launched a few weeks ago at Fuji Speedway in Japan, together with aftermarket options from HKS, Tom’s Racing, Blitz, Third, and other Japanese tuners, showcasing the potential of the entry-level sports car. Toyota Gazoo Racing hasn’t specified when they will start offering the full range of accessories for the GR 86, or if they will be available outside Japan.