- The new model may ditch Subaru power in favor of the same engine as the GR Yaris and GR Corolla.
- Reports also suggest the new GR86 will utilize a shortened version of the Lexus IS platform.
- Both automatic and manual transmission choices are expected to be available for enthusiasts.
The second-generation Toyota GR86 has only been on the market for three years, but already, the automaker is rumored to be working on its replacement, which could within the next couple of years. This new model may bring a significant boost in power and share more similarities with Toyota’s other GR performance models.
While the current GR86 has been praised for its driving dynamics, a stronger engine and more advanced technology could help it keep pace with its higher-powered competitors.
Turbo power and hybrid tech
While there have been many rumors going around, the latest reports from Japan suggests that the next GR86 will replace its current 2.4-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine with a 1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder, the same powerplant found in the GR Yaris and GR Corolla. This switch could be a game-changer for the GR86. Such a switch would make sense.
Currently, the GR86 produces 228 hp, but its turbocharged siblings, the GR Yaris and GR Corolla, both churn out around 300 hp, making the GR86 feel underpowered in comparison. It’s a bit surprising that one of Toyota’s purest sports cars lags so far behind in terms of horsepower, so a turbocharged engine could close that gap and make it more competitive.
Read: 2025 Toyota GR86 Gets Sharper Handling And A Green Surprise
Interestingly, Japan’s Best Car reports Toyota will also add a hybrid system to the new GR86. This hybrid setup could be similar to the one found in the new Toyota 250 Series Land Cruiser Prado. All up, the new GR86 should deliver over 300 hp and importantly, both automatic and six-speed manual transmissions are tipped to be retained. The same rear-wheel drive setup as the current car is also expected.
Lexus platform rumored to replace Subaru chassis
This is not the first time we’ve heard a rumor about the GR86 switching to the 1.6-liter three-pot of the GR Yaris and GR Corolla. A report published in November last year made the same claim, adding that Toyota will also ditch the shared Subaru platform of the current model in favor of a shortened version of the chassis from the Lexus IS.
The combination of the turbo engine, hybrid system, and new platform could make the next-gen GR86 a much more formidable player in the compact sports car segment.
All that said, it’s important to treat these reports with some skepticism, as Toyota has yet to officially confirm any details about the next GR86, let alone confirm what kind of powertrain it will have. While the rumors are exciting, especially the potential for a turbo-hybrid unit and a platform change, we’ll have to wait for more concrete information from the manufacturer
Regardless of what form the next model takes, any fun-to-drive sports car from Toyota will be welcomed by enthusiasts.
