My FH5 Log: 86 -Eighty Six-

Launched over a decade ago, the Toyota 86 is proof that you don't need to blow your budget away to get a sports car that's fun enough for you and your tuning needs.

Fresh from the FH5 Summer Party Dry Season playlist, here comes the new version of the reborn Hachiroku, welcome to the Toyota GR86.

So, what's it all about the GR86?

Launched three months later than its Subaru BRZ twin, which is now in its second generation form, the GR86 proudly carries over where its predecessor left off while still delivering the same accessible dynamics coveted the world over. It utilizes the improved version of its signature platform used by its predecessor. While the new model is similarly sized compared to the old one, the sport-tuned suspension and chassis have been updated to make it more enjoyable to drive than the previous model.

Under the hood, the flat-four boxer engine had its displacement up from the previous model's 2.0L to 2.4L, resulting in an increased power output of 235PS and 250Nm of torque while mated to either a 6-speed manual or auto.

Compared to its predecessor, the GR86 feels so much more addictive and more fun to drive, taking this reasonably fast car a step to ascension. With the added power and improved dynamics, this is Hachiroku redefined for the Reiwa era and I'm hooked on it, thank you very much.

Speaking of ascension, let's find out how much the GR86 evolved from its 86 predecessor. With that, it's time for a Hillclimb run in the dead of the night because such a setting gives me the Initial D vibes. Anyway, no time for sentimental thoughts. Let's get this experiment rolling, pronto.

And now the results...

86 - 3m59.823s

GR86 - 3m41.889s

Talk about a massive improvement compared to the previous model! Guess the ToyoBaru collaboration really leveled up with this one.

The Toyota 86 is famed for being cheap, easy to drive, and fun in every way, and the GR86 still boasts the same purposes but now with the added power and improved dynamics to keep up with the challenges of the new normal. The world's favorite reasonably fast car has turned.

I was going to wrap this up but I have other plans with the GR86 so watch this space...