Toyota GT86

Review by Michal Kieca

A Victory in Engineering Finesse, Finally the Affordable Fun Machine is Here!

One day after lapping Toyota’s superb GT-86 through the perilous Winton Raceway in Victoria, Australia, the adrenaline of the day is still a vivid memory. Never has a car left me as thrilled, or utterly delighted as the 86. Or left me grinning so much from ear to ear.

Toyota in recent years has matured and understands the fundamental qualities of a good car. Even better, it has the in-house talent to do so at a price that would excite even Cyprus with their financial woes. My ardent enthusiasm for the 86 mirrors the fieriness of the vehicle itself. The Porsche Cayman was the benchmark for that car’s development, and it shows: not just in the similarity of the driving position, but in the general character of the car. The Toyota’s agility, chassis balance, responses and the eagerness of the naturally aspirated boxer engine, all mirror the German. The steering is delightful, organic and beautifully weighted with such pinpoint accuracy and purity that will have others lost in the dark. 

The chassis simply brushes off bumps and the bravely neutral handling allows the car to be utterly adjustable allowing you to “Ken Block” corners at will. Yet the car feels planted and stable, with your body becoming an extension of the machine. Working in harmony with the dynamics is the willing Subaru boxer, keen revving and beautifully matched to the gearbox. Sure, the 86 could do with a bit more power, but that would be to fundamentally understand the essence of the car. It would upset the balance, the poise, the brilliance… No other car in my mind, not even the MX-5 offers the same degree of accessibility, or is as exploitable, or natural in every facet of its being. Yes, I’m in love - and believe it or not, with a Toyota! Amazing...

All Images/Photos © Toyota Australia Press Office 2013