Toyota GR86 2025: Have you ever wondered if, in today’s sea of expensive and technologically advanced cars, it’s still possible to find a sports car that’s affordable, lightweight, and still makes your heart race? If so, the Toyota GR86 is the answer to your question. This car reminds us of a time when driving was about a clean, straightforward, and authentic experience. No pretense, just fun and control.
A car that wins hearts before price
The Toyota GR86 is a small, lightweight, and extremely agile sports coupe. Its 228 hp flat-four engine, rear-wheel drive, and manual gearbox make it one of those rare cars that still deserve to be called a “driver’s car.” Its small rear seats may seem like a joke, but the front cabin is so comfortable that even long drives feel effortless.
Its appearance is clean and captivating, while the steering is so sharp that every turn seems to be on your command. This is why the GR86 consistently ranks among the most popular cars in this segment and is also included in the list of the 10 Best Cars of 2025.
What’s Changed in the 2025 Model
For 2025, Toyota has made some significant updates to the GR86. The biggest highlight is the Hakone Edition, which first appeared in 2020 and is now available again in a limited run of 860 units. It features Sachs dampers, Brembo brakes, and larger rotors, making the drive sharper and more controllable.
Other models feature newly tuned shock absorbers, improved electric power steering, and throttle mapping, which makes rev-matching smoother when downshifting.
Prices that don’t hit the mark
Prices for the 2025 GR86 are as follows:
- Base: $31,595
- Premium: $34,195
- Hakone Edition: $36,465
The Premium variant was already a great deal, but the Hakone Edition’s exclusivity and performance make it even more appealing. And yes, if you ask online which gearbox to get, the answer is always the same: a six-speed manual is the real fun.
Performance that makes you smile
The GR86’s 2.4-liter engine feels more powerful than ever. Whether on the road or on the track, the car feels just as lively. Its ride quality is so balanced that you can even use it for daily driving.
The first-generation car took 6.2 seconds from 0-60 mph, but the new model reaches the same speed in just 5.4 seconds. With a manual transmission, acceleration feels even more enjoyable, while the automatic is a bit slow.
The true joy of driving hasn’t gone away.
Even today, when cars claim to be self-driving, cars like the Toyota GR86 remind us that the real fun still lies in being in the driver’s seat. Every turn, every rev, and every gear shift in this car is heart-warming.
2025/11/16 D1GP Rd.10 ODAIBA TOKYO DRIFT 追走ベスト16
— べーやた@きゅんまりすと👼🌻 (@bayyata_s2000) November 16, 2025
No.66 Team TOYO TIRES DRIFT GR86 D1 SPECIAL
藤野 秀之(@WISTERIAfukaya )選手#D1GP#お台場#TOKYODRIFT#TeamTOYOTIRESDRIFT #TOYOTIRES #GR86 #藤野秀之 pic.twitter.com/LMLKo2vSWA
F&Q
Q1: Is the Toyota GR86 right for beginner drivers?
If you want a light, controlled, and fun sports car, then yes. But it’s a car to get used to slowly.
Q2: Is its manual gearbox difficult?
No, it’s smooth and easy. The throttle mapping has improved even further in the new 2025 model.
Q3: What’s its mileage?
Being a sports car, the mileage isn’t very high, but you can generally get 10–12 km/l.
Q4: Is it better than the Mazda Miata?
The Miata offers open-top fun, while the GR86 offers more stability and control. The choice is yours.
Disclaimer: This article is based on available information and market reports. Actual features, prices, and performance may vary by region and dealer.
