by Michael Gauthier
- Toyota has introduced the 2027 GR86, which benefits from minor updates.
- The coupe gains a new Thunder exterior and a Cockpit Red interior option.
- Buyers will also find a new throttle calibration and an improved downshift feel.
Affordable sports cars are virtually unheard of these days, but the Toyota GR86 is returning for 2027 with a series of “focused enhancements.” They promise to make the coupe sportier and more rewarding.
While the second-generation model is now entering its fifth year in production, there’s no facelift in sight. Instead, the only styling change is the addition of a solid gray paint color called Thunder.
More: Toyota’s Next GR86 Could Be A Mazda Collab With A Turbo
Interior changes are similarly minor as the Premium trim adopts a cast iron black finish on its switches, knobs and shifter. Toyota said this was done to create a “more cohesive appearance” in the cabin.
Sticking inside, there’s a new Cockpit Red interior option. It has black Ultrasuede seats with red leather accents on the side bolsters. Buyers will also find matching red door accents and floor mats.
On the safety front, a monocular camera has been added to help detect nearby objects at intersections. The stereo camera has also been improved as its recognition range nearly doubles to “improve detection of preceding vehicles when using cruise control.”
Power is provided by a familiar 2.4-liter four-cylinder boxer engine producing 228 hp (170 kW / 231 PS) and 184 lb-ft (249 Nm) of torque. When connected to a six-speed manual, the car can accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 6.1 seconds. A six-speed automatic is also available, but it takes an additional five tenths of a second to hit 60 mph (96 km/h).
While the engine carries over, engineers modified the throttle calibration to deliver a “smoother, more linear response.” They also “widened the chamfer of the shifter interlock between 4th and 5th gear by approximately 0.02 inches to help deliver a smoother shift feel.” This provides improved downshifts during “spirited driving.”
The 2027 GR86 will arrive at dealerships this summer and pricing will be announced closer to launch. The coupe will be available in base and Premium trims, while the Yuzu Edition apparently bows out.
