The 2022 Toyota GR 86: Where Form Meets Function

If there were ever a low point for sports car enthusiasts in 2021, it would have to be that Toyota failed to release the GR 86 for that model year. Even for those who weren’t in the market for a sports car this year, it was still a sad affair. Fortunately, 2022 will mark the beginning of the second generation of the model, which was developed in partnership with the Subaru BRZ. What can you expect from the newest edition when it rolls into Romeoville Toyota, your Toyota 86 dealership? Well, since it has been redesigned and because they have had so long to work on it, you can expect a lot of changes and upgrades.

You can also bet good money that any complaints owners had with the first generation model have been addressed. For example, one such knock on the old model was the lack of horsepower. But rest assured, the powers that be at Toyota listened and gave the new model the power it deserves. No doubt you have heard rumors about the latest model, and after some delays, Toyota has released more details about their latest sports car. So, before you schedule a future test drive at our dealership, check out what you can expect from the 2022 GR 86.

Increased Performance

Before getting into the improved performance, let’s touch a little upon the horizontally opposed 2.4-liter engine. The horizontally opposed engine, also referred to as a boxer engine, is different from a traditional engine in one significant way. Typical engines either have the cylinders lined up in a vertical row or in the shape of a V with alternating cylinders on either side of the crankshaft. A boxer engine has cylinders that are horizontal in relation to the crankshaft. If you were to compare the two types of engines side by side, the inline and V-shaped engines would be tall and narrow, while the boxer engine is flat and rectangular.

What are the advantages of having a boxer engine? Well, since the engine is flat, it sits lower in the vehicle, resulting in a lower center of gravity which increases stability and decreases roll when cornering. Also, the up and down movement of the pistons in an inline engine creates all sorts of engine movement. The lateral movements of the opposing pistons in a boxer engine means it is self-balanced and will give you smoother acceleration and far less vibration while in motion.

While learning about the advantages of a boxer engine can be somewhat confusing if you aren’t an engine enthusiast, you will at least appreciate the increased performance. Now, it wasn’t like the old engine lacked performance; this is far from the truth. However, Toyota upped the ante by increasing horsepower and torque for 2022. The previous model could travel zero to 60 miles per hour in seven seconds flat, which is impressive for such an affordable sports car. The 2022 model does one better and will get from zero to 60 in 6.6 seconds with the automatic transmission or 6.1 seconds with the manual transmission.

While Toyota gives you a choice between a manual or automatic transmission, those who really want to enjoy a racing car experience will opt for the manual transmission. In addition to better acceleration, the manual transmission promises a driving experience that will leave you fully satisfied. A capable engine, excellent handling, and the experience of a manual transmission are the only reasons you need to check out the GR 86.

Performance Alone Isn’t Enough

Just as important as performance is interior comfort and design. When you want a sports car experience, you want to feel like you are in a special car. The front seats of the 2022 GR 86 have been redesigned and are now deep bucket seats with side bolsters that give added support when taking crazy turns. Better still, the interior is cozy and unique, and should you choose the Premium trim, you will enjoy leather accents, leather-trimmed touchpoints, and aluminum pedals. The GR 86 does include back seats, but while they might be a bit of a squeeze for some, they are a nice touch nevertheless. Besides, when you are passenger-free, you can utilize the back seat as an added cargo space for any necessities you might want to bring along for your road adventure.

The old analog instrument cluster has been replaced by an LCD panel that displays a digital speedometer circled by a round tachometer. This is a nice touch, to be sure, and a great way to give the new model a modern look and feel. Switch to track mode, and you get a race car-style linear tachometer with shift lights. The cabin layout is easy to navigate as it offers switches and buttons that are clearly labeled, and you will appreciate the padded armrests and suede trim. You will, without a doubt, experience a moment of zen once you have slid behind the wheel. No kidding, you will just sit there for a moment or two taking it all in before even thinking about hitting the start button.

Another really nice thing about the GR 86 is that it is full of all the latest technologies. It now has a sweet infotainment system with a standard eight-inch touchscreen, and the Premium trim offers an eight-speaker sound system with an optional 200 Watt subwoofer. If you opt for the automatic transmission, you will also enjoy a host of driver-assist safety features that make this a sports car that has it all.

Form Meets Function

You can’t write an article about a sports car without discussing style. The GR 86 boasts a new sleek design that is sure to turn a few heads, but it is also aerodynamically designed and can effortlessly cut through the wind. While the exterior changes are minor, they make a big difference in the overall look. You have a slightly bigger grille flanked with air ducts, front fenders that are more prominent, and an integrated ducktail spoiler.

The LED headlights look great, as do the taillights. Should you choose the Premium model, you will enjoy adaptive front lighting, which points the lights in the direction you are traveling. As we said, form meets function. Wheel types for both trims are an upgrade, as are the available Michelin Pilot Sport 4 performance tires. We predict the good looks of the GR 86 will attract a whole new generation of sports car enthusiasts.

In an age when all you hear about is how big of a V8 engine you can drop into a pickup truck or how well the latest full-size SUV can crawl up a hill, a little excitement about a sports coupe is a welcome change of pace. Better still, the GR 86 is a driver-focused, affordable sports coupe that is getting so much press. The bottom line is that this is a ride worth checking out; even if you are currently driving a truck or SUV, you will be in for a big surprise.

The Romeoville Toyota buying experience is fast, fair, and friendly; we take the worry out of buying a new or used car. We understand that you have been in the market for a vehicle before you even step foot into our showroom. You have searched tirelessly for a vehicle that complements your unique lifestyle. So when you do come and visit us, you already have a pretty good idea of what you want. Rest assured that we are not here to sell you something you don’t want or need; we are here to help guide you through the car-buying process quickly and seamlessly without hassle. We operate under a simple philosophy; we are only here to serve our customers. If you don’t currently drive a Toyota, come on in and see what you are missing. We invite you to stop by Romeoville Toyota today.