Flash Drive

2023 Toyota GR86

June 6, 2023 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 

Model Tested: 2023 Toyota GR86 Premium 2+2 Coupe 6 Speed Manual Transmission

The Toyota GR86 Special Edition is new for 2023 and comes in Solar Shift Orange paint with black wheels.

Engine: 2.4-liter flat-4-cylinder, 228 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft torque

Transmission: 6-speed manual transmission, rear-wheel drive

EPA Rating: 20-mpg city, 27-mpg highway, 22-mpg combined

Base Price: $30,500

As Tested: $32,363

Performance:

Lively responsive engine

The Toyota GR86 Special Edition has a unique cat-back exhaust system.

Athletic acceleration

Excellent 6-speed manual transmission

First gear pretty short

Second gear shift needed quickly

Hill hold feature very welcome

Switch for traction control

Quick responsive steering

Good brakes

Comfort:

Excellent suede bucket seats

The bucket seats are very supportive and comfortable.

Supportive side bolsters

Driver seat height pump

Heated two temps

Stretch-out legroom

Headroom a little close for tall drivers

Very good telescopic feature/so-so tilt range

Medium thick, slightly contoured leather wheel

Dual zone HVAC controls

Big sun visors

Super small back seat–best for coats or luggage

The 6-speed manual transmission is a key element of the car’s fun to drive personality.

Utility:

Small trunk, flat floor

Additional storage under deck

Back seats fold flat

OK size pass-through

Decent size infotainment screen

Medium size non-locking glovebox

Small console bin with two cupholders

Door bins little more than bottle notches

WOW Factors:

The trunk holds enough luggage for a weekend trip for two people.

Great fun to drive

Nice six-speed transmission

Affordable

Sharp styling

Whines:

Quite low to the ground

Short first gear

Rather loud interior at speed

Bottom Line:

The 2023 Toyota GR86 Premium 2+2

The minimal back seat folds down to increase cargo/luggage capacity.

Coupe 6-speed represents a lot of fun in a compact stylish package that’s affordably priced. In a world of lumbering SUVs it’s refreshing to drive a lithe little sports coupe that’s as a responsive as the Toyota GR86. A GR86 Special Edition was added for 2023 that comes in a wild Solar Shift Orange color with a more aggressive cat-back performance exhaust and matte-black 18-inch wheels. The standard edition GR86 is just as much fun and less conspicuous should you exceed speed limits. The 2023 Toyota GR86 easily qualifies as a driver’s car where you’re in control more than some computer.