Recent reports from Japan suggest that the next-generation Toyota GR86 will be equipped with a turbocharged three-cylinder engine, potentially paired with a hybrid system.
However, Toyota has clarified that this concept car is merely a homage to its iconic 1990s Celica GT-Four. This model, known for its victories in the World Rally Championship during its ST185 and ST205 iterations, featured Castrol’s red and green livery.
Unlike the longitudinally mounted four-cylinder engine typically found under the hood of coupes, the turbocharged three-cylinder in the concept car is transversely mounted to accommodate an all-wheel-drive system, which necessitates major chassis modifications. A custom subframe positions the engine above the front driving components and is equipped with the GR Corolla’s hubs, steering knuckles, and axles to transmit power to the front wheels.
Moreover, the GR86's rear end has also been significantly modified to accommodate the GR Corolla's differential, allowing the concept car to maintain the factory gear ratios, electronic functions, and power distribution of the production-spec hot hatch, although it still requires customized half-shafts.
These modifications enable the car to produce 221 kW of power and 370 Nm of torque, significantly surpassing the 174 kW/250 Nm output of the naturally aspirated 2.4-liter flat-four in production GR86.
While the GR86 concept car does not offer additional power or torque compared to the GR Corolla, it is equipped with a performance intercooler, upgraded oil cooler, and a racing-derived Engine Control Unit (ECU), which may allow for future increases in output.
Additional enhancements inspired by the GR Corolla and GR Yaris include a central exhaust system.
The car’s design heavily draws from the 1990s Celica, featuring a large rear spoiler, red mudflaps, and Speedline five-spoke wheels.
The interior is equipped with a full roll cage and racing seats with six-point harnesses, along with what appears to be a digital dashboard and a sequential gear selector.
During its media release for the Rally Legacy concept car, Toyota executives also expressed their desire for the World Rally Championship (WRC) to return to the United States, an event last held in the country in the late 1980s.
Toyota has won the last five WRC drivers' championships and the last three manufacturers' championships, all with the Yaris and GR Yaris.
