2023 Toyota GR86 launched: Not bargain at RM295k but you're not getting more RWD fun in a tighter package

Alongside the other cars making their debut at Toyota Malaysia’s Gazoo Racing Festival, the GR86 has finally made landfall in Malaysia with prices starting from RM295,000.

The second-generation of the brand’s Subaru co-developed and manufactured coupe following the 2012 introduction of the GT86, this all-new version furthers the concept of a lithe RWD Japanese two-door to more intense levels.

• 2023 Toyota GR86 - 2.4L - 6-speed manual: RM295,000
• 2023 Toyota GR86 - 2.4L - 6-speed automatic: RM305,000

You can tell it’s proportionately very similar to its predecessor, but the biggest alteration here is the use of a gutsier 2.4-litre naturally aspirated Boxer 4-cylinder engine outputting 237PS at 7,000rpm and 250Nm of torque at 3,700rpm.

Compared to the previous-gen 86, the new model produces an extra 35hp and 45Nm). The result is a 0-100km/h run of 6.3 seconds - a full 1.1 seconds faster compared to the outgoing GT86 that this 'new' GR86 is replacing.

For those who are keen-eyed, you would have noticed that the new 86 also features aerodynamic front and side air ducts, which Toyota claims are based on their learnings from their Gazoo Racing programmes and will help aid handling and stability of the GR86. If you haven't caught it by now, GR stands for Gazoo Racing bringing it in line with other performance-oriented Toyotas such as the GR Supra and Yaris.

The car's dimensions are practically the same as its predecessor with very familiar styling cues, but it has shed five kilograms from its weight, thanks to the use of aluminium on the roof and body panels. Toyota has also come out and said that the GR86's torsional rigidity had been increased by around 50 percent, resulting in even sharper steering and handling.

There’s the 6-speed manual transmission, which will definitely be the crowd favourite option, but supplemented by a 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters (an extra RM10,000). To cap things off its 18-inch wheels are fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport tyres as standard.

Can't wait to get an extended drive in one!