There are two things that come to mind when a JDM enthusiast hears the number 86. It’s either the classic Sprinter Trueno or Corolla Levin from the ‘80s or the GT86, now called the GR86.
Those cars may be decades apart, but the formula has always been the same. These are lightweight coupes with rear-wheel drive and the ability to provide sideways thrills for not too much money.
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But that might soon change should a report from Japan ring true. Best Car claims that the Toyota GR86 range could see more body styles down the line. It’s a bold claim, but the motoring publication says its sources are legit.
The current shape GR86 won’t get it just yet, though. Per the report, it’s the next-generation model that will sprout additional doors. Yes, a sedan or four-door coupe is being considered, along with a wagon. Should that be the case, it could become a more affordable alternative to the likes of the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe or Mercedes-Benz CLA Coupe.
At the moment, there are no small Japanese sedans or wagons that come with rear-wheel drive. If Toyota (and Subaru) pursues this new take on the GR86/BRZ, it might just be the catalyst for less expensive sport compact cars coming back and cater to a wider audience.
While rear-wheel drive is almost certain, the engine choices remain a mystery. Various reports say it will either stick with a Subaru boxer powertrain, while others mentioned the possibility of the 1.6-liter, three cylinder turbo used on the GR Yaris and GR Corolla.
Either way, the next-generation Toyota GR86 is still relatively far away. Japanese reports reckon it’ll arrive in 2026 at the earliest or 2028 at the latest.
