Toyota GR86

When the Toyota 86 was first revealed to the world in 2012, it promised to be an exciting, affordable, and fun sports car for the masses. Toyota delivered on that promise, with the initial first-generation car winning several accolades, including a joint victory (with its Subaru BRZ twin) at the 2012 Wheels Car of the Year.

A second-generation model launched in Australia in 2022, renamed the GR86 – to fit in with its Gazoo Racing performance family – and featuring a larger, 2.4-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine.

The ‘86’ in the name is derived from the iconic AE86 model from the ’80s. Other Gazoo Racing family members are the GR Supra, GR Yaris, and GR Corolla models. The Subaru BRZ is the most obvious rival, though the Mazda MX-5 roadster is another popular affordable sports car.