The Toyota 86 2020 handles well and has the predictive reliability of four out of five—above average. But it is pushed to the centre of the sports car category due to its underpowered engine, tight interior, and inconsistent interior condition.
The Toyota 86 is a competent sports vehicle. Supposing that you do not really demand speed, it's among the most enjoyable cars to ride in the category. But its four-cylinder boxer engine is underpowered and unrefined, and the cabin is basic. The back seats are scarcely functional, and the trunk is quite tiny.
However, it does come with significant perks, improvements, and features that might attract you. Below, our Toyota 86 review will help you understand If the car is suitable for you and up to your standards so you can decide whether you will be purchasing it or not.
Is It Worth Buying the Toyota 86?
If you're searching for a sporty vehicle within your spending plan, the Toyota 86 might be worth considering, although there are better alternatives.
The Subaru BRZ, for example, has comparable features to that of the Toyota 86 in many respects but does have a better and luxurious interior and a much more powerful and efficient engine. The Mazda MX-5 Miata, with two seats, is the archetypal roadster and has a comparable market value to the Toyota 86.
Toyota 86 New and Older Models - Which One to Buy?
One of the most significant updates for the Toyota 86 2020 is the availability of standard Apple CarPlay and an Android Auto smartphone connection, which was unavailable in the past models.
These improvements help to interact with the infotainment system significantly smoother and give it a more contemporary feel. Toyota additionally announced the 86 Hakone Edition for 2020, which features unique paint colour, rims and other aesthetic features.
If the modifications listed above are not really valuable or beneficial to you, consider purchasing what would otherwise be a comparable 2019, 2018, or 2017 model, which will probably be easy on your pocket and cost much less than a Toyota 86 2020 model.
The automobile was previously known as the Scion FR-S before the 2017 model year. When the vehicle was rebranded, it also underwent a minor design update, and the suspensions were returned.
If you're thinking about buying an older version, it is important to go through 2019, 2018, and 2017 Toyota 86 reviews, which will give you a better idea of which model suits your demands.
Let's Talk About the Engine
The standard Toyota 86 2020 is operated by a boxer engine with four cylinders and a capacity of 2.0 litres. It is able to generate 205 horsepower of energy and 156 of torque with its manual gearbox. Optional six-speed powertrain reduces performance to 151 of torque and 200 horsepower.
This flat engine is adequate for everyday driving, but this feature does not align with the category of sports cars for which this automobile is intended for. There isn't enough energy to get the Toyota 86 off the mark fast, and as you speed, torque goes down halfway through the rpm range.
It has a standard manual gearbox which appears to be the rational choice for a car that goes for a basic approach like the 86. It is ready to make short, accurate changes but takes experience to use properly due to the clutch's rapid engagement.
However, we get to see mixed reviews for the automatic version. Some people like how it retains gears and switches when they want it to, while others thought it made the Toyota 86 feel dull.
The available automatic gearbox provides a better fuel efficiency for the Toyota 86 2020, providing 24 mpg in the cities and 32 mpg on the highways, which is estimated by the Environmental protection agency EPA.
Those statistics are reasonable for a sports vehicle and outperform the majority of American muscle cars in the class. If you opt for the regular manual gearbox, you can anticipate getting approximately 21 mpg in the cities and 28 mpg on the interstate.
The Driving Experience of Toyota 86
Toyota 86 is more about the grip and goes ripping up the air pressure on sharp curves and mountain passes as if it is trying to take off than in taking off like a rocket.
The 86, which comes standard with a restricted rear wheel and differential drive, remains balanced and strongly rooted in curves and turns and displays lower than normal rolling.
The steering is quite responsive, and the chassis lets you know precisely what's going on with the vehicle. The brakes are powerful, and even if you stop late for a bend, turning the wheel just a little lets, the tail-happy 86 handles it easily.
Those seeking greater engagement and better performance should consider the TRD Handling upgrade for 2020, exclusively available in 86 with manual transmission and 86 GT versions.
The suspensions and clutches are by Sachs, which ensures good quality and reliability. Additionally, it has upgraded brakes by Brembo, which elevates our trust in its performance. However, one drawback is that the suspensions and chassis make the 86 ride a bit harsh. For example, you will experience a lot of shocks and zaps in the car when you drive on bad roads.
Interior Quality
The Toyota 86 features four seats; however, it can only accommodate two people. The standard front sport seats are well-bolstered to hold you in position during severe cornering, but they're not especially pleasant for lengthy trips. Although the low driving position is ideal for a sports vehicle, there are just a few options to modify the seat, and some may find it excessively upright.
The back seats are quite tiny and inconvenient for passengers. Sliding either of the front seats all the way back eliminates virtually all rear-seat legroom. Both rear seats in the 86 feature a full set of LATCH connections, although they're not especially straightforward to use. Bottom anchors are positioned deeply in the seats, making it difficult to fasten the seat straps with a simple slide of hands to the anchors.
Despite the number of harsh plastic surfaces, the Toyota 86 offers great interior quality. Some excellent stitching and embellishments elevate what is essentially a simple, utilitarian design. The cargo space is also smaller than that of other sports cars. You will probably have to keep the seats folded whenever you require a bigger cargo space.
Final Thoughts
The Toyota 86 2020 has few distinct benefits over competing sports cars. Its main characteristic is driving experience and road handling. Its flaws include poor engine power, mediocre interior condition, and a cramped rear seat. Overall, there isn't much luxury, but you cannot expect much from a moderately priced sports car.
WRITTEN BY
Siarra K