Let's dive into everything you need to know about the Toyota 86, a stylish and sporty car that has captured the hearts of many driving enthusiasts. We'll explore its pricing, features, performance, and everything that makes it a standout choice in the sports car market. Whether you're a seasoned car aficionado or just starting to explore the world of sports cars, this article will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the Toyota 86.

Overview of the Toyota 86

The Toyota 86, known in some markets as the Subaru BRZ (due to its joint development with Subaru), is a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive sports car that emphasizes driving pleasure and affordability. It's designed with a focus on balance, handling, and a pure driving experience, making it a favorite among those who appreciate a car that feels connected to the road. The 86 stands out with its sleek design, responsive engine, and engaging driving dynamics.

Design and Aesthetics

The Toyota 86 boasts a low-slung, aerodynamic profile that immediately catches the eye. Its long hood and short rear deck give it a classic sports car silhouette. The aggressive front fascia, with sharp lines and a wide grille, enhances its sporty appeal. The rear features distinctive taillights and a subtle spoiler, contributing to its overall dynamic look. Inside, the cabin is driver-focused, with supportive seats, a sporty steering wheel, and intuitive controls. The design prioritizes function and minimizes distractions, ensuring that the driver remains the center of attention.

Performance and Handling

At the heart of the Toyota 86 is a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated boxer engine, co-developed with Subaru. This engine delivers a punchy performance, offering a satisfying blend of power and responsiveness. The rear-wheel-drive configuration, combined with a well-tuned suspension and a limited-slip differential, provides excellent handling and grip. The 86 is known for its playful character, allowing drivers to easily drift and slide through corners, making it a joy to drive on both the road and the track. Whether you choose the manual or automatic transmission, you're in for an engaging and thrilling driving experience.

Key Features

The Toyota 86 comes with a range of features designed to enhance the driving experience. These include a sport-tuned suspension, lightweight alloy wheels, and performance tires. Inside, you'll find comfortable and supportive sport seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a user-friendly infotainment system. Depending on the trim level, the 86 may also offer features such as a premium audio system, dual-zone climate control, and advanced safety technologies.

Pricing of the Toyota 86

Now, let's get down to the specifics of what you're really here for: the price. The Toyota 86 is known for being an affordable sports car, offering great value for its performance and features. However, the exact price can vary depending on several factors, including the model year, trim level, optional features, and geographic location. Understanding these factors will help you make an informed decision and find the best deal on your dream car.

Base Price

Generally, the Toyota 86 has a starting price that makes it accessible to a wide range of buyers. As of recent data, the base model typically starts around $27,000 to $30,000. This price point makes it competitive with other sports cars and performance coupes in the market. Keep in mind that this is just the base price, and adding optional features or choosing a higher trim level will increase the overall cost.

Trim Levels and Options

The Toyota 86 usually comes in several trim levels, each offering a different set of features and amenities. Higher trim levels often include upgrades such as premium wheels, enhanced interior trim, and advanced technology features. Optional packages can also add to the price, allowing you to customize your 86 to your specific preferences. For example, you might choose a package that includes performance upgrades, appearance enhancements, or additional comfort features.

Additional Costs

Beyond the base price and optional features, there are several other costs to consider when purchasing a Toyota 86. These include:

• Taxes: Sales tax rates vary depending on your state and local jurisdiction. Be sure to factor this into your budget.
• Registration Fees: You'll need to register your car with your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), which involves paying registration fees.
• Destination Charges: These are fees charged by the manufacturer to transport the car from the factory to the dealership.
• Insurance: Sports cars like the Toyota 86 may have higher insurance rates due to their performance capabilities. Shop around for the best rates.
• Financing Costs: If you're financing your purchase, you'll need to factor in interest rates and loan terms.

Negotiating the Price

Negotiating the price of a Toyota 86 can help you get the best possible deal. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Research: Know the market value of the 86 in your area. Check online resources and compare prices at different dealerships.
• Be Prepared to Walk Away: Don't be afraid to walk away from a deal if you're not satisfied with the price. This can often prompt the dealer to offer a better deal.
• Negotiate the Out-the-Door Price: Focus on the total price, including all fees and taxes, rather than just the base price.
• Consider Incentives: Take advantage of any incentives or rebates offered by Toyota or the dealership.

Performance and Specifications

Let's delve deeper into what makes the Toyota 86 a true performance machine. The engine, transmission, and chassis work together to provide an exhilarating driving experience that enthusiasts crave. Whether you're tearing up the track or cruising down the highway, the 86 delivers a unique blend of power, agility, and control.

Engine and Powertrain

The Toyota 86 is powered by a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated horizontally-opposed (boxer) engine. This engine configuration, co-developed with Subaru, is known for its low center of gravity and balanced performance. It produces around 205 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque in the manual transmission version, and slightly less in the automatic. The engine is designed to be rev-happy, encouraging drivers to explore the upper reaches of the RPM range for maximum performance.

Transmission Options

The Toyota 86 is available with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic transmission. The manual transmission is the preferred choice for purists, offering precise and engaging shifts. It allows drivers to have full control over the engine's power and torque. The automatic transmission, on the other hand, provides smooth and effortless gear changes, making it a more comfortable option for daily driving. It also features paddle shifters for those who want to experience a more involved driving experience.

Suspension and Handling

The Toyota 86 features a sport-tuned suspension system that is designed to provide excellent handling and control. It uses MacPherson struts in the front and a double-wishbone setup in the rear. This combination provides a balance of comfort and performance, allowing the 86 to handle corners with precision and stability. The limited-slip differential helps to distribute power evenly to the rear wheels, improving traction and preventing wheel spin.

Braking System

The Toyota 86 is equipped with a robust braking system that provides confident stopping power. It features ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, along with anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), and brake assist. These systems work together to ensure that the 86 can stop quickly and safely in a variety of conditions.

Performance Metrics

Here are some key performance metrics for the Toyota 86:

• 0-60 mph: Approximately 6.2 to 6.8 seconds (depending on the transmission)
• Top Speed: Around 140 mph
• Fuel Economy: Approximately 24 mpg city / 32 mpg highway (for the automatic transmission)

Interior and Exterior Features

The Toyota 86 isn't just about performance; it also boasts a stylish interior and a head-turning exterior. The design elements inside and out contribute to the overall sporty and engaging driving experience.

Interior Design

Inside the Toyota 86, you'll find a driver-focused cabin with a clean and functional design. The sport seats are supportive and comfortable, providing excellent bolstering to keep you in place during spirited driving. The leather-wrapped steering wheel feels great in your hands, and the intuitive controls are easy to reach and use. The interior is designed to minimize distractions and keep the driver focused on the road.

Exterior Styling

The Toyota 86 has a sleek and aerodynamic exterior that is sure to turn heads. Its low-slung profile, long hood, and short rear deck give it a classic sports car look. The aggressive front fascia, with its sharp lines and wide grille, adds to its sporty appeal. The rear features distinctive taillights and a subtle spoiler, contributing to its overall dynamic appearance.

Technology Features

The Toyota 86 comes with a range of technology features designed to enhance the driving experience. These include a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration, a premium audio system, and Bluetooth connectivity. Depending on the trim level, you may also find features such as a rearview camera, keyless entry, and push-button start.

Safety Features

The Toyota 86 is equipped with a suite of safety features to help protect you and your passengers. These include multiple airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and traction control. Some models may also offer advanced safety technologies such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking.

Pros and Cons of the Toyota 86

Like any car, the Toyota 86 has its strengths and weaknesses. Understanding these pros and cons can help you decide whether it's the right car for you.

Pros

• Affordable Price: The Toyota 86 is one of the most affordable sports cars on the market.
• Engaging Driving Experience: Its rear-wheel-drive configuration and well-tuned suspension provide excellent handling and control.
• Stylish Design: The 86 has a sleek and sporty exterior that is sure to turn heads.
• Reliable Engine: The 2.0-liter boxer engine is known for its reliability and performance.

Cons

• Limited Power: Some drivers may find the 205 horsepower to be insufficient.
• Small Rear Seats: The rear seats are cramped and not suitable for adults.
• Limited Cargo Space: The trunk is small, which can be an issue for those who need to carry a lot of cargo.
• Basic Interior: The interior is functional but lacks some of the luxury features found in more expensive sports cars.

Alternatives to the Toyota 86

If the Toyota 86 isn't quite what you're looking for, there are several alternatives to consider in the sports car market.

Mazda MX-5 Miata

The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a two-seat roadster that is known for its nimble handling and fun-to-drive character. It's a great choice for those who want an open-top driving experience.

Subaru BRZ

The Subaru BRZ is essentially the same car as the Toyota 86, as it was co-developed by Toyota and Subaru. It offers a similar driving experience but may have slightly different styling and features.

Hyundai Veloster N

The Hyundai Veloster N is a hot hatchback that offers a lot of performance for the price. It's a great choice for those who want a practical and sporty car.

Nissan Z

The Nissan Z is a classic sports car that has been around for decades. It offers a powerful engine and a stylish design, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts.

Conclusion

The Toyota 86 is a fantastic sports car that offers a unique blend of affordability, performance, and style. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or just starting to explore the world of sports cars, the 86 is definitely worth considering. Its engaging driving experience, sleek design, and reasonable price make it a standout choice in the market. So, if you're looking for a car that is fun to drive and won't break the bank, the Toyota 86 might just be the perfect car for you. Now that you're armed with all this knowledge, go out there and find the 86 that speaks to you!