Photo: Toyota
The GT86, FT86, FR-S, BRZ, whatever, started production in 2012. Four years later, the two-door sports car receives its first proper nip and tuck. In the United States, the 86 series will no longer be known as the Scion FR-S. Instead, the 2017 Toyota 86 will have to do. Well then, what is there to talk about this aggressive-looking buttercup from Japan?
First things first - the engine. Pop the hood and you will find a familiar 4U four-cylinder boxer. In the case of the 2016 Scion FR-S, it develops 200 horsepower and 151 lb-ft (205 Nm). For the 2017 Toyota 86, however, engineers found 5 more ponies and 5 more pound-feet, increasing the output to 205 HP and 156 lb-ft (211 Nm).
I know, I know. It’s not much, but I admire the improvement. Toyota made three additional enhancements to the go-faster capabilities of the 86. I’m referring to more aggressive gear ratios for the standard 6-speed stick shift, a different shock tuning, and a spring rate change. On the driver aids front, the 2017 Toyota 86 comes with Hill Start Assist Control for fewer headaches to those living in San Francisco.
The exterior? Check out those LED-accented taillights. I’m not exactly a fan of the JDM-inspired look, but there’s nothing wrong with the redesigned LED headlights. Other than the reconfigured clusters, designers worked their magic and revised both the front and rear bumpers. The final and most visually provocative element comes in the form of the gaping center intake that gives the 2017 Toyota 86 its low, wide stance.
Toyota hasn’t provided any photos of the interior of this thing, but assures that “sensory quality has been greatly improved.” Whatever you say, Toyota, I'm down with it as long as you don't spoil the exciting driving characteristics. Just bring this thing to market and let’s see how much more entertaining it is to drive compared to the Scion FR-S and the pre-facelift Toyota GT86.
I know, I know. It’s not much, but I admire the improvement. Toyota made three additional enhancements to the go-faster capabilities of the 86. I’m referring to more aggressive gear ratios for the standard 6-speed stick shift, a different shock tuning, and a spring rate change. On the driver aids front, the 2017 Toyota 86 comes with Hill Start Assist Control for fewer headaches to those living in San Francisco.
The exterior? Check out those LED-accented taillights. I’m not exactly a fan of the JDM-inspired look, but there’s nothing wrong with the redesigned LED headlights. Other than the reconfigured clusters, designers worked their magic and revised both the front and rear bumpers. The final and most visually provocative element comes in the form of the gaping center intake that gives the 2017 Toyota 86 its low, wide stance.
Toyota hasn’t provided any photos of the interior of this thing, but assures that “sensory quality has been greatly improved.” Whatever you say, Toyota, I'm down with it as long as you don't spoil the exciting driving characteristics. Just bring this thing to market and let’s see how much more entertaining it is to drive compared to the Scion FR-S and the pre-facelift Toyota GT86.
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