The 2025 Toyota GR86 is a compact sports car that proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to experience high-performance driving. With a lightweight design, rear-wheel-drive dynamics, and a boost in power, the GR86 continues to be a top pick for driving enthusiasts seeking fun, affordable thrills. Whether you’re zipping around town or tearing up the track, the GR86 offers the perfect blend of excitement, practicality, and value.
What’s New for 2025
The 2025 Toyota GR86 remains true to its roots as a driver-focused, agile sports car, but Toyota has made key upgrades that elevate the experience. The biggest change? A more powerful 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine that now churns out 228 horsepower (up from 2.0L in the previous model). This increase in power delivers an even more exhilarating ride. Toyota also fine-tuned the suspension for better handling and ride comfort, ensuring the GR86 strikes a perfect balance. Inside, the cabin receives an upgrade with improved materials and a revamped infotainment system, making the car even more driver-friendly without compromising on the thrills.
Exterior Design: Bold and Aerodynamic
The 2025 GR86’s exterior is designed to command attention. With a wide, low stance and aggressive body lines, it screams performance from every angle. The front grille is bold and flanked by sharp, angular headlights, giving the car an unmistakable athletic vibe. At the rear, the dual exhaust system enhances the performance feel, while the standard 17-inch alloy wheels complete the aggressive look.
Every curve and edge serves a functional purpose, optimizing aerodynamics while ensuring the car looks ready to dominate any track.
Interior and Comfort: Minimalist and Focused
Inside, the GR86 offers a no-nonsense, driver-focused interior. The 2+2 seating layout provides two supportive front sports seats and rear seats that, while best suited for occasional use, offer flexibility when needed. The cabin is simple, minimalist, and designed for driving pleasure, with easy-to-reach controls that keep you in the zone.
The standard 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring that connectivity is seamless. Higher trims get an 8-inch display with added tech upgrades. Though the focus is performance, Toyota doesn’t skimp on comfort, using quality materials throughout the cabin for a premium feel.
Performance and Engine: Pure Thrills
The heart of the 2025 GR86 is its 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder engine, delivering 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. This new engine elevates the GR86’s already exciting performance, offering a thrilling driving experience with excellent acceleration and power delivery. The rear-wheel-drive layout and lightweight design make it one of the most agile and responsive sports cars on the market.
Standard with a 6-speed manual transmission, the GR86 gives you full control over the driving experience, while an available 6-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters offers a more laid-back ride for those who prefer an easier shift.
The car’s lightweight design enhances its handling, making it a blast to drive through tight corners and winding roads. Whether you’re taking it for a spin on the track or on a weekend back-road adventure, the GR86 never disappoints.
Fuel Efficiency: Performance Meets Practicality
Surprisingly fuel-efficient for a sports car, the 2025 GR86 offers an EPA-estimated 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. This makes it a great option for those looking to balance daily commuting with occasional track days. Compared to rivals like the Mazda MX-5 Miata and Ford Mustang EcoBoost, the GR86’s fuel economy stands out, offering both fun and practicality. It’s not quite as fuel-efficient as compact sedans, but for a sports car, it strikes the perfect balance.