Toyota GT 86 UK pricing confirmed

 

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Posted on 6 Feb 2012 at 12:03

Toyota has finally confirmed that its GT 86 sports coupé will be coming to the UK, and that it will be launched at a price designed to be extremely competitive in its chosen market segment.

Originally unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show last year, the Toyota GT 86 sports coupé certainly turned heads. Sadly, the company then went silent on launch dates and pricing details, leaving many in the motoring press wondering if it planned a UK launch at all.

The company has addressed those concerns with confirmation of a UK launch, scheduled to start in June. While full details of the UK specifications and various trim levels are being kept for closer to the launch date, the company has shared a few details.

Based around a front-engine, rear-wheel drive set-up in a light and compact chassis for improved handling, the GT 86 features a 2.0-litre flat-four boxer engine - the world's first horizontally-opposed engine with D-4S, developed in conjunction with Subaru - offering a 196bhp power output and matched to a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. Power is transferred to the rear wheels via a limited-slip differential for maximum grip in all driving conditions.

Based on a 2+2 design, the GT 86 borrows its inspiration from the Toyota Sports 800 which was originally developed back in 1962 but claims as its largest influence the Corolla GT AE86, produced from 1983 to 1987 and a popular choice for rally and circuit driving.

Internally, the GT 86 includes a 365mm diameter steering wheel - the smallest ever fitted to a Toyota - trimmed in buckskin, while a three-meter instrument cluster is arranged around a large tachometer designed for improved visibility and readability. The sporting feel is further enhanced with carbon-effect trim, all-black roof lining, red stitching on the upholstery, aviation-style rocker switches for many functions and lightweight, aluminium pedals.

Due to go on sale in June, advance orders are starting now at a surprisingly competitive price of £24,995 on the road for the entry-level model.

Author: Gareth Halfacree