When the Scion brand failed to gain sufficient market share, its sporty compact coupe, the Scion FRS, was discontinued. However, this model was succeeded by the 2017 Toyota GT86, which proved to be a superior offering.
The 2016 Toyota GT86 received subtle yet significant exterior enhancements. The vehicle featured an all-LED lighting system, including headlights, daytime running lights (DRL), fog lights, and taillights. The headlights prominently displayed the GT86 emblem, while the front fenders were equipped with air vents that extracted air from the wheel wells to reduce lift at high speeds. Additionally, the car boasted a new set of lightweight alloy wheels.
The interior retained the same layout as its predecessor but utilized higher-quality materials compared to the FRS. The 2017 Toyota GT86 featured sport seats upholstered in premium Alcantara.
The most notable improvements were in the technical aspects. The engine compartment featured color-coded air intakes to indicate the transmission type: red for manual and black for automatic. Both transmissions offered six speeds, with the automatic variant also featuring paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel. The naturally aspirated boxer-4 engine saw a 2.5% increase in power through optimized airflow.
The suspension system underwent significant revisions, with a stiffer setup at the front and a softer configuration at the rear, resulting in neutral handling characteristics. Enhanced bushings and strut bars contributed to an overall stiffer chassis. Ultimately, the GT86 emerged as a highly capable sports car, ranking among the best in its class at a competitive price point.