The Development Stage: Nürburgring

Toyota is releasing the "86 GRMN," a special model that "allows you to fully enjoy the fun of sports driving." The engine, transmission, suspension system, brakes, and even the body have been enhanced, making it a model that insiders call a "bargain price like no other." It is limited to 100 units, with applications accepted from January 4 to January 22, 2016.

The four letters GRMN are likely familiar to motorsport enthusiasts and those who have followed Toyota's sports models. The first two letters stand for Gazoo Racing, which conducts racing activities using Toyota cars.

The latter two letters, though Toyota avoids detailed explanations, signify (tuned by) Mein Stern (of Nürburgring). These four letters suggest that the car has been tuned incorporating the know-how of Toyota/Gazoo Racing, which has participated in the Nürburgring 24 Hours endurance race. GRMN is a "complete car brand planned, developed, and tuned through GAZOO Racing's continuous efforts in "crafting car feel" on the Nürburgring stage."

Even the exterior is distinct. A carbon fiber hood characterizes the front, and a large wing stands tall at the rear. The interior catches the eye with its red and black combination. Beyond the color scheme, it features Alcantara sports seats and a matching steering wheel. Once settled in, you understand why its connection to the circuit is so strongly emphasized. The seating position is also notably low.

An Engine Feel That Seems to Accelerate Forever

The 2-liter boxer engine is assembled by Subaru, and it has been fitted with special low-friction pistons processed with oil compression rings. However, a development representative told us, "Subaru's engines have high precision, so there was no need for weight balancing, which is done for racing engines."

The intake and exhaust systems have been revised, producing a maximum output of 161 kW (219 ps) and a maximum torque of 217 Nm. The stock (normal) model has 147 kW (200 ps) and 205 Nm, so the specifications have improved numerically as well. Naturally, the engine runs surprisingly smoothly to the touch. Along with initial acceleration, mid-range acceleration when shifting up is also sharp.

The engine's rotation is so smooth, and the popping exhaust note is so pleasant to the ear, that you might forget to shift up. After starting and engaging second gear, I found myself revving it all the way to the red zone. The engine is quite high-revving, with maximum output at 7300 rpm and maximum torque at 5200 rpm. It has a feel like it could accelerate forever.

The gearbox has also been worked on. Second gear has been made higher than in the standard model, bringing it closer to third gear to create closer ratios. By lowering the final gear ratio (from 4.1 to 4.3), effective engine torque can be utilized across a wider band. Shifting with the selector, which has a red knob, feels good.

The selector lever has a satisfying feel, with short travel and a crisp, enjoyable operation. The drive shaft contributes to this. Its torsional rigidity has been increased 1.3 times, its diameter enlarged, and it is hollow. This has greatly improved the quality of the control system.

Weight reduction has also been thoroughly pursued, with the adoption of synthetic resin glass for the first time in mass production, showcasing meticulous attention to detail.

A Replica of the Nürburgring Race Car

Gazoo Racing has continuously challenged the Nürburgring 24 Hours endurance race, even achieving class victories with the Toyota 86 in 2012 and 2014. The 86 GRMN was developed by pouring in the know-how gained from these efforts. In the words of the developers, the goal was "a replica of the Nürburgring race car."

A low center of gravity is crucial for fast and stable cornering. While many car manufacturers seem to be talking about lowering the center of gravity recently, the 86 GRMN stands out in its thoroughness. During the test drive, I also tried a slalom, and the car barely rolled.

The development representative explained that weight reduction in body parts contributes to the low center of gravity. Carbon fiber reinforced plastic, which is strong yet lightweight, is used for the hood, roof panel, and trunk lid. Additionally, synthetic resin is used for the rear quarter windows and rear window, "a first for a mass-produced car" (according to the developer). This has lightened the body, resulting in a 4.5mm drop in ride height, thus lowering the center of gravity. The tuning is thoughtfully conceived, which is also commendable.

The developer stated, "We didn't lower the ride height significantly with the suspension system, which also helped avoid negative impacts on ride comfort. The spring rate was only increased by about 30 percent. Typically, for this type of car, it might be increased by 200 percent (!), so we haven't sacrificed ride comfort in this aspect either."

The ride comfort is also attributed to the tires, developed jointly with Bridgestone. The RE71R model is designed to emphasize a soft surface feel and a sticky grip on the road, enhancing the 86 GRMN's performance. Simultaneously, by selling them at regular retail stores, it aligns with the goal of making the car "not special, but usable by anyone for a long time."

Sliding into the supportive sports seats and taking the controls, I was impressed by the superb craftsmanship. I recalled the developer's words: the rear-wheel drive with a boxer engine allows for a more natural driving position due to its mechanical layout, making it an ideal sports car. Indeed, it feels incredibly natural. It's a sensation that brings a sense of happiness.

The price of 6 million yen (excluding tax) is described by the development representative as a "bargain price." Indeed, after driving it and learning about its features, one can agree with that statement. The body color is limited to one option: White Pearl Crystal Shine. Combined with the carbon fiber reinforced plastic hood, it creates an imposing presence.

Personally, I feel a large rear spoiler is unnecessary (in reality, there are no everyday driving situations where its benefits can be fully utilized), and it might be preferable if it were more accessible for adults to enjoy. Furthermore, I wish that adults who prefer imported cars could also share in this enjoyment. I am confident they would like it.

Toyota 86 GRMN | TOYOTA 86 GRMN
Body Size | Length 4,290 x Width 1,775 x Height 1,300 mm
Wheelbase | 2,570 mm
Minimum Ground Clearance | 105 mm
Vehicle Weight | 1,340 kg
Tread Front / Rear | 1,525 / 1,535 mm
Seating Capacity | 2 people
Engine | 1,998 cc Inline 4-cylinder DOHC
Maximum Output | 161 kW (219 ps) / 7,300 rpm
Maximum Torque | 217 Nm / 5,200 rpm
Transmission | 6-speed manual
Drivetrain | FR
Brakes Front | Opposed 6-piston monobloc calipers + ventilated discs
Brakes Rear | Opposed 4-piston monobloc calipers + ventilated discs
Tires Front / Rear | 215/40R17 / 235/40R17
Price | 6.48 million yen
Limited Production | 100 units (lottery if applications exceed limit)