Used 2022 Toyota GR86 Premium

2022 Toyota GR86

The 2022 Toyota GR86 marks a significant evolution for Toyota's beloved rear-wheel-drive sports coupe. Building upon the legacy of its predecessor, the new GR86 boasts a larger, more powerful engine, refined handling, and a host of modern features, all while retaining its accessible price point and driver-focused ethos. This generation aims to further cement the GR86's reputation as a purist's sports car, delivering thrilling performance without compromising daily usability.

Highlights

The 2022 Toyota GR86 is engineered to deliver an engaging driving experience with several key advancements:

• Engine: At the heart of the GR86 lies a naturally aspirated 2.4-liter horizontally opposed (boxer) four-cylinder engine. This significant upgrade from the previous 2.0-liter unit delivers 228 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque. This translates to a more robust powerband, improved responsiveness, and a satisfyingly linear acceleration curve, making the GR86 feel more potent across its rev range. It's available with either a precise 6-speed manual transmission or a smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission.

• Safety Features: Toyota has equipped the GR86 with a suite of advanced safety and driver-assist technologies, particularly on automatic transmission models, under the Toyota Safety Sense™ umbrella. These include:

  • Pre-Collision Braking System (PCS): Detects potential frontal collisions and can automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or avoid impact.
  • Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Maintains a set speed and distance from the vehicle ahead, reducing driver fatigue on longer journeys.
  • Lane Departure Alert (LDA): Warns the driver if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane without the turn signal activated.
  • High Beam Assist (HBA): Automatically switches between high and low beams based on surrounding traffic and lighting conditions.
  • Rear Parking Sensors: Aids in maneuvering the vehicle into parking spaces by alerting the driver to nearby obstacles.
  • Note: Some safety features, particularly ACC and LDA, are typically only available with the automatic transmission.

• Trims: The GR86 is offered in two distinct trims, each providing a slightly different flavor of performance and features:

  • GR86 Premium: This trim offers a compelling balance of performance and creature comforts. It typically includes features like 18-inch alloy wheels, a limited-slip differential (standard on all GR86 models), heated front seats, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, and a premium audio system. It's the ideal choice for those seeking a well-rounded performance experience with added refinement.
  • GR86 (Base Model): The entry-level GR86 provides the core driving dynamics at an even more accessible point. It still comes standard with the powerful 2.4-liter engine, limited-slip differential, and essential safety features. While it may lack some of the premium amenities of the Premium trim, it remains a fantastic option for enthusiasts who prioritize pure driving engagement.

• Other Notable Aspects:

  • Agile Handling: The GR86 is renowned for its exceptional chassis tuning. The lightweight construction, low center of gravity, and rear-wheel-drive layout contribute to incredibly nimble and predictable handling. The suspension has been further refined for the 2022 model year, offering a more engaging and communicative feel.
  • Driver-Focused Interior: The cabin is designed with the driver in mind, featuring supportive sport seats, a clear and intuitive instrument cluster, and easy-to-reach controls. The focus is on providing an immersive driving environment.
  • Sleek Exterior Design: The GR86 sports a sharper, more aggressive aesthetic than its predecessor, with a prominent front grille, sculpted body lines, and a distinctive rear spoiler.

What to Expect

Owning a 2022 Toyota GR86 is generally a rewarding experience, characterized by its fun-to-drive nature and Toyota's reputation for reliability.

• Ownership Experience: Drivers can expect an engaging and often exhilarating experience every time they get behind the wheel. The car encourages spirited driving, whether on winding roads or simply navigating city streets. The manual transmission, in particular, offers a high level of driver involvement. The compact size and relatively good fuel economy (for a sports car) make it a practical choice for daily commuting as well. While the rear seats are best suited for occasional use or small children, the trunk offers decent space for groceries or weekend getaway bags.

• Maintenance: Toyota vehicles are generally known for their reliability and relatively affordable maintenance. The GR86 is no exception. Routine maintenance will include oil changes, tire rotations, and brake checks. Parts are generally readily available, and most Toyota dealerships offer GR-specific service expertise. Like any performance-oriented vehicle, it's advisable to follow the recommended maintenance schedule closely to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

• Insurance: Insurance costs for a sports car like the GR86 can vary significantly based on factors such as driver age, location, driving record, and chosen coverage levels. However, compared to some more exotic or high-performance vehicles, the GR86 is generally considered to be reasonably priced to insure. It's always recommended to get quotes from multiple insurance providers before purchasing to accurately estimate costs.

Potential Considerations

While the GR86 is a fantastic sports car, potential buyers should be aware of a few aspects:

• Limited Rear Seat Space: The rear seats are quite small and best suited for children or very short trips for adults. They are not a primary seating area for comfortable long-distance travel.
• Engine Noise: While the boxer engine has a unique character, some may find its inherent NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) levels to be more pronounced than in other vehicle types, especially under hard acceleration.
• Road Noise: As with many lightweight sports cars, the GR86 can exhibit more road noise intrusion into the cabin compared to a typical sedan or SUV. This is often a trade-off for a more connected driving experience.
• Fuel Economy for the Class: While not poor for a sports car, the fuel economy is not a primary selling point and will be lower than that of a more economy-focused vehicle.

Overall Summary

The 2022 Toyota GR86 is a triumphant return for a celebrated nameplate, offering a potent blend of performance, agility, and driver engagement. With its significantly upgraded 2.4-liter engine, refined handling, and a driver-centric interior, it delivers a pure and exhilarating sports car experience that is both accessible and immensely satisfying. While rear seat space and interior noise might be minor considerations for some, the GR86 stands out as a top-tier choice for enthusiasts seeking a fun, reliable, and dynamically capable coupe.