Toyota is experimenting with something that could completely change the future of its popular GR86 sports car. During the latest round of Japan’s Super Taikyu endurance racing series at Okayama International Circuit, Toyota Gazoo Racing brought out its GR86 Future FR Concept equipped with an all-new naturally aspirated 2.0-liter inline-four engine. The experimental powerplant, part of Toyota’s new G20E engine family, produces approximately 220 horsepower and could eventually replace the Subaru-sourced 2.4-liter boxer engine found in today’s production GR86. While nothing has been confirmed for the next-generation model, the development is particularly interesting considering Toyota’s efforts to create lighter, more responsive engines for its future performance cars.
The new four-cylinder replaces the turbocharged three-cylinder previously used in the experimental GR86 race car, which borrowed its engine architecture from the GR Yaris and GR Corolla. Although the naturally aspirated 2.0-liter produces considerably less power than the turbocharged setup, Toyota is focusing on improved throttle response, reduced weight around the front end, and a more rewarding driving experience. According to Japanese automotive publication Car Watch, Gazoo Racing driver Kazuya Oshima noted that the engine revs higher than engineers initially expected. The test car also features double-wishbone suspension at both the front and rear, allowing engineers to experiment with suspension geometry and further refine handling characteristics.
Perhaps the biggest implication is what this could mean for Toyota’s longstanding partnership with Subaru. Since the original Scion FR-S and Subaru BRZ arrived in 2012, both companies have relied on Subaru’s horizontally opposed four-cylinder engines to power their affordable rear-wheel-drive sports cars. The current GR86 produces 228 horsepower from its naturally aspirated 2.4-liter boxer engine, meaning Toyota’s experimental 2.0-liter inline-four isn’t far behind in output. A Toyota-developed engine could potentially give engineers more flexibility with engine placement, weight distribution, and future performance upgrades. Toyota is also testing variations of its new four-cylinder architecture in mid-engine prototypes, suggesting the company has bigger plans for this engine family beyond the GR86.
Of course, Toyota hasn’t announced any plans to install this new engine in a production GR86, and the next generation of the sports coupe is likely still a few years away. Still, the development is encouraging for enthusiasts who worry that affordable, naturally aspirated sports cars are slowly disappearing. Motor1 highlighted the experimental GR86 following reporting from Car Watch, offering another glimpse into Toyota’s evolving performance strategy. Whether the next GR86 retains its Subaru boxer engine or switches to an entirely Toyota-developed inline-four, we’re glad to see the company continuing to invest in lightweight, rear-wheel-drive machines that prioritize driving enjoyment over simply chasing bigger horsepower numbers.
Darryl Taylor Dowe is a seasoned automotive professional with a proven track record of leading successful ventures and providing strategic consultation across the automotive industry. With years of hands-on experience in both business operations and market development, Darryl has played a key role in helping automotive brands grow and adapt in a rapidly evolving landscape. His insight and leadership have earned him recognition as a trusted expert, and his contributions to Automotive Addicts reflect his deep knowledge and passion for the business side of the car world.
