Will the 2025 Toyota GR86 be a turbocharged hybrid?
We investigate claims that a new platform and engine are planned for the next-generation Toyota GR86.
Toyota may update the GR86 coupe, reports Bestcarweb (via Top Speed). Some of the most significant upgrades are a fully new platform and a new electric drive system. That may seem surprising given that Toyota has kept its smaller sports vehicle, created in collaboration with Subaru and powered by a Subaru engine, substantially unchanged since its debut as the Scion FR-S-that is, flat-four powered, naturally aspirated, and not driven by electricity. Nonetheless, the report piques our attention and encourages us to investigate deeper.
According to the source, Toyota is considering totally discontinuing the Subaru-developed boxer engine that has powered their hybrid sports cars since the Scion. The engine will be replaced by the 1.6-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine used in the Toyota GR Corolla. The engine will be connected to a twin clutch hybrid system and a single motor.
Although the source states that the 2025 Toyota GR86 would have the same engine as the GR Corolla, its specifications will differ. While the GR Corolla's 1.6-liter turbocharged engine can generate 300 horsepower, the 2025 GR86 will only produce 272 horsepower, according to the report. However, the additional power from the hybrid system pushes the total power output above the GR Corolla's 320-330 horsepower.
Toyota and Subaru collaborated to build the GR86/BRZ chassis and platform, however it looks Toyota is preparing to break from Subaru for the following generation. According to the source, the 2025 GR86 will most likely use the Lexus IS chassis with a shorter wheelbase. Toyota's goal of reducing weight and adapting to the GR86's driving style could be a successful approach.
Although the source states that the 2025 Toyota GR86 will use the engine from the GR Corolla, it will not have all-wheel drive. While a turbocharged hybrid drive system appears to be a significant departure from the "spirit" of the GR86, it appears that the car will maintain its front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout. Could the 2025 Toyota GR86 be Formula Drift's first hybrid car?