In a competitive field overflowing with less-than-svelte sports cars, therein shines Toyota 86, a stylish 2+2 rear-wheel drive coupe adhering to the fundamentals of automotive athleticism: optimal power-to-weight stats, a cunning design, superb balance and feel. In 2019, 86 sheds none of its distinguished moxie, and gains an even sharper edge through its newest grade: the limited production, 86 TRD Special Edition.
Two existing grades – 86 and 86 GT – complete the 86 range, and offer a wide variety of standard amenities, including the choice of a six-speed automatic or manual transmission.
Pure Fun: 86 TRD Special Edition
If USDA Certified Organic had a sportscar category, the 2019 86 TRD Special Edition would be its benchmark. 86 TRD Special Edition is North America’s highest performance 86 version thanks to some essential new parts: SACHS dampers, 12.8-/12.4-in. front/rear Brembo brakes, and exclusive 18 x 7.5-in. alloy wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires (sized 215/40R18 85Y all around).
The SACHS dampers further sharpen the 86’s steering response and refine vehicle stability. Extra-large four-piston front, two-piston rear Brembo brakes composedly cull speed at a moment’s notice, and enrich the 86’s well-balanced cornering prowess. Its Michelin Pilot Sport 4 summer tires turn up the grip factor while aiding steering reactiveness and boosting tactility communicated through its small-diameter steering wheel.
Exclusively painted in Raven, and accented by a classic TRD tricolor graphic and TRD body kit (which includes front bumper, side sills, rear bumper/diffuser, and spoiler), the TRD Special Edition looks athletic too. Also standard: a TRD exhaust with brushed stainless steel tips.
Opening the doors reveals a new red and black-trimmed telescoping steering wheel with red contrast stitching; red and black sport bucket seats with side bolsters; Granlux suede-like covering atop the instrument cluster; “TRD” logo embroidered on passenger side instrument panel; red contrast stitching throughout; and red seatbelts.
Production will be limited to only 1,418 units. 86 TRD Special Edition will have a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $32,420.