2022 Toyota GR86: Modified Straight from the dealership

You’ve probably heard the news – the 2022 Toyota GR86 will be available soon.

Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP) recently gave select members of the motoring media an early preview of the much-awaited vehicle at the 2022 GR Festival. As much as I tried to bug them though, the executives are still quiet about the finer details - prices, specs, colors, and variants of the local GR86 have yet to be revealed.

Based on the unit on display, the PH-spec GR86 will likely be the same as the entry-level model sold in North America, not the “Premium” version. This means it rides on 17-inch wheels paired with Michelin Primacy tires instead of 18-inch units styled like the ones on the GR Yaris and wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4.

For those wondering, the bolt pattern on the GR86 is still 5x100. That means the wheels from your previous generation 86/BRZ will still fit this new model. It’s perfect if you don’t like the design of the stock 17-inch units; you can simply reuse your old set.

Inside, the seats are pure cloth without the suede insert and contrast colors. There are also the pedals; they’re similar to what you’d find in a regular Toyota. It’s a bit bare, but I personally don’t mind. I’m certain those that will swap out the seats, steering wheel, and more with aftermarket bits won’t either.

For those asking, there is no AVT head unit here (yay), and it looks like we’ll get the same 8-inch system used in the US market GR86. Hopefully, it stays that way at least. This car wouldn’t be much of a fanfare without that 6-speed manual, which fans and purists will most surely love. Expect an automatic variant to be offered as well.

Under the hood, the engine bay looks the same as before. We didn’t get to drive the car, but we expect an improved powerband with the new 2.4-liter FA24 Boxer engine. It’s got more power too; officially rated at 231-235 HP and 250 Nm torque. If that isn’t enough, HKS does offer a turbo kit for the GR86, which you can probably preorder at shops already.

Assuming TMP does offer the GR86 with only one trim, it seems a bit lacking compared to the previous-generation model. There is a silver lining though, and it’s called the GR Garage. The automaker will be offering a wide range of GR Parts for the GR86 (and other models) through this new outfit. From what I saw on display, these include the performance dampers, coilovers, chassis braces, wheels and even the GR big brake kit. I didn’t see whether the aero kit, wing, and other exterior parts will be available. However, I wouldn’t be surprised if Toyota will offer them too.

Unfortunately, are still no prices for these goodies just yet. For those wondering, the GR parts will be available at all Toyota dealerships nationwide. This means your 2022 GR86 could come with the entire GR Parts catalog even before it leaves the dealership. Expect it to come with a warranty too; it is “casa” after all.

TMP has not revealed the exact date when the GR86 will be officially launched in the market. Do expect it to happen very soon so stay tuned.

Photos & Images: Jose Altoveros