Having carved a reputation for itself on the racetrack since its 2021 introduction as the heir to the Subaru BRZ, the Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR) GR86 is receiving a performance boost for the 2024 model year.
While the core elements that made the GR86 a track darling remain, including the exhilarating 228-horsepower 2.4-liter naturally aspirated boxer engine offered with both manual and automatic transmissions, TGR has been busy under the hood.
Leveraging driver feedback and mountains of racing data, TGR engineers have meticulously crafted a series of upgrades designed to raise the GR86’s handling and provide drivers with a more communicative and responsive experience.
This focus on sharpening the car’s on-track prowess promises to translate into a more engaging driving experience for enthusiasts everywhere. These revisions zero in on sharpening the driving experience, delivering more precise handling, and fostering a deeper connection between driver and machine.
For those who relish the control and satisfaction of a stick shift, the GR86 now features tweaks to engine torque control, making it easier to execute the heel-toe throttle blip technique a maneuver commonly used in motorsport to maintain smooth gear changes during downshifts.
Complementing this, adjustments to throttle response ensure a more direct and linear relationship between pedal input and acceleration, allowing for more predictable and rewarding control.
Automatic transmission GR86s also receive a performance boost. Engineers have expanded the engine speed tolerance range during downshifts. This addresses driver requests for a wider range of sporty maneuvers within the car’s torque band. Essentially, automatic drivers can now explore a more aggressive driving style without sacrificing smoothness or control.
