A track-focused version of the Toyota GR86 is said to be in the works, with new suspension, lightweight components, and a large rear wing.
A track-oriented 2024 Toyota GRMN86 sports coupe is in development, according to new reports out of Japan.
Publication Magazine X reports Toyota has begun development on the GRMN86 – a track-focused version of the GR86 with lightweight parts.
GRMN is the badge given to high-performance limited-edition models created by Gazoo Racing – the performance arm of Toyota – with ‘MN’ meaning the vehicle was “tuned by the Meister of the Nürburgring”.
While few details have been reported on the GRMN86 at this early stage, reports claim the coupe will receive a body-kit with a larger rear wing and lightweight components utilised to reduce mass and improve performance.
The Magazine X report says the model will also receive significantly updated suspension and alloy wheels exclusive to the GRMN86, with an entirely new steering set-up compared to the standard GR86.
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It’s not clear whether the GR86’s 2.4-litre non-turbo four-cylinder will receive any updates, or if it’s even possible to extract much more power from the engine without the addition of a turbocharger – something the carmaker has previously ruled out for fear of ruining its handling characteristics.
The GRMN Yaris, unveiled in January 2022, could provide an insight into a possible GRMN86.
The hot hatch had the second row of seats removed, the front seats replaced with fixed GR-branded Recaro items, additional chassis stiffening, an optional roll cage, and carbon-fibre aero parts, along with a 20Nm increase to the car’s torque figure.
As with the Yaris, a GRMN version would demand a significant premium over the standard GR86, with deliveries not expected to begin until 2024.
It’s unclear if it would be a Japan exclusive, like the GRMN Yaris, or could make its way to Australia.
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