TOYOTA GT 86

 GT 86

(GT 86)

The 2020 Toyota 86 provides exciting rear-drive performance for a price that most enthusiasts can afford. While other value-minded alternatives exist, they don't offer the same combination of athleticism and practicality that the Toyota does. Its excellent driving position and generous cargo space are offset by middling material quality and a small back seat. Still, the lightweight coupe is a precision instrument that boasts a balanced chassis with communicative steering. Its four-cylinder engine isn't particularly potent or refined, but the 2020 86 shines when tracing corners rather than drag racing.

(GT 86)

For 2020, Toyota serves up new standard features and shuffles the 86 lineup. Every model now has an enhanced infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. The 86 also adds a dark-gray paint color called Pavement, and there's a new top-of-the-line trim: the Hakone Edition, which gets exclusive green paint, unique 17-inch wheels, and trim-specific interior details. The TRD Handling package adds performance equipment such as more powerful Brembo brakes, upgraded shock absorbers, and special 18-inch wheels with sticky Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires. However, the kit isn't available with the automatic transmission or on the Hakone Edition.

(GT 86)

The 86 is buoyed by its rear-drive layout and sweet transmission choices. Decidedly less satisfying is its Subaru-sourced 2.0-liter flat-four engine, which is rough, loud, and suffers from an odd dip in torque midway through the rev range. Still, we managed a swift 6.2-second zero-to-60-mph time with the manual transmission. Although we prefer the manual's notchy, short-throw shifter, the 86's optional six-speed automatic is the rare self-shifter that doesn't ruin the fun. It offers up quick shifts both when it handles gearchanges and when the driver orders up- or downshifts via the shift paddles.

(GT 86)

The Toyota 86 has ordinary albeit competitive warranty coverage; it's one of the few small sports cars that has complimentary scheduled maintenance.

 Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles

 Powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles

 Complimentary maintenance is covered for two years or 25,000 miles