Toyota is injecting a fresh burst of energy into its sports car lineup with the announcement of the 2026 GR86 Yuzu Edition. This special model pays homage to a beloved predecessor, the Scion FR-S Release Series 1.0, through its exclusive and eye-catching Yuzu Yellow exterior color. Based on the well-regarded GR86 Premium grade, the Yuzu Edition further distinguishes itself with matte-black wheels and striking black accents strategically placed throughout its design. Inside, the cabin offers a sporty and cohesive aesthetic with a black interior accented by vibrant yellow details, creating a unique and engaging environment for driving enthusiasts.
A Nod to the Past, Focused on the Future: The GR86 Yuzu Edition’s vibrant exterior hue serves as a direct link to the Scion FR-S Release Series 1.0, a special edition known for its distinctive yellow paint. This thoughtful connection resonates with enthusiasts who appreciate the lineage of Toyota’s compact sports cars. Building upon the GR86 Premium, the Yuzu Edition enhances its visual appeal with 18-inch matte-black wheels and other carefully chosen black accents that provide a sophisticated contrast to the bright yellow exterior. The interior echoes this theme with black Ultrasuede®-trimmed sport seats featuring yellow perforations and yellow stitching on key touchpoints like the steering wheel, parking brake handle, and door trim, creating a harmonious and driver-focused space.
Enhanced Performance with Standard Upgrades: The 2026 GR86 Yuzu Edition comes standard with a Performance Package that includes Brembo® brakes and SACHS Dampers, elevating its handling and stopping capabilities. The Brembo® brakes are designed to provide improved stopping power and increased confidence, while the SACHS Dampers offer enhanced stability without compromising the GR86’s renowned playful character. These high-quality components ensure that the Yuzu Edition delivers a more refined and capable driving experience right from the factory. Furthermore, customers will have the option to personalize their Yuzu Edition with additional accessories such as a cat-back exhaust featuring GR logoed silver-colored tips and a body kit for even greater self-expression.
Detailed Powertrain and Performance Specifications: All 2026 Toyota GR86 models, including the base GR86, GR86 Premium, and the GR86 Yuzu Edition, will be powered by a responsive 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder boxer engine. This naturally aspirated engine generates a peak output of 228 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque, providing a satisfying balance of power and agility. The engine is available with a choice of either a precise six-speed manual transmission for purists or a smooth six-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission (ECT-i) for added convenience. The GR86 with the manual transmission can achieve a 0-to-60 mph acceleration time of 6.1 seconds, while the automatic version completes the sprint in 6.6 seconds. Regardless of the transmission choice, all GR86 models come equipped with a Torsen® limited-slip rear differential, which enhances traction and stability, particularly when cornering. The peak torque of the engine arrives at a relatively low 3,700 RPM, contributing to a responsive and engaging driving experience across a wide range of speeds.
Pure Driving Experience Across the GR86 Range: The Toyota GR86 is engineered with a core focus on delivering a pure and engaging driving experience. Its compact dimensions, balanced chassis, and responsive nature make it a joy to drive on both winding roads and open highways. The GAZOO Racing engineering team has continuously refined the GR86, with updates in the previous model year including revised throttle mapping for smoother downshifts and enhanced engine torque control for a more direct and linear throttle response. These improvements have been carried over to the 2026 models, ensuring that all GR86 grades offer an even more enjoyable and controllable driving experience. The lightweight construction, achieved through the use of aluminum for the hood, front fenders, and roof, further contributes to the GR86’s nimble and agile feel, with the base manual transmission model weighing in at just 2,811 pounds.
Interior Comfort and Technology: Inside the GR86, the driver-focused cockpit is designed for optimal control and comfort. A digital instrument panel provides essential driving information at a glance, while features like push-button start, an intuitive HVAC system with LED dials and piano-key switches, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated audio controls enhance the driving environment. The Premium and Yuzu Edition grades feature upgraded Ultrasuede® and leather-trimmed seats with black or yellow stitching, six-way adjustability, and two-level heating for the front occupants. An 8-inch touchscreen multimedia system with either a six-speaker (base grade) or eight-speaker (Premium and Yuzu Edition) audio system provides modern connectivity and entertainment options.
Comprehensive Safety and Connected Services: All 2026 Toyota GR86 models come standard with a suite of active safety features. Automatic transmission models include a Pre-Collision Braking System, Pre-Collision Throttle Management, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lead Vehicle Start Alert, Rear Sonar Warning, Lane Departure Warning with Sway Warning, and Automatic High Beams. Manual transmission models feature Pre-Collision Braking System, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure and Sway Warning, Lead Vehicle Start Alert, and Automatic High Beams. Toyota’s Star Safety System™, including VSC, TRAC, ABS, EBD, and BA, is standard across the range. Additionally, all GR86 models offer trial subscriptions to Connected Services, including Safety Connect, Service Connect, and Remote Connect, providing enhanced safety, convenience, and vehicle management capabilities.
Motorsports Inspiration and Ownership Perks: The GR badge signifies a direct connection to Toyota’s extensive motorsports involvement through GAZOO Racing. The GR86 has undergone rigorous track testing and development, reflecting Toyota’s commitment to performance-oriented vehicles. To further enhance the ownership experience for enthusiasts, Toyota is offering a complimentary 1-year membership to the National Auto Sport Association (NASA) with the purchase of a new GR86. This membership provides owners with opportunities to participate in high-performance driving events and other motorsports activities.
Availability and Warranty: The 2026 Toyota GR86, including the special Yuzu Edition (limited to 860 units for the North American market), is expected to arrive at Toyota dealerships in the Fall of 2025. Toyota’s comprehensive warranty coverage includes a 36-month/36,000-mile basic new-vehicle warranty, a 60-month/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, and a corrosion warranty with no mileage limitation. ToyotaCare, a no-cost maintenance plan, covers normal factory-scheduled maintenance for 2 years or 25,000 miles, along with 24-hour roadside assistance for two years, unlimited mileage.
Summary:
- Introduction of the 2026 Toyota GR86 Yuzu Edition.
- Exclusive Yuzu Yellow exterior color with black accents.
- Standard Performance Package with Brembo® brakes and SACHS Dampers.
- Powered by a 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder boxer engine producing 228 HP and 184 lb.-ft. of torque.
- Available with 6-speed manual or automatic transmission.
- Lightweight design and balanced chassis for a pure driving experience.
- Upgraded interior with yellow accents in the Yuzu Edition.
- Standard Active Safety Suite and Connected Services trials.
- Complimentary 1-year NASA membership for GR owners.
- Expected arrival at dealerships in Fall 2025.
Disclaimer: Specifications and availability dates are based on manufacturer’s press releases and are subject to change. Please consult your local Toyota dealer for the most up-to-date information.
Source : Toyota
This article was crafted with assistance from Gemini
