It’s been a year since the revamped Toyota GR86 hit the market, and I recently had the chance to revisit this exciting sports coupe, this time equipped with the automatic transmission. My initial experience with the 2023 Toyota Gr86, even in automatic guise, left me impressed with its enhanced refinement and exceptional chassis. However, after a more extended period and further drives in another automatic model, my enthusiasm has significantly cooled. While the inherent sporty DNA of the GR86 is undeniable, the automatic transmission severely compromises its appeal as a true performance car. My conviction has only strengthened: to truly appreciate the 2023 Toyota GR86, the manual transmission is not just preferable, it’s essential. Without the engaging manual gearbox, other shortcomings become more pronounced, overshadowing the car’s inherent talents. Despite these criticisms, the GR86 still possesses a remarkable core strength that deserves recognition.
My disappointment isn’t solely directed at the outdated six-speed automatic transmission with its flimsy plastic paddle shifters. This is just one of several areas where the 2023 Toyota GR86 automatic falls short. Let’s start with the interior. During my first encounter, I considered the cabin a decent improvement over the previous 86 model. However, after spending more time in other vehicles in the same price range and category, the GR86’s interior now feels like a significant letdown. A recent comparison with the Mazda Miata, after back-to-back testing, highlighted just how far off the mark the GR86’s interior truly is. Beyond the reasonably supportive and visually appealing seats, the cabin materials and construction feel cheap and toy-like, rivaling some of the most budget-oriented new cars available today. Consider the interior door handles: thin, hollow plastic that feel like they were plucked from a children’s toy car. In fact, comparing them to Lego components might even be unfair to Lego’s superior build quality.
Close-up of the 2023 Toyota GR86 interior door handle, highlighting the use of basic plastic materials in the cabin.
The climate controls further contribute to the underwhelming interior experience. The oversized, curved switches, designed with a metallic aesthetic, are undeniably plastic. While perhaps intended to evoke an aviation-inspired design, their excessive size and flimsy feel suggest they were borrowed from a low-budget economy car from the early 2000s. The rear side of these controls, with their generous curvature, reveals even more cheap plastic, a stark reminder of cost-cutting measures in the 2023 Toyota GR86. The buttons on a children’s game like “Hungry Hungry Hippos” arguably offer a more substantial and premium tactile experience. Hard plastics dominate virtually every surface within the cabin, a disappointing reality for a vehicle in the over $30,000 price bracket. The microsuede trim, intended to introduce texture and visual interest, appears to be an inexpensive, bulk-purchased afterthought, further cheapening the overall ambiance. While initial impressions, and even photographs, might suggest a well-designed and purposeful interior, the three-dimensional reality reveals a significant gap in quality and material execution. Adding to the ergonomic issues is a prominent bulge on the left side of the steering wheel housing, a frequent point of knee contact for the driver.
While the rear seats are undeniably compact, their inclusion is a welcome feature for occasional use or emergency situations. The front seats offer decent lateral support and an attractive design, but lack the fine-tuning adjustability expected in a sports car. The flat seat bottom and the absence of front seat tilt adjustment prevented me from achieving a truly comfortable driving position suitable for spirited driving. Furthermore, even for my average height of 5’10”, the seat doesn’t lower sufficiently, and the steering wheel’s height adjustment range is limited. This results in a seating position that feels too high, perched on top of the car rather than integrated within it, compounded by a steering wheel that feels positioned too low.
Overview of the 2023 Toyota GR86 interior, showing the infotainment screen and basic layout of the dashboard and center console.
The electronics within the 2023 Toyota GR86 present another set of challenges. The infotainment system, while functional and relatively straightforward to navigate, resembles an aftermarket unit from a decade ago. However, the more significant issues lie in the car’s excessive and often illogical warning chimes. Toyota vehicles are known for their auditory alerts, but the GR86 elevates this to an entirely new level of annoyance, even exhibiting what I would consider defective noise programming. As is common in modern cars, failing to fasten the seatbelt before starting the engine triggers a series of loud chimes, presumably as a reminder of your seated status. While unnecessary when the vehicle is stationary and in park, this is a prevalent, albeit irritating, feature in many new cars. The real problem emerges when maneuvering the car at low speeds, such as during photography sessions requiring frequent repositioning with the engine running. While it’s reasonable for a car to chime if you begin driving without a seatbelt, the GR86’s system escalates to a faster, more insistent beeping pattern after a short period. The critical flaw is that, unlike virtually every other vehicle, this escalated beeping does not stop when you park the car. Even with the transmission in park and the driver outside the vehicle, the incessant chiming continues, creating an unsettling and frankly absurd auditory experience. While this specific scenario might be infrequent for most drivers, it highlights a concerning lack of refinement and intelligent programming. Another irritating chime sounds endlessly if the engine is turned off with the driver’s door open – beeping even with the car completely off.
Further complicating the driving experience are the overly sensitive active safety systems. Unlike other Toyota models, the 2023 Toyota GR86 utilizes Subaru’s EyeSight system, a consequence of their joint development. While safety features are undoubtedly important, EyeSight in the GR86 proves to be excessively reactive, sometimes creating a less safe driving environment. For instance, the radar cruise control emits a beep every time it detects a vehicle ahead. Fortunately, this specific chime can be deactivated through the vehicle’s settings menu. However, the more problematic aspects are the aggressive automatic emergency braking and collision warnings. In typical stop-and-go traffic, simply releasing the brake pedal as the traffic light turns green frequently triggered collision warnings, falsely indicating an imminent rear-end collision with the car ahead, even at a safe distance. More concerningly, the system would occasionally apply the brakes abruptly and unexpectedly when creeping forward in traffic, again for no apparent reason. This sudden braking is not only jarring but also potentially dangerous, increasing the risk of being rear-ended by following vehicles.
Reversing into parking spaces, even with careful brake pedal modulation, often resulted in the GR86 abruptly slamming on the brakes when approaching an obstacle, even with a considerable foot of clearance remaining. The overall intrusiveness and overzealousness of the system significantly detract from everyday driving, usability, and driver comfort. While these systems can thankfully be disabled, the binary choice of all-or-nothing is less than ideal. Either endure overly sensitive and disruptive safety features, or forgo them entirely. In my extensive experience testing numerous vehicles, no other car has exhibited such inconvenient and poorly calibrated behavior in this regard. The system’s erratic interventions were so noticeable and questionable that a passenger audibly questioned, “What the hell was that?” after experiencing the abrupt braking in a parking lot and again at a green traffic light. This isn’t simply complaining for the sake of it; in 2023, in a brand-new vehicle, such flawed and intrusive safety systems are simply unacceptable.
Front three-quarter view of the 2023 Toyota GR86, highlighting its sporty design and low stance.
Moving beyond the electronic frustrations, further limitations arise regarding the traction and stability control systems. These electronic aids, designed to enhance safety and control, can only be fully disabled when the 2023 Toyota GR86 is completely stationary. While driving, a partial traction control deactivation is possible, but only at speeds below 30 MPH. Exceeding this threshold forces the re-engagement of the full system, effectively limiting driver control at higher speeds. A halfway “track mode” setting offers slightly more permissive intervention and can be activated at any speed. However, for a vehicle marketed as a sports car, bearing the GR badge representing Toyota’s Gazoo Racing motorsport division, the inability to fully disable these systems while in motion is a perplexing and disappointing limitation. It contradicts the spirit of driver engagement and control expected in a performance-oriented vehicle.
Powering the 2023 Toyota GR86 is a 2.4-liter naturally aspirated flat-four “boxer” engine, sourced from Subaru. This engine configuration contributes to a low center of gravity and improved weight distribution, enhancing the car’s agility. Rated at 228 horsepower and 205 lb-ft of torque, the engine provides a noticeable performance improvement over the previous generation 86. However, when paired with the automatic transmission, the GR86 never truly feels quick. While instrumented testing might indicate a 0-60 mph time comfortably under six seconds, the subjective experience lacks the expected punch and responsiveness. This can be attributed in part to the automatic transmission’s gearing, with second gear extending beyond 60 mph and sixth gear resulting in a low 2,000 RPM cruising speed at 70 mph. The manual transmission variant is reported to offer shorter gearing, potentially delivering a more engaging and responsive feel. Despite its modest displacement, the engine’s fuel economy is also unremarkable. During my testing, the GR86 averaged 25.5 MPG. While rain-affected driving conditions may have slightly impacted this figure, my older 1993 BMW 325is, with a 2.5-liter inline-six engine and a five-speed manual, achieved comparable fuel efficiency over years of ownership. Furthermore, the GR86’s fuel economy falls short of the Mazda Miata and even the four-cylinder GR Supra 2.0. Adding to the engine’s shortcomings is its unrefined sound profile. Mechanical clatter, particularly noticeable at startup, and a general impression of a cheap blender under load detract from the overall driving experience. While smoother than the previous 86’s engine, it lacks the smoothness and musicality expected of a modern engine, especially when compared to six-cylinder or even other inline-four options.
Interior view of the 2023 Toyota GR86 Premium trim, showcasing the seats, steering wheel, and dashboard design.
The automatic transmission itself is a significant source of frustration and diminishes the driving experience of the 2023 Toyota GR86. For a sports car designed for driving thrills and engagement, opting for an automatic transmission seems fundamentally misguided. While dual-clutch transmissions in other performance cars can offer compelling arguments for their performance and convenience, the GR86 is saddled with an archaic “slushbox” automatic. Shift speeds are slow and deliberate, and the transmission’s responsiveness to manual paddle inputs is sluggish. The automatic’s tall gearing further exacerbates the engine’s perceived lack of torque, leading to frequent gear hunting and unnecessary downshifts, highlighting gaps in the power delivery. Despite the increased engine displacement compared to the previous generation, the automatic GR86 fails to convey any significant sense of enhanced power.
At lower speeds, the transmission’s shortcomings become even more pronounced. Turning off a main road and then attempting to accelerate often results in a disconcerting delay as the transmission seems lost, indecisive about gear selection, and unresponsive to throttle input. This hesitation and confusion evoke characteristics reminiscent of older, less refined single-clutch automated manual transmissions, resulting in jerky and unrefined transitions that are unacceptable in a modern automatic. Regardless of one’s stance in the manual-versus-automatic transmission debate, the automatic in the 2023 Toyota GR86 is demonstrably poor. One might speculate that its inclusion is intentionally underwhelming to steer buyers towards the manual transmission, yet a significant number of automatic GR86 models are still sold. For those who choose the automatic, a considerable portion of the GR86’s inherent fun and driver engagement is unfortunately lost. The manual transmission, while not the most exceptional example of its kind, is a solid, positive, and enjoyable unit that fundamentally transforms the GR86 driving experience, shifting the focus to driver interaction and mitigating the car’s other deficiencies.
Despite the numerous criticisms, it’s crucial to acknowledge the 2023 Toyota GR86‘s undeniable strength: its exceptional chassis. Even with the engine’s limitations, the less-than-ideal driving position, and the subpar interior, the GR86 boasts one of the finest chassis available in any new car today, regardless of price. For handling prowess, the GR86 competes with the best in the world. In fact, the car’s cornering ability and overall driving dynamics are so outstanding that they almost compensate for its other shortcomings. While the steering feedback could be improved, the steering wheel still feels remarkably communicative compared to many modern vehicles, conveying a sense of connection and responsiveness. The car exhibits a near-telepathic quality, responding intuitively to driver inputs with fluid and immediate transitions.
Side profile of the 2023 Toyota GR86 Premium Automatic, showcasing its sporty silhouette and alloy wheels.
Understeer is virtually nonexistent in the 2023 Toyota GR86, except in extreme or driver-induced situations. The Michelin Pilot summer tires provide ample grip, and the car’s balanced chassis eagerly seeks out corners. Despite the relatively narrow 215-width tires, they contribute to a malleable and communicative handling experience, striking a balance between grip and feedback. The confidence and control offered by the GR86’s chassis surpass most other sports cars in its class, inspiring driver confidence and rewarding precise inputs. Apexes are effortlessly achieved, and any missed apexes are more likely attributable to driver error than vehicle limitations. The chassis’ adjustability encourages early throttle application, allowing drivers to confidently power out of corners with precision. For those seeking playful handling and oversteer, the GR86 delivers in spades (with traction control fully disabled, of course, requiring a complete stop for deactivation). The car’s transitions into and out of oversteer are smooth and predictable, requiring minimal correction and fostering a sense of effortless control.
Further testament to the chassis’ brilliance is its surprising stability even in challenging conditions. I drove the 2023 Toyota GR86 on Michelin summer tires in light snow, confidently navigating freeway conditions and even overtaking a Sheriff’s SUV in the process. Maintaining a safe speed and following existing tire tracks, the car remained remarkably composed and stable, even at 55 mph during a spring snow dusting. In a parking lot with fresh snow accumulation, the car remained manageable, albeit with reduced traction. While a dedicated snow mode is available, disabling traction and stability control entirely proved more effective in these conditions, allowing for controlled drifts even at low speeds.
The ride quality and suspension of the 2023 Toyota GR86, particularly when driven aggressively, also deserve praise. While the ride can be firm during normal cruising, as expected in a sports car, the suspension excels at absorbing mid-corner bumps and imperfections at speed. Unlike some pricier sports cars, including even the GR Supra, the GR86 shrugs off sudden impacts without unsettling the chassis, maintaining composure and control regardless of road surface irregularities. Compared to the Honda Civic Type R, which can feel overly stiff and jarring over bumps, the GR86 exhibits a more composed and forgiving ride, gliding over imperfections without compromising handling.
While the 2023 Toyota GR86 offers compelling performance for its price, and boasts a truly exceptional chassis, the numerous shortcomings, particularly the automatic transmission, cheap interior, and frustrating electronics, make it difficult to wholeheartedly recommend. The manual transmission variant undoubtedly addresses some of these issues, but the fundamental flaws remain. When considering alternatives, the Mazda MX-5 Miata stands out as the only other dedicated rear-wheel-drive sports car in the same price range. While even more uncompromising in some respects, the Miata, especially in manual form, offers comparable driving fun and the added allure of open-top motoring, a feature unavailable in the GR86.
Another unexpected alternative is the Hyundai Elantra N. For a similar price, the Elantra N provides significantly more power (nearly 300 horsepower), turbocharged performance, and a Nürburgring-tuned chassis, albeit in a front-wheel-drive configuration. While lacking the GR86’s rear-wheel-drive driftability, the Elantra N arguably delivers a more engaging and rewarding driving experience on public roads and canyon curves, coupled with greater practicality thanks to its four-door sedan body style and comparable fuel economy. The Elantra N has even outperformed the GR86 in comparative reviews, such as a Motor Trend shootout. While the GR86’s inherent sporty character is appealing, its numerous deficiencies make it a less compelling overall package. Perhaps with a manual transmission, the negatives could be more easily overlooked. However, in automatic guise, the 2023 Toyota GR86 struggles to justify its compromises, especially when compared to alternatives like the Hyundai Elantra N, which might offer a more well-rounded and ultimately more enjoyable performance car experience.
2023 Toyota GR86 Premium Automatic
As-tested price: $33,748
Pros: Superlative chassis; Great looks
Cons: Automatic makes the car pointless; Grainy engine; Cheap interior
A glimpse of the 2023 Toyota GR86’s rear seats, emphasizing their compact size and limited legroom.
Rear view of the 2023 Toyota GR86 in Trueno Blue, highlighting the taillights and rear spoiler design.
Detailed shot of the 2023 Toyota GR86 rear, focusing on the GR86 badging and rear diffuser.
Action shot of the 2023 Toyota GR86 Automatic in motion on a winding road, illustrating its handling capabilities.
Close-up of the 2023 Toyota GR86 Premium interior, highlighting the textured materials and seat design.
Driver’s perspective of the 2023 Toyota GR86 interior, showing the steering wheel, instrument cluster, and center console layout.
