LAS VEGAS (Nov. 5, 2024) – Toyota has unleashed the Gr86 Rally Legacy Concept at the 2024 SEMA Show, a thrilling nod to its rich rally history. Based on the 2024 GR86 with Performance Package, this concept car embodies Toyota’s dedication to high performance, nostalgic design, and the exciting future of rally racing.
Fueled by whispers of the World Rally Championship (WRC) potentially returning to the United States, Toyota took a journey back through its motorsports heritage. The result? The GR86 Rally Legacy Concept, drawing direct inspiration from the legendary ST185 and ST205 Celica GT-Four rally cars of the 1990s. This vision manifested into a complete powertrain transformation for the GR86, incorporating the potent 3-cylinder turbocharged, GR-FOUR All-Wheel Drive system from the acclaimed GR Corolla.
“We wanted to spark memories of the iconic rally cars that captivated enthusiasts both on challenging rally stages and within popular racing video games,” explained Paul Doleshal, general manager of Motorsports and Assets at Toyota Motor North America. “This idea ignited a conversation about how incredible it would be to create a modern interpretation of such a legendary vehicle.”
This ambitious project began by merging two distinct sports cars from Toyota’s GR family. The goal was to envision a contemporary embodiment of the iconic Celica GT-Four. The most significant engineering challenges involved extensive modifications to the GR86’s chassis to accommodate the GR Corolla’s taller, transversely mounted G16E-GTS engine and the GR-FOUR AWD drivetrain.
Engineered for Rally Performance: The GR Corolla Powertrain Swap
While the G16 engine itself could physically fit within the GR86’s engine bay and transmission tunnel, integrating the GR-FOUR AWD system required substantial alterations. Modifications to the front chassis were necessary, along with the fabrication of a custom subframe and engine mounts. These changes were crucial to create the necessary clearance for the driveline and suspension components.
Converting the GR86 to all-wheel drive also demanded significant changes to the front suspension. GR Corolla hubs, spindles, and axles were incorporated to deliver power to the front wheels. Custom coil-over dampers were installed at each corner, and custom control arms were fabricated to complement the subframe modifications, ensuring optimal handling and performance. Further fine-tuning of the GR86 steering rack was undertaken to maintain precise steering feel and necessary clearances.
At the rear, the team replaced the standard GR86 rear end with the GR Corolla differential and housing. This ensured that factory gear ratios, electronic functionality, and power distribution were maintained. The GR Corolla rear axles also underwent modifications to ensure a proper fit within the GR86 chassis.
Upping the Ante: Performance Enhancements
The G16 engine in the GR86 Rally Legacy Concept benefits from several key upgrades designed to enhance performance and durability under demanding conditions. A performance intercooler has been added to significantly reduce intake charge temperatures, improving engine efficiency and power output. Additionally, an oil cooler has been incorporated to effectively manage and reduce engine oil temperatures, crucial for maintaining engine health during rigorous use.
Engine management is handled by a race ECU, ensuring precise fuel delivery, spark timing, boost control, and comprehensive sensor monitoring. While the GR86 Rally Legacy Concept currently retains the GR Corolla’s factory specifications of 300 horsepower and 273 lb.-ft of torque, the potential for further power increases through additional tuning remains a compelling prospect.
Rally-Inspired Aesthetics: Design and Style
The GR86 Rally Legacy concept boasts a striking Halo White exterior, immediately catching the eye. This is further enhanced by a heritage-inspired red and green color palette, seamlessly integrated with contemporary Toyota and Toyota Gazoo Racing logos, celebrating Toyota’s motorsport lineage.
Key exterior features amplify the vintage rally aesthetic. Large red rally mudflaps are prominently featured, adding a functional and visual rally cue. A custom exhaust system not only enhances performance but also contributes to the concept’s distinctive sound. Completing the vintage rally car look is a Celica GT-Four-inspired spoiler, a clear visual link to its rally heritage.
Cockpit Ready for Competition: Interior Features
Stepping inside the GR86 Rally Legacy concept reveals a cockpit that is unequivocally race-focused. A full roll cage, painted in a bright white, dominates the interior, providing essential safety and structural rigidity. The driver and passenger are securely held in place by racing seats equipped with red, 6-point racing harnesses, aligning with Toyota Gazoo Racing’s signature color scheme and underscoring the vehicle’s performance intent.
Toyota’s Rallying Vision
“The GR86 Rally Legacy Concept is a powerful demonstration of Toyota’s unwavering passion for rally racing,” stated Mike Tripp, group vice president, Toyota Marketing. “This build is dedicated to our GR and Toyota Rally fans—it’s a dream car brought to life, a celebration of our past achievements and the exciting possibility of the World Rally Championship returning to the United States.”
The GR86 Rally Legacy concept perfectly embodies Toyota’s strategic approach to blending its rich heritage with cutting-edge innovation. This concept, along with Toyota’s diverse showcase of vehicles, build concepts, and production models, is currently on display at the 2024 SEMA Show from November 5-8 at the Las Vegas Convention Center in the Toyota booth (Central Hall, Booth 22200). Toyota extends an invitation to SEMA attendees to experience firsthand its commitment to delivering thrilling performance, whether on the race track or off-road trails.
Vehicle referenced is a special project prototype vehicle, modified with parts and/or accessories not available from Toyota that may void the vehicle’s warranty, may negatively impact vehicle performance and safety, and may not be street legal.
