Hey car enthusiasts! Let's dive into everything you need to know about the Toyota 86, a fantastic sports car that blends performance, affordability, and style. If you're in the market for a fun, engaging ride without breaking the bank, the Toyota 86 might just be your perfect match. We'll cover the price, features, performance, and everything else that makes this car a standout choice. So, buckle up and let's get started!

What's the Price Tag on the Toyota 86?

Let's get straight to the point – the price. Understanding the cost is crucial when considering any car, and the Toyota 86 offers excellent value for what you get. The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) typically starts in the range of $27,000 to $31,000, depending on the trim level and any additional options you might want. Keep in mind that this is just the starting price. Dealers often have their own markups, and factors like location, demand, and current incentives can also influence the final price. When you're shopping around, it's always a smart move to compare prices from different dealerships to ensure you're getting the best possible deal. Look out for any available rebates, financing options, or special offers that could lower the overall cost. Also, consider that prices can vary based on whether you're buying a new or used model. A used Toyota 86, especially one that's a few years old, can be significantly cheaper, making it an even more accessible option for budget-conscious buyers. Beyond the initial purchase price, don't forget to factor in other expenses such as sales tax, registration fees, and insurance costs. These can add a few thousand dollars to your total expenditure, so it's important to have a clear picture of all the costs involved. The Toyota 86 stands out as an attractive option because it delivers a thrilling driving experience without the premium price tag often associated with sports cars. It's a car that's designed to be enjoyed, whether you're carving through twisty roads or just cruising around town, and its relatively affordable price makes it accessible to a wider range of drivers.

Key Features of the Toyota 86

The Toyota 86 isn't just about the price; it's packed with features that make it a joy to drive and own. One of the standout features is its responsive handling. The car's lightweight design, combined with a low center of gravity, gives it incredibly nimble and precise handling. This makes it a blast to drive on winding roads, where you can really feel the car's agility. The 86 is equipped with a 2.0-liter horizontally-opposed four-cylinder engine, often referred to as a "boxer" engine. This engine configuration helps to keep the car's center of gravity low, further enhancing its handling capabilities. While the engine isn't the most powerful in its class, it delivers a respectable 205 horsepower (in models with the manual transmission) and 156 lb-ft of torque. This is more than enough to provide an engaging and exciting driving experience. The Toyota 86 typically comes with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. The manual transmission is the purist's choice, offering a more direct and engaging connection with the car. It allows you to fully control the engine's power and rev range, making for a more immersive driving experience. The automatic transmission, on the other hand, provides smoother and more relaxed driving, particularly in city traffic. Inside the cabin, the Toyota 86 offers a driver-focused design with sporty seats that provide excellent support during spirited driving. The interior is generally straightforward and functional, with an emphasis on simplicity and ease of use. Features like a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and available smartphone integration (such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto) keep you connected and entertained on the road. Safety features are also well-represented in the Toyota 86, with standard equipment including anti-lock brakes, stability control, traction control, and multiple airbags. Some models may also offer advanced safety technologies like lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Overall, the Toyota 86 combines performance-oriented features with everyday usability, making it a well-rounded sports car that's suitable for both weekend fun and daily commuting.

Performance and Handling: What to Expect

When it comes to performance and handling, the Toyota 86 truly shines. It's designed to provide a fun and engaging driving experience that puts a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel. The car's lightweight construction plays a crucial role in its nimble handling. Weighing in at around 2,800 pounds, the 86 feels light and agile, responding quickly to steering inputs. This makes it a joy to drive on twisty roads, where you can confidently navigate corners with precision. The low center of gravity, thanks to its boxer engine, further enhances the car's stability and reduces body roll, allowing you to maintain better control during spirited driving. The 2.0-liter engine delivers a decent amount of power, but it's the way the power is delivered that makes the 86 so enjoyable. The engine is responsive and revs freely, encouraging you to explore its upper limits. While it may not have the brute force of some higher-powered sports cars, the 86's engine provides plenty of excitement, especially when paired with the six-speed manual transmission. The manual transmission offers precise and satisfying shifts, allowing you to fully control the engine's power and keep it in the optimal rev range. The automatic transmission is also a good option, offering smooth and seamless gear changes, but it doesn't provide quite the same level of engagement as the manual. The Toyota 86's suspension is tuned to provide a balance between comfort and performance. It's firm enough to keep the car planted in corners, but not so harsh that it becomes uncomfortable on rough roads. The steering is precise and communicative, giving you a good feel for the road and allowing you to make accurate inputs. One of the great things about the Toyota 86 is that it's designed to be approachable and forgiving. It's easy to learn and master, making it a great car for both novice and experienced drivers. Whether you're just starting to explore the world of sports cars or you're a seasoned enthusiast, the 86 offers a rewarding driving experience that's hard to beat.

Interior and Technology: Inside the Cabin

Stepping inside the Toyota 86, you'll find an interior that prioritizes functionality and a driver-focused design. While it may not be the most luxurious cabin in its class, it offers everything you need for an enjoyable driving experience. The seats are designed to provide excellent support during spirited driving. They're comfortable and well-bolstered, keeping you firmly in place when you're tackling corners. The driving position is excellent, with all the controls within easy reach. The steering wheel feels good in your hands, and the gauges are clear and easy to read. The interior is generally straightforward and uncluttered, with an emphasis on simplicity. The materials used are durable and well-assembled, although they may not be as plush as those found in more expensive sports cars. The infotainment system is relatively simple to use, with a touchscreen display that provides access to features like audio, navigation, and smartphone integration. The system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps on the car's display. Bluetooth connectivity is also standard, allowing you to make hands-free phone calls and stream music wirelessly. The Toyota 86 also offers a range of other convenient features, such as a rearview camera, which makes parking and maneuvering in tight spaces easier. The car also has a decent amount of storage space for a sports car, with a small trunk that can accommodate a few bags or suitcases. While the rear seats are quite small and not particularly comfortable for adults, they can be useful for carrying extra cargo or small children. Overall, the interior of the Toyota 86 is functional and driver-focused, providing everything you need for an enjoyable and engaging driving experience. It may not be the most luxurious cabin in its class, but it's well-designed and practical, making it a great place to spend time behind the wheel.

Pros and Cons of Owning a Toyota 86

Like any car, the Toyota 86 has its strengths and weaknesses. Understanding these pros and cons can help you make an informed decision about whether it's the right car for you.

Pros:

• Affordable Price: One of the biggest advantages of the Toyota 86 is its relatively low price, making it accessible to a wider range of buyers.
• Engaging Handling: The 86's lightweight design and low center of gravity give it incredibly nimble and precise handling, making it a joy to drive on twisty roads.
• Manual Transmission Option: The availability of a six-speed manual transmission allows for a more direct and engaging connection with the car.
• Sporty Design: The Toyota 86 has a sleek and stylish design that turns heads wherever you go.
• Reliable: Toyota has a reputation for building reliable cars, and the 86 is no exception.

Cons:

• Limited Power: While the engine is responsive and revs freely, it may not have enough power for some drivers.
• Small Rear Seats: The rear seats are quite small and not particularly comfortable for adults.
• Basic Interior: The interior is functional but not as luxurious as some other sports cars in its class.
• Fuel Economy: While not terrible, the fuel economy is not the best in its class.

Considering these pros and cons, the Toyota 86 is a great choice for drivers who prioritize handling, affordability, and a fun driving experience. However, if you need a lot of space or prefer a more luxurious interior, you might want to consider other options.

Alternatives to the Toyota 86

If the Toyota 86 doesn't quite fit your needs, there are several other sports cars that you might want to consider. One popular alternative is the Mazda MX-5 Miata. The Miata is a two-seat roadster that offers similar levels of fun and engagement as the 86, but with the added benefit of open-top driving. It's also known for its incredibly precise handling and lightweight design. Another option is the Subaru BRZ, which is essentially the same car as the Toyota 86 but with a few minor differences in styling and features. The BRZ offers the same great handling and performance as the 86, but it may be available with different options or trim levels depending on your location. If you're looking for something with a bit more power, you might want to consider the Ford Mustang EcoBoost. The Mustang EcoBoost offers a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers significantly more power than the Toyota 86, while still offering good handling and a stylish design. It's also available in both coupe and convertible body styles. Another alternative is the Nissan 370Z, which is a classic sports car with a powerful V6 engine and rear-wheel drive. The 370Z offers a more traditional sports car experience than the Toyota 86, with a focus on raw power and performance. Ultimately, the best alternative to the Toyota 86 will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Consider what's most important to you in a sports car, and then shop around to find the model that best fits your requirements.

Final Thoughts: Is the Toyota 86 Right for You?

So, is the Toyota 86 the right car for you? If you're looking for an affordable, fun-to-drive sports car that offers engaging handling and a sporty design, then the answer is likely yes. The 86 is a car that's designed to be enjoyed, whether you're carving through twisty roads or just cruising around town. It's easy to learn and master, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced drivers. However, if you need a lot of space, prefer a more luxurious interior, or require a lot of power, then you might want to consider other options. The Toyota 86 is not the most practical car, and its limited rear seats and small trunk may not be suitable for everyone. But for those who prioritize driving enjoyment above all else, the Toyota 86 is hard to beat. It's a car that puts a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel, and that's something that's hard to put a price on. So, if you're in the market for a sports car, be sure to give the Toyota 86 a look. You might just find that it's the perfect car for you. And with its affordable price and reliable reputation, it's a car that you can enjoy for years to come. Happy driving, guys!