The 2017 Toyota 86, formerly known as the Scion FR-S, officially enters the Toyota stable with more than just a minor makeover. The 2017 Toyota 86 is mildly restyled inside and out with a significantly upgraded suspension and, in the case of the manual, more power.
Toyota invited TFLcar out to Ojai, California to test their new (or revised) offerings for 2017. This included the 2017 Toyota Sienna, 2017 Toyota Highlander, 2017 Toyota Corolla and the 2017 Toyota Prius Prime (plug-in hybrid). We were pressed for time as we only had two days to film and review five vehicles.
Although I only had time to test the automatic version of the Toyota 86, I can attest to its much improved suspension, ride and overall handling. The test vehicle had the loud TRD exhaust package. While I can’t recommend the TRD exhaust package to folks who like a mellow ride, it’s definitely worth it for those who like to hear the four-cylinder boxer clear its throat.
According to Toyota, the 2017 86 has a 2.0-liter, twin-cam, 16-valve flat four with dual variable valve timing that makes 200 hp @ 7000 rpm and 151 lb-ft of torque @ 6400-6600 rpm with an automatic, and 205 hp @ 7000 rpm and 156 lb-ft of torque @ 6400-6600 rpm with a manual.
Toyota stiffened the front suspension, added stronger steel to strategic areas (including the transmission tunnel) and softened the rear suspension. The combination makes the Toyota 86 a better-riding, sharper-cornering vehicle. While power and torque are a bit low, the driving character of the 86 is outstanding. Near sea level, it loves to charge to over 7,000 rpm rapidly, its response to throttle inputs are nearly as sharp as its steering, which is fantastic.
Prices start at $26,255 and the 2017 Toyota 86 is available at Toyota dealerships right now. Check out the full video above for more information and a driving impression.
