2022 Toyota GR86 Premium

The GR86 is a back-to-basics sports car that began as a joint venture between Toyota and Subaru a decade ago; Subaru’s version is the BRZ (see page 111). Both cars were redesigned for 2022. Looks-wise, the GR86 makes a good first impression. It’s sleek and low slung, with a long hood and swoopy roofline—it looks like it’s moving when it’s standing still. As with any good sports car, it’s sporty and engaging to drive, with agile handling, well-weighted steering, and solid-feeling brakes. Among the GR86’s virtues is that it makes no compromises - as a sports car. Sure, it’s hard to get in and out of and the backseat is unsuitable for adults, but that comes with the territory. It’s also inexpensive. The base model with stick shift and no accessories lists for under $30,000. Unfortunately, no ADAS features are available for G86s equipped with a manual transmission. Opting for an automatic gets you automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lanedeparture warning. The Premium trim (with an automatic) adds blind-spot warning and adaptive LED headlights. Nits to pick: The engine is noisy, with lots of vibration; the automatic transmission feels a little busy at times; and fuel efficiency is middling (25 mpg; premium fuel required). And although the new engine has 23 more horsepower, it wouldn’t hurt if the G86 had a bit more power.