Street Racing Illustrated | Much ado about nothing – 2019 Toyota 86 TRD Special Edition

2019 Toyota 86 TRD Special Edition available in August

Story | Phillip Pratt

 

 

Anyone that was hoping for something new in the 86 this year, like let’s say a factory turbocharged 4U-GSE; you’re in for an upset. It’s still ain’t in here and neither Toyota nor Subaru have announced plans to transplant the WRX’s turbocharged boxer motor inside of 86 or BRZ. Sorry. On the bright side, the 2019, 2×2 fastback coupe will have available a TRD Special Edition come this August. Still rocking it’s naturally aspirated 2.0L, 205HP and 156lb-ft of torque engine with 6-speed manual RWD transmission, the TRD 86 also receives bigger wheels in 18 x 7.5 (over stock 17 x 7) wrapped in 215/40ZR-18 Michelin Pilot Sport 4s. Brembo four-piston calipers up front and two-piston calipers in the rear cling delightfully to 12.8 inch and 12.4-inch rotors, respectively. Only available in black, the body will be equipped with a TRD specific front fascia, side skirts, rear differ and wing. The only bump in power over the base model is the TRD exhaust, which most enthusiast will probably be removing upon purchase and then reselling on eBay once the factory warranty wears out. If you’re interested in the 86, also take a look at the Subaru BRZ with its optional performance packages. Piece for piece, outside of the exclusive TRD body parts, springs and exhaust; there’s basically no difference in performance ce poste. With the TRD 86 tipping the scales at $32,420 fully equipped, you may want to give the similarly built BRZ, coming in at about $29,640, a look.