Japanese manufacturer Toyota is making a big splash in the affordable sports coupe segment with the announcement of its new 2025 GR86 Hakone Edition. This special series, limited to just 860 units for the global market, pays homage to the famous Hakone mountain road in Japan, renowned for its winding bends and popular with sports driving enthusiasts.
An exclusive design inspired by Japanese nature
The GR86 Hakone Edition is immediately distinguished by its exclusive Ridge Green exterior color, evoking the lush forests surrounding the Hakone Road. This unique color is subtly highlighted by 18-inch wheels with a satin bronze finish, creating an elegant and sporty contrast.
The car's aerodynamics are enhanced by the addition of a duck-tail rear wing, reminiscent of the aesthetic codes of classic racing cars. A specially designed Hakone badge completes the distinctive exterior elements, emphasizing the exclusive character of this model.
A boxer engine for pure sensations
Under the hood, the GR86 Hakone Edition retains the beating heart of the range: a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder boxer engine. This naturally aspirated engine develops 228 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque, figures that promise exciting performance.
True to the Toyota Gazoo Racing philosophy, the GR86 Hakone Edition is available with a 6-speed manual gearbox, giving purists full control over the mechanics. For those who prefer a more relaxed ride, a 6-speed automatic transmission is also available.
A sharp chassis for an exhilarating ride
Toyota has paid particular attention to the dynamic behavior of this special edition. Engineers have revised the settings of the shock absorbers and the electric power steering to provide even more precise feel and increased agility.
The GR86 Hakone Edition features SACHS shock absorbers and Brembo brakes as standard, ensuring exceptional performance and control on both road and track. The chassis, constructed from high-strength steel and aluminium, provides the perfect balance between rigidity and lightness.
A refined interior with sporty accents
The interior of the GR86 Hakone Edition is no exception in terms of exclusivity. The sports seats are upholstered in Ultrasuede with Havana leather inserts, creating a sporty yet luxurious atmosphere. The bronze-accented gear knob and the GR Special Edition numbered plaque reinforce the unique character of this limited series.
Engineers have also worked on the throttle mapping to provide a more lively response and facilitate heel-toeing when downshifting. These technical improvements aim to further strengthen the connection between the driver and his machine, for an ever more immersive driving experience.
An experience that goes beyond mere possession
Toyota doesnโt just offer its customers an exceptional car. In the United States, every purchaser of the GR86 Hakone Edition will receive a complimentary one-year membership to the National Auto Sport Association (NASA). This partnership includes access to a complimentary High Performance Driving Event (HPDE) as well as preferential rates to participate in other NASA-sanctioned events.
This initiative underlines Toyota's desire to create a real community around its GR (Gazoo Racing) range, by encouraging owners to fully explore the capabilities of their vehicle in a safe and supervised environment.
A highly coveted limited series
With only 860 units planned for the global market, the Toyota GR86 Hakone Edition is already shaping up to be a future collector's item. Although the price has not yet been officially announced, we can expect a slightly higher price than the standard GR86, justified by the many improvements and the exclusive nature of this edition.
The GR86 Hakone Edition represents the culmination of the Toyota Gazoo Racing philosophy: to offer accessible sports cars that deliver intense sensations on both the road and the track. It perfectly embodies Toyota's kaizen (continuous improvement) spirit, pushing even further the qualities that made the GR86 a success.
For fans of Japanese sports cars, the GR86 Hakone Edition represents a unique opportunity to own a true piece of automotive history. It continues the tradition of Japan's great sports cars while offering a modern and refined interpretation of the pure sports car concept.
The 2025 Toyota GR86 Hakone Edition will be available at dealerships starting in the fall of 2024. Fans of thrills and unique pieces would be wise to reserve their copy as soon as possible, because this limited series promises to sell like hotcakes.