For the 2018 model year, the Toyota 86 will be receiving a new GT trim which adds several features that make the driving experience more comfortable.
The U.S. version of the Toyota 86 is actually already sold as the Toyota 86 GT in Europe. However, these two models are equivalent in terms specifications and features.
As such, the 2018 Toyota 86 GT designated for North America will be a notch higher as it comes with comfort features. It will also serve as a successor to the 2018 86 860 Special Edition, which had a limited production run of just 860 units. The GT model, however, will be offered as a regular trim.
According to a leaked order guide obtained by Cars Direct, the new trim will have slight changes to the sports car's exterior. Specifically, LED fog lights and an aerodynamic front splitter.
Customers can also choose between the 86 GT with body-color accents or the GT Black, which comes with Raven Black accents to the mirror caps and rear wing supports.
Meanwhile, the cabin adds leather upholstery and heating for the seats, a steering wheel with audio controls and silver accent stitching, parking brake handle, dual-zone climate control, push-button start and an anti-theft device.
There will also be a 4.2-inch screen that displays performance numbers such as G-force, torque out, speed via a tachometer and temperature.
The 2018 Toyota 86 GT with a six-speed manual transmission will be available to purchase with a starting price of $29,280. Upgrading to a six-speed automatic gearbox will cost an additional $720.
Meanwhile, those who find the 2018 Toyota 86 GT pricier than expected can opt for the Subaru BRZ. Both vehicles are manufactured by Subaru and the latter's range-topping Limited trim offers the same comfort features. However, it is more affordable with a $28,465 starting price.
With the new year around the corner, Toyota is expected to officially announce the 2018 86 GT in the coming days.
