The Toyota 86 is a small, rear-wheel-drive sports coupe that Toyota developed with Subaru and launched in 2012. It uses a Subaru 2.0-litre flat-four “boxer” engine and was replaced in 2021 by the second-generation GR86 with a larger 2.4-litre engine.
Key takeaways
- The 86 is a twin of the Subaru BRZ; in the United States it was first sold as the Scion FR-S.
- First-generation cars (2012–2021) use a 2.0-litre boxer engine with a manual or automatic gearbox.
- The second generation, called GR86 in Japan, arrived in 2021 with a 2.4-litre engine.
- Most first-generation cars are too old for Kenya’s 2019+ rule. Late cars and the GR86 are the ones to look at for age-limited markets.
History of the Toyota 86
The 86 was built to bring back a light, affordable, driver-focused Toyota sports car. Its name recalls the AE86 Corolla Levin and Sprinter Trueno of the 1980s, a rear-wheel-drive car still loved by driving enthusiasts.
Toyota and Subaru developed the car together. Subaru supplied the boxer engine and built the car, while Toyota shaped the concept and design. The same car is sold as the Subaru BRZ. In North America it was called the Scion FR-S until the Scion brand closed in 2016, after which it became the Toyota 86 there too.
Generations at a glance
| Generation | Years (Japan) | Engine | Gearbox |
|---|---|---|---|
| First (86) | 2012–2021 | 2.0-litre flat-four, naturally aspirated | 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic |
| Second (GR86) | 2021 onwards | 2.4-litre flat-four, naturally aspirated | 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic |
A facelift around 2016 brought revised styling and suspension, and manual cars gained a little more power.
See current listings in our Toyota 86 stock, or browse all Toyota stock.
Design and interior
The 86 is low and compact, with a long bonnet and short rear. The flat engine sits low in the car, which gives a low centre of gravity and sharp handling.
Inside, the cabin is simple and driver-focused, with supportive sports seats and a large central rev counter. It is a 2+2: the rear seats are very small and best used for bags. Boot space is limited, although the rear seat folds.
This is not an off-road car. Ground clearance is low, so think carefully about your local roads before choosing one.
Grades and special versions
Japanese-market cars were offered in several grades, including G, GT and GT Limited, plus sportier GR-branded versions. Higher grades add features such as better trim and upgraded equipment. Always check the exact grade and equipment on the listing rather than relying on the name.
Import age rules
Kenya only accepts cars first registered on or after 1 January 2019, so only late first-generation cars and the GR86 can qualify. Zimbabwe does not allow used vehicles 10 years or older from the date of manufacture. Check your country with our import age checker, and ask our office to confirm the first registration date before you pay.
What to check before you buy
- Modifications: many 86s have been modified. Stock or lightly modified cars are safer; heavily tuned cars can hide wear.
- Recalls: ask whether any recall work for the car has been done.
- Clutch and gearbox: on manual cars, check for clutch slip and noisy or stiff gear changes.
- Body and underside: a low car can scrape; look for damage to the front lip, underbody and exhaust.
- Auction sheet: check the grade and repair marks with our auction sheet decoder.
- Service history: regular oil changes matter on a high-revving engine.
Pay only to accounts in the name of the exporter you have verified. Our guide on how to avoid scams explains the warning signs.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Toyota 86 the same as the Subaru BRZ?
Yes, they were developed together and share the same basic car and engine. Styling details and suspension tuning differ slightly.
What is the difference between the 86 and the GR86?
The GR86 is the second generation, launched in 2021. It has a larger 2.4-litre engine and updated body and interior.
Can I import a Toyota 86 to Kenya?
Only if it was first registered on or after 1 January 2019 under the 2026 rule. That means late first-generation cars or a GR86.
Find more models in our Toyota car guides, or read the history of another rear-wheel-drive Toyota in our Toyota Altezza guide.
