Every shop car we build has a purpose. It’s never about modifying something for the sake of it, and it’s never about chasing numbers that don’t translate to real-world driving.
Our latest shop car project is our Toyota GR86, and over the coming months it will become one of the most important builds we’ve taken on at AUTOID.
Why the GR86?
The GR86 is one of the few modern cars built with driver feel as the priority. Naturally aspirated, rear-wheel drive and lightweight by modern standards, it focuses on balance rather than the brute force we've become accustomed to with modern M cars.
That makes it the perfect platform to develop properly with our catalogue of modifications.
A Platform Full of Potential
Out of the box, the GR86 already shows what it’s capable of. Despite using an electronic power steering rack - it feels connected when paired with it's thinner steering wheel, the chassis communicates well and the car feels playful on the road thanks to a very conservative squared 7.5J wheel set up.
At the same time, there are clear opportunities for improvement. Ride height, wheel fitment and exterior presence all leave room for enhancement.
How does the GR86 drive?
The Toyota GR86 is defined by balance. The chassis feels composed and communicative, with small steering and throttle inputs translating directly to the road. A low centre of gravity, paired with a low seating position, gives the car an immediately connected feel and helps you understand exactly what the front and rear are doing at all times. Traction and balance are predictable under load, giving you a clear sense of how the car will respond as you push harder.
The steering uses an electric power assisted system, but feedback is impressive for EPS. The thin rim steering wheel provides a clear sense of load as speed builds, with weight increasing naturally through corners. Once the front end is loaded up, the GR86 inspires confidence and encourages you to lean on the chassis. Turn in is sharp and direct, helped by firm suspension that keeps body movement well controlled without feeling unsettled on real roads.
One of the standout elements of the GR86 is the manual gearbox. The shift action feels mechanical and precise, with a short, clean throw that makes changing gear effortless. The gear lever is positioned high and close to the steering wheel, keeping your hands exactly where you want them during spirited driving. It’s a simple detail, but one that dramatically improves driver engagement and reinforces the GR86’s focus on feel over outright performance figures.
Brake pedal feel is firm, which may divide opinion, but it allows for excellent modulation. Pedal placement is well judged, making heel toe downshifts natural and intuitive, especially when driving spiritedly.
The 2.4L naturally aspirated flat four engine is a improvement over the earlier 2.0 unit. With peak torque arriving at around 3,500 rpm, the engine delivers a more immediate and usable response lower in the rev range. This makes the GR86 feel punchier than you might expect from a naturally aspirated four cylinder. It pulls cleanly through the mid range and is far easier to use during everyday driving, without needing to chase the redline constantly.
As the revs climb, a synthetic engine note is fed through the speakers. It does the job, but it sounds generic and lacks character. This is one area where the GR86 would benefit hugely from an aftermarket intake, allowing more of the engine’s natural induction sound to come through and adding some much needed personality.
The Purpose of This Build
This GR86 build isn’t about power figures. Instead, it’s about refining the platform through:
- Suspension and stance
- Wheels and fitment
- Exterior styling and aero
- Sound and driver engagement
The aim is to unlock the car’s potential without losing what makes it special.
Developing the GR Platform
This project also marks an important step for AUTOID as we expand our development around Toyota’s GR range. This GR86 will act as a test bed for future parts and setups we know customers are looking for.
A New Build Series
This won’t be a one-stage transformation. The GR86 will be developed step by step, with honest feedback and real-world testing throughout the process.
Final Thoughts
The Toyota GR86 is a reminder that driving enjoyment doesn’t come from numbers alone. With the right modifications, it has the potential to be something genuinely special.
Own a GR86 and looking to take it to the next level? Get in touch with us today for expert advice on how to extract the most out of your Toyota GR.
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