Chris Harris Drives the Toyota GR86 | An improvement on the GT86

[@shobin05]

please put Chris in more "somewhat" reasonably priced cars. Its cool to see him trash supercars but it's videos like these I rewatch the most.

[@hakimachim5044]

i second this this video was big. just one thing, maybe dont cut to lap record series mid video kinda offthrowing

[@malcolmn.5222]

Lol why trash supercars? People get so excited to reviews of cars they can go and test drive everyday themselves. However, very few dealers are going to let you experience the supercars

[@AccentShmaccent]

Same!

[@Marc1d1Rose]

I mean, this is reasonably price sports car

[@tinhinnh]

ya supercar reviews are boring, except for the lfa 😉

[@octanas.]

Every single one of us are looking for a budget GT3 somewhere.. this is the kind of content that gives me chills!

[@joey7253]

Ford made one with a gt350

[@tubejorrit]

a Clio RS 2.0 was a GT3 for the plebs, prices are going up for these but I drove one and I don't get the hype for them.

[@eugenux]

​​@@tubejorrit manual, 8000 rpm, you could chuck it on a backroad until the wheels would fall off. Cheap to buy new. I am so pissed I didn't got one at the time(a green one with grey-yellow interior)... basically, half the price of what a gry currently is.

[@ytj22]

Good little car, but chills? Really?

[@practicaldriver]

@@joey7253 every single gt350 owner i've talked to says those engines drink oil, especially on the track. Sorta scary imo.

[@TM240x]

This is what Top Gear should have been ! More of Chris please !

[@C.JPhotography]

Their videos were way to edited .

[@chadbarbaro]

you tube killed that boring wankfest.

[@collectingcars]

Glad you enjoyed! 🙌

[@aleccrombie7923]

Subscribed !

[@anydaynow01]

@@C.JPhotography That was the magic of the Holy Trinity. It was edited, but story telling at it's finest!

[@milesfathi]

GR86 owner here. Change the PS4 tires to literally anything else, and 60% of the road noise goes away. Also unplugging the fake sound takes 20 seconds and improves the experience by exactly 69%.

[@jondonnelly3]

69% a good cabin to be in!

[@DizzleTizzle83]

That’s really interesting. What did you change the tyres to?

[@ChrisMisMYhandle]

owner here too. I suspected this. I swapped my old megane trophy from conti sport contact to MPS4S and the road noise was HORIFFIC!

[@xorising]

Excellent to hear, thank you for sharing!

[@alexlee-isted5046]

​@@jerio60personally I would. Sometimes the fake sound and the exhaust clash with each and make a horrible top end noise. The fake sound is only there to give you something to listen to because the stock car is silent. That AWE Touring exhaust is epic though! Other than the cold start that is the best exhaust out there for this car.

[@DJ_Fuji]

GR86 owner here, 20k miles in. I can very honestly say that, out of every car I've owned (all RWD coupes), the GR86 beats the life out of the rest. I've never had this much consistent fun with a car, nor had an affordable car feel so special to drive. This review is spot on. It doesn't have a flashy interior, it doesn't have break-neck acceleration, but what it does have is the fundamentals down to a T. So happy to hear the automotive community seems to agree. Can't wait for the next generation with a true Toyota engine, even if it does mean we'll have to have it turbocharged. The original designer of the GT86 said something along the lines of his design being a love-letter to older sports coupes, and you can definitely feel that in this one too. Go team GR!

[@hhaste]

I think a supercharger for the GR86 would be ideal. Around 300-350WHP in a car like this would make it perfect for the street. Hell, my 06 STi only has 294 wheel horsepower and it's a blast to drive on the street and it weights 600 LBS more then the GR86. That same power in the GR86 with RWD would be great, which is exactly why I think I'm going to get one.

[@Huh-jx8kd]

@@hhasteYou are completely missing the point. One day you will hopefully understand. If you don't, you will continue wanting different cars continuing to buy, sell and upgrade.

[@keithallen6244]

@@hhaste This isn't that kind of car and we don't want it. The 86 is perfection.

[@DJ_Fuji]

@@hhaste hope you have fun with whatever you decide on for your next car! The 86 is a great platform, especially for modding, 300 will cost you a lot, but if it's what you want, I'd bet it'd be a riot!

[@jameswillard1]

I’ve owned every version of 911 GT3 (except 996) as well every LT Mclaren and bought a 23’ BRZ as a fun run around car after seeing all the rave reviews and this car has blown my mind. I can’t believe how much fun it is for such a reasonable price. The handling is so agile and controllable it’s laughable, you can literally overdrive it and when it runs out of grip it just smears its tires across the pavement in a totally non threatening way. I enjoy it way more than I should for $32,800 OTD

[@johnbascietto2207]

Totally agree I just got mine her rear end does like to give you a jiggle

[@patthonsirilim5739]

Same put some good quality pads lines fluids on it and good exhaust and run it all day on track

[@jjchockey]

Go treat yourself to some 949 Xida and you will be even more kind blown. Much better ride and handling. Best suspension you can get for these cars.

[@willferland]

If you’ve never driven a 996 GT3, I’d definitely recommend giving it a try. I think you’ll find it’s very similar to the BRZ in a lot of ways, particularly the steering (I mean this in a good way)

[@jameswillard1]

@@willferland I actually have driven one, just not owned one. It was my least favorite of the GT3’s. I know that some believe it is the best for its raw feel, but I live in the Midwest and 996’s being pre-PASM suspension doesn’t do great here on a lot of our crummy roads. My first 911 was a 996 C4S that I loved, but felt like the axles were mounted directly to the body of the car in certain situations. In my opinion, PASM was a game changer on bad road surfaces, even if it did put a small filter between you and the road in a perfect scenario

[@zakelwe]

In the 90s you had a massive pick of coupes, small ones -- Puma, Tigra, CRX, MR2, MX3, Integra R, 100SX etc and bigger ones, 200SX, Celica, Probe, MX6, Calibra, Prelude, 406, 300ZX the list goes on. Nowadays less than the fingers on one hand. It's all SUVs. Check out Nissans current line up. We didn't realise how good those times were for the young single man, rather than a 30 year old with a wife and cockapoo.

[@GM-fh5jp]

Yes, you are right...that's why I have a black JDM MR2 Turbo sitting in my garage for the weekends ;)

[@Ppete912]

Yes they were coupe, but they were terrible FWD boring coupe i mean puma, tigra etc. BUT still a lot better than the SUV's

[@pj9375]

Yep agree it’s why I’ve kept my s14a 200sx all these years.

[@denaco]

Early 2000s though! 350z, 370z, mx5, and rx8.

[@JNAMOTORSPORTS]

They gave us over priced ugly SUVs that all look the same and “regulations” that said pop up headlights are evil for people but then approved 5,000 SUVs to run people over with lol 😂

[@esr243]

I received mine last October and now have 7,000 miles criss-crossing Europe, always through Germany, and I love it. Back home in Belgium when my wife says: « Love, I forgot to buy the bread » I smile as I climb down in my GR cockpit and dash to the far off better bakery.

[@michaeltarlowski9316]

Totally. It's like having your own rollercoaster. Any excuse for a drive

[@steve050867]

I've owned a 2014 Gt86 a 2019 BRZ and now a GR86 they're all great fun but the GR86 is a BIG step up.

[@denaco]

Really wana try a gr86 man. I had 3 gt86s back in the day. Its a shame theres not much aftermarket support for a turbo kit like there was for the gt. but i get that not many were made or sent to europe, so makes no sense small companies spending loads on development and not making it back on sales

[@jmmch3358]

​@@denaco2025 GR86 would have the GR Corolla 3 cylinders Turbo + Hybrid engine

[@denaco]

@@jmmch3358 no way! Had no idea they would be putting that engine in from 2025. Will production of the current 4 pot engine stop then?

[@jmmch3358]

@@denaco Toyota apparently from what I read is splitting from Subaru and doing their own GR86

[@revmatchtv]

@@jmmch3358Pure speculation! Nothing even remotely confined

[@nickchatburn]

Such a relief… a pure petrol head driving a “normal” car with enthusiasm. And none of the mainstream media bs. Well done Chris. Thank you for posting.

[@handbrakebob]

This is so refreshing. Why do so few motoring journalists actually understand what makes a car fun and interesting to drive? Numbers, numbers, numbers... I couldn't give a toss. Simple, manual, joyful cars are so much more interesting to me than any hypercar, especially the ones that look they've crashed into a 1990's Halfords stick-on tat department.

[@collectingcars]

Glad you enjoyed! 🙌

[@eugenux]

@handbrakebob honestly, what is also refreshing is the number off ppl that seem to grow into this ideea that current sports cars and definitely all the supercars have really lost the plot. SUVs with 1000 hp are beyond ridiculous also. 300, 400 for something really fast, rwd, a manual and a good chassis set-up is all that a passionat/enthusiast driver will most likely require. Also, beside the gazillion hp, the weight needs to get back down as for sure a 2.5 tons car is not a sports car.

[@getsideways7257]

@@eugenux Not much need for 400hp (or maybe even 300!), but the TORQUE should be pretty solid.

[@2bfrank657]

Especially considering speed limits. Even if I could afford a Bugatti, what exactly an I meant to do with it? Track days? Might as well build something up from a jap sportscar that ends up being faster, costing fraction of the price, and that won't make me cry if it gets scratched.

[@eugenux]

​@@getsideways7257what makes me wonder is why. manufacturers stop producing interesting cars?, it was them or the public, the clients who really stop giving a rat's behind about cars like these.

[@andyjones8448]

Great content. I had a tuned GT86 and it was an epic drivers car. Useable and fun and it lost me very little money and cost not much to run. Toyota are on such a roll.

[@Flared]

Same here. I loved my GT86 and its still the best handling car I've ever driven. I lost no money when I traded it in for GR Yaris either.

[@denaco]

Sorry but tune, decat down pipe, perrin cold air intake: gained 15hp on mine and hardly noticeable. I sold it and got a turbo charged one (280hp/240ftlbs) and that was a big improvement. I really think mapping an NA car is a waste of money, even with supporting mods. Just not enough difference compared to stock.

[@ivandanvervittali3817]

Im not too sure about being cheap though' brandnew or even 2nd hand u can get a way better drivers car or build one for the money u pay for it.

[@Talynen]

​@@denacotuning can refer to more than just the engine. But sticking to engine discussion, the torque dip on the stock gt86 is a significant enough annoyance that changing the header and tuning the car to fix that dip is worth doing even if you aren't gaining much in the way of peak horsepower.

[@SlickSniper3]

Agreed. The entire GR lineup is something special.

[@smilepermile8165]

Four people that I want to see a video review on the GR86: 1.) Keiichi Tsuchiya (aka The Drift King, AE86 hero from HotVersion & BestMotoring) - ✅ 2.) Chris Harris - ✅ 3.) Jason Cammisa - ✅ 4.) Tiff Needell - ....

[@patrickhang5974]

Tsuchiya had a great review.

[@smilepermile8165]

@@patrickhang5974 yes indeed, on ‘CAR PRIME’ channel and a lot of HotVersion videos if you can understand Japanese 👌

[@klotzalexandre9249]

there you go for Keiichi Tsuchiya's review : kzbin.info/www/bejne/hYDQo5h9mNSSprssi=xpE6zH6AFsdPIH8s

[@flat6croc]

Needell is a rubbish car review. He phones it in, it's always cliched and generic.

[@AbrahamArthemius]

​@@patrickhang5974he did multiple reviews as well both on Hot Version/Best Motoring, Car Prime, and even his own personal YT channel. He even has quite a deep talk of why the 86 or just this type of car (low powered but with great handling) is important.

[@Bensonater11]

Crazy that we only really have this and the Miata as light cheap RWD sports cars atm

[@corynivens6510]

And the Miata isn’t even cheap. Club BBS car with a soft top is pretty much $40k

[@Bensonater11]

U can def find a used ND miata for under 20. You dont need top spec@@corynivens6510

[@30hours51]

@@corynivens6510 but u don't need that, a used nd2 mx5 is like $27k and a brand new one is barely more expensive than a gr86

[@kallekas8551]

It’s funny that the Classic British sportscar comes courtesy of the Japanese!

[@Whos-That-Guy]

Miata is too small. Leg room isn't suitable for 5'10 and over. The GR86 is fine for taller drivers. So for some of us there is only 1 option.

[@Rhowhat]

The old GT86/350z/Cayman comparison video from Harris on cars is still one of my favorite bits of youtibe car content.

That was the video that made me buy a 2018 brz.

[@camryt]

Oh the slo-mo’s of cars moving around on a public road, joy!

[@mrhillclimber]

Back to basics is by far the way forward. Tech is nice but too much is just that...well done Chris.

[@collectingcars]

Glad you enjoyed! 🙌

[@getsideways7257]

I simply fail to understand why don't they offer re-issues of cars like this (especially the popular Japanese cars from the '90s era). At least offer them as kits or something...

[@pagen1963]

Chris Harris: national treasure. His book is a terrific read. And this review is a proper real world critique of a car you’re likely to be parked next to in a Tesco car park next week. As I write, there are 42 of these gems for sale on the Autotrader platform in the UK. A couple of unregistered ones, but mostly pre-owned examples with prices ranging from £28,500 to £37,200. I suspect that quantity may well whittle down considerably over the coming days. More of this content, please.

[@collectingcars]

Glad you enjoyed! 🙌

[@getsideways7257]

There's even a book?

[@pagen1963]

@@getsideways7257 Yep. Not sure if you’re UK-based, but its title is “Variable Valve Timings - Memoirs of a Car Tragic.” Published the back end of 2023 by Ebury Spotlight, part of the Penguin Random House group of companies.

[@0y0chang0]

Chris Harris driving the original gt86 was one of the reasons I got an 2013 FR-S used. It was one of my favorite cars.

[@markrutherford4962]

Collected mine yesterday - can’t wait to see how it should be driven!

[@jayem6425]

Collected mine yesterday too ~ enjoy & good luck

[@sammy674]

Will collect mine tomorrow 🎉

[@ytj22]

Glad to see Chris didn't blow this one up from right hand turns on track. Exercise caution when driving yours!

[@jayem6425]

@ytj22 How many have blown up in their original condition? Also, there is a 10 year warranty which is virtually free with normal servicing at Toyota dealers. I genuinely couldn't care less about this, but thanks for the well-intended advice.

[@ytj22]

@jayem6425 no problem, I love the car too. The channel 900BRZ has done a pretty interesting and detailed study on this, seems to be more from an engineer's perspective. The problem is legit. When he has time away from his day job he is working with the aftermarket for a solution. Some of his more recent videos show some promise. Cheers!

[@fazasuraj]

I feel like this is the best video about the GR86. short and very straightforward. I’m still building myself towards buying one. And honestly we have an abundance of stock at where I am from, I hope it will still be the case when I finally can do it. so yeah, thanks Chris.

[@darksunrise8777]

Spot on, love my ZD8 BRZ! Fun car to drive everywhere I've taken it (commuting, track, canyons, mountains, short roadtrips). The mix of sport and refinement reminds me of my old 987.2 Boxster S, but with less power and more driver engagement. It also rewards the harder you push it, which is fantastic IMO and different than cars like the current Miata and even the 986/987. It's a gem.

[@air-e-all_media]

I taught a good friend of mine how to drift in his, and man, what a beautiful little package, just enough power, and the weight transfer is excellent and predictable. I do think this is a cult classic in the making

[@mahcooharper9577]

Superb, thankyou for this. It's nice to see a "real" car being enjoyed. Long may they live.

[@Copleyfundresearch]

Commenting so you make more of these videos. So good to see Chris back. Me and the kids miss top gear a lot.

[@collectingcars]

Glad you enjoyed! 🙌

[@martijnkosters9024]

A Chris Harris video with an ad in it to watch a Chris Harris video. Ehm..did we need that?

[@ApexwithDavin]

Agree. Put the ad at the end.

[@JamesMorgan2]

It was weirdly cut in. Felt like someone had copy pasted it in by mistake :D

[@althejazzman]

Also the audio in that ad segment was way louder than the main video.

[@chowchow3335]

Chris, I bought the gt86 back in 2019 because of your original video on the first gen car, 11 years after that video, finally a new video of the new gen. Thank you and I enjoy driving that little car every time I’m behind the wheel

[@M.ARSEVEN]

Having driven all versions of the old and new chassis here is my take. The power is finally enough where you wont complain about the lack of it every time you go for a drive. The fake engine noise is terrible but easy to remove. Rear seats cant be used by anyone with legs. Where the mx5 has double wishbone front suspension and aluminum, most of the gr86 is steel and fronts are mcpherson. The rear subframe and suspension is almost identical to any other subaru. However the handling is spot on. The wheelbase, steering rack ratio and stock damping feel just right. I have always said that this car is the modern s chassis. You could stick a SR20DET in it and call it a Silvia.

[@jsleeio]

Toyota do have a long and proud history of completely useless rear seats. I owned a middle-generation Celica GTfour for a while. Absolutely laughable rear seat. Otherwise-great car though, super comfortable on long journeys and driving it didn't tire me out like my Polo GTI does

[@kerrywilliams6596]

Drove the Subaru version for about an hour last year. It was such a blast.

[@kevingolden5675]

Top gear ending was the best thing that happened to KZbin. More of this please player 👏💚

[@beardedtit7692]

It was the best thing to happen to Edward Lovett, for sure 😂

[@collectingcars]

Glad you enjoyed! 🙌

[@fabigr]

I own a 2022 GR86, I daily drive it...and I still think all the time when is the next time I'm going to drive it 😂

[@callumbennett2013]

I love how straightforward his road use impressions are, then gets straight to hooning about!

[@TomasWatchReviews]

More of this please. This was perfect.

[@Coxy2807]

This is more like it. Chris back to his old roots of some good old fashioned journalism. Giving his informed verdict on a brilliant car. Keep it up.

[@johnregan4228]

I’ve owned a GR86 for about 9 months. I just love it. Not much great, but everything really good. It’s a joy to be in and drive.

[@bpowick]

The video Chris did many years ago when he drove the first gen GT86 is my favourite video he’s ever done. I don’t think I’ve ever seen Chris as excited driving a car as he was in that video. I’ve been waiting for him to get behind the wheel of the newest GR86 and it did not disappoint!

[@the_dark_elite]

Just bought mine 2 weeks ago. Not going to lie i thought it was going to be slow but you really get glued to the seat around 3500 rpms especially in 5th gear. The best thing about this car is the handling. I can push this car into a corner and not be scared that I’m going to lose control or slide onto the other lane. Everything in this video that Chris said is spot on. This car is really fun for only being a 228 hp car. For everyone that gets a chance to drive one of these cars or own one you’ll most likely agree.

[@JD-qd1bp]

Glad I bought mine in November last year, wet and cold roads have never been so much fun! Great car, bit noisy on long trips but so worth it...

[@S18RSG]

I'm often criticised or questioned by people in the "M2 ownership" type crowd, one I came from recently since selling my GR Supra for a GR86. Nobody can understand why someone would go from a £60k Supra to a £30k 86. It really ruffles a lot of feathers when I explain it's because the 86 is the superior car from many angles. I'm 13k miles into mine in just over a year. Spent some money on making it a nicer road car (wheels and tyres, some street tuned coilovers, an exhaust, some interior improvements etc.) and it's genuinely fantastic. The ultimate lack of performance does detract from the experience slightly, but that's mainly down to the roads you drive on. Get it where it's meant to be, and you're reminded all over again how superb it is.

[@enekoprins]

This video was long overdue. Glad to see Chris likes it. Not really a surprise though, it really is a drivers car.

[@felix-bk7ne]

Great video, the 'Chris Harris on cars' format is always a favourite.

[@collectingcars]

Glad you enjoyed! 🙌

[@marselluswallace8129]

*Love my Subaru BRZ '23* ❤ The best Car ive ever had!

[@drivecalgary6095]

After Chris Harris drove the GT86 along with the Cayman and Nissan Z back in 2012 in Wales, I bought a Scion FRS right away. I drove it for 10 years summer and winter. Best car I have owned. I may have to buy the GR86 soon.

[@MW-uy3np]

Yes! This over an m2 all day and I even currently own an m2 and lucky enough to also own a 991.2 gt3 Touring. Sold my prior gen gt86 and want one of these gems

[@r129r16pfl]

M2 is too big, too heavy, too powerful

[@nathanlane407]

Dont forget about old mazda mx5 guys! Low to the ground, lightweight, manual, high revving non turbo, rear wheel drive and reliable!! Can pick them up from £1000!!

[@snertius]

Indeed. Missed the little thing so much after 5 years I just grabbed an old NC 2l Sport with 80k on for £2k to tart up and enjoy. And the missus didn't even give me a bit of grief. She knows ;)

[@hojnikb]

Chris absolutly hates the Miata :)

[@jimmymcgoo8641]

A £1000 MX5 isn't worth having. Be a pile of steaming 💩

[@oemj7147]

@@hojnikb He doesn't hate the ND Miata.

[@oldsoulboy6483]

I bought one and it's like learning how to drive all over again, just so much fun and so involving and does NOT have stop-start!

[@SierraLima]

Thanks for the review Chris! Expecting delivery for my Halo/Manual Trueno Edition here in the couple weeks! Can't wait!

[@jasonchatham4170]

More Harris ‘In reasonably priced cars’ please and thank you.

[@collectingcars]

Glad you enjoyed! 🙌

[@honestreviewer3283]

My god man, clips like at 6:00 tell me everything I need to know about this car. Well done!

[@Twinguin]

@Chris, your original review of the GT86 made me test drive and of course buy one. And although I had to move on (always convertible for me), I love your review of the GR86 - let's hope these cars stay around for a while and will all land in proper hands!

[@SpaceCaptainDR]

Had mine for a year now, daily and track. It always brightens up my day ☀️

[@IndaloMan]

I watch Chris to see how cars can be driven, Harry to see how I would drive them and excitable Matt to see how kids can get a virtual motoring experience.

[@angeloah]

I am digging this totally new concept, never been done, absolutely fresh thing you’re doing. You’re a goat Chris and this is your stall. Much love.

[@priestofpartagas]

The raw talent, candid honesty, and passion of this world-class motoring journalist is remarkable. Monkey Harris for the WIN!!

[@yodaddamilkman8422]

“Affordable cars” are relatable. I gave up watching my favorite car journalists driving cars only 1% of us can ever afford a very long time ago. Thanks for this.

[@JamesHamilton-j2h]

I purchased a Series One Toyota 86 GTS in 2013, tipped in after watching CH's cheesy grinned review. More than 10 years on and I still have it and still love it. I also have a 200 series Land Cruiser which CH also adores to go bush with. Don't get me wrong, I'm actually not a CH fanboy, more another "difficult bastard", but thank you CH for real reviews with proper, real world feedback. I may just go to the showroom re the GR. Best all. A man from Oz.

[@chrisplummer9639]

Chris, I'm in that "can't yet afford an gt3 touring club" and went with your suggested M2 as decent substitute. The GR 86 always seemed like not enough but it constantly looks to be a perfect palate cleanser for what a sports car is. Thank you for making this and please make more under 100k car vids. We all love em

[@collectingcars]

Glad you enjoyed! 🙌

[@autoreportdz4690]

Thanks to Toyota for making as affordable, small, funk, sport cars

[@J_S209]

It’s actually a Subbie with some Lexus vents and styling!

[@ziginox]

This is the type of Chris content we want! Not the thinly veiled classified ads like the last one!

[@marklingling]

I brought my GR86 because I just need for a cheap weekend Autocross ride, and Mazda was trying to charge me 5k USD premium on Miata club sports. Turns out I fall in love with it! Not just me, everybody around me loves driving it. It’s simple, no nonsense equipments, and gives you plenty of road feedbacks. Compare to my friend’s brand new M3 manual, which is fast, smooth, heavy, disconnected. I am much prefer of my littler GR, and totally forgot about my AMG missile cruiser😂

[@HNSKP]

I sold my G80 M3 manual for a GR86 and never looked back! Lost half the hp but also 1000lb of weight. There’s so much more feel and engagement.

[@shiftgood]

Got to track a C7 when they first came out at a track day. Don't meet your heros. I couldn't wait to get back into my 86.

[@marklingling]

⁠@@HNSKPso much fun driving around the city! And Autocross! It’s true driver’s car, no more big screens 😂

[@Manvswild11]

I’m lucky enough to have a GR86 as a daily and an S2000 as a weekend car. The 86 is great and definitely fun to drive but still doesn’t compare to the experience of the S2k, the engine, the gearbox and double wishbone vs macpherson strut and the somewhat average engine/gearbox and rev hang as he mentions make the S2k the better drivers car but don’t get me wrong, I love my 86!

[@LarryMcLarrry]

Chris. Please keep doing this. Thank you.

[@conza1989]

Chris really excited to see you back on KZbin, watched you from the Chris Harris on Cars days, I hope Ed is still part of the crew!

[@Chris.Davies]

I call my 1997 Tommy kaira M20b, "two thirds of a 911 Turbo wagon". Because that is what it basically is. And it is consistently stunning. I own a 911S and a 928S, and yet I daily the little M20b. The tiny TD04 Mitsubishi Turbo, and the EJ20, plus a tommy kaira ECU is a magical combination.

[@DCCeeDee]

As a gr86 owner, I did not regret my decision on buying one and decide to keep it as long as I could

[@pj9375]

The old recipes are often the best. Harks back and the days of 200sxs… they are the some of the most fun cars you can experience…

[@PeteAnda]

Totally agree. I have more fun in my 86 than I did in my F type or the 911 I had before it. Running costs are low so I don’t care about tire costs and fuel. Don’t think I have gone anywhere without a sideways giggle, even at 25mph.

[@robertrishel3685]

I bought the first generation 86 back in 2013 when my dealer got his first example. 120k miles later and I still absolutely LOVE this car!!!! We have owned a couple Civic Type R’s, VW GTI’s and currently an Acura type S integra, but I still would rather get into this beater 86! It’s brilliant! I recently have had the great privilege of a 2019 Porsche GT3 Touring, at my disposal for the past month. It’s my dream car and it absolutely perfect in EVERY WAY! What delights me more than anything is how much that little 86 (yes the very slow first gen car) reminds me so much of that fabulous 911! It feels like the 1970’s version of it behind the wheel. I can get into that 86 and drive it full on 100% hammers out, WFO, and it rewards with nothing but fun. 100% as far as just the driving experience goes, these cars are brilliant! And they’re so cheap! Get one while you can, find an old beater, put a lightweight flywheel, some coil overs and track delete that 60lbs muffler setup. You’ll thank me!

[@axe2grind244]

You know when the cons of a sports car consist of “the telephone not being loud enough” it’s a safe assumption it’s a good car.

[@rz7818]

Love this review of the GR86. Chris saying all this good stuff probably made sales rise which Toyota deserves them for coming out like this.

[@CookRacingUK]

Drove a GT86 today on a track for the first time, only a few laps and not fast. Did find it a bit gutless unless you wrung it's neck, maybe that's why the torque is lower down in this model. Also, the back stepped out a touch which I wasn't expecting at low speed, but was easily manageable. It gave me the sense that this car was "fun", and when manufacturers are obsessed with n.ring laptimes, maybe they are missing the whole point.

[@PaulBurford-c1w]

14k Miles on in mine, this was the review I was waiting for, not for justification of buying it...just for confirmation from a respected reviewer that "She's a Banger"!!

[@krankertigaz]

Owner here. I put camber bolts, awe touring exhaust, disabled fake sound, lighter wheels, 200tw rubber and track pads, this thing is amazing. Couldn’t be happier with this toy. Amazing car to drive, cheap to track and autox. Grip is on 200tw tires and brake is really strong with track pads.

[@amcezm0n3y47]

Chris was the best top gear host since the OGs by far. Keep making these awesome vids my man. Good stuff

[@AndyS2K76]

I bought a gt86 after your review in 2012 and now I have also bought a fiesta ST last model MK8.5 also after your review. And I think that I'll die with these 2 cars in my garage because I don't need to go fast, I need to smile when I drive....thank you Chris!

[@KosmicKitchen]

Hi Chris, I remember you epic comparison between the GT86, the Cayman and the 350z. The new car still stands it’s ground, it seems. It’s great to see them around, despite the sweeping legislation. I had a BRZ for a decade, before eventually selling it.

[@patrickhingston]

I absolutely love every moment that i share with this amazing machine. Love love love this car.

[@99unclebob]

great review Chris, they are a great drivers car, here in Central Canada owners are putting good snow tires on all 4 corners and getting around daily without any troubles being they come with a factory LSD and this makes it enjoyable to drive, one owner said in fresh snow it was fun a little shy on ground clearance and on ice use 2nd gear to start off and was easy, great heated seats and steering wheel and fantastic heaters in them like all Toyotas , I am guessing the cars here maybe equipped little different then the UK 👍 and you can Hoon around in them and its pleasure to do so

[@robbielonergan5583]

I drove the old GT86 at the brands hatch rally experience, best driving experience I’ve ever done great fucking car

[@Buntos101]

Great to have you back on KZbin Chris! Great show in Sydney yesterday too massive turnout

[@sutats]

I remember when Chris first reviewed the overhyped GT86 for The Drive when it was released over a decade ago. Toyota must've spent an immense amount on marketing the GT86 then. The press point for the motor journalists was the super low CG and that was it. Nice to see him again now in the GR86.

[@Car10121-s]

That was on The Drive KZbin channel.

[@sutats]

@@Car10121-s I stand corrected.

[@pk1342]

deserves all the hype. I own a 2013 and its a magnificent car.

[@Wallstreetavarice]

How was it overhyped. It was then and remains now one of the few affordable sports cars. Sure Subaru dropped the ball as usual and didn't build a great motor, but it was reliable at least, and the car was still good.

[@ins1demanwhitaker527]

What a thing. I'd love one of these. Usable day to day. Looks great and can exite you. Perfect car for the money.

[@disco3hudds187]

More of this please Mr Harris, relatable content we all love to watch alongside the expensive stuff

[@mackie1001]

Glad to see you finally get your hands on one. I knew you’d love it but this is high praise indeed 😊

[@donovanhean4999]

Thank you, Chris. Absolutely awesome. Spot on comments. I owned a Alfeta GTV 3l. The best car I have ever driven. A driver's car!

[@ianparker6182]

I can't afford a Gt86 but have a Honda S2000. No torque but with a normally aspirated 2.0 engine that revs to 9k, Rear wheel drive, manual with 50/50 weight distribution, it's great fun.

[@sumnersturgeon8605]

Rarely see gr86 reviews that real drift! Nice and smoothly drive u get my like

[@Rice_Cake_]

I can afford the base Lotus Emira, but I'm seriously considering this... There's something so fun about being able to wring a car out, and drive close to a cars limit (oversteer) without going 100+ km/h

[@hobbies2902]

Can Chris also feature the new MX5 ND2? If we are talking about having good driving sensation, maybe that car deserves a spot too

[@plusRpm]

God i love my GR86, it‘s my daily too and it makes any drive a treat 😄 but yeah nvh wise, bc they just wanted to keep weight down, it has almost no noise damping anywhere, going over gravel sounds like coming off track in a racecar and if you have the rear seats down, you will think the boot is open 😂🤌 on that note, 1,40m ikea table fits with the rear seats down, entirely enough space for daily driving

[@gavinsullivan9015]

This was timely - test driving one this morning, nearly new against a 3 year old CIvic type R. Hard to find a manual sports car these days!

[@JonathanRCross]

It's why I love an OG Mx5 mk2.5, because, unlike an M3 or something more significant, you can have fun between 20-60 mph instead of only once you get above 90...

[@stephenschenider4007]

Owned alot of sports cars. 08 Mustang GT, 88 Monte Carlo SS, 05 STI, 13 FRS, 15 Mustang GT....But my current 2023 GR86 is already my favorite after less than 10k.

[@robboy18]

Cracker of a video. Loved the background music as well it really added to the drama of driving.

[@Dalamain]

Appreciate you reviewing cars that are not listed on CC at the moment, adds integrity 👍

[@epicautomotivedetailing]

This is another masterpiece

[@soyeux27]

Incredible review ! Chris Harris driving cars we can actually afford makes me SO happy. Simplicity is the utmost sophistication, said Leonardo

[@horatiofitz-simon9614]

Absolutely spot on Chris, I had the pleasure of using one for a day at Thruxton a few months ago. By the end I wanted to take it home, such a great all rounder.

[@mecwazmakha7670]

Love the driving skills bro 👌

[@93455Driver]

Back in the day Chris Harris compared GR86 vs Cayman vs 370Z on some twisty roads, I think in Wales........based on his comments and a few others I got a Scion FR-S. Despite the torque dip, the car was so much fun to drive and gave lots of confidence.

[@oldbuddyhouse]

Thick flywheel or rev hang? So many new engine have rev hang for better emissions. Boxer engines rarely have thick flywheels. Anybody know if this has a heavy flywheel?

[@alenseven11]

I belive it's a rev hang as many new cars have it due to emissions.