Road Test: 2025 Toyota GR86 Special Edition

When it comes to sporty two-door coupes, there aren’t many options left on the market. But for driving enthusiasts, nothing beats a lightweight coupe with a manual transmission and a responsive, connected feel.

The rear-wheel drive 2025 Toyota GR86 is already a rarity in Canada, and rarer still is the Hakone Edition we tested—just 30 units are available across the country. This special edition adds unique interior and exterior touches, plus Brembo brakes and Sachs dampers. As tested, the Hakone Edition comes in at just over $40,700.

Powertrain: Developed in conjunction with Subaru, the rear-wheel drive GR86 features a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 228 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. While an automatic transmission is optional on some trims, the Hakone Edition is exclusively equipped with a six-speed manual. The shift knob also receives a unique bronze accent.

Toyota estimates fuel consumption at 9.6 L/100 km using premium fuel, a number I matched during my week with the vehicle.

Exterior: The Hakone Edition is instantly recognizable thanks to its Ridge Green paint—your only colour choice, paired with 18-inch satin bronze wheels and a ducktail spoiler. Aside from these elements, it’s identical to the standard GR86.

Interior: The GR86 sits very low to the ground, which can make getting in and out a challenge. I certainly found it although I’m well outside the target demographic for this car.

The 2+2 cabin isn’t designed with comfort in mind, especially for rear passengers. My son, nearly in his teen years, struggled to fit his long legs back there, and the low roofline poses a challenge for taller occupants.

In the Hakone Edition, the cabin receives leather/Alcantara seating with tan accents, a combination that elevates the overall look. The front seats are quite hug-y but comfortable once you’re settled in. I also appreciated the simple, old-school layout of the controls.

Infotainment: I wasn’t as impressed with the infotainment system, which lacks many features consumers expect today. You get Bluetooth and satellite radio, but not much else. It works well enough, though it can struggle to be heard over the considerable road noise inside the cabin.

Drive: The GR86’s sporty setup results in some bone-rattling moments over rough pavement, even with the Hakone Edition’s upgraded suspension. That said, the engine and transmission pairing provides excellent driving dynamics, and the steering response is sharp.

Overall, the GR86 delivers a pure, engaging driving experience.

Conclusion: The GR86 is a reminder of a nearly forgotten era of driving purity, thanks to its manual transmission and the strong sense of connection it delivers between driver, car and road. It’s not the most comfortable or the most advanced vehicle out there, but it fills an important niche for enthusiasts who still crave the thrill of a sporty manual coupe.

2025 Toyota GR86 Special Edition
Price as tested: $40,701.58
Freight: $1,860
Configuration: Front engine/Rear-wheel drive
Engine/transmission: 2.4-litre 4-cylinder/ 6-speed manual
Power/torque: 228 horsepower/ 184 lb-ft of torque
Fuel (capacity): Premium (50 L)
Combined fuel economy ratings (L/100 km): 9.6 L/100 km
Observed fuel economy (L/100 km): 9.6 L/100 km
Warranties: 3-years/60,000 km (basic)
Competitors: Ford Mustang, Honda Civic Type R, Hyundai Elantra N, Mazda MX-5, Subaru BRZ
Website: Toyota Canada