The Toyota 86, a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports car, has garnered a significant following worldwide since its introduction in 2012. Developed in collaboration with Subaru, which markets its version as the BRZ, the 86 has been praised for its handling, affordability, and driving experience. However, one question has consistently plagued enthusiasts and potential buyers alike: will the 86 get a turbo? This article delves into the history of the 86, the rationale behind its naturally aspirated engine, and the potential for a turbocharged variant.
Introduction to the Toyota 86
The Toyota 86, known as the GT86 in some markets and previously as the Scion FR-S in the United States, is a sports car that embodies the spirit of driving purity. With its boxer engine, rear-wheel drive, and emphasis on handling over outright power, the 86 has become a favorite among driving enthusiasts. The current model is powered by a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine, producing around 205 horsepower, depending on the market and trim level.
The Case for a Naturally Aspirated Engine
The decision to equip the 86 with a naturally aspirated engine was not taken lightly. According to Toyota and Subaru, the goal was to create a car that would deliver a thrilling driving experience, focusing on balance, agility, and the connection between the driver and the vehicle. A naturally aspirated engine was seen as the best way to achieve these goals, providing a linear power delivery and a higher redline, which encourages drivers to explore the upper reaches of the rev range.
Benefits of Naturally Aspirated Engines
Naturally aspirated engines have several benefits, including:
– Linear Power Delivery: Allowing for a more predictable and engaging driving experience.
– Highest Redline: Encouraging spirited driving and providing a more immersive experience.
– Reliability and Simplicity: Generally requiring less complex technology than turbocharged engines, which can lead to increased reliability and lower maintenance costs.
The Demand for a Turbocharged Variant
Despite the charm of the naturally aspirated engine, there has been a significant demand from enthusiasts for a turbocharged version of the 86. The main argument for turbocharging is the potential for increased power output without a substantial increase in engine size or weight, which could compromise the car’s balance and handling. A turbocharged engine would potentially make the 86 more competitive against other sports cars in its class that already boast higher power figures.
Rumors and Leaks
Over the years, there have been numerous rumors, leaks, and even concept cars hinting at the possibility of a turbocharged 86. While none of these have materialized into a production model, they have kept the hopes of enthusiasts alive. It’s worth noting that both Toyota and Subaru have explored turbocharging in other models, indicating that the technology is within their capability.
Challenges and Considerations
Introducing a turbocharged variant of the 86 is not without its challenges. Weight Distribution and Handling are critical aspects of the 86’s design. Adding a turbocharger could potentially alter the car’s weight distribution and affect its handling, unless carefully managed. Moreover, the Cost and Complexity associated with turbocharging could increase the car’s price, potentially alienating some of its fan base who value its affordability.
Conclusion and Speculation
While there has been no official confirmation from Toyota or Subaru regarding a turbocharged version of the 86, the demand and interest from the automotive community are undeniable. The introduction of such a model would need to balance the desires for increased power with the preservation of the car’s inherent character and driving dynamics.
Given the current market trends and the manufacturers’ focus on performance and efficiency, it’s plausible that future iterations of the 86 could incorporate turbocharging or other forms of forced induction, possibly in a special edition or as part of a mid-cycle update. However, any such move would need to be carefully considered to ensure that the essence of the 86 is retained.
In the meantime, enthusiasts and potential buyers will continue to speculate and hope for a turbocharged 86. The allure of increased performance, coupled with the 86’s renowned handling and driving experience, makes the prospect of a turbocharged model incredibly tantalizing. As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, only time will tell if the 86 will eventually join the ranks of turbocharged sports cars, but one thing is certain – the interest and passion for such a variant will remain strong.
What is the current status of the Toyota 86’s engine?
The Toyota 86 currently comes with a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter boxer engine, which produces 205 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque. This engine has been the subject of some criticism, with some feeling that it lacks the power and excitement of other sports cars in its class. Despite this, the 86 has still managed to build a loyal following among driving enthusiasts, who praise its handling and agility.
There have been rumors and speculation about the possibility of a turbocharged engine being added to the 86 lineup, but so far, Toyota has not made any official announcements. Some fans of the car are eager to see a turbocharged version, which would likely increase the car’s power output and make it more competitive with other sports cars. However, others are concerned that adding a turbocharger could alter the car’s character and compromise its handling, which is a major part of its appeal.
Has Toyota ever produced a turbocharged version of the 86?
While there has never been a production turbocharged version of the 86, Toyota has experimented with turbocharging the car’s engine in the past. In 2019, the company unveiled a TRD Special Edition version of the 86, which featured a number of performance upgrades, including a aerodynamic body kit and a unique exhaust system. However, this car did not have a turbocharger, and its engine was largely unchanged from the standard 86.
There have also been various concept cars and one-off prototypes that have showcased the potential of a turbocharged 86. For example, in 2014, Toyota unveiled a concept car called the 86 TRD Griffon, which featured a turbocharged engine producing over 300 horsepower. While this car was never put into production, it demonstrated the possibilities of what a turbocharged 86 could look and perform like. Despite these experiments, Toyota has so far stuck with the naturally aspirated engine in the production 86.
What are the potential benefits of a turbocharged engine in the 86?
A turbocharged engine in the 86 would likely offer several benefits, including increased power and torque. This would make the car more competitive with other sports cars in its class, and would provide a more exciting driving experience for enthusiasts. Additionally, a turbocharged engine could also improve the car’s performance in certain driving conditions, such as when driving at high altitudes or in areas with thin air.
Another potential benefit of a turbocharged engine is that it could help to improve the car’s fuel efficiency. Modern turbocharging technology allows for significant gains in power output while also reducing fuel consumption, which would be a welcome improvement for drivers who want to enjoy the 86’s performance without sacrificing too much in terms of fuel economy. However, it’s worth noting that the actual benefits of a turbocharged engine would depend on how it is implemented, and would likely require significant changes to the car’s engine management and other systems.
What are the potential drawbacks of a turbocharged engine in the 86?
One of the main potential drawbacks of a turbocharged engine in the 86 is that it could alter the car’s character and compromise its handling. The 86’s naturally aspirated engine is a key part of its appeal, and some fans of the car are concerned that adding a turbocharger could make it feel less agile and less responsive. Additionally, turbocharged engines can be more complex and expensive to maintain than naturally aspirated engines, which could increase the car’s operating costs over time.
Another potential concern is that a turbocharged engine could add weight and complexity to the car, which could negatively impact its overall performance and handling. The 86 is known for its lightweight and simple design, which is a major part of its appeal to driving enthusiasts. Adding a turbocharger and other associated components could compromise this simplicity and add weight to the car, which could have unintended consequences for its handling and overall performance.
Would a turbocharged engine change the 86’s target market?
A turbocharged engine in the 86 would likely appeal to a different type of buyer than the current car. While the naturally aspirated 86 is popular among driving enthusiasts who value its handling and agility, a turbocharged version would likely attract buyers who are more interested in outright power and performance. This could potentially expand the car’s appeal to a wider range of buyers, but it could also alienate some of the car’s existing fans who prefer the simplicity and character of the naturally aspirated engine.
It’s also worth noting that a turbocharged engine could potentially change the 86’s positioning in the market. The car is currently seen as a more affordable and accessible alternative to other sports cars, but a turbocharged version could potentially push its price up and make it more competitive with more expensive and exotic cars. This could be a challenge for Toyota, as it would need to balance the car’s performance and features with its pricing and target market in order to maintain its appeal to buyers.
Has Toyota made any official statements about a turbocharged 86?
While there have been numerous rumors and speculation about a turbocharged 86, Toyota has not made any official statements on the subject. The company has consistently stated that it is happy with the current engine and that it has no plans to add a turbocharger. However, this has not stopped fans and enthusiasts from speculating about the possibility of a turbocharged version, and there are many who believe that it is only a matter of time before Toyota decides to offer a more powerful version of the car.
Despite the lack of official confirmation, there are some indications that Toyota may be considering a more powerful version of the 86. In recent years, the company has filed patents and trademarks for various performance-related components, including turbochargers and high-performance engine management systems. While these filings do not necessarily mean that a turbocharged 86 is in the works, they do suggest that Toyota is at least exploring the possibility of a more powerful version of the car.
What can fans of the 86 expect in the future?
Fans of the 86 can expect Toyota to continue to update and refine the car in the coming years. While there may not be a turbocharged version on the horizon, the company is likely to make other changes to the car’s engine, suspension, and other systems in order to keep it competitive and exciting. Additionally, Toyota may also offer special edition models or trim packages that add unique features and styling elements to the car.
In the longer term, it’s possible that Toyota could decide to replace the 86 with an all-new model, potentially with a turbocharged engine or other significant changes. However, this is still speculative at this point, and it’s unclear what the company’s plans are for the future of the 86. One thing is certain, however: the 86 has built a loyal following among driving enthusiasts, and whatever Toyota decides to do with the car in the future, it will be closely watched and eagerly anticipated by fans around the world.