The Toyota 86, along with its Subaru BRZ counterpart, has been a darling of the automotive world since its introduction. Known for its agile handling, rear-wheel drive layout, and boxer engine, the 86 has captured the hearts of driving enthusiasts worldwide. Within the 86 lineup, two trim levels have garnered significant attention: the GTS and the GT. While both trims share the same fundamental DNA, there are distinct differences that set them apart. In this article, we will delve into the specifics of how to tell if an 86 is a GTS or a GT, exploring their unique features, performance capabilities, and design elements.
Introduction to the Toyota 86 Trims
The Toyota 86 is offered in various trim levels, but the GTS and GT are the most sought after due to their balance of performance, features, and affordability. The primary distinction between these trims lies in their equipment levels and optional features, which significantly impact the driving experience and overall value of the vehicle.
Overview of the GT Trim
The GT trim is the more base model of the two, featuring a simplified list of standard features compared to the GTS. It comes equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels, a six-speed manual transmission, and the 2.0-liter boxer engine, producing 205 horsepower. The GT’s interior is well-appointed with features like cloth upholstery, manual adjustable seats, and a basic infotainment system. While the GT is a fantastic car in its own right, offering a pure driving experience, it lacks some of the premium features and safety technologies found in the GTS.
Overview of the GTS Trim
The GTS trim, on the other hand, represents a higher tier of the 86 lineup, offering an enhanced set of features that cater to both performance enthusiasts and those seeking a bit more luxury and convenience. The GTS model boasts 18-inch alloy wheels, LED fog lights, and heated mirrors, among other exterior upgrades. Inside, the GTS features leather and Alcantara upholstery, heated seats, a premium infotainment system with navigation, and a range of safety features including rear cross traffic alert and blind spot monitoring. The GTS also gets a subwoofer and amplifier for improved sound quality.
Differentiating Features
To determine whether an 86 is a GTS or a GT, one must look at several key areas: exterior design elements, interior appointments, performance and handling upgrades, and technology and safety features.
Exterior Design Elements
- Wheels and Tires: The GT comes with 17-inch alloy wheels and Michelin Primacy HP tires, while the GTS is equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels and Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires, offering better grip and handling.
- Body Kit and Spoilers: The GTS may feature a more aggressive body kit and a rear spoiler, enhancing its aerodynamic profile and visual appeal.
Interior Appointments
- Upholstery and Trim: The GT features cloth upholstery, whereas the GTS boasts leather and Alcantara combination for a more premium feel.
- Infotainment and Technology: The GTS comes with a more advanced infotainment system that includes navigation and a range of connectivity options, along with safety features like blind spot monitoring.
Performance and Handling Upgrades
- Suspension and Steering: While both models share the same basic suspension and steering setup, the GTS might receive tuning upgrades for better handling and stability.
- Engine Output: Both the GT and GTS share the same 2.0-liter boxer engine producing 205 horsepower in most markets, though specific outputs can vary by region and model year.
Special Editions and Limited Models
It’s also worth noting that Toyota has released special edition models of the 86 over the years, which can blur the lines between the GT and GTS trims. These special editions may include unique exterior colors, interior trim, and performance upgrades, making them stand out from the standard GT and GTS models.
Conclusion
Identifying whether a Toyota 86 is a GTS or a GT involves a close look at its exterior design elements, interior features, performance capabilities, and the inclusion of advanced technology and safety features. The GTS offers a more premium experience with its enhanced features and upgraded equipment, making it appealing to those who want a bit of luxury alongside their driving thrills. On the other hand, the GT provides a purer driving experience with fewer frills, which can be enticing for enthusiasts who prioritize handling and performance above all else. Regardless of the trim, the Toyota 86 remains an iconic vehicle that embodies the spirit of driving joy, making it a beloved choice among car enthusiasts worldwide.
For those in the market for an 86, understanding these differences can help in making a more informed decision that aligns with their preferences, budget, and driving aspirations. Whether you opt for the feature-rich GTS or the performance-focused GT, the Toyota 86 promises an unforgettable driving experience that few other vehicles can match.
What are the key differences between the Toyota 86 GTS and GT models?
The Toyota 86 GTS and GT are two popular variants of the Toyota 86 sports car. While both models share the same platform and engine, there are some notable differences between them. The GTS model is considered the higher-end variant, featuring additional luxury and convenience features such as leather-trimmed seats, heated seats, and a premium audio system. In contrast, the GT model is more focused on performance, with features such as a sport-tuned suspension, limited-slip differential, and 17-inch alloy wheels.
In terms of performance, both models are powered by the same 2.0-liter boxer engine, producing 205 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque. However, the GTS model has a slightly more comfortable ride due to its more relaxed suspension tuning, while the GT model has a more aggressive suspension setup that enhances its handling and responsiveness. Additionally, the GTS model has a more comprehensive list of standard features, including a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert, making it a more practical choice for daily driving.
How do the exterior designs of the Toyota 86 GTS and GT models differ?
The exterior designs of the Toyota 86 GTS and GT models have some notable differences. The GTS model features a more aggressive front bumper design, with a larger air intake and LED fog lights, giving it a more premium and sporty appearance. The GT model, on the other hand, has a more subtle front bumper design, with a smaller air intake and halogen fog lights. Additionally, the GTS model has a unique rear spoiler design, with a more pronounced wing and a distinctive LED brake light, while the GT model has a more discreet rear spoiler design.
In terms of wheels and tires, the GTS model comes standard with 18-inch alloy wheels, wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires, providing a balance of grip, handling, and comfort. The GT model, on the other hand, comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, wrapped in Michelin Primacy HP tires, which prioritize handling and responsiveness over comfort. Overall, the exterior design of the GTS model is more focused on luxury and premium appearance, while the GT model has a more performance-oriented design.
What are the interior features and amenities of the Toyota 86 GTS and GT models?
The interior of the Toyota 86 GTS and GT models has some notable differences in terms of features and amenities. The GTS model features a more luxurious and comfortable interior, with premium materials such as leather-trimmed seats, heated seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The GT model, on the other hand, has a more basic interior, with cloth-trimmed seats and a urethane steering wheel. Additionally, the GTS model has a more comprehensive list of standard features, including a premium audio system, navigation, and dual-zone automatic climate control.
In terms of technology and convenience features, the GTS model has a more advanced infotainment system, with a larger 7-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and voice recognition. The GT model, on the other hand, has a more basic infotainment system, with a smaller 6.1-inch touchscreen display and limited connectivity options. However, both models have a range of standard safety features, including seven airbags, electronic stability control, and anti-lock braking. Overall, the interior of the GTS model is more focused on comfort, luxury, and convenience, while the GT model prioritizes performance and simplicity.
How do the performance capabilities of the Toyota 86 GTS and GT models compare?
The performance capabilities of the Toyota 86 GTS and GT models are similar, with both models powered by the same 2.0-liter boxer engine, producing 205 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque. However, the GT model has a slightly more aggressive suspension setup, with stiffer springs and shocks, which enhances its handling and responsiveness. The GTS model, on the other hand, has a more relaxed suspension tuning, which prioritizes comfort and ride quality over handling and performance.
In terms of acceleration and braking, both models have similar performance capabilities, with a 0-60 mph time of around 6.4 seconds and a top speed of 140 mph. However, the GT model has a slightly more aggressive brake setup, with larger brake rotors and more aggressive brake pads, which enhances its stopping power and responsiveness. Overall, the performance capabilities of the GTS model are more focused on comfort and practicality, while the GT model prioritizes handling and responsiveness.
What are the safety features and ratings of the Toyota 86 GTS and GT models?
The safety features and ratings of the Toyota 86 GTS and GT models are similar, with both models having a range of standard safety features, including seven airbags, electronic stability control, and anti-lock braking. Additionally, both models have a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert, which enhance their safety and visibility. In terms of safety ratings, both models have a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and are Top Safety Pick+ winners from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
In terms of advanced safety features, the GTS model has a more comprehensive list of standard features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic high beams. The GT model, on the other hand, has a more basic list of safety features, with optional features such as rear cross-traffic alert and blind-spot monitoring. However, both models have a range of optional safety features, including a suite of advanced safety features such as pre-collision braking and lane departure warning. Overall, the safety features and ratings of the GTS model are more focused on convenience and practicality, while the GT model prioritizes performance and simplicity.
How do the fuel economy and emissions of the Toyota 86 GTS and GT models compare?
The fuel economy and emissions of the Toyota 86 GTS and GT models are similar, with both models having an estimated EPA rating of 24 mpg in the city, 32 mpg on the highway, and 27 mpg combined. However, the GT model has a slightly more aggressive engine calibration, which prioritizes performance over fuel efficiency. Additionally, the GTS model has a more comprehensive list of standard features, including a more advanced exhaust system, which enhances its performance and reduces its emissions.
In terms of emissions, both models have a similar emissions profile, with a rating of 6 out of 10 from the EPA. However, the GTS model has a more advanced emissions control system, which reduces its emissions and enhances its environmental performance. Overall, the fuel economy and emissions of the GTS model are more focused on practicality and convenience, while the GT model prioritizes performance and responsiveness. However, both models have a range of features and technologies that enhance their environmental performance and reduce their impact on the environment.
What are the pricing and trim levels of the Toyota 86 GTS and GT models?
The pricing and trim levels of the Toyota 86 GTS and GT models vary, with the GTS model starting at around $30,000 and the GT model starting at around $27,000. The GTS model is available in a range of trim levels, including the base model, the Premium model, and the Limited model, each with a range of standard features and options. The GT model, on the other hand, is available in a range of trim levels, including the base model, the Sport model, and the TRD model, each with a range of standard features and options.
In terms of pricing, the GTS model is generally more expensive than the GT model, due to its more comprehensive list of standard features and its more luxurious interior. However, the GT model offers a range of optional features and packages, including a performance package and a premium audio package, which can enhance its performance and convenience. Overall, the pricing and trim levels of the GTS model are more focused on luxury and convenience, while the GT model prioritizes performance and value. However, both models offer a range of features and options that enhance their value and appeal to a range of buyers.