The Toyota 86, known for its sleek design, agile handling, and rear-wheel drive thrill, has been a favorite among driving enthusiasts since its introduction. However, one question that persists among potential buyers and car enthusiasts alike is whether the Toyota 86 is a 4-seater. In this article, we will delve into the details of the Toyota 86’s design, features, and specifications to provide a comprehensive answer to this query.
Introduction to the Toyota 86
The Toyota 86, also known as the Subaru BRZ due to a collaborative effort between Toyota and Subaru, is a sports car that embodies the spirit of driving. It is designed to offer an unparalleled driving experience, with a focus on handling, balance, and sheer fun. The question of whether it is a 4-seater, however, hinges on the practicality and usability of its rear seats.
Design and Interior
The Toyota 86 boasts a compact and lightweight body, which contributes to its exceptional handling and responsiveness. The interior is designed with the driver in mind, featuring a driver-centric cockpit that includes a well-positioned steering wheel, intuitive controls, and a clear view of the road ahead. The rear of the vehicle, however, is where the debate about seating capacity becomes relevant.
Rear Seat Capacity and Comfort
While the Toyota 86 does come with rear seats, the space and comfort they offer are limited. The rear seats are best described as 2+2 seating, implying that they are more suited for small children or additional storage rather than full-sized adults. The legroom and headroom in the rear are constrained, making long trips uncomfortable for average-sized individuals.
Specifications and Dimensions
To better understand the Toyota 86’s seating capacity, it’s essential to examine its specifications and dimensions.
- The overall length of the Toyota 86 is approximately 166.7 inches, with a wheelbase of about 101.2 inches.
- The vehicle’s width is roughly 68.9 inches, and its height is around 50.6 inches.
- These dimensions suggest a compact footprint that, while excellent for agility and parking, may compromise on interior space.
Seating Capacity in Numbers
While the Toyota 86 can technically accommodate four individuals, the practicality of doing so is another matter. The rear seats, as mentioned, are not designed for regular use by adults due to space constraints. Therefore, when considering the Toyota 86 as a potential purchase, it’s crucial to weigh the importance of rear seat usability against the vehicle’s other attributes.
Comparison with Other Vehicles
In comparison to other sports cars in its class, the Toyota 86’s rear seating is somewhat standard for the segment. Many two-door sports cars face similar challenges in balancing performance with practicality. However, for those seeking a vehicle that can regularly carry four passengers, other options might be more suitable.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the Toyota 86 is indeed equipped with rear seats, making it technically a 4-seater, the usability and comfort of those seats are limited. The vehicle is best suited for driving enthusiasts who prioritize performance, handling, and the thrill of the drive over the need to transport multiple passengers regularly. For those seeking a practical 4-seater, other vehicles may offer more in terms of space and comfort. However, for the right buyer, the Toyota 86’s unique blend of driving excitement and rear seats, albeit small, can be a compelling choice.
Final Thoughts
The Toyota 86 stands as a testament to the joy of driving, offering an experience that is hard to match in its class. Its design, focused on the driver and the road, ensures that every moment behind the wheel is memorable. Whether or not it is considered a true 4-seater, the Toyota 86 remains an attractive option for anyone looking for a fun, agile, and stylish vehicle that can, on occasion, accommodate additional passengers or provide extra storage space.
Purchasing Decision
When deciding whether the Toyota 86 is the right vehicle for you, consider your priorities. If driving pleasure, affordable price, and rear-wheel drive excitement top your list, then the Toyota 86 is certainly worth a closer look. However, if your needs include regularly transporting four adults in comfort, you may want to explore other options that better meet those requirements. Ultimately, the Toyota 86’s appeal lies in its unique balance of performance and practicality, making it a standout choice for many driving enthusiasts.
Is the Toyota 86 a 4-seater car?
The Toyota 86 is generally considered a 2+2 seater, meaning it has two primary seats in the front and two smaller seats in the rear. While it is technically possible to seat four people in the vehicle, the rear seats are not designed for adults and are better suited for children or additional storage space. The 2+2 configuration is a common design for sports cars, as it allows for a more compact and lightweight design while still providing some additional space for passengers or cargo.
In practice, the rear seats in the Toyota 86 are quite small, with limited legroom and headroom. They are best suited for short trips or for carrying children, and are not designed for long road trips or carrying adult passengers. Additionally, the rear seats can be folded down to provide additional storage space, which can be useful for carrying larger items or sports equipment. Overall, while the Toyota 86 can technically seat four people, it is not a practical or comfortable choice for carrying multiple adult passengers.
How does the Toyota 86 compare to other 2+2 seater cars?
The Toyota 86 is part of a niche market of 2+2 seater cars, which includes other models such as the Subaru BRZ, Mazda MX-5 Miata, and Nissan 370Z. These cars are all designed with a focus on performance and handling, and are intended for driving enthusiasts who value a fun and engaging driving experience. The Toyota 86 is unique in this market due to its rear-wheel drive configuration and boxer engine, which provides a distinctive driving feel and sound.
In comparison to other 2+2 seater cars, the Toyota 86 is known for its agile handling and responsive steering, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts. It is also relatively affordable, with a base price that is lower than many of its competitors. However, it is worth noting that the Toyota 86 is not as powerful as some of its competitors, and its rear seats are somewhat smaller than those found in other 2+2 seater cars. Overall, the Toyota 86 is a great choice for drivers who value a fun and engaging driving experience, but may not be the best choice for those who need a practical or family-friendly vehicle.
Can adults fit in the rear seats of the Toyota 86?
While it is technically possible for adults to fit in the rear seats of the Toyota 86, it is not a comfortable or practical solution. The rear seats are designed for children or additional storage space, and are quite small, with limited legroom and headroom. Adults will likely find the rear seats to be cramped and uncomfortable, especially on long road trips. Additionally, the rear seats do not have a lot of support or amenities, such as cup holders or armrests, which can make long trips even more uncomfortable.
In general, it is best to think of the Toyota 86 as a 2-seater car with additional storage space, rather than a 4-seater car. While it is possible to carry adult passengers in the rear seats, it is not a practical or comfortable solution, and is best avoided. Instead, the Toyota 86 is a great choice for drivers who value a fun and engaging driving experience, and are willing to sacrifice some practicality and comfort in exchange for a more exciting and dynamic drive.
Are the rear seats in the Toyota 86 useful for storage?
Yes, the rear seats in the Toyota 86 can be quite useful for storage, especially when folded down. The seats can be folded flat, providing a large and open storage area that is perfect for carrying sports equipment, luggage, or other large items. The storage area is also relatively accessible, with a wide opening and a low lift-over height, making it easy to load and unload cargo. Additionally, the Toyota 86 has a number of tie-down points and storage nets, which can be used to secure cargo and keep it organized.
In practice, the rear seats in the Toyota 86 are often used for storage, especially by drivers who use the car for track days or other performance driving events. The car’s small size and lightweight design make it easy to maneuver and park, and the rear storage area is perfect for carrying tools, spare tires, and other equipment. Additionally, the Toyota 86 has a number of aftermarket storage solutions available, including cargo nets and storage bins, which can be used to customize the car’s storage area and make it even more useful.
Can the Toyota 86 be used as a family car?
While the Toyota 86 can technically seat four people, it is not a practical or comfortable choice for families. The rear seats are small and cramped, and are not designed for long road trips or carrying adult passengers. Additionally, the car’s small size and lightweight design make it less practical for families, who may need more space and amenities. The Toyota 86 is better suited for single drivers or couples who value a fun and engaging driving experience, and are willing to sacrifice some practicality and comfort in exchange for a more exciting and dynamic drive.
In general, families are better off choosing a more practical and family-friendly vehicle, such as a sedan or SUV. These cars typically have more space, amenities, and safety features, making them a better choice for families with children. The Toyota 86, on the other hand, is a niche car that is designed for driving enthusiasts, and is best suited for drivers who value a fun and engaging driving experience above all else. While it is possible to use the Toyota 86 as a family car, it is not a practical or comfortable solution, and is not recommended.
Are there any modifications or accessories available to make the Toyota 86 more practical?
Yes, there are a number of modifications and accessories available that can make the Toyota 86 more practical and comfortable. For example, there are aftermarket storage solutions available, such as cargo nets and storage bins, which can be used to customize the car’s storage area and make it more useful. Additionally, there are a number of comfort and convenience upgrades available, such as heated seats and infotainment systems, which can make the car more comfortable and enjoyable to drive.
In terms of modifications, there are a number of options available that can make the Toyota 86 more practical and comfortable. For example, some owners have installed rear seat delete kits, which remove the rear seats and replace them with a flat storage area. Others have installed folding rear seats, which can be folded up to provide more storage space. Additionally, there are a number of suspension and chassis upgrades available, which can improve the car’s handling and ride quality, making it more comfortable and enjoyable to drive. Overall, there are a number of modifications and accessories available that can make the Toyota 86 more practical and comfortable, and owners can choose the upgrades that best fit their needs and preferences.