Toyota is reportedly working on a turbocharged and all-wheel drive version of the popular Toyota 86 sports coupe. It’s set to be part of a model update planned for next year.
According to a Best Car magazine report from Japan, the next Toyota 86 will be offered in more trim levels including a high-performance version sporting various tantalising components.
The news is still a bit hazy but it’s understood the high-performance Toyota 86 will feature an all-wheel drive system and a long-awaited turbocharged engine. Specifically, a 2.5-litre turbo derived from the Subaru WRX STI engine.
It all sounds too good to be true but the truth is Toyota has been spotted testing various mysterious prototypes at the Nurburgring in recent months showcasing a number of interesting features.
There has been prototypes with serious aero parts fitted, including special side skirts and front and rear wings. It’s believed the performance version will come with such equipment, as well as bespoke suspension and brakes.
The Toyota 86 has been an extremely popular model all around the world since its launch in 2012, especially in Australia. In fact, 10,000 of the first 100,000 global sales were thanks to Aussie buyers. Many have been waiting for a turbocharged version to come along.
As for an all-wheel drive system, if it comes to fruition, it would certainly help get the power down to the ground and make the little sports coupe even quicker overall.
Click play on the video below, provided by TouriClips YouTube channel, for a sneak peek of one of the mysterious prototypes.
I’ll be putting my deposit down as soon as Toyota takes orders for this model in Australia. Price it within range of the Mazda MX5 and see the latter’s sales drop.