2020 Toyota 86 Review
2020 Toyota 86 Review
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The 86 is the minimalist's sports car of choice. No other coupe, especially at this price range, offers the same levels of engagement, confidence and fun as the 86 does. But even serious enthusiasts who are happy to look past the stiff ride and loud interior might not be so quick to ignore the lifeless engine and deeply disappointing tech interface.
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2020 Toyota 86 Review
byBrent Romans
Senior Manager, Written Content
Brent Romans has worked in the automotive industry since 1996. He has written or edited thousands of expert car reviews and road-tested hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Brent is a senior manager of written content at Edmunds and previously contributed to publications such as Super Street and Petersen's 4-Wheel & Off-Road. His personal car is a 2019 BMW M2 Competition, which he bought for its ideal combination of performance, style and practicality.
Pros
- Excellent steering and handling
- Lots of standard features for the money
- Nicely trimmed cabin
Cons
- Acceleration is underwhelming
- Small trunk doesn't hold much cargo
- Lacks the latest driver safety aids
What's new
- New 86 Hakone Edition trim with unique green paint and bronze-colored wheels
- No other significant changes for 2020
- Part of the first 86 generation introduced for 2017 (but also related to the old Scion FR-S)
Overview
For years we've griped about the 86's lack of power, buzzy engine and the fact that it's a 200-horsepower car that often feels like a 150-horsepower car. Those things haven't changed for 2020. But neither has its merits.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2020 Toyota 86 2dr Coupe (2.0L 4cyl 6M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.31 per gallon for premium unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$223/mo for 86 Base
86 Base
vs
$174/mo
Avg. Compact Car
The 2020 Toyota 86 remains a textbook rear-wheel-drive plaything. It also delivers direct, intuitive steering and consistent braking. And though its traction limits aren't high, it's a perfect machine in which to learn basic rear-wheel-drive car control.
For 2020, the only addition to the 86 lineup is a new model called the Hakone Edition, which comes with striking green metallic paint, bronze-colored wheels and a black spoiler. Inside it offers tan and black synthetic-suede seats and tan and black stitching. Unfortunately, you can't get the Hakone Edition with the optional TRD Handling package, which ups the car's braking and handling performance slightly.
Similarly priced rivals include two hatchbacks, the 228-horsepower Volkswagen Golf GTI and the 250-hp Hyundai Veloster N, and the 181-hp Mazda Miata. Going with the GTI or Veloster will give you more practicality via their roomier rear seating and cargo areas, while the Miata has its convertible top. Base models of the Chevrolet Camaro and Ford Mustang are also worth checking out. But if learning performance-driving essentials at a relatively low starting price is a priority, then the 86 is an excellent place to start.
What's it like to live with the 86?
The Toyota 86 has barely changed in all the years since it was the Scion FR-S. (Remember Scion?) While that's a bit of a problem in some ways — cough, cough, we want CarPlay, cough — it means our impressions of the 2013 Scion FR-S that we bought to live with for a year are still just as relevant today. And we lived hard with the FR-S, slapping on a supercharger, exhaust, and fresh wheels and tires. You can read all about our long-term test with Toyota's entry-level rear-wheel-drive sports car.
Edmunds Expert Rating
Our VerdictThe Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.
Average
7.6
out of 10
edmunds TESTED
The 86 is the minimalist's sports car of choice. No other coupe, especially at this price range, offers the same levels of engagement, confidence and fun as the 86 does. But even serious enthusiasts who are happy to look past the stiff ride and loud interior might not be so quick to ignore the lifeless engine and deeply disappointing tech interface.
Rated for you by America's best test team.Performance
8.0/10
How does the 86 drive? When it comes to feel, precision and handling, the Toyota 86 is near the top of the class. The steering is responsive and accurate, and even with the low limits of tire grip, there's always fun, literally, around every corner. Even if you don't feel comfortable driving a manual transmission, the automatic takes nothing away from having a good time on a great road.
Although, the 86 hits 60 mph in 8.3 seconds with an automatic transmission and 6.7 seconds with the manual transmission. Most of that difference comes from the leisurely launch from the automatic, but the engine still falls flat on its face after every full-throttle upshift due to its anemic nature. The engine remains a disappointment.
Although, the 86 hits 60 mph in 8.3 seconds with an automatic transmission and 6.7 seconds with the manual transmission. Most of that difference comes from the leisurely launch from the automatic, but the engine still falls flat on its face after every full-throttle upshift due to its anemic nature. The engine remains a disappointment.
Comfort
7.5/10
How comfortable is the 86? The interior stitching and faux-suede interior panels are nice touches, but this Toyota is no touring car. The suspension tuning is a little too stiff to be considered comfortable. You'll feel all the bumps and road imperfections.
The tires also bring the noise on coarse surfaces. Keeping the weight down means minimizing the sound deadening, so the 86 is definitely on the loud side. Wind noise becomes quite noticeable at higher speeds. It's never too much for the driving enthusiast, but passengers might disagree.
The tires also bring the noise on coarse surfaces. Keeping the weight down means minimizing the sound deadening, so the 86 is definitely on the loud side. Wind noise becomes quite noticeable at higher speeds. It's never too much for the driving enthusiast, but passengers might disagree.
Interior
7.5/10
How’s the interior? The interior design of the 86 is uncomplicated and minimalist. Every control is right at your fingertips. The driving position feels a bit vertical at first but becomes second nature and allows for excellent forward visibility. The 86's compact size and ample windows make lane changing and parking easy.
Getting in and out is easy thanks to the generous door openings and low-profile seat cushions. Just don't consider this a four-passenger vehicle since rear-seat space and access are laughable, even for children. The seats are better left to cargo duty.
Getting in and out is easy thanks to the generous door openings and low-profile seat cushions. Just don't consider this a four-passenger vehicle since rear-seat space and access are laughable, even for children. The seats are better left to cargo duty.
Technology
6.5/10
How’s the tech? The 86's technology package is like the car itself: minimal. And like the engine, it's in need of an update or aftermarket support to make it better. The touchscreen is difficult to see during the day, and the entire unit looks like a low-end aftermarket piece. Audio quality is lacking in both power and fidelity. In our testing, the Bluetooth connection was plagued by inconsistent behavior. At least Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard kit.
What we do rate highly is the 86's ability to let you relax the stability control system (in Track mode) or shut it off entirely for full enjoyment of the car's capabilities.
What we do rate highly is the 86's ability to let you relax the stability control system (in Track mode) or shut it off entirely for full enjoyment of the car's capabilities.
Storage
7.5/10
How’s the storage? No one will ever accuse the 86 of sacrificing performance for practicality, but that doesn't mean it's not capable of carrying its fair share. The 6.9-cubic-foot trunk is larger than the Miata's 4 cubic feet but smaller than the Civic Si's. But once you fold the rear seats, the 86 can hold a full set of wheels and tires and a small tool set — perfect for a weekend track event.
The 86's small cabin doesn't offer much storage, but what's available manages to hold most small personal items. As a bonus, nothing stored in the cupholders will prevent you from driving as vigorously as you like.
The 86's small cabin doesn't offer much storage, but what's available manages to hold most small personal items. As a bonus, nothing stored in the cupholders will prevent you from driving as vigorously as you like.
Fuel Economy
7.5/10
How’s the fuel economy? While sports cars aren't known for their fuel economy, the 86, when equipped with a manual transmission, is EPA-rated at 24 mpg combined (21 city/28 highway). We achieved 25 mpg on our 115-mile evaluation route in a manual-equipped 86. When optioned with the automatic transmission, the 86 gets a higher EPA rating of 27 mpg combined (24 city/32 highway).
Value
7.5/10
Is the 86 a good value? It's tough to assign value to an emotional machine like a sports car. But if simple rear-wheel-drive excitement is what you're after, the 86 is right in the mix. It offers more protection and insulation than a convertible such as the Miata but is smaller and more fun than an entry-level Camaro or Mustang. Interior build quality is tight, and our test 86 stayed free of squeaks and rattles, even after driving over some fairly rough roads. Warranty coverage is comparable to what other cars in the segment offer. Toyota also provides two free years of scheduled maintenance.
Wildcard
8.5/10
The Toyota 86 delivers a pure, unadulterated driving experience. Steering is near-telepathic, and the car's low levels of grip allow you to explore and exploit the 86's excellent balance and agility without putting undue risk to your driver's license. But perfection eludes the 86 in large part to its annoyingly deficient engine.
Which 86 does Edmunds recommend?
The 86 is not a car to buy for creature comforts or amenities. Every trim comes with essentially the same performance-driving hardware, though you can option up the brakes and dampers. In general, we think the base 86 is the right place to start.
2020 Toyota 86 models
For 2020 the 86 comes in three trims: the 86, the 86 GT and the 86 Hakone Edition, all of which come standard with a 2.0-liter flat four-cylinder engine, which has two output ratings depending on which transmission it's paired with. Coupled to the standard six-speed manual transmission, it's good for 205 hp and 156 lb-ft of torque. When matched with the optional six-speed automatic, the engine is downrated to 200 hp and 151 lb-ft.
The base 86 model comes standard with 17-inch wheels, LED headlights, a 7.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration. Stepping up to the GT replaces the 17-inch wheels with 18s and adds a rear spoiler and simulated suede trim to the front seats, which are heated. The GT also gets a 4.2-inch multi-information display in the instrument cluster, keyless entry and ignition, and dual-zone climate control.
The 86 Hakone Edition is essentially a GT trim with the unique green paint and 17-inch bronze-colored wheels in place of the GT's 18s.
Brembo brakes and Sachs suspension dampers are available on the base 86 and GT trims as part of the TRD Handling package.
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Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2020 Toyota 86.
5 star(80%)
4 star(16%)
3 star(0%)
2 star(0%)
1 star(4%)
25 reviews
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Most helpful consumer reviews
5 out of 5 stars
No surprises, it is what it is, and I love it
Mike, 09/12/2019
2019 Toyota 86 TRD SE 2dr Coupe (2.0L 4cyl 6M)
Have owned four MK3 Supra's over the last 33 years. My most recent of 10 years finally caught the notorious Head Gasket flu! All my Supra's were maintained "unmolested OEM". It is obvious that the 86 took many of it's design cues from the gen3 Supra. I just acquired the 2019 86 TRD SE and am as thrilled as I was when I bought my first Supra (1986,5 release).
Bottom line, faster, … lighter, tighter than the MK3 Supra, same visibility (great!). More a real sports car with enough power to get me in trouble! You will feel more connected to the car and the road. If you want to become one with the machine and the road, this is it! I did not want to be a passenger, we have a new sedan for that! Yes, it lacks many of the modern accoutrements, but a rear wheel drive sport car with a 6-spd manual, and race suspension makes up for it. I can concentrate on my driving. Life is too short to drive boring cars! Yes, the new Supra is out, but at a steep price and quite frankly, I don't like the look (sour grapes?). If you liked your MK3 Supra, and you like to drive, not ride, get the 86 TRD SE.
4 out of 5 stars
Car drives great. Audio functions suck.
Dave Griesel, 01/27/2018
2017 Toyota 86 860 Special Edition 2dr Coupe (2.0L 4cyl 6M)
If you want to go slip sliding around you have to switch stability control off. With it on and trying to hang the tail out it won't. You can barely feel subtle changes going on and the car corners like it is on rails. ( With Amtrac stuff going on this is probably an aged expression ), I traded in a 350Z and its very poor shifting and this car shifts great. Brakes are good and I have … not had the opportunity to use them to the max. Rear camera works great and makes backing into a tight parking spot easy. If there is a curb you have to back in; as there is a very low front clearance; to avoid ( sooner or later ) damaging the front underneath. I am talking about shopping center parking with concrete curbing at one end and not street parking. So far mostly good or minor bad stuff. Now the audio functions that suck. The USB and the Ipod functions I could not get to work. I have an Ipod Touch 32GB 6th generation. I did get it to work with bluetooth. The Ipod function button would not turn on ( greyed out ). I loaded up a small USB memory 16GB MP3 with 20 CD's and plugged it into the USB port. The screen said it was checking the USB and then nothing happened. The USB memory worked fine in a 2018 Subaru Forester. I contacted Toyota online twice and complained to a dealer once. No joy. I searched through the Toyota manuals and found one place that said it would work and another place that said it may not work. Gas mileage is all city driving Price is out the door.
5 out of 5 stars
Awesome Vehicle!!!
Brandon, 04/24/2020
2020 Toyota 86 Hakone Edition 2dr Coupe (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
I, bought a brand new one glossy black. I'm enjoying mine. Also, the power is quick enough. If you want more power, then get a turbo installed. Or, buy a faster car.. it's your drivers license, not mine. The suspension is perfect. Everything about this car is A+ Toyota and Subaru did a terrific job teaming up together.
5 out of 5 stars
Review of 2019 Toyota 86
Beanz, 01/01/2019
2019 Toyota 86 2dr Coupe (2.0L 4cyl 6A)
I love this car. I have the 2019 base model with a few upgrades. The performance of this car is very, very good, and it has great aerodynamics. I get approximately 32-40 miles per gallon on the highway, and about 28-32 in the city. Although the Horsepower in this car is only 205, you really don't need more than that unless you plan on raising the car-which most people will not. I … can get it up to approximately 170 miles per hour on the highway and it still rides smooth-but, I won't be doing that again, because it is just plain crazy-and a death wish. It has good storage space in the trunk, because you can put the two back seats all the way down flat, and store more stuff in the trunk. The Nissan 370 Z cannot do this, and it also has several deadly blind spots, and a whole lot of horsepower that you can't even use. The 2019 Toyota 86 does not have blind spots, and all models have a built-in camera in the rear view mirror, so you can see if anything is straight behind you while you are backing out of your garage, or parking space. I find the bucket front seats to be very comfortable-especially on long drives, and they can be adjusted so you can seat higher or lower in the car, and the back is adjustable too. The steering wheel is also adjustable, and when you lock this car, there is no beep sound, instead, the front headlights just light up. The 2019 Toyota has a slamming nice stereo system. It has a touch screen, and a voice remote so you can train the voice remote to find songs that you have on the USB port or radio. You can also use a flash/thumb drive in the USB port filled with music you have loaded onto it. You can also upload all of your phone numbers from your smart phone onto the bluetooth device embedded in the stereo system, and ask the voice remote to dial the number for you, or dial it yourself from the steering wheel. You can also use the stereo from the steering wheel. You can open the trunk with you car key, and it has a great heating and cooling system. This is an excellent car, and I was surprised that it didn't cost more than it did-although it is not cheap by a long shot. The corvette started out like this, and now it is just a beautiful sports car-but you're also paying for the horsepower on the corvette that the regular consumer driver will never be able to use. I think Toyota redeemed themselves when they created the Toyota 86. It truly is an outstanding car.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2020 Toyota 86, so we've included reviews for other years of the 86 since its last redesign.
2020 86 Highlights
Base
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $27,060 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 24 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $223/month |
Seating | 4 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 6.9 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Our experts like the 86 models:
- Backup Camera
- Projects an image of objects and vehicles in the car's rearward path of travel to help prevent a collision.
- Hill Start Assist Control
- Prevents the car from rolling backward on a hill by maintaining brake hold as the driver's foot moves from the brake to accelerator pedal.
- Side (Front Only)/Side Curtain Airbags
- Deploys airbags in the event of a collision, including side-curtain airbags useful for protecting rear passengers.
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall4 / 5Driver4 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriverNot RatedPassengerNot Rated
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover5 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover7.1%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestAcceptable
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestGood
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
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