2020 Toyota 86 Review

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.

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.