The second-generation Toyota GR86 first went into production back in 2021, which means a successor can’t be too far off. Toyota’s most affordable sports car, the current GR86 shares a platform and engine with the equally fun Subaru BRZ. While concrete information about the next GR86 has been scarce until now, a Japanese publication called Best Car magazine recently shared new details about the next GR86’s powertrain. If you’re expecting a big boost in power, you may be disappointed—but the rumor suggests Toyota has worked hard to maintain the car’s simple, lightweight philosophy.
Related: Which 2026 Toyota GR 86 Trim Level Is The Smart Buy?
New 2.0-Liter Mild Hybrid
According to information received by Best Car magazine, the next GR86 will have a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with a mild hybrid system. Previous rumors suggested the GR86 may use the turbo three-cylinder engine from the GR Yaris, but a four-pot now looks likelier. The publication also shared a spec sheet for the 2028 GR86, which suggests the new engine has an output of 217 horsepower, which is actually a bit less than the 228 hp in the current model.
However, the good news is that a curb weight of under 2,900 lbs is expected, just like the current car. This is the advantage of using a mild hybrid system, which doesn’t add as much weight as a normal hybrid. At under 170 inches in length, the upcoming GR86 will be only slightly longer than the current model, so the compact footprint that contributes to it being such an engaging sports car will still be intact.
The spec sheet shown by the Japanese magazine suggests six-speed manual and eight-speed automatic transmissions will be available, with power going to the rear wheels.
Related: 2026 Subaru BRZ Pricing Makes Toyota GR86 Look Like A Bargain
What About The Mazda Collaboration?
Mazda
Last year, rumors suggested that Toyota was collaborating with Mazda on a new platform that would be shared between the next GR86 and MX-5. While that plan may still happen, it’s now understood it will only come to light for the fourth-gen GR86, not the third-gen model expected around 2028.
It’s easy to see why such a collaboration makes sense. Both the MX-5 and GR86 are lightweight, uncomplicated sports cars. Toyota and Mazda already work together, with the CX-50 Hybrid adopting the same powertrain as the previous RAV4 Hybrid. Mazda is currently working on a new Miata, which it says will weigh around 2,200 lbs; this suggests that a hybrid powertrain won’t happen at all. However, Mazda is open to a hybrid for its iconic sports car if the tech doesn’t add too much weight.
As for the next BRZ, it’s no longer expected to be closely related to the GR86.
What It Means
Toyota
The latest information about the new GR86 is promising. A mild hybrid system modernizes the car’s powertrain but should not detract from its character. The specifications suggest the car will not grow much in size and its weight will be well below 3,000 lbs. It all points to a car that’s very much in keeping with the 86’s ethos of uncomplicated sports car fun. The new powertrain suggests the GR86 will still be quite affordable, too, which will keep some daylight between it and the next Supra, which may adopt a hybrid turbo-four powertrain.
Toyota’s new junior sports car looks destined to keep at least one GR model attainable, which is great news for enthusiasts on a tighter budget.
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