The FT-86 Concept was announced in 2009 as an exciting compact, front-engine, rear-wheel drive sportscar developed in co-operation by Toyota and Subaru, and it heightened the expectations of car enthusiasts everywhere. In 2011, the commercial model of its Toyota version finally debuted at the Tokyo Motor Show.

The FT (Future Toyota) designation has been removed, making its official name the Toyota 86. This new generation 'Hachi-Roku' (8-6 in Japanese), named after a popular predecessor in the 1980s, has a silhouette close to the FT-86 II Concept shown at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show. It is designed under the 'Aero Handling' concept, in which the car is held to the ground from all directions through superior aerodynamics.

The naturally aspirated 1,998 cc 4-cylinder DOHC boxer engine mounted front-midship in the car produces 197 BHP at 7,000 rpm and 20.9 kgfm at 6,600 rpm torque, which is then transferred to the rear wheels through a short-stroke 6-speed MT or paddle-shifter 6-speed AT.

The front-to-rear weight balance is 53:47, and is designed this way for controllability of the rear end and excellent steering feedback. The centre of gravity of the car is equivalent to that of supercars, at only 460 mm off the ground. The standard grade MT model weighs in at 1,230 kg, and there are also grade models that come standard with a limited-slip differential.

Each and every part of the new generation Hachi-Roku is designed specifically for this car to allow quick handling and control, and the result is a sportscar that is like an extension of your own hands and feet. This is a car in which you can enjoy exceptional handling that will make you feel as if you were a part of the car.

There are also plans for a lineup of Modellista and TRD custom parts, and a customisable grade model for competition use. This is a new generation, lightweight sportscar that truly caters to the car enthusiast.