The Toyota 86 GRMN '16 stands as a unique testament to Toyota's commitment to pure driving enjoyment and motorsports heritage. Introduced by Toyota's performance-oriented racing division, Gazoo Racing (hence GRMN, Gazoo Racing tuned by the Meister of Nürburgring), this rare model took the acclaimed Toyota 86 platform and elevated it into an even sharper and more focused driving machine. With production limited to just 100 units, all exclusively available for the Japanese domestic market, the 86 GRMN '16 quickly became a coveted collector's car and a cult classic among enthusiasts around the globe.
At its core, the Toyota 86 GRMN further refined the already celebrated handling of the standard 86, with significant upgrades targeting track performance. Its 2.0-liter naturally aspirated flat-four engine received tuning tweaks for a modest power bump, but the real advancements arrived in the chassis, brakes, and lightweight construction. A more aggressive suspension setup, dedicated 17-inch wheels, enhanced Brembo brakes, a close-ratio 6-speed manual gearbox, and the use of carbon fiber for the roof and hood slashed weight and increased rigidity, making the GRMN variant a true corner-carving machine.
The Toyota 86 GRMN '16 may not have been a staple in international racing series, but its development was rooted in Toyota's successful return to motorsport and its desire to bring track-honed experience to customer cars. The GRMN legacy connects to Toyota’s broader motorsports push, evidenced by their dominant performance in global events like the World Endurance Championship and Japan's Super GT series. As such, the 86 GRMN '16 embodies the spirit of a road-going racecar, delivering a pure, analog driving experience that is rapidly disappearing in the modern automotive landscape.
Today, the Toyota 86 GRMN '16 enjoys legendary status among JDM enthusiasts and sports car collectors. Its blend of rarity, motorsport-inspired engineering, and the unfiltered joy of rear-wheel-drive dynamics ensures its status as a future classic. The car’s reputation continues to grow thanks to its presence in video games like Gran Turismo, where players can experience its legendary handling and performance virtually—a fitting tribute to one of Toyota's most spirited limited-edition creations.
