GR86 Yuzu Unveiled

The Legacy of the GR86

Remember the Scion FR-S? It was one of those sleeper hits in the automotive world—an affordable sports car with genuine enthusiast appeal. When Scion went under, Toyota absorbed one of its most beloved models, rebranding it as the Toyota 86 and, later, as the GR86. Now, Toyota is reviving some of that Scion magic with a special edition of the GR86: the Yuzu Special Edition. Fewer than 1,000 of these bad boys are slated for the U.S., making it a rare opportunity to snag a piece of automotive nostalgia infused with modern performance.

First off, let’s talk aesthetics. The Yuzu Special Edition sports a shade of yellow that feels right out of a sunny California afternoon. It’s a nod to its namesake fruit, complete with gloss-black accents and black wheels that add a touch of stealth to the otherwise brightly painted exterior. Inside, poppin’ yellow stitching spices up the front seats, doors, steering wheel, and even the parking brake. It’s not just about looks, either—a new body kit and a cat-back exhaust system with four hefty tailpipes give this edition a menacing presence.

Performance at Heart

Turning our attention to performance, the core of the GR86 remains intact. The Yuzu shares its specs with the GR86 Premium with the Performance package. We’re talking SACHS dampers and red Brembo brake calipers that promise spirited handling and impressive stopping power. For those picky about the trim, options can add up to $2,020 more to your tab, but that’s the price of exclusivity.

The GR86 Yuzu marks the fourth special edition in the lineup, following the milestones set by the 10th Anniversary, Trueno, and Hakone editions. Come fall 2025, fans better be ready; its production run caps at just 860 units. A quick launch for a car that embodies everything a lightweight sports car should be. Weighing in at only 2,811 lbs. for the base version, this Toyota keeps things trim with aluminum components on the hood, fenders, and roof. Opting for an automatic transmission bumps the weight moderately by 40 lbs.

Under the Hood

Simplicity is often the key to brilliance. The GR86 trades advanced turbo tech for a tried-and-true naturally aspirated 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. Cranking out 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque through a six-speed manual box, it keeps things engaging for the purists. For those steering towards an auto, the setup includes extra clutch discs and a high-capacity torque converter. With the manual, expect a 0 to 60 mph sprint in 6.1 seconds. Add half a second for the automatic. Each model features a Torsen limited-slip differential for improved traction around corners—a boon for any spirited drive.

Final Thoughts

The GR86 Yuzu is a blend of nostalgia and modern-day performance, echoing the simple joys the original Scion FR-S instilled in its fans. Its scarcity ensures that owning one is a badge of honor for enthusiasts and collectors alike. Keep your eyes peeled this fall—this car promises to be a hot-ticket item that might just speed off into sundown before you know it.