Toyota 86 gains performance, drops former Scion branding

Toyota developed and launched its 86 model in conjunction with Subaru and sold it in the US under the Scion brand as the FR-S. When Toyota retired the Scion brand last year, the FR-S became the 86, the name the model uses in other markets.

The 86 is a coupe with 2+2 seating, in a front engine/rear-wheel-drive format.

From the start, the 86 was known for very nimble handling, and the 2017 model improves on that.

For 2017, Toyota gives the car a wider front intake and standard LED headlights.

Eighteen-inch TRD wheels are among the available performance accessories.

Other TRD accessories include lowering springs, sport exhaust and a performance air intake.

With a MacPherson strut in front and double wishbone suspension at the rear, the 86 remains nimble while offering a surprisingly pliant ride.

LED taillights come standard.

The two-liter four-cylinder engine uses flat four arrangement, and get a combination port-direct injection fuel delivery system to maximize performance.

The front seats are reasonably comfortable and access is good, but the rear seat is minimal.

Toyota offers the 86 as a single spec, with no factory options beyond the choice between manual or automatic transmission.

Not everyone likes electric power steering, but it works very well in the 86.

The instrument cluster puts the tachometer up front, in traditional sport car fashion.