The New York International Auto Show in 2016 witnessed a significant moment for sports car enthusiasts as the Toyota Frs 2017, previously known as the Scion FR-S, made its grand debut under the Toyota banner. This rebranding marked more than just a name change; it signaled an evolution for the beloved front-engine, rear-drive sports car, bringing with it a host of interior and exterior enhancements, along with upgrades to its suspension and powertrain. The transition of the Toyota FRS 2017 to the Toyota 86 was met with enthusiasm, embracing the global name and the heritage associated with the ‘hachi-roku’ spirit.
Embracing the 86 Badge: A Nod to Heritage
Toyota’s decision to rename the Scion FR-S to Toyota 86 was a direct response to popular demand from enthusiasts who deeply resonated with the global moniker. Bill Fay, Toyota Division Group Vice President, emphasized this sentiment, stating, “Enthusiasts have a strong association with the front-engine, rear-drive heritage of the ‘hachi-roku’ and the dynamic performance it offers.” This name adoption for the toyota frs 2017 not only paid homage to its lineage but also aligned it with Toyota’s global sports car identity. Alongside the 86, other Scion models, the Corolla iM and Yaris iA, also transitioned into the Toyota lineup, solidifying Toyota’s commitment to the small car segment.
Striking Exterior Transformation of the Toyota 86
The Toyota FRS 2017, now the Toyota 86, showcased a more assertive and refined exterior design. The front fascia received a significant makeover, featuring a larger center intake that amplified the car’s low and wide stance, exuding a more aggressive road presence. Re-configured LED front headlamps and turn signals, coupled with a redesigned bumper, further contributed to the fresh and modern aesthetic. The rear of the vehicle was equally enhanced with new LED tail lamps and a bumper design that echoed the sporty dynamism of the front. Completing the exterior transformation were newly designed alloy wheels with a twisted spoke pattern and strategically placed 86 logos, subtly embedded in a front fender badge and within the front headlamps themselves.
Interior Refinements and Driver-Centric Upgrades
Stepping inside the toyota frs 2017 revealed interior enhancements focused on elevating the driving experience. The 86 logo took center stage within the cabin, prominently featured on the instrument panel surround crafted from a new “Grandlux” material. This material extended to the door trim, adding a soft-touch feel to the interior. New seating material, accented with silver stitching, provided both visual appeal and enhanced comfort. The driver-centric cockpit was further refined with a sporty steering wheel incorporating integrated audio controls and another 86 logo at the center hub, ensuring the driver remained connected and in command.
Performance and Handling Enhancements
Beyond aesthetics, the Toyota FRS 2017 (Toyota 86) received notable performance upgrades aimed at sharpening its handling and responsiveness. Revised shock tuning and a spring rate change contributed to enhanced control and agile performance on various road conditions. For enthusiasts opting for the manual transmission version, the driving dynamics were further amplified by a gear ratio change and an increase in torque to 156 lb.-ft, alongside a power boost to 205 hp. Addressing practical driving needs, Hill Start Assist Control (HAC) was introduced to prevent rollback on steep inclines, adding a layer of convenience and safety.
Toyota 86 in Formula Drift and the C-HR Concept Introduction
The unveiling of the Toyota FRS 2017 as the Toyota 86 also heralded its continued presence in the world of motorsports, specifically Formula Drift. Racers Ken Gushi and Ryan Tuerck, alongside Series Champion Frederic Aasbo, were set to defend the SR by Toyota race team’s 2015 Manufacturers’ Championship, further cementing the 86’s performance credentials. Sharing the stage with the Toyota 86 at the New York Auto Show was the Toyota C-HR Concept, previewing Toyota’s entry into the compact crossover segment. The production version of the C-HR, slated for release as a 2018 model in spring 2017, promised to bring a blend of style and functionality to the burgeoning CUV market, appealing to “yuccies”—young urban creatives—with its compact size and high ride height. The C-HR Concept, built on Toyota’s New Global Architecture (TNGA), emphasized responsive handling and driving comfort, signaling Toyota’s forward-thinking approach to vehicle development.
Conclusion: The Toyota 86 Era Begins
The transformation of the Toyota FRS 2017 into the Toyota 86 marked a pivotal moment, celebrating the heritage of an iconic sports car while injecting it with fresh enhancements and a renewed identity under the Toyota banner. From its refined exterior and interior to its performance upgrades, the Toyota 86 was poised to continue captivating driving enthusiasts. Simultaneously, the introduction of the C-HR Concept signaled Toyota’s strategic expansion into new market segments, promising an exciting future for the brand and its diverse lineup.
