NEWS // TOYOTA RELEASES FT-86 CONCEPT

Inspired by the AE86 Corolla sports coupe of the 1980’s, Toyota, in an effort to inject enthusiasm into their brand, have just released images of their FT-86 concept. Developed in part by Toyota’s ED2 styling stuido in France, the FT-86 will feature a Subaru-derived 2.0 liter boxer four with power being transferred to the rear wheels. Weight is reduced in hopes of improving performance, and with the engine sitting lower in the engine bay, the FT-86 keeps has a relatively low center of gravity. The new 2+2 Toyota is 163.78 inches long and 69.29 inches wide, with a wheelbase of 101.18 inches. Expected to appear at the Tokyo Motor Show next month, Toyota’s FT-86 will not be available (in production form) until sometime in late 2011 with a sticker price right around $20,000.

Follow the link for additional images, a bit of conceptual video, and the official press release from Toyota... [read more]








PRESS RELEASE:

1. FT-86 Concept (world premiere)
The FT-86 ("86" pronounced "hachi roku"), a compact rear-wheel-drive sports car, provides driving joy and excitement.

* Compact design gives driver greater control, while body's lightness and low center of gravity allow racecar-like handling
* Both power and environmental performance provided by 2-liter boxer engine and light body
* Flash Red body color contains hint of blue; interior expresses modern feel with minimal coverage of the highly refined structural components evoking enthusiasm for cruising

Vehicle Length Width Height Wheelbase Seating
FT-86 Concept 4,160 mm 1,760 mm 1,260 mm 2,570 mm 4