Gents, if you’re into cars that blend style, performance, and a touch of heritage, Toyota has something special for you. Introducing the 2025 Toyota GR86 Hakone special edition. This car is more than just a ride; it’s a tribute to one of Japan’s most iconic driving roads, the Hakone Turnpike. Let’s dive into what makes this car a standout without spoiling all the surprises just yet.
A look at the 2024 Toyota GR86 Hakone Special Edition:
A nod to the past with modern flair
Toyota is bringing back some nostalgic vibes with the GR86 Hakone special edition. Named after the legendary Hakone Turnpike near Tokyo, this special edition comes dressed in a stunning Ridge Green exterior that’s sure to catch eyes on the street. It’s built off the GR86 Premium grade and features a six-speed manual transmission—because real driving enthusiasts know that nothing beats the connection you get with a manual.
Under the hood, you’ve got a 2.4-litre, 4-cylinder boxer engine delivering 228 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque. This isn’t just about straight-line speed; it’s about enjoying every twist and turn with 18-inch satin bronze-finished wheels and a color-keyed duck-tail spoiler adding to its aggressive stance.
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Inside the cockpit
Step inside, and you’re greeted by Ultrasuede® sport seats trimmed with tan leather and stitching, giving the interior a sophisticated yet sporty look. The shift knob, adorned with bronze accents, sits front and center, making it clear that this is a special edition. Plus, there’s a GR special edition plaque to remind you every time you get in.
Handling and performance upgrades
Toyota didn’t stop at just aesthetics. The GR86 Hakone special edition comes standard with Brembo Brakes and SACHS Dampers, setting you up for a top-notch driving experience. These features are all about giving you the control and confidence you need, whether you’re on a spirited drive through the hills or navigating city streets.
Limited edition exclusivity
Here’s the kicker—there will only be 860 units of this bad boy for the North American market, with just 30 of those manual transmission models heading to Canada. If you want one, you’d better move fast when they hit Toyota dealerships in Fall 2024. Pricing details are still under wraps, but you can bet it’ll be worth every penny for what you’re getting.
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GR86’s engineering excellence
The GR86 lineup for 2025 isn’t just about the Hakone special edition. The entire range benefits from Toyota GAZOO Racing’s dedication to performance. The shock absorbers have been retuned for better handling and improved road feel. The throttle mapping is revised for smoother heel-toe downshifts, and the engine torque control now provides a more direct throttle response. The electric power steering has also been tweaked for a more connected driving experience.
Lightweight and agile
One of the highlights of the GR86 is its lightweight design. Weighing in at just 1,275 kg for the manual transmission model, it’s among the lightest sports cars out there. Toyota has used a mix of high-strength steel, aluminum, and strategic structural adhesives to keep the weight down and the chassis stiff. This means you get a car that feels nimble and responsive, perfect for carving up your favorite backroads.
Safety and tech features
Even though the GR86 is all about the driving experience, Toyota hasn’t skimped on safety and tech. All models come with an Active Safety Suite, which includes Pre-Collision Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, and Lane Departure Warning. The manual models also get Rear Sonar Warning.
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Inside, you get a low-slung, driver-focused cockpit with a digital instrument panel, push-button start, and an 8-inch touchscreen multimedia system. The Hakone special edition and Premium grades come with an eight-speaker audio system, while the Base grade gets six speakers. The interior seating varies too, with Ultrasuede and leather trim on the Premium and sport fabric on the Base.
The verdict
The 2025 Toyota GR86 Hakone special edition is a blend of heritage, style, and performance that’s hard to resist. It’s got the looks to turn heads, the performance to thrill, and the exclusivity that makes it a must-have for car enthusiasts. Mark your calendars for Fall 2024 and get ready to grab one of these limited beauties. Stay tuned for the pricing details, and get ready to hit the road in style.
